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

3 Ways to Style Your Timeless White Blouse  

You may be thinking, white….it's a little boring?

Maybe you’re thinking you prefer a timeless blouse with more color or frill?

However, the white blouse is a wardrobe staple that is: 

• Timeless

• Versatile

• Luxurious

1.Let’s talk Timeless

Begin styling it with your classic black jacket. Simple. I'm sure you have one in your closet. Showing up professional and put-together is going to give you the confidence that you need as you head back to the office or begin in-person meetings. 

Add pearls, gold, or silver accessories to make it your own. 

2.Let’s talk Versatility

Style your timeless white blouse with a beautiful sweater or even a denim jacket. 

There is no one way to style your white blouse. The options are endless. 

As you are investing in the timeless white blouse, think of the various jackets you already own.

The timeless white blouse now becomes an investment piece into your wardrobe.

3.Let’s talk Luxury 

The color white denotes clean, crisp, and organized. 

Is that how you want others to perceive you?

Will you choose a beautiful Italian pima cotton fabric that says bespoke?

Luxury and custom. 

Let Your Timeless White Blouse do the Speaking for You. 

HERE ARE 3 WAYS I CAN HELP YOU DRESS WITH EASE, BE ON-BRAND, & GET NOTICED:

1. Capture my BEST 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 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, and we’ll devise a strategy, so you are ‘stepping into your excellence’ and showing up as the powerful woman that you are and dressing with ease. https://www.annettebond.com/contact

3. Join other like-minded successful smart women in my Style with Significance Facebook Group! This is a place to share personal styling ideas, get advice from a professional stylist, and meet other powerful professional women who value looking as good as they feel

Do you ever question the fit or quality of your clothing style?

Wondering if you’re truly stepping into your excellence?

When looking at the way a garment fits, quality is an attribute you need to take into consideration.

Most times, the higher the quality the better the fit.

Have you ever bought a pair of workout leggings at Ross or Target and thought they were, OK?

Then you purchased a pair of workout leggings at Lululemon and thought OMG these are the best fitting leggings I’ve ever had.

I have. You don’t think there is going to be a difference even though the style looks exactly the same, but there is.

The quality of the fabric can reflect how your clothing fits, how it hangs on your body, and the way it feels.

If you’re like me, I love my clothing to feel like it was custom made for me.

Many times, there are two camps of women; the camp that says, it is good enough. And the second camp who values quality, luxury, and refinement in her clothing.

I believe, those who say this is good enough have never given themselves the permission to experience the kind of quality I’m talking about.

Let’s look at a pair of pants.

You purchase a $79 pair of pants and after a few machine washings they don’t fit as well, they lose their shape, they are baggy in the butt, and now the fit and quality is compromised.

The pant hangs in your closet. And you’re not sure why you don’t wear them.

What if you decided to raise your standards and invested in better quality clothing?

Let’s talk RIO.

For example, you purchase a $300 pair of pants, wear them 1X a week, 48X a year…turns out that every time you wear the higher quality, better fitting pant, you invested $6.25 every time you wore them.

Is it worth it?

Heck yes, the pants made you feel like a million bucks.

That is priceless in my opinion.

The next time you’re thinking about confidence or style confidence, think about the quality of the pieces you’re investing in.

If you’re new to this, begin by investing in ONE piece that allows you to feel like a million bucks.

This is about fit, how the fabric feels against your body, and the way the style adapts to your body type.

Something that may have never occurred to you; your non-verbal confidence oozes when you walk into a room.

You are experiencing your clothing supporting you to step into your excellence.

You are invited to my upcoming Style Strategy and Confidence Masterclass on Thursday, August 19th @ 1pm PST

Register at: https://www.annettebond.com/masterclass

As a woman I have often felt that society has put women into a generality that all women love to shop and have a natural fashion sense.

Agree or disagree?

From my experience, many women only shop because they “have to” not because it is enjoyable.

It can sometimes feel hard and stressful according to clients who I work with.

Well, I did some of my own digging to see where this paradigm began, and this is what I found according to Psychology Today.

According to the socio-biologists, women are linked to shopping in the same way that men are linked to sports. Often women's behavior is explained by something like the "shopping gene": men are the "hunters" (conquering stuff) and women are the "gatherers" (finding stuff).

Interestingly, it began historically, as an offshoot of advertising and commercialism, as a way to encourage women to feel in charge—deceptively inviting them to make choices and decisions of their own.

