One Word That Defines You

Ten years ago, during my Fashion Feng Shui training, one of the very first assignments I was given was to identify my T-Shirt Word.

One word.

A single word that describes who I am at my core. A word that captures a defining characteristic of my character. A word that reflects a piece of my essence.

At the time, I remember thinking… what does this have to do with personal style?

Dressing the Inside, Not Just the Outside

Most women dress their outside.

This concept is about dressing “your inside” — your inner beauty.

I’ve always believed that style begins with the woman, not the clothes. But I didn’t yet have language for how to intentionally connect inner essence to outer expression.

That’s where the T-Shirt Word changed everything.

It became a simple yet powerful way to define how my essence correlates to my personal style — and how I show up authentically in every area of my life.

Let’s Try It

If I handed you a blank white T-shirt and told you that you could print just one word across the front… what would it be?

My Word: Excellence

In 2016, my word was Excellence.

That word began to explain so much.

It clarified why I’m drawn to certain clothing styles and completely uninterested in others. Why fit matters deeply to me. Why quality has always been more important than quantity.

Excellence shows up in the way my clothes fit. It shows up in the fabrics I choose.

And honestly? It shows up in how I do life.

It influences how I run my business. How I prepare to teach. Even how I host friends and family.

More Than Personal Style

Your T-Shirt Word won’t just define your style — it will reveal how you naturally operate in the world.

It’s not about trends.
It’s not about copying someone else’s look.

It’s about aligning your outer expression with who you already are.

🌈 Discover Your Best Colors with Color for Confidence

Are you a woman who understands the power of your presence but struggles to choose colors—often defaulting to black? If so, Color for Confidence is your solution. This program is designed to help you be seen, feel more color-confident, and discover your most flattering colors effortlessly.

✨ My Secret Sauce: More Alive With Color, Color Clock System™

My Color for Confidence program helps women uncover their best and most flattering colors using the More Alive With Color, Color Clock System™. You’ll learn to:

• Discover your unique inherent color

• Define your Signature Colors

• Use goof-proof color combinations that make getting dressed effortless, expressive, and confident

With my 3-Step Framework, you’ll master how to:

1. Align your colors with your natural features

2. Understand how color and influence intersect

3. Elevate your presence and personal brand by wearing colors that express the real you

How It Works

Step 1 – ASSESS

We start by identifying your inherent coloring—your eyes, hair, and skin tone—and determine where you fit within the Color Clock System™. You’ll also receive your own Pantone Color Wheel as a guide for everyday use.

Step 2 – DEFINE

Next, we create your Signature Color Palette—a core set of shades that reflect your personality and style. Then, we add your Crossover Colors and teach Goof-Proof Color Combinations. This step is perfect for women who want creativity and clarity in their wardrobe.

Step 3 – INFLUENCE

Color is energy—it tells your story before you say a word. Learn to use color to influence how you feel and how others perceive you, whether for your personal brand or your next big event. This is where Closet Magic happens—creating a cohesive, expressive wardrobe built around your most flattering hues.

The Results

Imagine getting dressed in 2–3 minutes flat—no more second-guessing your colors. You’ll love what you see in the mirror because your colors will finally align with your authentic self.

With Color for Confidence, getting dressed becomes easy, shopping becomes fun, and your color confidence shines through every outfit.

What Women Are Saying

• “It allowed me to create cohesiveness in my wardrobe.” — A.A.

• “Gave me the opportunity to access the colors I was wearing with intention.” — L.N.

• “My true self has returned, and I now look at myself as a beautiful package.” — B.S.

Ready to Reveal Your Color Confidence?

Color for Confidence includes:

• A private session with Annette

• 9 online videos

• Worksheets to cement your learning

All for $350.

Take the first step to discover your signature colors and express your true self with confidence today.

Book Your Session:  https://annettebond.thrivecart.com/color-for-confidence/

How Your Self-Talk Shapes Your Personal Style

The Real Reason You’re Questioning if Your Outfit Looks Good

When we think about walking into a room with confidence, we rarely connect it to the language we use with ourselves.

Instead, we just feel that discomfort in the moment—whether it's being in the spotlight or standing in front of a camera—and the negative self-talk creeps in.

What My Photoshoot Taught Me About Self-Talk

I’ve been there. In fact, it’s still very fresh for me after recently having professional photos taken. I was anxious for a full week leading up to it—excited for the outcome, but not exactly looking forward to the process. Will what I’m wearing look good on camera? Should I go with minimal or bold accessories? Am I going to have a good hair day? Yes, my mind went there too.

The Morning Pep Talk

The morning of the shoot, I had to pause and give myself a real pep talk. I reminded myself to focus on what I wanted others to see and feel through my photos—not the perfectionism that was bubbling up inside me. I knew I needed to release that pressure, shift my mindset, and allow myself to simply enjoy the experience.

Why Your Words Matter

What many don’t realize is how powerful our words are—especially the ones you whisper to yourself. They shape how you feel, how you show up, and how you see yourself in that moment.

Think of the rudder of a ship—tiny compared to the vessel, yet it determines the entire direction. Our words work the same way. What we say, especially to ourselves, can either steer us toward confidence or anchor us in self-doubt.

So, why am I talking about this? What do WORDS have to do with personal style?

Honestly—EVERYTHING.

From Self-Doubt to Style Clarity

When I first speak with clients, the conversation often starts with their frustrations: Nothing fits. I can’t find anything I like. I hate shopping. That’s why they’ve come to me—they want help solving their wardrobe challenges. I get it.

But the real transformation begins when we shift the conversation. Through the style assessment, we move past the struggles and start focusing on strengths, values, and the pieces already in their closet that make them feel confident.

That’s the foundation of our work together—building the CONFIDENCE to step into the beautiful, intentional wardrobe you envision.

