How using a Stylist and Accountability Coach can improve your mental health
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I am Stephanie Rumble, a fashion stylist and accountability coach based in Christchurch, New Zealand, I’ve spent the past 20 years helping people feel their best through style.
Today, I want to share a key insight with you on how styling can impact mental health, a topic I recently discussed with Charlotte, a counsellor with 20 years of experience.
When Charlotte and I first met, she was juggling a corporate job in mental health while being a new mum. Like many women, she felt unsure about her style, especially after such a life-changing event. She recalls showing up in black leggings and cardigans, unsure how to navigate her new identity as both a mother and a professional.
That’s where our work together began. I guided her in finding clothes that suited her body, lifestyle, and personality, a process that had a profound effect on her confidence.
Charlotte shared how understanding what suited her body not only improved her appearance but also boosted her self-esteem. She reflected on the emotional transformation she experienced, explaining how even small changes like wearing blazers and vibrant colours made her feel more aligned with who she was.
“It was more than just clothes,” she said. “I felt confident in who I am and how I want to present myself to the world.”
As a stylist, I often see clients going through similar emotional journeys. Life transitions—whether it’s becoming a parent, changing jobs, or just aging—can shake our confidence.
By helping clients understand what looks good on them and why, I aim to rebuild their self-esteem. Styling is about more than just looking good; it’s about feeling good.
I always ask my clients, “How do you feel in this?” because that’s the real indicator of whether the clothes work for them.
Charlotte and I also touched on the mental health benefits of decluttering wardrobes and curating a collection of clothes that truly resonate with you. It’s not about spending a fortune—it’s about investing in pieces that make you feel amazing.
Charlotte still treasures items from our first shopping trip together, where we built an entire wardrobe on a modest budget. These clothes continue to serve her well, reminding her of the confidence she gained through the process.
The link between style and mental health is clear: feeling good in your clothes can help you feel good in your own skin. Whether it’s finding the right fit, learning to embrace vibrant colours, or simply discovering new ways to express yourself, styling is a tool for emotional well-being.
If you’re feeling stuck in your wardrobe or unsure of where to start, consider working with a stylist. It’s not just about the clothes—it’s about building confidence, self-esteem, and ultimately, better mental health.
Tips for Boosting Your Mental Health Through Style:
1. Find What Suits You: Understanding your body type and coloring can help you make choices that enhance your appearance and boost your self-confidence.
2. Invest in Key Pieces: Build a curated wardrobe with items that make you feel good, even on a budget.
3. Embrace Change: Life transitions like motherhood or career shifts can alter your sense of self. Update your wardrobe to reflect these changes and stay connected to who you are.
4. Prioritise self-care: Styling is a form of self care- take time for yourself each day, whether it's through fashion, exercise or relaxation.
Listen to the full interview at Style for life Podcast
Follow me on Instagram, Bright Red, or on Facebook, and my Style for life Podcast
Thank you so much, Charlotte. You can find her at https://www.instagram.com/charlottethecounsellor/ which is her IG handle, or you can visit her website or listen to her Podcast Feel Better Podcast