What if I told you that adopting a personal style was reflective of the real you?

Not what someone else told you to be.

What if I gave you permission to be try new styles that intrigued you?

Garments that made you feel joyful.

Like my client Mary, who wants to experiment with yellow.

Pieces that make you feel beautiful. Maybe a feminine color, like blush pink.  

An accessory that yells, BOLD.

Why not?

It all begins in the investigative process of discovering who are you?

What are your likes and dislikes?

What is your current lifestyle and what kind of pieces can you add that support your way of life?

This is how I work differently.  

We begin with the Power of You.

You are a woman in charge.

And you get to make choices that bring out the best of you and allow you to step into your excellence.

As a personal image consultant who empowers women to get dressed with ease and show up confidently, one thing I know for sure….

Many women question if they have a personal style, and are not sure where to begin.

Join me where we will be talking more about this at my upcoming Style Strategy and Confidence Masterclass on Thursday, June 24th @ 1pm PST.

Register: https://www.annettebond.com/masterclass

I have nothing to wear, have you ever said that to yourself?

But we all know you have a closet full of clothes, right?

Maybe the better question to ask yourself, why don’t you LOVE the garment?

One of things I hear from women frequently is; finding clothes that FIT.

Finding clothes that fit your body as it changes with age.

Maybe your weight has fluctuated.

You bought the garment on a whim because you wanted something new, but later realized it was not quite right, and you have never worn it again?

You gave in to the notion that it was an OK fit, and went with it, because you couldn’t find something that felt customized to your body type?

It is baggy in certain areas.

Maybe it’s too short or too long?

You just don’t love it. I hear you.

I believe, nothing is worse than having a wardrobe that doesn’t fit properly.

Every time you put the piece on, you feel just OK vs. the confidence you were craving.

What if…you began asking yourself every time you decided to make a purchase, do I love this?

What if…you began looking at your clothing choices with a more critical eye and asking yourself, does this align with how I want to show up?

What if…you began giving yourself permission to let go of pieces that didn’t empower you to step into your excellence?

Is it time to ‘try on’ the best version of you?

Download my 7 Style Secrets to Get Dressed with Ease and Style!

https://www.annettebond.com/styleguide

A brand photo shoot’s sole purpose isn’t to just capture beautiful photos, there is strategy behind the visuals. And Yes, we want you to ultimately have beautiful photos.

A brave new look.

A brand photo shoot is to help your business STAND OUT and thrive in your niche, further developing your brand presence and communicating a story.

We want to make sure your clothing choices are complimenting your brand and telling the story you are intending – creating brand harmony with you as a business woman.

7 Questions to consider when choosing your clothing pieces:

1.       Branding colors – what are the 2-4 colors you want to emphasize?

2.       What are 2-3 words you want others to feel about you when they see your pictures?

3.       Do you feel ultra-confident in your clothing choices? Did you know that fitted clothing always looks better on camera vs. a non-fitted look?

4.       How many wardrobe changes will you have?

5.       Do you need to purchase new pieces? With virtual shopping, making sure they arrive in plenty of time to review.

6.       Accessories – think about your favorite pieces and how they show up on camera.

7.       Shoes – will they be seen?

Your photoshoot needs to be on purpose. It is your brand. It is representative of you; it is your business card and how others perceive you.

You want to make sure your photoshoot pictures are capturing you at your BEST all while telling your story.

Step into your Excellence. Confidence. Self-worth. Reveal Your Radiance.

If you want helpful fashion advice to feel more beautiful, more confident and 100% aligned with your personal brand, have a conversation with a professional stylist.

Thank you to my client Theresa Callahan, Executive Coach at Managing for Performance and Founder of Retreat to Tuscany for allowing me to be part of her branding photoshoot team. (these pictures are my snapshots, can’t wait to see the finished product from Pinto Portrait in Issaquah, Washington.

Brand photoshoot with Image Consultant Annette Bond

Love to meet you and share more on the subject of personal branding.

You are invited to join me at my upcoming Style Strategy and Confidence Masterclass, Wednesday, May 26th @ 1pm PST.

https://www.annettebond.com/masterclass

With Your Definitive Style in Mind,

Annette

There isn’t a more powerful feeling than when your outfit truly expresses who you are. It represents everything you want to say without you needing to say it.

Did you know your image tells a story?

You're dressed, you look in the mirror and smile at what you see. You look great. You walk out the door, knowing you feel great.