One of the first questions I’m often asked is, “Where do you shop, Annette?”

Shopping is important—it’s the outer layer, the packaging. But if you truly want to elevate your style confidence, shopping should be the last step in the process, not the first.

First, I help you reconnect with your sense of self. Because without that positive affirmation of who you are and what you’re working toward, you are left feeling dowdy, average, or feel the need to lose 20 pounds before anything will look good.

I want you to begin seeing your beauty from the inside out—your radiance—not just the flaws you think you see on the surface.

Questions to Reflect On

So let me ask you:
✨ What do you love about your body?

Not what you'd change. Not what you're waiting to “fix.”
But what already makes you feel strong, graceful, feminine, or powerful.

✨ What do you want to move away from?

Maybe it’s wearing black by default, impulse buys you never wear, or clothes that no longer feel like you.  Get clear on what no longer serves you—so you can make space for what does.

✨ What do you want to move toward?

Think about how you want to feel when you get dressed each day. Confident? Put-together? Effortlessly chic? Let your style reflect the life you’re creating.

Final Thought

Your WORDS—your self-talk—can be a curse, or they can be your beauty. Choose wisely.

💗Annette

P.S. If you’ve been thinking about elevating how you show up and need some loving help and support with your personal style, I would LOVE to meet you! Schedule a time to learn more: https://www.annettebond.com/contact

Lifestyle and Personal Style Evolution

Last October, my husband and I traveled to Italy to join my friend Theresa for a special couples’ retreat at her stunning villa experience, Retreat to Tuscany. We spent a magical week with four other couples, enjoying wine tastings, delicious meals prepared by our personal chef, Nora, and breathtaking excursions led by our private guide, Antonella.

It’s an interesting thought when you begin thinking about, “How do I want to spend my time and with who, in the last chapter of my life?” 

• I’ve been told by several people that you need to travel when you’re young.  I’ve asked, so what is considered young? The eighty-year-old woman I was golfing with told me, “Of course, it’s in your sixties.” 

• It’s all perspective, isn’t it.

• Loving life and having fun is something I embrace daily.

One of things I’m constantly thinking about when I shop is, “Where does that piece fit into my current lifestyle?"

• Is it for work?

• For play?

• For travel?

I would rather have that great outfit for my current lifestyle and be style-ready than buying something on a whim because it’s fantastic or the salesperson insisted you have to have this -  but you have no idea where you’re going to wear it.

I realize sometimes when I’m shopping, I have a very practical side to me when it comes to adding new pieces to my closet and expanding my style..

Think about your lifestyle and the things you love to do.

• When you go to your closet, do you have that great outfit?

• Do you have the right shoes?

• Do you feel you’re missing accessories and don’t know how to complete your outfit?

Life isn’t a dress rehearsal—every day is a gift to be embraced and fully lived.

Are you ready to get your personal style figured out?

Let’s have a casual conversation so I can get to know you and learn what’s keeping you stuck.

Schedule your one-to-one time here https://www.annettebond.com/contact

💗Annette

How Do You Evolve Your Personal Style?

I'm so excited to share a fresh, new take on my Confidently Styled Woman newsletter/blog with you! It’s all about my personal style and how I dress to support my evolving lifestyle—plus, I’ll show you how to do the same!

As we grow and our lives change, so does our wardrobe. I’m excited to share more with you—how I bring beauty into my life through what I wear, how I live, and how I stay healthy.

Back in 2018, I worked with a branding expert to define my core values. The one that stood out the most was well-being, and I started wondering how that fit into my styling business. Now feels like the perfect time to explore it.

I've noticed that many of my clients' work wardrobes have evolved over the past five years—fashion has, too. Today, there are so many ways to look polished, stylish, and comfortable while embracing a more relaxed approach. No matter where life takes you—whether it's the boardroom or a trip to Italy—you can show up as the Confidently Styled Woman, dressed perfectly for the occasion.

I can’t wait to take this journey with you—it’s going to be real, inspiring, educational, and so much fun!

It’s time to let your personal style support the fullness of your life.

What I’m Styling

My lifestyle has evolved—my styling business is now 99% virtual, meaning I no longer see clients in person or attend business meetings regularly. My husband has retired, and I’ve stepped into the wonderful role of being a grandmother.

So what does that mean? My wardrobe has evolved, too.

• But it’s not just about updating what’s in your closet—it’s about shifting your mindset. If you’re like me, you probably have a certain image in your mind of what a “traditional grandmother” looks like and how she dresses. There’s a reason so many women seek a fresh, modern alternative to the name "grandma." But personally? I love being a grandma.

• Why does this matter? Because words carry meaning. The words we use shape our thoughts, and our thoughts influence our actions. While my approach to style hasn’t changed, my evolving lifestyle has led me to embrace a new genre of clothing—styles and fabrics that align with where I am now.

I’m still Annette Bond—I still want to feel put-together, stylish, and confident in my clothing choices, no matter the occasion.

If you’re experiencing a similar shift and find yourself frustrated each morning, unsure if your wardrobe still fits your life, it may be time to create a wardrobe that truly reflects your new chapter.

No matter what changes life brings—whether it’s getting older, working from home, navigating a divorce, or stepping into a new promotion—it’s important to embrace where you are right now.

Let’s stay connected in my Private Facebook Group, Confidently Styled Woman

With Your Definitive Style in Mind, 💗Annette

Why you feel uninspired with your current wardrobe, and it doesn’t feel like you have anything to wear.

There are times when you go to your closet, and everything seems “old” and it’s missing the pizazz you think you want at the moment.

I get it – it happens to all of us. Some days it just feels hard to get dressed.

Recently, I had a gal reach out and ask about what she should wear to an upcoming business event.  

She wanted it to be put together, with a great first impression, and most importantly stylish.

And she didn’t want to dress like the 30-year-olds she was seeing in the fashion images.

