Finding Your Style When Life Swerves by Sarah Amyot
Many of us have been there: standing in front of a closet full of clothes you once loved, with nothing to wear. Something is wrong (and it’s certainly not you)—the clothes might not fit or feel right when you put them on; they just don’t look like 'you' anymore, or perhaps your clothes from when you were in your early 20s are no longer in style. If you nodded to any of those statements, then it might be time for a style refresh! We selected four ladies (including me, your author!) who have experienced recent life changes and paired them up with local boutiques – Cúpla, Lilac Bijoux, The Cottage, and Stellaluna Raine – to help inspire them in a world of fashion possibilities. MEET: MELANIE Age: 45 Occupations: Mom of one, development and communications director for a nonprofit, nonprofit board member Why are you interested in a style refresh? “Throughout my life, I have never really focused on style. However, as I get older, and my body has changed with having my kid and getting older in general, I've needed a style that compliments my curves. I started a new job earlier this year and feel like I’m missing the mark in a professional work setting. I was also diagnosed with melanoma, had it removed, and now have scheduled surgeries for reconstruction, so finding soft fabrics to wear in a professional setting is ideal.”
How would you define your current style? “If you had to
define my style – I hate to say it – but frumpy librarian or dedicated nonprofit worker. I prioritize comfort and I am very unpolished in my style. I normally wear slacks with a soft work shirt, sometimes paired with a blazer or cardigan. I've been trying to branch out and wear dresses more often too.” What kind of style/trend/feeling are you looking (or hoping) for? “Something a little more classic, professional, and polished, but still comfortable. Plus, it needs to fit into my work setting where I walk the trails of the property on a regular basis with supporters and volunteers.” Melanie was paired with Cúpla , at 37 Maryland Ave in Annapolis. Cúpla offers multigenerational customers unique, wearable products that are thoughtfully curated by local makers and women-owned businesses. They pursue efforts to upcycle vintage finds and promote sustainable choices, like renewable fabrics. Their boutique is not one to chase a trend. A sign in their fitting room says, “The only thing you shouldn’t mind is other people’s opinions.” before
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