Why fashion isn’t fickle
Through her work Amelia has seen the incredible transformation good styling can bring.
It wasn’t until I was well into my 30s that I learnt to embrace the joy of fashion, and that’s all down to one lady - Amelia McFarlane from Colour Me In Styling.
I was working at Kinderling Kids Radio and we decided to do a piece on ‘finding your style after babies’. I’d been living in my pregnancy jeans and any top that allowed some discretion while breastfeeding. The story required a whole new approach. It included working out what styles I was attracted to, going through my wardrobe and then going shopping.
I know - poor me! But it was more than just having fun, it was like a spiritual spring clean as I let go of my ‘old self’ and embraced the new. One that was more interested in what made me feel good rather than what I thought I should wear.
Listen to Amelia McFarlane on A Better World Blueprint on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Amelia had unlocked a beast. I often joke that my wardrobe looks like someone vomited a rainbow into it. But I don’t mind that. I wear what makes me happy, and Amelia helped me to find that confidence.
That’s when I realised that fashion isn’t fickle. When approached in a way that’s about self expression (as opposed to keeping up with the Kardashians) it can give you a sense of self determination that’s authentic and powerful. Amelia understood that intuitively when she decided to move into styling for women. That decision has led her to another pathway - to counselling and supporting women in other ways.
In being true to something that gives her joy Amelia started on a path that has ultimately impacted many women and their sense of self. Sometimes a life of purpose can start with the simple step of asking yourself, what do I love doing? And then see where the answer leads you.
Amelia’s Blueprint:
Some ideas from Amelia on how she has lived her life of purpose
Who is the person who most inspires you?
My mum because she was so warm and accepting and made everyone feel good in her presence. She's passed away but I feel like she left this beautiful gift which is my siblings from a big family. I feel so lucky to have them and they're all little reminders of Mum, little pieces of Mum with our different personalities.”
Do you have a quote or a saying that helps guide you?
“It's pretty simple. I like to remind myself that every day is a gift.”
Is there a book, movie or piece of art that has had an impact on your life and if it was, what was it?.
“A book that I've loved, I read it a long time ago so I'd actually like to reread it but it's called A Fine Balance where there are four different characters, it’s set in India and their lives intertwine and I just remember it was a beautiful story about despite all the hardships that these four characters experienced, how important human connection was for them to get through.”
What is your favourite thing in the world to do?
“Ocean swimming and travel.”
What’s the best thing you ever did?
“I think it's still to come.”
What’s the best piece of advice that you've ever been given?
“My granny who's 98 drops pearls of wisdom. They're often related to simple things like, get out in your garden when you're having a bad day. Just get out in your garden, get your hands dirty, do some physical work where you see the results of seeing your garden thrive. And Trinny [famous fashion stylist] once said to me, ‘Always be yourself’ which was very encouraging!”
Listen to Amelia McFarlane on A Better World Blueprint on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.