She wanted to look on-point with her style but didn’t want to wear the off-the-shoulder look, or show her tummy, or the super dramatic flair leg pants.

If you are a woman in your 40’s, 50’s, or 60’s and all you see is the young models in their 20’s wearing the styles that are on-point, it’s confusing.

1. You’re wondering, can you pull that off?

2. Should you be wearing the latest on-trend styles?

3. Does it look appropriate for your age?

I get it.

Sometimes you’re looking for rules or right or wrong.

When you’re struggling to dress yourself, it’s easy to get caught in the trap of looking to others to see “how” you should dress.

My specialty is helping you look at personal style from a lens of AUTHENTICITY. 

Honoring who you are, the real you.

If you are a woman who loves classic and timeless styling, you’re probably someone who isn’t drawn to the off-the-shoulder or tummy showing tops.

Honor that. Don’t get drawn into styles that don’t represent the AUTHENTIC you.

It’s so easy to look at all the shiny new styles for the season and wonder what to purchase, and then decide if it’s AUTHENTICALLY you.

You may be a classy lady who loves a little sexy in your wardrobe. The off-the-shoulder style is perfect for you.

You may a creative woman who loves the dramatic flair leg pant. Embrace it. Wear it.

Instead of looking at age appropriate or what everyone else is wearing, begin looking from the lens of what is AUTHENTIC to you.

1. Add one on-trend piece. Style it with your existing pieces in your closet.

2. Understanding your personal style is part of being a confident woman.

3. Give yourself permission to dress and feel AUTHENTICALLY you - whether that is creatively, sporty, wild and sassy, traditional, or a simple polished style.

Own Your Style. Love Your Wardrobe. Be Your Best Self.

With Your Definitive Style in Mind,

❤️Annette

P.S. If you’d like to dive deeper into what AUTHENTIC style looks like, sign up for my FREE 4-day Style Experience coming August 26th. You will LOVE it.

Sign up: https://www.womenofdefinitivestyle.com/style-experience

Me: I’m really excited, I just bought a Peloton.

Response: “Nice! Wow, those are really expensive.”

We’ve all said it, or at least thought it when a good friend shares their excitement about something they’ve just bought or invested in.

Secretly you’re thinking, “I wish I could buy a Peloton.”

Is it affordability or is it worthiness?

I had a client bring this to my attention recently.

She shared; “Annette women need your help.”

• They’re busy.

• They can’t do it all.

• They need help from a professional like yourself, on how to dress and represent their best self.

And you’re thinking, “Oh that’s ridiculous, I can dress myself.”

“Who am I kidding, I don’t need to pay someone to help me shop and style my outfits, I can do that myself.”

Truth, you don’t feel worthy of investing in a professional image consultant.

• The guilt and shame of thinking you can’t dress yourself appropriately.

• That’s not a good use of your money.

• The truth is, you waste so much time trying to figure out where to shop.

• Wasted mental energy trying to figure out what looks good on you since you’ve gained a few pounds and are getting older.

• You’re winging it, you don’t have the time or talent to do it the way a professional would do it.

I get it, investing in yourself can be scary. “You’re asking yourself, are you worth it?”

Come on’ we women were born to shop. Wrong!

The hardest part, taking the first step to say YES to you.  Raising your deserve level.

After you make the commitment to invest in your image, the dominos begin to fall.

• You realize the time you save by no longer needing to spend endless hours shopping.  

• Money saved on shopping mistakes.

• You feel this amazing peace and effortlessness when getting dressed every morning, you have the right pieces, the perfect colors, and styles for your body type.

• The daily compliments that come your way.

• And the ease you feel when packing for your next trip.

• Everything mixes-and-matches. It’s now fun and easy vs. dread and painful.

Oh, and that expensive Peloton that I bought.

It has saved me hours upon hours of driving to the gym.

It gives me instant access to support my health and wellness.  

I have so much fun riding with the world class Peloton instructors.

Oh, and I’ve not paid that $150 gym membership every month for the last 4 years.

If you are tired of doing it alone and know that style and fashion are not your gifting and strength, and want some help. I’m here for you girlfriend.

With Your Definitive Style in Mind,

💗Annette

We can have a relaxed chat to see if working together is a good fit for you, and if so, you can get started right away!

https://calendly.com/annettebond2/30min

Download FREE Style Catalog:Create 14 Polished Outfits with ONLY 7 Pieces of Clothing, instantly!

https://hueandstripe.com/catalog/159H&SOmJu

Why you FEEL uninspired with your current wardrobe, and it doesn’t FEEL like you have anything to wear.

Have you found yourself standing in front of your closet and feeling defeated? You don’t FEEL great.

It may FEEL like you’re in a slump, and your steadfast confidence is nowhere to be found.

What’s going on?  It’s that slow creep.

You’re on Facebook, and the picture you posted last year on the same date comes up, and you’re wearing the same outfit.

 You may be thinking, OMG I’m wearing the same outfit, “I need a new wardrobe.”

Maybe.

You realize it doesn’t FEEL that great either, or maybe you need to get rid of it.

Maybe.

Most often we think it’s the clothing pieces.  

They’re boring.

They don’t FEEL current anymore.

They didn’t wash up nicely.

The real problem could be YOU.

• You’ve changed.

• You’ve grown personally and professionally.

• You’ve taken your business to another level.

• You’ve bought a new home.

• You have a new romantic partner in your life.

• You’re taking dancing lessons.

You’re stepping into a NEW you, but you’re dressing exactly like the old self.

There is misalignment going on.

Of course you’re bored with your wardrobe.

Of course, your confidence FEELS off.  

You’re not the woman you were a year ago or even 5 years ago.

Trust me, I get it. We all hang on to clothing pieces that we spent a lot of money on.

They’re timeless, the color is great.

