oh rachylou i hear you! like Claire, i find that big changes - life status, job, climate, etc. tend to trigger this state. Trying to deal with these horrible 'can't live in this skin' times is one of the reasons i'm so interested in style. I wanted to get a good enough handle on my own style that i could deal with these times more effectively.
Developing a few resources is helpful for me. Specifically, i have a 'Grand Slam' file of pictures of outfits that i really loved wearing. It's like a inspiration file devoted specifically to me! Taking pictures in good lighting with a good camera helps a lot, as you can easily see the details and it's easier to get excited about how you look.
Some people like to come up with personal style statements, or a selection of words that describes your aspirational style. Keeping track of practical details that are important to you helps, too (like comfort, elastic waists, heel height, etc.) You can print out Angies' 'Team X or Y' posts and answering all of them can give you a very good 'style snapshot'. Or compile a list of your wardrobe workhorses, or your very own 'essential ten' pieces. Reviewing these lists when you're at sea can help you pinpoint what is bothering you.
Setting yourself a style challenge can also be so useful at these times. For me, dressing very casually and using only my most minimal/classic pieces is a fantastic style refresher. For others it may be dressing 'up' and wearing all those items you think are 'too good' for everyday. Just try something to push you out of the rut you're in for a week or two and see what happens.
To sum up, i find anything you do that helps you keep track of what you're doing, thinking and feeling will help. This includes writing, taking pics, making collages, etc.
Hope this helps! FWIW, you look great in your pictures and your hair is killer! steph