The best part, you can forget about what you're wearing and go do what you do best!

How would it feel to have that daily experience?

Opposed to your outfit plaguing your day?

Are you in an awkward place and not sure how to build a wardrobe that gives you that million dollar mindset story?

Join me as I share my passion and expertise with Coach Debby of Story U Talk Radio. What it means to elevate your image and reveal your radiance through your professional image.

CLICK to Listen to Podcast:

What I love about Debby is we both share a passion for helping others to develop and grow into the Best version of ones-self. Whether it's writing your story or elevating your image.

Debby is a master at witnessing others real life story and bringing it to light.

I know you'll enjoy her presence as she shares wisdom that each of us has a unique story to tell.

Debby is currently offering one day workshops this summer to help people develop their writing skills and the confidence to speak. Also available, one-on-one coaching and deeper dive seminars.

CLICK to Listen to Podcast:

Check out her website for upcoming topics and dates. www.coachdebby.com

Love to hear your takeaways, and if you'd like to continue the conversation....hop on over to Definitive Style by Annette Bond Facebook page Community.

If this feels like your time to up-level your personal image, I'd love to be that mirror for you to show up as your best self.

Let’s Chat

www.annettebond.com/contact

Annette Bond is known for helping successful women build a beautiful and professional wardrobe they’re excited to wear!

She is passionate and skilled at finding the right style that always fits, regardless of age, shape, and size. A newer, shinier version of you will promote quality in business and relationships because a stylish woman offers an excellent impression of her BEST self.

Certified Professional, Annette Bond is an Image Consultant and More Alive with Color Expert. Her work is very specialized and sought-after, as she is ONE of only 30 women in the U.S. certified in the particular niche: Fashion Feng Shui. For almost a decade, she has specialized in supporting the high-level woman in business who’s ready to reveal her radiance by dressing stylishly and professionally.

Follow me on:

 Linkedin 

 Facebook 

 Instagram 

Take the Style Quiz Now: www.annettebond.com/stylequiz

Happy New Year!

As I was contemplating what to share, I came across this quote from several year's back. It really spoke to me as we enter into the New Year.

"There’s no outfit in the world that will be more head-turning than a woman who walks into a room with great energy," Kate Hudson told Style.com recently when asked what she's learned from her famous mother. "That’s what really makes people magnetic. When someone feels good about herself, is comfortable in her skin, and has inner strength, it doesn’t matter what she’s wearing. They become the most interesting person in the room."

You may not be a Kate Hudson or Goldie Hawn but I know I love a woman with great positive energy and what she brings to a conversation.

As you look into the New Year maybe it's a change in how you express your inner self vs. what you're going to accomplish or achieve.

Personally, I love clicking the refresh button and beginning anew.

When I clicked the refresh button on December 31st, I chose the word ALIVE to guide me in 2019. For me, there's a lot of energy in the word ALIVE.

Maybe that is why the Kate Hudson quote spoke to me so loudly. 

When I chose the word ALIVE it fired me up to:

• BE more of me. Share my voice, have fun, let go of the fear and inspire others. Do what lights me up!

You may or may not have lofty goals for 2019 on what you're planning to achieve, earn, do and have.

What if...you decide to BE the woman who shows up with more energy?

What if...you decide to BE the woman who's more purposeful with her wardrobe?

What if...you decide to BE the woman who thinks more positively?

Refining who you BE doesn't cost you a dime but it could change how you see and feel about yourself from the inside out. And I guarantee others will feel your energy as you walk into the room. .

I BELIEVE there isn't a more powerful feeling than when your outfit truly expresses who you are. It represents everything you want to say without you speaking a word. ~ Annette Bond

FUN STUFF coming in 2019!

1. Style Chat via Facebook LIVE beginning Tuesday, January 15th - LIKE Definitive Style so you can receive a reminder notice (there will also be a replay)

2. Instagram posts MAGNIFIED - Follow me #annettebond2

3. Reveal Your Radiance Style Academy begins Tuesday, March 12th, more info to come. For the woman who wants to comprehend the ins and outs to creating the "perfect wardrobe"

4. Style Confidence. Do You Have It? Join me for a fun and interactive workshop on Wednesday, January 30th from 5-7pm. Drinks and snacks will be served. Divalani Style Boutique, 16415 Southcenter Pkwy, Tukwila WA / Sign Up: Click Here

Cheers to coming ALIVE in 2019!