Sometimes it’s time to let go.

I want you to go put on an outfit that makes you feel like a million bucks.

• Take extra time with your makeup and hair.

• Make a date to meet up with your business bestie.

How do you FEEL?

Do you FEEL ignited?

YES!  That’s how you’re supposed to FEEL when you get dressed.

If this resonates with you, it sounds like you may be ready for a Style Reinvention or Refresh.

Private Style Consulting: https://www.annettebond.com/revealyourradiancesignatureprogram

Group Style Consulting: https://www.womenofdefinitivestyle.com/Waitlist

With Your Definitive Style in Mind,

💗Annette

Read this if you have a hard time deciding what colors look best on you but you’re still not sure how to go about it

“A colorful trend is coming back around and responding to today’s wardrobe crisis. Color analysis — or sharpening one’s personal style game using compatible colors from the color wheel — has been said to lead to more decisive dressing. The idea is that it takes the guesswork out of getting dressed, doing makeup or hair.” ~ Leatrice Eiseman, International Color Expert

Color is everywhere, we can’t escape it. But many times, you may not know what to do with it.

It’s especially stressful when you go shopping, so many choices.

How does one decide?

Color analysis has been around for a long time, making its biggest impact in the 80’s.

I was there. As I was entering the fashion industry in the 80’s I knew it was important to understand how to use color in my profession.

More recently, COLOR has led to illuminating ones “personal brand.”

COLOR plays a big role in your decision making. Everything from website colors to your wardrobe palette to meaningful branding colors. It’s all interconnected.

What is personal color analysis?

It’s a process where one learns what COLORS look best with your eye, hair, and skin tone.

1. You then receive a beautiful COLOR palette that takes the guesswork out of choosing new clothing pieces.

2. It helps you gain confidence and zero in on knowing your most flattering shades.

3. It is not only a confidence builder but gives you the know-how to use color with your wardrobe but in the illumination of your personal brand.

STYLE TIP!  Using personal COLOR analysis for clothing selection can simplify the shopping process and help you zero in on “your colors” and ignore the rest.

Sustainability.

I’m sure you have pieces in your closet you continue to keep because you love how the COLOR makes you look and feel.

Did you know, the average consumer throws away 81.5 lbs of clothes every year (that’s 11.3 million tons of textile waste that hits landfills!)?

STYLE TIP! When you love and embrace certain colors, you hang onto pieces longer.

What is a Colortime System?

I’m honored to be a certified color consultant with More Alive With Color, Color Clock System™.  It is not based on the seasons, but rather on the changing light at certain times of day. 

More Alive with Color, Color Clock System

“This is a more inclusive and international method, as many people live in climates where they cannot relate to “winter” colors; they simply do not experience those cooler color temps in their surroundings. 

Anyone, no matter where they live, can understand — through their own experience — the significance of the cleaner, sharper, jeweled tones of Sunrise hues, the sun-drenched subtlety of mid–day tones (which I call “Sunlight”), or the warmer drama of a beautifully striated Sunset painted across the sky.

Also included is a fourth palette called the Crossover™ colors that contains colors that are so apparent and prevalent in nature that they work with every palette. These include shades like Pantone’s Sky Blue, Sand, True Red, and Black.  Pantone is the most widely-used color system used worldwide, Pantone colors are used throughout the Colortime system.” Leatrice Eiseman

STYLE TIP! COLOR is the foundation of all fashion, and it makes us feel a certain way.  Why wouldn’t you want to understand how to use COLOR to put your best self forward?

Color for Confidence

My Color for Confidence program is a hybrid self-led / in-person, (via Zoom) bespoke customized experience to help women understand and discover her BEST and most flattering colors.  

Through the More Alive With Color, Color Clock System™, you will look at your unique inherent coloring, define your Signature Colors, utilize the goof-proof combinations, all of which allows you to create a wardrobe with ease, simplicity, and confidence.

You’ll then have an individualized 50-minute white-glove color session where we will clarify your best colors, mix-and-match outfits inside your closet, discern what colors are NOT good on you, and expand on how to use COLOR for your personal brand, and any other burning questions you might have about personalized COLOR for your business/personal lifestyle.

Personal Color Analysis: https://www.womenofdefinitivestyle.comcolorforconfidence

With Your Definitive Style in Mind,

💗Annette

The real reason you’re questioning if your wardrobe looks good is NOT because you don’t have the style gene

I completely understand that you may be one of those women who grew up as a tomboy or was more focused on academia.

Style was not your thing. If your outfit fits, you were good to go.

And now you constantly question yourself and wonder is what you’re wearing appropriate, stylish, or even current.

Somewhere along the way you thought being stylish meant you must be a fashionista.

• It became normal for you to look to others to tell you what to wear, because you told yourself you didn’t have the style gene.

• Along the way you stopped trusting yourself.

• And have looked to others to give you the “style stamp of approval.”

I have some really good news for you.

The woman who owns her style and walks into the room oozing with confidence is the woman who understands herself in a more intimate way, NOT the fashionista you think she is.

• She’s not the woman who spends thousands of dollars on her clothes.

• But she has become aware of what she likes and doesn’t like.

• She’s ok not getting everyone’s approval. 

She now understands that personal style is part of who she is.

And she wants to make sure authenticity is infused in her style.

One of the most magnificent training courses I’ve taken in my 30-year journey as a certified image consultant is Fashion Feng Shui.

The first step in Fashion Feng Shui begins with ESSENCE.

And when you honor your ESSENCE, you will always feel comfortable in your clothing.

ESSENCE is that piece of us that just is.

It’s natural, beautiful, authentic.

So, the real reason you’re questioning if your outfit looks good is you have not yet learned how to fuse your ESSENCE with your personal style.

Curious, have you ever thought of ESSENCE and Personal Style intermingled together?

