Style expert Rachel Jimenez shares her fashion tips for your dating life!

Rachel Jimenez launched her business Rachel J Styling, a fashion styling and consulting business in Chicago and Los Angeles. She is the Head Stylist for Felix Magazine and a Founding Outfitter/Fashion Consultant for Trumaker. Check out this interview with her while she shares her fashion and love tips.

How does how we feel influence what we are wearing?

I tell my clients all the time that looking good on the outside starts with feeling good on the inside. Dressing from the inside out means more than getting the right sized bra and perfectly seamless panties or shape wear, although all of that is crucial to setting the foundation for a well built wardrobe. Take some time to get yourself in a happy, self-loving place. Your daily goal should be to feel good and everything on the outside will look that much more amazing on you!

What are the current trends you see men wearing?

Men are paying attention to their clothing in a big way, and I am loving it! Men are definitely more thoughtful about what they put on and are making sure that it fits properly. Its refreshing to see men buy more tailored, custom fit clothing. Gone are the days of baggy jeans and bulky shirts. One of the most eye-catching trends is how men dress up their looks with accessories. Funky shoes, pocket squares, bold watches, and cuff links are huge year round.

What are the current trends you see women wearing?

This Summer has been all about showing off that shoulder! Off-the-shoulder tops and dresses are everywhere and everything! Rompers and jumpsuits with boho-chic prints are still making heads turn, and make getting dressed that much easier. While ladies are still loving their sexy high heels, you’ll see a lot more dressy flats and cool, sporty white sneakers with dresses. Athleisure is a trend that is here to stay.

How should you dress on the first blind date?

Be bold and be yourself! Choose an outfit that you feel confident and really good in. You’re going for effortless chic and subtle sexy, so avoid anything that makes you look like you’re trying too hard. A first date is fun, flirty and a time to really get to know if there is a connection above all else. Tip: don’t wear heels that hurt and make it hard to watch you walking in.

What are great simple additions to your outfit on a tight budget for date night?

When on a budget, I’m a big fan of shopping in your own closet and re-inventing an old look to make it fresh and new again. You don’t have to run out and splurge unnecessarily, but if you want to add some interest to an old look opt for buying a great statement necklace or an amazing pair of earrings. A bold new lip color that you wouldn’t normally wear can brighten your face too!

How can a newly single person update their look?

Newly single is an opportunity to create a new you! Its the perfect time to let go of old baggage and become even better than before. You’ve probably gotten stuck in a fashion rut. My guess is you buy the same colors and the same style of jeans and dresses. Make it a point to try something new! You may have had the same hair style and hair color for years too. Go out shopping with a new set of eyes. Get in that dressing room and try on things that you never pictured yourself in. You might surprise yourself in the best way possible.

What is love?

At its core, love is a choice. Plain and simple. It is a decision that you make over and over to be deeply kind, caring, giving, and accepting of another person just as they are, even when you think they may not deserve your love. I believe love is the practice of nurturing another human being in the most selfless and pure way that you know how.

Tips on keeping love alive?

Laugh, pray, eat, shop and watch sports together! 😉 Do something out of the ordinary to show your appreciation. Don’t be too proud to apologize and let go of the small stuff. Hold hands. Focus on their positive qualities. Be open to what your partner wants to do, and don’t insist on only doing what you want to do! Buy a thoughtful gift for no reason. Oh, when they look good, tell them! A compliment can go a long way…

A few books about love that I LUV! Both are insightful for singles or couples.
The 5 Love Languages by Gary D. Chapman
Why You’re Not Married…Yet by Tracy McMillan

Have any other questions or need styling advice? Email Rachel at rachel@racheljstyling.com