6 Words to Tell Yourself Every Morning

Celebrity stylist Erin Walsh, author of 'The Art of Intentional Dressing,' introduces a revolutionary approach to getting dressed that transforms how people see their closets and themselves. Walsh, who has styled major Hollywood celebrities, argues that fashion isn't frivolous luxury but essential tools we all use daily. Her core philosophy centers on six words: 'How do I want to feel?' Rather than opening closets and asking 'what should I wear?' or focusing on what looks acceptable to others, Walsh teaches people to pause and identify three feeling words that represent how they want to embody their day.

Walsh explains that most people's closets are 'graveyards of old versions of themselves' filled with clothes that no longer fit or represent who they want to be. This creates emotional minefields that trigger feelings of inadequacy. By shifting from external validation to internal intention, people can use clothing as tools for empowerment rather than sources of shame. She emphasizes that this isn't about buying new clothes, following trends, or achieving perfect style—it's about alignment between inner intention and outer expression.

The conversation demonstrates this method through three team members: Jessie, a new mother struggling with postpartum body changes; Amy, a postmenopausal woman who initially resisted the concept; and Cindy, a grandmother and breast cancer survivor. Each woman used the six-word question that morning and shared their experiences. Jessie moved from words like 'practical' and 'calm' to embracing 'powerful,' 'beautiful,' and 'confident.' Amy discovered she wanted to feel 'creative,' 'empowered,' and 'magical.' Cindy chose 'bold,' 'empowered,' and 'confident,' wearing a vibrant pink vest she'd previously limited to certain seasons.

Walsh provides practical advice including the importance of proper-fitting undergarments as foundational self-care, trying on everything in your closet to understand how each piece makes you feel, and investing in tailoring. She recommends creating a 'laboratory' in your closet, taking photos of outfits that work, and quarterly closet audits. The method extends beyond clothing to jewelry, accessories, and even what you wear at home, emphasizing that every choice tells a story about who you are and how you value yourself.