Fall is without a doubt the biggest season for fashion trends. But Mario Clay, who makes his living using clothing to make people look their best, believes personal style is about more than what’s hot on the runway.
“People limit themselves when they stick to the trends,” said Personal Stylist Mario Clay. “They get so caught up that they don’t pay attention to what actually looks good on them.”
He has been in the business for nearly four years and has an impeccable eye for molding personal styles that reflect the personality of his clients and turn heads at the same time.
“I feel out people when I meet them and go from there,” Clay said. “I find out what they’re comfortable with and build on that.”
Being mindful of what’s hot as far as clothes go is import to be relevant when piecing together an outfit, but far from mandatory guidelines.
“Incorporate them, but don’t be defined by them,” Clay said. “You can go to the Goodwill and come out with an outfit that would make you look more polished than if you were in head-to-toe Gucci.”
Clay, who has an aversion for excessive emphasis on the brand (as opposed to how the particular garment looks and makes you feel), says that the key to being consistent and versatile with a wardrobe is piecing together items that can be rotated in and out.
According to him, flirty, flowing pants coupled with slim-fitting blouses, trench coats, cardigans, military-inspired looks and fur are among the main looks being factored into wardrobes this fall. The “it” accessories are “big and extra,” including shoulder duster earrings and lots of bangles.
Although always mindful of the featured fashion for the respective season, Clay’s secret weapon when dressing women is an age-old classic.
“You can’t go wrong with a dress,” Clay said. “I don’t care if you’re short, tall, big or small. There’s a perfect dress for everybody.”
He suggested pairing a simple dress with a cute pair of tights and a cardigan as a hot option for this fall.
But whatever a woman decides when selecting what to wear, it should be something that enhances and represents her tastes and not an improper imitation of something they saw on style.com.
“When it comes to fashion, don’t be too scared or too closed-minded – but be yourself.” Clay said. “Don’t define your style based off of what you see on a mannequin.”
Mario Clay is a personal shopper and stylist in the St. Louis area and can be reached at mariowclay@gmail.com for consultation.