Let’s connect and we can have a friendly chat to see if one of my programs may be a great fit for you. https://www.annettebond.com/contact

You’re a simplifier, you love puzzles. You take the pieces of a project that would overwhelm anyone else and expertly create a smooth system.

In 2018 I took a quiz: What was my secret marketing power?

Do you ever learn some really cool, but never use it to its full advantage?

Yesterday I was learning more about brand personality and it occurred to me that I took the time back in 2018 to identify my brand personality, but I didn’t really know what to do with it all.

As I was listening and learning from a Brand Strategist, this week, my mind began to connect all the dots.

Just as I teach about aligning your clothing style with your brand because people make an impression of you in 7 seconds or less.

A Brand personality post is a way for my audience to get to know me better through my posts and not just my clothes.

You’re a simplifier, you love puzzles. You take the pieces of a project that would overwhelm anyone else and expertly create a smooth system.

This is so me. I love ease. Please don’t make it complicated. Which is exactly what I do for my clients in my signature style system.

As a personal style expert, learning how to express your style, let alone what is your style, can feel overwhelming.

For many it feels complicated, hard, and you constantly question yourself.

I’m in love with my style system. Taking women from the Power of You to Revealing Your Radiance in 7-style lessons.

Most recently, I opened the doors to Women of Definitive Style.

It’s a group style experience PLUS one-to-one private style consulting.

I love communities of fabulous women. I love hanging out with them. I love the camaraderie. I love connections and building relationships.

If you love the idea of creating a signature wardrobe that aligns with your brand personality.

Class begins on Tuesday, February 27th, 2024

Register Now: https://www.womenofdefinitivestyle.com/

With Your Definitive Style in Mind! ~ Annette

Your Personal Brand Image

Does Your Outer Self Match Your Inside Self?

We’ve all had that feeling “I have nothing to wear” as you enter your closet.
It’s frustrating, especially when you’re getting ready for an important event.

Anxiousness is setting in about what to wear.

You’re feeling disconnected from the way you present yourself.

And most times it’s as simple as loving what you see when you look at yourself in the mirror.

As I was thinking more about it for myself, I thought about my first job out of college.

I can remember being so eager and confident to land my first job. I was ready, I had a marketing and communication degree, and I couldn’t wait to utilize my expertise.

But then my bubble burst, I walked into my interview with Travelers Choice, an elegant family-owned boutique, filled with the most beautiful quality clothing.

I was wearing clothing from the Bon Marche Jr. department from my college days.

What I noticed immediately is my outer appearance needed to catch up with how I was feeling on the inside…confident, eager, and ready to be a successful businesswoman.

The journey began.

The clothing allowance I received and desire to be an exceptional businesswoman changed everything for me, as I began to try HER on.

Have you thought about what the next version of you looks like?

For many, it’s a new concept. You could call it your personal brand.

As you evolve from the inside, most times you don’t fully grasp how much transformation has gone on until you visit your closet, and realize…

You’ve changed. But your clothing has not.

Once you understand that your style is a piece of your personal brand, it’s time to create a signature style so that you can elegantly step into the fullness of YOU!

Is the time NOW for your outward appearance to catch up with your inside evolution?

Have you stepped into a new position with your career, and not feeling put-together is impacting your confidence?

Are you serving a new level of client, and you've also evolved as a businesswoman, and now your wardrobe needs to do the same?

Are you in the spotlight more, and want to make sure your style is revealing your confidence? Your personal brand?

Have you gone through a divorce, and it’s time to step into the new you as you begin to put yourself out in the dating world?

Has your lifestyle changed, you're in a new place and you want your wardrobe to represent that?

Style Tip! Stop Getting Dressed on Autopilot

1. Do you have pieces in your closet that reflect your 2024 goal?

2. What is the presence you want to exude? Creative, authority, innovative, excellence, vibrant, approachable?

3. What if...you began aligning your clothing with how you want others to respond?

Ready to take that first step to matching your outside with your inside, one intentional piece at a time?

Join me for my upcoming 4-day Style Experience on LinkedIn LIVE, February 12th @ 12noon PST.

Register: Unlock Your Style Experience | 4-Day Style Experience

~Your girlfriend who is passionate about helping you be confidently styled!

Have you lost your style inspiration?

You probably have great memories of an outfit you loved.

You felt great.

There were always compliments.

There was ease every time you wore it.

It was an outfit you could always count on.

Do you wonder what happened to those moments?

New moments creep in and we don’t even notice.

Maybe you gained a few pounds.

And the outfit didn’t fit as good as it once did.

New trends were out, and you second guess, did the outfit even look good anymore.

Maybe it was those around you. They started dressing more casually and you felt you needed to follow suit.  

You started listening to the world of what you should wear.

The salesperson was your new voice of style. (and she didn’t even know you, but you trusted her)

Maybe you were in a new place. A new job. Working from home now. Had a baby or retired.

It all happens moment by moment. And then one day you look into the mirror and wonder why you feel so frumpy and realize something is definitely “off.”

I came into your path, and you’re thinking YES, I need some style inspiration.

A style philosophy I embrace, “when you honor who you are, you will always feel comfortable in your clothing choices.”

Style begins with the woman, not the clothes.

Your strengths, your values, your uniqueness, your essence.

Begin this moment recognizing the beauty within.

We’ll talk soon.

With your definitive style in mind.

Download my NEW Style Catalog.  Create 14 Polished Outfits with Only 7 Pieces of Clothing, INSTANTLY!

www.womenofdefinitivestyle.com/stylecatalog

Recently I met a new client for coffee, and we began talking about her wardrobe and she told me, Annette, I have nothing in my closet.

Nothing.  Nothing fits. Nothing fits right. I go to my closet and try to pack for a trip, and I have nothing.

I wonder, have you ever felt like that?

