Cinq a Sept dress (Code: SUSIE15) | Zoe Chicco necklace: here & here (Code:SUSIEW15) | Sandals | Red bag | Brent Neale ring
10 Things I Swear by for Instant Confidence
After more than a decade as a personal stylist, I’ve learned that the right pieces don’t just change how you look — they change how you feel. The little updates, the everyday details, the things that make you feel like yourself again. There are 10 things I swear by for instant confidence, and these are the style tips and beauty finds I tell all my friends about.
These suggestions have been tested over and over again in the dressing room, and I’ve tried every one myself. From the foundation that always makes your skin glow to the swimsuit that I feel good in without a coverup 😉, these are my secrets to looking and feeling amazing. Let me know which ones are your favorites! 🥂
P.S. Everyone’s starting to talk about the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, which is understandable since it’s kind of a big deal! But, here’s what no one tells you: things sell out fast. I spent 25+ years as a Nordstrom buyer and personal stylist, so I know exactly how this sale works behind the scenes. This year, I’m putting it all in a guide called “What No One Tells You About the Nord Sale.” Make sure to subscribe here, so you get it the minute it’s ready!
#1 The Secret to Longer Legs
L’Agence dress | Clutch, similar | VB sandals
I’ve talked about clear shoes for many years, and this shoe is the one that almost broke the internet a couple years ago. When you find a shoe that “disappears,” it makes your legs go on forever. And, they also go with basically every single piece in your wardrobe. This gives you confidence to proudly show your legs — what more could you ask in a shoe? I did consider whether clear shoes are dated, and I spent hours thinking about what the next “it” shoe will be. Thankfully, new styles have started surfacing, and this season there’s a wide variety. See below for some favorites.
Stylist tip: Run and buy this Kiehl’s lotion. It’ll make your legs glisten, and it’s one of my all time favorite body creams!
#2 A Good Bra is Your Best Alternative to a Boob Job 😂
Simkhai draped blouse | Theory pants | Gold sandals | Veronica Beard clutch
A while back, a dear friend asked if I’d gotten a boob job 😂 We had a good laugh, because the answer was no … only a good bra! This bra not only lifts, but it also adds a little cleavage (tastefully) if your outfit calls for that. I’ve been working with Wacoal since 2020, and have become friends with Miryha the lead designer who knows everything imaginable about bras. She taught me this trick: bend your arm and look at where your bust sits. As a rule of thumb, it should land right around the middle of your upper arm, halfway between your shoulder and elbow. If anything is sitting lower than that, your bra isn’t doing its job. Remember, the right bra makes all the difference.
Best bras
Back-smoothing | Minimize & lift | Strapless – this and this | Everyday comfortable | Bra that works magic
#3 Great Jeans are the Most Important Piece in Your Closet
Belted trench, similar | Mother jeans | Prada heels
Hands down the best two pairs of jeans to own: Paige Anessa and Mother Hustler Roller Sneak
#4 Signature Scent
There’s something so luxurious about having a “signature scent!” I’m always looking for my next bottle of perfume, and here are some faves I wear on repeat. Of course, Rouge 540 — it’s everyone’s current favorite. Lately, I’ve been layering it with this Salt & Stone body creme that smells similar. For summer, I love Portofino, especially layered with this body oil. A few other favorites include Portrait of a Lady, Byredo Bal d’ Afrique, and Delina.
#5 A Black Dress You Can Depend On
Staud dress here & here | Gold sandals | Clutch
Many of us have different events to go to, and most of the time, a black dress works perfectly! I used to talk about the ALC Renzo all the time. I still love it, but this newer one by Staud is really elegant, and I highly recommend it. The Vince slipdress also got an update, and I love the wider straps. Make sure to get a smoother — this is the one I’m wearing — and a good strapless bra (this is the one everyone loves).
#6 The Swimsuit That Never Lets You Down
Alemais dress | La Blanca swimsuit (wearing color sky) | Zoe Chicco necklaces: here & here (discount code: SUSIEW15)
If you want a classic one-piece that’s flattering — thank you rouching, not looking frumpy, and you can actually swim in it — this is the one to consider. I’ve purchased it in two colors, and it’s the one I reach for the most. Top recommendation.
#7 A Great Travel Outfit
Quince sweater | Denim jacket, similar | Tank & matching pant | Veronica Beard sneakers
If you’re traveling often, having a couple of go-to outfits is key! I’ve been alternating between this Rag & Bone Miramar track pant, and the lodge pant I’m wearing above. And, always take a sweater, like the cotton one above or this cashmere one. Trust me, it feels good to get off the plane in a cute outfit! If you wanted to sub a denim jacket for a blazer, this is the best one, since it’s a stretchy knit lightweight wool style.
#8 The Pant That Does It All
Anthropologie top | Lodge pants | Sandals | Bucket bag
A pant that does it all? YES! Drawstring pants (like the ones by Aritzia) are casual but elegant, and you can wear them with sneakers, sandals, loafers, and even a heel. I can’t say enough good things about these pants, I wear them all the time. Another more elegant option without the drawstring is these Leset ones — just bought them but haven’t worn them yet.
#9 Updated Denim Jacket
Frame denim jacket | Paige Anessa jeans | Sandals
A denim jacket can easily look dated. So, since it’s a wardrobe staple, making sure you have an updated version is important. Try either a relaxed basic one like this, or a newer style like this or this. I promise, you’ll feel a little extra in all your outfits!
#10 Two beauty faves I swear by
Foundation that makes your skin glow: There’s a reason that Luminous Silk makes every list for the best foundations. A few months ago, they re-formulated it and I think it’s even better. Make sure to use this primer along with the foundation. You’ll look glowy and your skin will get lots of compliments! For reference I wear color #5.5
Instagram filter for your face: The Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Finish Powder is truly the best for a beautiful complexion
Thank you for reading! xx
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