NEW Gorge Advice Column: What Would Robin Do? (WWRD?)
by Robin Allen
Welcome to my advice column! I am a Professional Wardrobe Stylist, Personal Shopper, Influencer and On-air Personality. So, I know a thing or two about a thing or two and I absolutely LOVE to help people find ways to make their lives easier. Wether it’s with personal style+ fashion, branding, relationships, workplace conundrums or just how to feel more confident in life..I am here! All questions from all FOLX are welcome! Seriously, no question is too ridiculous and it’s always anonymous. So, go ahead, ask. Believe me, I was born ready to answer!
Q: It’s finally Spring and I want to switch out my closet where do I start? It’s always so overwhelming!
A: 1. First things first, put away, let go or donate the PAST season. Don’t hold on to things that you didn’t wear all season or that no longer fit you well.
2. Now, decide and go through what you want to keep of this CURRENT season. Make sure you try things on and they are still currently you! Donate and or let go of the rest!
3. Decide how you want to organize. By color? By item? Buy “role”? I recommend defining by your “roles” in life first. It can make it easier so when you go to get dressed you’re only focused and giving energy to that “role” in that moment and nothing else. Different examples of “roles” are business owner, work, date night, social activities/meet-ups, lounging, exercising, walking the dog, family/kid time, etc.
4. Make sure that your current clothes and current season is front and center in your closet. If you don’t have space to pull down pieces from other seasons just put them to the back of your closet. Looking at what is currently Spring/Summer will definitely help you keep your mind on the warmer weather and make it easier to dress.
5. Fold down items that do not need to be on hangers such as denim, lightweight knits and tees.
6. Now, the last thing to do is to ENJOY THE SEASON!
Q: Hi Robin! After last year, I’ve definitely gained a few extra pounds and now I’m preparing to head back into the workforce. Do you have any recommendations for pieces that I could wear that might make me feel good, more confident?
Hi! Good question. Yes, as we get back to this “new normal” I think we have all gained a few pounds for sure. I would say some quick ways to “get your groove back” until you actually get your groove back would be shawls, cover-ups or lightweight blazers over a looser style button down or crisp tee tucked in the front of best fitted jeans or pants. Which, by the way, tucking your shirt just in front is known as a “french tuck”! This is a perfect way to “cover up” but still gives your body some definition. Because, it’s not about hiding and looking frumpy it’s about camouflaging and feeling confident! And, giving yourself even just a smidge of definition will immediately add to your confidence!
So say, your button down shirts are getting tight at the neck, wrists and chest, just simply wear it open with sleeves slightly rolled over a nice t-shirt and slacks or denim.
Another option, is to wear a super loose tunic with leggings, which are a natural body slimmer or a loose dress and anchor it with a structured crop or natural waist length denim or faux leather jacket. The keyword here being “structured”. This will naturally define your waist while still allowing you to cover up areas you might still be working on!
In the end, wear what makes you feel the most comfortable and confident but is still appropriate for your work environment. And, a little boost that always helps me is to make sure your wearing your “superpower” pieces! For me, it’s hoop earrings, my signature rings, a bright lip color and my favorite scent. Think about what those “superpower” pieces are for you and rock them because after all, it’s these little things that can always change the big picture as you head back out there! Good luck and, oh yeah, good job! 👍🏽
Q: My hair is a lot longer because of the pandemic. What are some ways I can get it up off my neck for the Spring/Summer?
Yes, I totally get it! My hair is definitely significantly longer too. And, as we go into the warmer months there a lot of ways to get it up off your neck! The number one way is to cut it shorter! This is always a good option when it gets hot out and shorter hair is definitely easier to maintain too!
That being said, if you want to keep your locks longer, these are some easy and universal quick up-dos I would recommend. A regular ponytail, a “top knot” which is a bun centered right on top of your head. I am clearly a fan of this one and it is a go-to for me for sure! One French braid down the center of your head or part your hair in the middle and do two french or regular braids on each side of your part. If you don’t know how to achieve these looks you can always search YouTube for tutorials, ask a friend or even just go into a salon!
But, if these suggestions still seem too complicated, you can always use a bandana, lightweight/silk scarf or headband to simply push your hair up and out of your face! Whatever you choose just make sure you put on sunscreen, grab your favorite pair of sunglasses and HAVE FUN!!
Q: I always buy my clothes at thrift stores but now they won’t let us try them on because of the pandemic. How do I figure out if somethings going to fit me when I can’t try it on?
I love this question! Especially since it is Earth Month and thrifting is one of the easiest ways to be sustainable! As a Wardrobe Stylist and Personal Shopper who does shop with my clients at thrift stores, this is what I can tell ya, know your measurements. I know most of us don’t know them but it is something that can come in very handy especially now that we can’t try things on. Google search “fit guide” or “size chart” to see what size, in general, coordinates to your measurements. You will want to know your chest, hips, waist, inseam for sure and other measurements that can also come in handy are neck and shoulder to shoulder across your back and arm length from shoulder to wrist.
The best way to take measurements is to have a trusted friend, family member or stylist take these for you but if you are solo it’s OK…just take your favorite, best fitted pair of pants, jeans, top, tee, jacket and dress if applicable, and take their measurements instead!
Write them down in the “notes” section of your phone, grab the tape measure you just used and go shopping with them! Basically, you will be doing the same thing with the items in the store that you did at home…you will be measuring them! Now, don’t go around measuring everything, just the items you are seriously interested in and hopefully you will have a fighting chance for the item to work when you get it home!
Also, always ask when you first arrive to the thrift store if and what their return policy is. I know Goodwill in The Dalles is 14 days return for in-store credit. At least it’s somethin’. So, always ask!
Another quick tip: Jot down the labels and sizes of your favorite clothing items as well. If you spot them at the store you will already be one step ahead because you will already know how that label fits and what size you are in that label! Labels are usually located at the back neck on tops/dresses and back waist of bottoms.
Hope this helps and have a Happy Earth Month! 🌎
Want Robin’s advice? Submit a question/s to ASK@ROBINALLENSTYLE.COM!