What really is happening is, you’re done settling.

You are ready to take care of yourself in a more meaningful way.

And unlock your style potential by being MORE of YOU.

A wardrobe that has:

• Uniqueness

• Ease

• Quality

• Your look is pulled together

• Perfect for the occasion

• You are self-assured and radiate confident

You have elevated how you want to represent yourself.

It’s time to be INTENTIONAL and create a wardrobe that looks and feels TOTALLY You!

I refer to it as designing your Signature Wardrobe.

Creating a signature wardrobe that checks all the boxes MUST be intentional.

If not, it will become overwhelming.

What does a Signature Wardrobe look like?

A signature wardrobe should feel TOTALLY You. You look in the mirror and say, “oh my gosh, I love this.”

You feel self-assured and confident.

There's something about the look whether it's the style, color or a pattern.

Your style radiates confidence.

It’s TOTALLY YOU. And people comment, oh my gosh, that's so you.

10 Signature Styles

·       A signature color becomes your SIGNATURE.

·       A statement Red lipstick.

·       You’re in love with the drama of black and white.

·       One of my signature colors is pink. It just makes me feel vibrant.

·       A pattern that you love such as a leopard print.

·       The uniqueness of detail such as ruffles or fringe.

·       You feel powerful in jackets.

·       You feel feminine in beautiful blouses.

·       You love the ease of dresses.

·       You love the natural Sporty girl look and feel.

There's a lot of elements that can go into a signature wardrobe.

Nobody signs their name like you do, that’s your signature style.

Is it unique to you.

It feels comfortable being you.

You don't have to apologize for who you are because it's your signature style.

If this sounds like something you desire and want to learn more about, get on the WAITLIST to join Women of Definitive Style.

Sign up here: Women of Definitive Style WAITLIST

Diane von Furstenberg on Style and Confidence

So excited to share with you what Diane von Furstenberg thinks about style and confidence, I think you're going to be surprised.

This is an interview with Julia Louis Dreyfus and Diane von Furstenberg. Her first question, “Diane, tell us what are some staples that every woman should have in her wardrobe?”

Julia Louis Dreyfus Podcast

 And the first thing that Diane said was, I believe that you need to be true to who you are.  You need to add pieces to your wardrobe that represent you.

 Don’t think that is what Julia wanted to hear. So, if you've been following me for a while, you know that my personal philosophy is that style begins with the woman. And not the clothes. And that is exactly what Diane, iconic Diane von Furstenberg was sharing.

Julia asked, “does every woman need a great white blouse?".

Diane said, no, I don't even have one. Does every woman need a black turtleneck? She said, not really, but I love a great black turtleneck. It's all about honoring you.

It's about the relationship that you have with yourself and understanding that.

What is it you love? What are your strengths? What are your attributes?

What is it you love about you that you want other people to know?

An excerpt from her book, the Woman I Wanted to Be. I want to transition now into the iconic wrap dress.

The famous wrap dress made her the woman who she is today.

She did not go out to design the most amazing dress and the idea of selling millions. Her thought was, I'm going to design a dress. That has ease and confidence.

It doesn't have any zippers. It doesn't have any buttons. It's a jersey fabric. It moves with the body. It fits different body types, and that's what her thought was, as she was thinking about the woman.

Her brand is all about the relationship she has with women.

“It's about understanding women and understanding their likes and what is it women want in clothes, says Diane von Furstenberg".”

I absolutely resonate with her philosophy 100%.

How do women want to feel in their clothes? What is it women want to express?

And that's exactly how I work with you. My first style lesson when I work with clients, is called The Power of You, and it's helping you to articulate who is that woman you want to project? What is it you want others to know about you?

Is it an edginess? Is it classic and traditional? Is it creative and fun and sparkly? It begins with you.

It's not me telling you what you should wear. And that's exactly what Diane does as she is designing styles.

“The style may speak through the style or color. Patterns or prints, whether it's the fabrication, whether it's the silhouette, that is how you can express you, says Diane.”

Is, is it very quiet? Is it sophisticated? Is it loud? Is it bright? And then the fabrication, the fabric, how the fabric moves and flows on your body and the silhouette makes the sentence.

Through her clothing and it all started for her with the wrap dress. She says the wrap dress made her. The wrap dress debuted in 1974. She was 27 years old. She was just beginning her business. In fact, I want to share this excerpt from her book, and she says, “As I was watching women become more confident and beautiful, thanks to the new dress, the wrap dress, I was personally becoming more, more and more confident and their feeling more beautiful myself.”

Diane was projecting what she was selling. Ease and confidence. She was becoming one with the dress and what they stood for. She didn’t know it then, but I had become a brand.

She said that every woman had a story about the wrap dress.

Five-six years ago, I walked into one of my favorite consignment stores, and what I loved about this consignment store is that she had two racks right in front of the register, and they were designer pieces and that were brand new consignments.

I walked in and I saw this dress. It was my size. It was the perfect color. The price, oh my gosh. I knew it was a $600 dress and it was sitting on the rack for a hundred dollars. It was like brand new, no one had worn it. I knew I had to have it. And so, you know, it's so interesting how a dress can make you feel.

As Julia says, “It's how you feel inside of an outfit, I don't care if I am walking on the red carpet at the Oscars or if I am taking a hike, when everything is working, you know it.”

I agree 100%.

What does she have to say about confidence? They're one and the same. When you have that confidence and ease in your clothes, when you are honoring you and representing you and understanding who you are. That's when personal style is at its best.

That is when you know that you are rocking your look and there is confidence oozing all over when you walk into a room.

Sign up to receive my FREE Style Guide: FREE Get Style Confident NOW Style Guide

Join the Confidently Styled Woman, private Facebook Group.

Amplify Your Unique Style with Fashion Feng Shui

Do you find yourself being wishy washy when trying to decide if something looks good on you?

