Style in Transition: 6 Things NOT to Do When Your Life (or Wardrobe) Is Changing
- Christen Johnson

- Aug 8
- 3 min read
Whether you’re starting a new job, becoming a mom, entering a new season of womanhood, or simply evolving into a more self-assured version of yourself—your style should evolve too.
But if you’ve ever stood in front of your closet and said, “Nothing feels like me anymore,” you’re not alone.
Transitions are powerful—but they can also create confusion around what to wear, what to keep, and how to show up. And if we’re not mindful, we can unknowingly sabotage our own growth.

Here are 6 things not to do when your life or wardrobe is in transition—plus what to do instead.
1. Don’t Shop Without Intention
During transitions, it’s tempting to shop on impulse—grabbing whatever looks cute, feels safe, or mimics what someone else is wearing. But this usually leads to a closet full of random pieces that don’t work together.
Instead: Pause. Identify what’s missing, what you’re no longer wearing, and how you want to feel. Then, shop with purpose and a plan that supports your new season.
2. Don’t Follow Every Trend You See Online
While trends can be fun and refreshing, they shouldn’t replace your core style. Following trends without discernment often leads to a closet that doesn’t reflect you and adds more noise when you’re already craving clarity.
Instead: Use trends as inspiration, not instruction. Ask yourself: Does this trend align with my lifestyle, body shape, and personality?
3. Don’t Cling to What Used to Work
Your old favorites may no longer feel aligned. That doesn’t mean you’ve “lost your style”—it means you’re growing. Holding on to outdated pieces out of guilt or fear can keep you stuck in a past version of yourself.
Instead: Give yourself permission to release what no longer serves the woman you’re becoming. Create space—literally and emotionally—for the next version of your style.
4. Don’t Rush the Process
Style evolution is not an overnight transformation—it’s a journey. You don’t need to figure it all out in one day or one haul.
Instead: Take small, intentional steps—like curating a mini capsule wardrobe, experimenting with silhouettes, or working with a Style Savant. Let your wardrobe evolve with you.
5. Don’t Ignore the Emotional Shift
Style changes aren’t just about clothes. Transitions bring up emotions—grief, excitement, insecurity, or joy. If you don’t acknowledge those emotions, you might project them onto your wardrobe or avoid getting dressed altogether.
Instead: Ask yourself: What am I really feeling in this season? Your clothes should affirm and support that emotional shift—not cover it up.
6. Don’t Go It Alone
When you're in transition, it's easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start. You don’t have to figure it out solo. Getting support from a professional stylist (👋🏽 hi!) can give you clarity, direction, and the confidence to dress for who you’re becoming.
Instead: Book a Style Assessment or explore a style experience that supports your transformation. This is the season to get help, not hustle.
Your style should reflect the woman you're becoming—not the one you’ve outgrown. Transitions are the perfect time to refine your wardrobe, reimagine your style identity, and show up with confidence.

If you're in the middle of a shift, start here:→ Grab your free Body Measurement Card
To help you get clear on fit and proportion→ Read The Body Shape Bible
To dress for your shape, not society’s standards→ Book a Style Assessment to receive expert guidance and support.
You don’t have to lose your sense of style during life’s transitions—in fact, this is where your style story can get even better.




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