With Your Definitive Style in Mind,

ANNETTE

You’ve been invited to a party. The invitation calls for dressy casual. You have both dressy outfits and casual outfits in your closet but how do you mix the two?

Would you be surprised if I suggested you start with jeans? Jeans aren’t right for every occasion, but with some fashion finesse, you can make them party ready.

Pretend I’m in your closet right now. Using your jeans as a base, I’m going to help you look through your tops, jackets, jewelry, shoes, and handbags for ingredients that will make you party-ready.

When you see your wardrobe through my eyes, you’ll be surprised at how ready you can be when that friend of yours calls and says, “I’m going to a dressy casual event tonight. Would you be my plus-one?”

It all starts with the right jeans

Here are some general rules for the best jeans to use as your casual chic or elegant casual outfit.

1. The darker the denim, the more dressy and formal it is, which works well with the fancier items you’ll be wearing on top.

2. If your party leans more to casual than elegant and you love jeans that are distressed in some way—holes or fading—plan to wear a dressy shoe.

3. High-rise jeans are a great base. They’ll look great with any fanciful top or jacket.

4. You could start with a denim jean that is coated, so it takes on a different hue. Or consider a jean with some elegant embroidery.

5. Beware: dark indigo jeans can discolor lighter-colored leather handbags. Pay close attention to your handbag selection for the night. They can also stain any part of a lighter-colored bootie that they come into contact with.

Find unique jackets in your closet

Now let’s get to what you’re wearing on top. Jackets can play a crucial role in dressing up jeans. Leave your work jackets out of the mix for now. Focus on more festive choices and think outside the box.

This list of jacket styles will love to dress up your denim.

1. Blazers in velvet, leather, lace or jacquard prints

2. A tuxedo jacket

3. Knit or woven jackets with fur trim

4. Statement pieces like kimonos, dusters, Asian-inspired jackets​

Tops that are just right for going out

Look at your tops through a ‘dressed up casual’ lens. Do you spot tops that you may have worn in other parts of your life, but that would look well accessorized for denim outfits?

Here are some looks to consider.

1. Blouses with statement sleeves like ruffles, ties, pleats, or ribbons

2. Romantic blouses with lace, leather trim or velvet

3. A knit or woven or top in a bold, bright print

4. A sheer print top with a camisole 

5. A sweater with pearl or sequined details, or a cashmere sweater that is delicate or feminine

Jewelry selection is a must

If you’re wearing simple clothing pieces, then your jewelry choices will lift your outfit into a dressy casual party scene. Go beyond your tried-and-true everyday pieces. Consider vintage or crystal jewelry or any of your fine jewelry like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and pearls.

If you’re wearing tops that are already sequined or jeweled, then your jewelry may need to back off a little.

Here are some ideas for using accessories to make your outfit sparkle and shine.

1. Chandelier earrings or dangly earrings

2. Statement necklaces or double or triple layered chokers

3. A sparkly brooch or a collection of pins worn together

4. Bold cocktail rings

5. Cuffs or layered bangles that have lots of shimmer and shine

6. Mixing in fine jewelry with costume jewelry

Shoes matter, both functionally and fashionably

You may have shoes in your closet that will only work if you’re sitting at a table, rather than standing at a table all night. Be careful. Know with a two-hour shoe will work or whether or not you need to wear a shoe that you can dance in all night long.

Here are some shoe choices for nightlife.

1. High heels or kitten-heeled pumps in patent leather, exciting colors, or fabrics

2. Comfortable flats that have fanciful details like bows, sequins, ribbons, or applique

3. Metallic flats or booties

4. Velvet slippers, flats or booties

5. Heeled sandals

Handbags need to be a lot more special than your work bag

For many gatherings, the purse you choose only needs to hold your lipstick, a credit card, some cash, and your smartphone. You may have cocktail handbags that you’ve used for years. I encourage you to take a closer look at them this year. Do they still look viable or does yours need an update?

Here are some handbag selections for your jean party outfit.

1. Smaller crossbody bag with chain straps

2. Fabric bags made with beautiful tapestry or damask fabrics

3. Small framed bags including vintage bags

4. A small handbag in an intense color or a metallic

5. Hard, rather than soft, clutch in faux reptile

Could you use a few fancy casual denim outfits in your wardrobe?

I’d love to help you assemble them, so you are party ready at any moment. Or maybe you’ve realized some gaps in the “party department” of your wardrobe.

Call me! 425-868-1816 OR connect with me at annette@annettebond.com