Why Style Still Matters at 57 (and Why I Finally Retired My “Uniform” Black Trousers)
I’m 57. A proud Gen-X woman.
For me, empowerment isn’t only about boardrooms, courses, or business strategies. It’s also about something much more everyday — the courage to let go of what no longer serves us. That might be the pair of size-10 jeans lurking in the wardrobe (“one day!”), or the safe but uninspiring black trousers that have quietly become a uniform. Empowerment is about trying on new things — new ideas, new activities, and yes, new clothes.
A Different Kind of Wardrobe Story
I’ve always admired how my mother and grandmother dressed. Their choices were a reflection of the times: elegant, understated, appropriate. But our generation is meeting this stage of life differently. We’re more likely to be standing on a stage at a conference, networking at professional development sessions, or enjoying the buzz of social events — and style has become part of how we express our presence and energy.
This is what links so beautifully with our own work at Blueprint Career Development. In our 11334NATCertificate III in Personal Empowerment, we encourage students to build confidence, embrace authenticity, and step forward with clarity. And isn’t that exactly what a wardrobe refresh does? It’s the physical side of empowerment — shedding what belongs in the past, and stepping into what helps you feel your best right now.
The Wardrobe Audit: Letting Go
So this year, with goals to present at more conferences, embrace social media, and take LinkedIn a little more seriously (I’m improving, slowly but surely), I decided it was time for a fresh set of eyes on my wardrobe.
Enter Deborah from Effortless Style.
Together we pulled everything out. Piece by piece, Deborah gently asked the sort of questions we often avoid: Does this really suit you? Does it still make you feel good? Or are you keeping it out of habit?
It reminded me of how we ask our students to reflect during empowerment training — to assess beliefs and habits, keep what strengthens them, and let go of what no longer fits. By the end, I could see my wardrobe with new clarity: not a jumble of “might wear one day,” but the beginnings of a collection that truly worked for the life I’m leading now.
The Shopping Experience: A Breath of Fresh Air
Next came shopping. Normally, this is where I wilt. Racks upon racks, decision fatigue, and the creeping thought of “I’ll just wear the old black trousers again.”
But Deborah made it effortless. At David Jones, she had organised a large changing room and preselected pieces for me to try. Many were things I would have walked straight past — no coat hanger appeal, not my usual “safe” choice. But when I tried them on, I was pleasantly surprised.
And the timing! David Jones was running a special on their store card that day, which meant I walked out with 20% off and free alterations. At 160 cm (or 159 cm now, according to my doctor, who insists this is what happens with “ageing” — though I’m politely ignoring that), alterations are not optional. Having them included was a delight.
For once, I left a shopping trip not drained, but energised. My wardrobe now contained clothes that not only fit, but made me feel confident and prepared for the many hats I wear: business owner, leader, conference speaker, and yes, someone who still enjoys a good day at the races.
Generation X: Style with Substance
This experience reminded me of something important: empowerment doesn’t mean chasing youth. It means presenting the very best version of ourselves at any age.
Gen-X women don’t “fade quietly into the background.” We’re still out there — leading teams, presenting ideas, learning new skills, and shaping industries. Style is part of that. It’s not vanity; it’s presence. It’s how we signal to the world that we belong, that we’re engaged, and that we still have plenty to contribute.
And just as our 11334NAT Certificate III in Personal Empowerment helps students develop self-awareness and confidence, refreshing my style was another way of aligning how I feel inside with how I show up outside.
Style and Empowerment Go Hand in Hand
So what did I gain?
Clarity: I know what’s in my wardrobe and why it’s there.
Ease: Mornings are smoother with less rummaging and more ready-to-go outfits.
Confidence: Whether it’s a staff meeting, a conference, or a social event, my clothes now work with me, not against me.
It’s exactly what empowerment is all about: letting go of what no longer serves us and stepping into choices that support who we are today. For me, that meant retiring the “uniform” black trousers. For our students, it might mean trying something new, speaking up, or believing in their own voice. Different actions, same principle.
✨ So tell me — what’s your go-to “lazy day” outfit? And does it reflect the version of you that you want people to see? Or is it time for your own wardrobe audit…
Because in the end, it isn’t really about clothes. It’s about empowerment — letting go of what no longer fits (in our wardrobes or our lives) and stepping into choices that help us feel confident, authentic, and ready for whatever comes next.
That’s the very heart of our 11334NAT Certificate III in Personal Empowerment at Blueprint Career Development.
Whether it’s students learning to build self-belief, or me trading my “uniform” black trousers for outfits that reflect who I am today, the principle is the same: empowerment is about showing up as the best version of yourself.