As seasons change and trends shift, it can be challenging to stay stylish. Janel of My Mayne Wardrobe is a personal stylist and resident thrifting connoisseur, so we asked her for tips on thrifty styling. She said a curated closet takes time and planning, but she promises it's worth it, and you can build it on a budget.
Thrift Local First.
Shop second hand first because it’s sustainable, and it offers access to budget friendly high-quality finds. One key to avoid thrift overwhelm is understanding the different shop styles. Consignment shops are often highly curated, and you'll find a mix of luxury and name brand. At thrift shops, go in with an open mind and be ready to hunt for unique pieces.
JANEL PRO TIP: Visit thrift stores at the beginning of the year when everyone is purging and decluttering.
Thrift with Intention.
Dedicate time to identifying what outfits make you feel confident and what’s important to your personal style. Check Pinterest for inspiration and shop your closet to pull together looks at home. Identify pieces your missing, and then, it’s time to shop!
JANEL PRO TIP –shop coats at thrift shops. Leather, cashmere, trench and bomber – there is usually a wide range to choose from.
Thrift Your List.
Create a thrift list and save it to your phone – it helps you make intentional and thoughtful purchases and avoid overspending. Before you check out, make sure each new piece checks all the boxes.
Does it make me feel confident? Can I style it more than three ways? Does it align with my current lifestyle? Does it add value or fill a gap in my closet?
Shifting from a hospital setting where she wore scrubs every day to business casual office, Janel Mayne of My Mayne Wardrobe experienced what she calls a style meltdown in her 20’s. She embraced the change, taught herself how to feel confident in her clothes again and reclaimed her personal style. Now, she offers a personal styling service that helps women feel empowered. She even sources secondhand pieces for clients, proving to professionals that they can stay stylish, and stay on budget.
Her clients often come from serving professions, including nurses, teachers, flight attendants and medical professionals, who get stuck in “uniform syndrome” and need help finding themselves through fashion. She’s recently worked with new moms and retired military veterans.
“New moms often find themselves in a new season with a new baby and completely different style needs,” she said. “Their bodies have changed, and they need help adapting with comfortable, stylish options. It is possible to be an amazing mother and maintain your ideality and style.”
Janel’s Style Tips
Five things every stylish woman needs? Cute flats, white tee, great jeans, colorful jacket and a versatile dress. One thing in your wardrobe you can’t live without. My blazers! They just complete an outfit and create a look that’s pulled together.