The size label on an item of clothing is just a number that helps you to correctly identify the subset of clothes that you should take to the dressing room. It does not define who you are or make you stylish (or unstylish). What does project a great sense of style is flattering and attractive fit. So instead of the number on the label, focus on how a clothing item hangs on your body, and how it moves when you move. 

This sounds simple and obvious, but it is easier said than done. For many women, clothing size is a very emotional thing. Their identity is tied to a certain size, but it no longer fits them. This might be the result of changes in the size specifications for the brands they like, or it might be that their body has changed over time. Whatever the reason, sizing up can have a negative effect on their psyche and body image. But as I suggest to my clients, it is important to let go of the number and size up when you need to. More often than not the extra room in the garment actually makes the wearer look more slender than wearing an item that’s a dash too small. It’s a win-win situation because all goals are met — as long as you ignore the number on the size label.

Although we normally associate this issue with being attached to a smaller size, it does also go the other way. Some of my tall clients believe they need to wear an XL and have a hard time accepting that a smaller item is right for them even when they are drowning in the larger size. So sometimes I have to be quite assertive about the large or sometimes even the medium being the more flattering fit. Again, it’s a win-win situation if you focus on the fit and not the size.

Correctly fitting clothing goes a long way to achieving proportions and silhouettes that showcase your body in the best possible way. When something does not fit, it’s never your body that is wrong. It’s merely a question of finding a better fit, be that through a different size or a different item altogether. Feel empowered by the sizes that are available to you, and don’t get hung up on the number on the size label. You have the freedom to choose how an item should fit. Use it.

This week’s fab finds are a nod to the mixed media, sci-fi and pointy toe trends. I also threw in a little retro and modern classic. 

• Ann Taylor Studio Sweater: Although the top is shown with skinny jeans, it’s fabulous over a pencil skirt, full skirt and slouchy trousers. Just the right amount of fluidity and structure. 
• Ann Taylor Lace Print 3/4 Sleeve Top: Similar to the studio sweater, pair it with the same bottoms. It’s one way to add casual elegance to a pencil skirt and pumps outfit. 
• Banana Republic Bold Houndstooth Pencil Skirt: This skirt is selling like hotcakes for good reason. It’s graphic in a muted grey and white, which is softer than a black and white houndstooth. 
• Michael Kors Oversized Lexington Watch: Watches with black faces look fresh and retro, which is why I purchased a similar style last month. I like the Rolex-esque integrity here. Also available in silver. 
• Underground Blitz Pewter Winklepicker Ankle Boots: Refined Sci-Fi Mod with a little Tough thrown into the mix. Add a playful element to casual outfits with these numbers. 
• Faith Camborne Strap Pointed Mid Heel Shoes: A Marc Jacobs inspired pointy toe Mary Jane that’s fab with and without hose. A low heeled alternative to wear with skirts, dresses, trousers or jeans. Warning: the leather is not soft, so it might not meet your comfort standards. 

Wear the lace print top with the houndstooth skirt and pointy toe shoes for a refreshed office look. Make the pewter ankle boots part of a casual Fall capsule. 

Sweater sets, or “twinsets” as I’m used to calling them, are a tricky item. On the one hand they can look awfully dated and frumpy. I can’t tell you how many sweater sets have not made the cut when I review closets with clients. But on the other hand, they can look fresh, new, fun and retro. 

Thinking about this interesting wardrobe item and why it works in some ways and not others, I have identified the design features that make it look updated and current to my eye.   

Add “Now” with Pattern, Texture and Colourblocking

While there are exceptions, it’s solid sweater sets that tend to look dated and frumpy. But pop them into a pattern, textured lace, or a graphic colourblocked design, and you add in the now-factor. I fell in love with a colourblocked twin set last year and have worn it over and over again. The interesting colour combination was one of the reasons it felt fashionable instead of frumpy.

Keep the Fit Sleek and Cheeky or Oversized

The cropped and formfitting sweater set is cheeky and works really well, like the Ann Taylor example below in the geometric pattern. A little fluidity in the torso can work, as shown on the J.Crew and St. John examples, but the sleeves are very sleek. Wear these sets too long and too roomy in the sleeves in a tailored fit and you’re back to frumpy. Alternatively, make the fit oversized and tunic length like the earthy Hobbs example.

Use Complements to Make it Modern

Take the updated retro modern classic and wear it with on trend bottoms, like boyfriend jeans, faded denim, leather pencil skirt, slouchy trousers, checked pants, silky track pants, full patterned skirts, and harem pants. Wear a button-down shirt under the set for a fresh layered look. Ground the outfit with on trend footwear and accessories like Beatle booties, pointy toes, ankle strap pumps, slipper flats, biker boots, sassy sneakers, over-the-knee boots, wedged boots and clutch. 

Below are some great examples of sweater sets that don’t look frumpy.

Perhaps sweater sets will always look frumpy to your eye, and I understand that perception because as I said earlier, it’s a tricky piece. But I’m a yay vote on the new sweater set when the fit and outfit execution is modern and current. What’s your verdict?

There is life after jeans for casual Mums and gals on the go who do not want to wear skirts and dresses. Choose casual pants. The formula below has been popular with my clients as we head into Autumn. So on that note, I stuck to a traditional Fall palette, but feel free to choose another set of colours. 

Here are the components:

• Casual Pants: Stretchy black Ponte pants, or cotton spandex pants, are an easy and comfortable alternative to jeans. Camouflage pants aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but I do have clients who love wearing them. Remember that camouflage pattern can be subtle, which might be a little more acceptable. Choose straight legs or skinnies. 
• Relaxed Top: Jersey layering tops or lightweight knitwear are ideal. Wear them fluid or oversized to offset the tight bottoms. Drapey tops work well too. If you prefer a tailored look, wrap tops are fab, as are formfitting tees. Or pop on a button-down shirt. 
• Casual Jacket: Denim jackets and leather or pleather motos are the obvious choice. But a pinstriped blazer is another option, and especially daring when pattern mixed with the camo pants.
• Closed Footwear: Pack away the sandals and haul out covered footwear. I’ve chosen pointy slipper flats and simple low heeled suede ankle boots. Sassy sneakers, d’Orsay flats, oxfords and Beatle booties are other options. 
• Accessories: Finish off the outfit with a bag and eyewear. As a salute to Autumn, I chose a large weathered cognac tote. A hands-free crossbody is always great for Mums on the go. Add a scarf, watch and jewellery as desired. Throw in a beanie or newsboy too. 

The ensembles here are the start of another casual Autumn mix-and-match capsule. The tops and toppers can be interchanged with the pants, and so can the shoes, eyewear, watch and bag. If you want to keep a very tight and small wardrobe for mild Fall weather, you could add another four tops, one more pair of bottoms, and two scarves and wear different combinations over and over again.