Last week I mentioned that I’m already starting to feel a shift in the seasons here in Colorado. Most summers, it’s quite hot and dry until mid-October, but this year, I think we can expect an early autumn, and maybe even a surprise snowfall, or two, before winter arrives.

This shift has prompted me to look at my wardrobe and decide which key pieces I need to upgrade for the cooler weather that’s on its way. I found a gorgeous, bright pink cashmere scarf last week (bright colors work really well for me, year round), and now I’m waiting for a pair of wide-leg jeans to arrive on my doorstep any day now.

I like to think of my wardrobe as a direct reflection and expression of who I am. It’s a fun way to frame getting dressed every day, like I’m creating a little work of art each time I reach for an article of clothing. Thinking about clothing and fashion this way has made getting dressed and shopping so much fun for me. I have fewer rules, and a lot more freedom to enjoy myself.

I have to share with you that being a mother of a nearly one-year old has placed some restrictions on how I dress these days, but I’m committed to doing whatever I can to feel vibrant, beautiful and alive in everything that I wear. The only caveat is that I have to be able to move easily in it (from crawling on the floor, to nursing, bath time and more), and I have to be able to clean whatever I’m wearing, easily.

No one wants to try to clean spit up or mashed blueberries off of a silk shirt! ;0

What are your thoughts about dressing for yourself? What are your rules? And what wardrobe pieces, colors or fabrics have you’ve always wanted to wear?