Feeling Confident Is My Main Goal When Getting Dressed, and These Are My Must-Dos

I'm just under 5'2", so naturally, finding clothes that fit my petite frame properly can be a struggle. I've recently realized that getting certain items tailored is completely worth it — especially when you fall in love with a piece that can be made even better with just a few alterations.

Knowing I can easily get something trimmed or slightly customized has helped me breathe easier and shop more freely. But you don't have to be short to take advantage of a seamstress. I've also had my trusty tailor remove pockets (I find it incredibly unflattering when pockets poke out), add personal touches — like patches — to jackets, and transform longer tops into cropped ones.

Tailoring my clothes makes them feel like mine. They instantly become more me and therefore, more fun to wear and style. I also know all of my tailored pieces look amazing on me, which never fails at kicking my confidence into high gear.

It's hard to feel confident when you're uncomfortable, which is why I prefer my clothes to be made from soft and gentle fabrics. Products made from TENCEL™ branded fibers — modal and lyocell — are not only environmentally friendly, which makes me feel like I'm doing my part for the planet, they're comfortable, breathable, and biodegradable.

I love that eco-friendly fibers can be found in loads of clothing items from your favorite brands. Think jeans, blouses, workout wear, and even shoes! They also offer excellent moisture absorption in order to keep me cool and dry. I never have to worry about itchiness or roughness either, as they are extra fine and light.

I also find that my clothes made with TENCEL™ branded fibers are often more flattering than other items because of the way they drape, which of course keeps me walking tall all day long — such an easy choice when you want to look and feel your best.

Quality, versatile pieces are always worthy investments. Not only do they stand the test of time, they instantly make you feel polished and stylish, which, you guessed it, translates into feeling uberconfident. TENCEL™ branded fibers are great because they have impressive color retention, meaning they won't fade as easily as other pieces might. Lyocell in particular is super strong yet gentle and smooth on your skin.

Don't forget, you also get what you pay for, and quality items are typically harder to tear or pill. There's nothing like a recently-discovered hole in your sweater to deflate your confidence at work.

Another reason I love filling my closet with classic items such as a trench coat, a black turtleneck, white sneakers, and LBDs, is that it makes getting dressed a cinch. These pieces mix and match so easily, guaranteeing that your outfit is on-point even when you're short on time.

The single most important way to look put-together is to have wrinkle-free clothing. Wrinkles and creases automatically convey sloppiness, or worse, an I-don't-care attitude. That's why I always lay out my clothes before bed and steam them on the spot when necessary. Steaming before I wake up, ensures I don't run the risk of skipping this important step if I'm running late in the morning. Ironing gets the same job done, but I personally prefer steaming because I think it's easier and quicker.

Feeling like myself is a big part of feeling confident, which is why I, literally, like to take a small piece of myself with me wherever I go. Whether it be a sentimental bracelet my parents gave me as a graduation gift, or my longtime-favorite jean jacket, wearing a special item is comforting and serves as a reminder of who you are and what makes you happy.

A standout item with a lot of meaning can also be a fun conversation starter. Simply sharing the history behind it can break the ice and bring you out of your shell when you're talking to someone new.

Having a signature scent is an idea my mom introduced me to when I was in middle school. That same year, I decided to choose a signature scent of my own. I went with a perfume that's light, fruity, a little sweet, and a little floral, and to this day, whenever I spray it, I instantly feel like myself. I'm taken back to my first day of high school and meeting new friends, excelling at my first day on the job, and my first date with my now-fiancé.

It's a scent that's provided me with confidence throughout the years, and, in a nutshell, it feels like home. A few spritzes is the perfect way to center myself and focus on the day ahead.

Before I step out the door, I like to give myself a once-over in the mirror. This is my time to evaluate my look and how it makes me feel. More often than not, I'll think of a small way to adjust my outfit and make it even better. Sometimes it's adding a red lip or tying a bow in my hair, other times it's realizing that my shirt looks better tucked in.

When you're getting dressed and just focusing on the clothes, sometimes unique personality touches can be forgotten. But it's those touches that truly amp up your style and your confidence.