Have you noticed you need validation from the salesperson, your husband, your girlfriend if you outfit looks great?

What If…you could have a more planned and authentic approach to your wardrobe and image, helping you identify your unique style?

• A wardrobe you LOVED.

• And know you are rocking your look with 100% authenticity.

Years ago I was trained through a style system called Fashion Feng Shui.

Dressing the whole YOU from the inside out.

I’ve always believed that Style begins with the woman, not the clothes.

When you begin understanding the power of YOU, your strengths, your values, you will begin owning your unique style.

Through Fashion Feng Shui, you will begin to understand the whys…why you love drama, why you love simple, why you, love unique, why you love traditional.

It is a blueprint to teach you how to align with the authentic YOU - from the inside out.

What does dressing from the inside-out mean?

• It means honoring your inner beauty

• Honoring your strengths

• Your values

• Your essence

When I learned about this, I fell in love with Fashion Feng Shui.

Wouldn’t you love to combine your personality strengths with your Style?

• I learned WHY I’m so picky with how my clothing fits

• I learned WHY I love pink so much

• I learned WHY I love feeling put-together

If you are a woman who is smart and successful but style hasn’t always been on the front burner.

I get you, I work with lots of women just like you to combine your magnificents with your personal style.

It’s fascinating and sooo much FUN!

Join me for my upcoming workshop on Thursday, April 6th in Kirkland WA: Amplify Your Unique Style

If you’re not local and would to be kept in the loop for my upcoming virtual Fashion Feng Shui workshop leave a comment below. OR sign up to receive my Get Style Confidence Guide

In the meantime, we’ll be style chatting more about Fashion Feng Shui in my private Facebook group Confidently Style Woman on Wednesdays at 12noon PST.

With Your Definitive Style in Mind, ANNETTE

Style from the Inside Out.

We’ve all had that feeling “I have nothing to wear” as you enter your closet.

It’s frustrating, especially when you’re getting ready for an important event.

It can feel very defeating, you want to look and feel like a million bucks, and nothing seems quite right.

And most times it’s as simple as loving what you see when you look at yourself in the mirror.

Recently, I have had several conversations with women about evolving and feeling more coherent with who you are and how you dress.

In my most recent masterclass, The Authentic You Wardrobe System, discover the 3 simple steps to finally feel like your outside matches your inside.

I asked the participants if they could relate to; finally feeling like your outside matches your inside. It was a resounding YES!

How does it resonate with you?

As I was thinking more about it for myself, I thought about my first job out of college.

I can remember being so eager and confident to land my first job. I was ready, I had a marketing and communication degree, and I couldn’t wait to utilize my expertise.

But then my bubble burst, I walked into my interview with Travelers Choice, an elegant family-owned boutique, filled with the most beautiful quality clothing.

I was wearing clothing from the Bon Marche Jr. department from my college days.

“What I noticed immediately is my outer appearance needed to catch up with how I was feeling on the inside…confident, eager, and ready to be a successful businesswoman.”

The journey began.

The clothing allowance I received and desire to be an exceptional businesswoman changed everything for me, as I began to try HER on.

Have you thought about what the next version of you looks like?

One of the things that makes me different...

“I believe your outward appearance should be the persona that represents the authentic you, from the inside out.”

For many, it’s a new concept. And it's exactly what I teach.

As you evolve from the inside, most times you don’t fully grasp how much transformation has gone on until you go to your closet, and realize…

You’ve changed. But your clothing has not.

Once you understand the authentic you, it’s time to create a signature style so that you can elegantly step into the fullness of YOU!

Is the time NOW for your outward appearance to catch up with your inside evolution?

Have you stepped into a new position with your career, and not feeling put-together is impacting your confidence?

Are you serving a new level of client, and you've also evolved as a businesswoman, and now your wardrobe needs to do the same?

Are you in the spotlight more, and want to make sure your style is revealing your confidence?

Have you gone through a divorce, and it’s time to step into the new you as you begin to put yourself out in the dating world?

Has your lifestyle changed, you're in a new place and you want your wardrobe to represent that?

My Vision: "A world where every woman embodies her "authentic style" revealing HER beauty and confidence from the inside out."

Definitive Style Tips!

Tip #1 What do you want others to know about you when you show up in the zoom room?

• Choose ONE word?

• When you get dressed, do your outfit and energy reflect your ONE word?

Tip #2 What is ONE goal that you get excited about this year?

• Do you have pieces in your closet that reflect that goal? Such as creativity, boldness, innovative, excellence, vibrant....

• What if...you began aligning your clothing with how you want to feel?

You are invited to join me in the Private Style with Significance Facebook group for more engagement and FUN with other savvy women just like you! I have lots of extra special stylish things planned for you in 2023.

Join the Private Style with Significance Facebook Here:

Style recipe for how to coordinate your cardigan sweater + pants + shoes = Fabulous Outfit!

Are you a savvy woman who feels like you wear the same pant with the same sweater and the same shoe? All the time…

Does it feel like your outfit always looks the same for every occasion and you wish you knew how to change it up?

I’m going to teach you a simple concept that I call “Dress for Your Style Level.”

Style Tip #1

Let’s look at the pants in your closet.

• Step One: Think of your pants in three different categories.

Level One: Sporty Casual – sporty, simple, inspired.

Level Two: Business Traditional – corporate, community.

Level Three: Fashion Forward - fun, edgy, stylish.

• Step Two: What level is the event you’re attending?

Level 1, 2, or 3?

• Step Three: Match the pant with the level of event.

• Step Four: Shoes, you can choose the same level of pant or choose a shoe from a different level. (which by the way makes your outfit interesting and cool)

Think black patent shoes with your jeans. Yes, I give you permission.

One of my rules is that every piece I invite into my closet must be able to be worn in three ways.

Style Tip #2

Go into your closet and choose one of your FAVORITE cardigans or jackets.

• Level One: Pair your sweater with your favorite jeans. I chose my black jeans. Now add a fabulous shoe.

• Level Two: Pair your sweater with your little black dress. Add black tights and black booties.  

• Level Three: Pair your sweater with a coated denim jean. Add a simple pop of color with a great fitting shell or tank. More drama – add a statement shoe.

Style Tip#3

• Your ONE Sweater Cardigan is now a super star in the closet because it can be worn at least 3 ways and 3 levels.

• YES! You can instantly change your style by swapping your shoes, jewelry, and adding pops of color.

• Getting dressed with intention gives you the opportunity to express a part of you. It lets others “see you” from the inside out.

By being intentional, it allows you to have command of how others respond to you.

As you NOW show up confidently styled as you stand in your excellence.

You are invited to join me in the Private Style with Significance Facebook group for more engagement and FUN with other savvy women just like you! I have lots of extra special stylish things planned for you in 2023.

Join the Private Style with Significance Facebook Here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/stylewithsignificance

A world where every woman embodies her "authentic style" revealing HER beauty and confidence.

Does it resonate for you?

We'll come back to that statement in a minute.

An overall arching theme I've been experiencing in the new 2023, whether it's from online marketing coaches, peers, or pastors...

Who will you BE in the new year.

What is your vision and purpose in 2023 vs. the usual, what are your new year resolutions.

On Sunday, as I was sitting in my comfy chair all snuggled up in a blanket, I decided I would look reflect back on my purpose and really define why I do what I do.

"A world where every woman embodies her "authentic style" revealing HER beauty and confidence."

This is my vision.

It lights me up!

It makes me smile with delight, because I’ve seen it happen in real life over and over.

I've always believed that a beautiful dress has more meaning than just the pretty dress on the hanger.

1. That beautiful dress gives you more confidence as you walk into a room

2. That beautiful dress gives you the confidence to use your voice in a room full of strangers

3. That beautiful dress says who you are without saying a word

So, as we move through 2023 together, you now know my vision and what I stand for.

I want more than anything for you to “see and feel” how beautiful you already are, just waiting for you to reveal it.

As we go into the new year, I will invite you to attend a style masterclass or ask if you'd like to speak off-line with the intention for helping you to embody your "authentic style" as you create your signature wardrobe.

Is this your year to refine your wardrobe or a complete makeover?

"A world where every woman embodies her "authentic style" revealing HER beauty and confidence."

Definitive Style Tips!

Nothing is worse than realizing only 50% of your closet fits you.

Statistics say, “you only wear 20% of your closet”, is that really true?

That means you are not wearing 80% of your closet. YIKES!

Love to know if that rings true for you.

Tip #1 Dress for Your NOW, it makes no difference what the size is!

1. It may be that you purchase one or two pair of pants that fit you like a glove,

2. That make you feel like a million bucks.

Tip #2 Take everything out of your closet that doesn’t fit you NOW!

1. Your closet should feel like your personal boutique, you want to feel excited to visit your closet.

2. I believe your confidence would skyrocket if you knew everything in your closet fits you now.

3. It’s time to feel dazzled when you look in the mirror.

4. To LOVE what you see.

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If you haven’t already, I invite you to join the Definitive Style Community.

FREE Get Style Confident Now Style Guide

With Your Definitive Style in Mind, Annette

The Power of a Jacket

Are you someone who has some great jackets in your wardrobe?

Do you wear them ONE way, with ONE specific blouse?

I have a current client doing that. 

Or maybe you’re someone who has a black jacket and don’t tend to wear it much?

That is another client of mine.

Let’s talk about the Power of a JACKET and how it can elevate your wardrobe and personal style.

WHY Jackets?

1. Jackets have a subliminal message 

I’m sure you know what I mean when you see a woman with a great jacket. 

You notice her. 

She looks professional. 

She’s pulled together and polished. 

She has personal style.

Maybe your mind goes to expert, she’s really good at what she does. 

1. Jackets keep you warm

It could be that simple, you are looking for warmth. I get it, as I can be a cold body myself. 

Owning a neutral color jacket such as black or camel is a great investment piece that can serve as professional and warmth as well as show off your personal style.

1. Style of Jacket 

This is where you need to begin thinking about your personal style, professional brand and lifestyle. 

How do you want your jacket to serve you? Meetings? Online? In-person?

Do you want it to be more traditional or dressy casual style?

A jacket that carries more authority or one that is more approachable?

Do you want creativity or edginess to be part of your personal style?

In Fashion Feng Shui, I talk about the Harmony of your Inner and Outer Presence. 

• Finding a jacket that is Uniquely YOU

• A jacket that is aligned with your personal professional brand

• Making sure your jacket aligns with your personal style as well as your lifestyle

Join me as we style chat about the Power of a Jacket. 

HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU TAKE THE FIRST STEP IN DEVELOPING YOUR PERSONAL STYLE:

1. Capture my BEST personal style strategies and image advice that include secrets to honoring your inner beauty, to what style basics are a must, to creating a color wardrobe capsule – Get Your Ultimate Style Guide: 7 Ways to go from feeling ‘off’ to rocking a signature look that is uniquely YOU!

2. Work with me privately to take you from questioning your clothing and personal style choices to creating a signature wardrobe that is uniquely you.

   Schedule a 30-minute Get Dressed with Ease Breakthrough session to share a little about your image challenges and what you’re envisioning for yourself.

   We’ll talk about what that looks like for you so that you are showing up as the powerful woman that you are while you dress with ease. https://www.annettebond.com/contact

3. Join other like-minded successful smart women in my Style with Significance Facebook Group! This is the place where I share my expertise each week, you can get to know me, and meet other powerful professional women who value looking as good as they feel.