The weekly journal · Style · Modelling · Confidence

Life with Blake.

A little of my week, a little style inspiration, and encouragement to make room for yourself. For women over 35 who still have things they want to try.

Week one · By Blake Ivy

Make room for yourself.

My week in modelling, taking pride in how you dress, and making time to feel like yourself.

Welcome to my first weekly blog! I wanted somewhere to share what I have been doing, the modelling side of my life, and the ideas behind Styled by Blake and my coaching.

I work full time, so modelling, training and trying something new have to fit around everyday life. There is always something else that needs doing. Making space for your own interests takes a bit of planning, and sometimes a little courage too.

From runway practice to the next application

Over the past week, I have been working on my modelling: new digitals, runway practice and more agency applications. I also put in my Miss Great Britain application. Earlier this autumn, I received the Main Recognition Award at UK Top Model and took part in Miss British Isles Elegance.

There is plenty that happens between the photos and events: preparing, practising, sending applications and waiting for replies. You can take the next step while you are still learning. You do not have to have the whole thing worked out first.

A different kind of finish line

Alongside modelling, I have been trying adult ballet and kickboxing, and this week included a charity 10k in London. Quite a mix! Having something outside work to focus on gives me another reason to make time in the diary.

If there is a class or an interest you keep putting off, perhaps your first step is simply finding out when it runs. It does not have to become a huge commitment straight away.

How you dress is a reflection of you

For me, clothes are a way of expressing who I am. The colours I choose, the way I put an outfit together and the little finishing touches all say something about my personality. Taking pride in how I dress is one of the ways I make time for myself.

Some days that is a tailored outfit for work; other days it is jeans, a lovely knit and boots. I want to feel comfortable, but I also enjoy making an effort. Choosing an outfit with a little thought can help me feel more ready for the day.

That is what I want Styled by Blake to encourage, especially for women over 35: enjoying clothes, finding what feels like you and giving yourself permission to take up a little space in your own week.

Take pride in the little things

You can start with your own wardrobe. Try a different colour combination, steam the blouse you love, clean your favourite boots or add a belt that brings the outfit together. Caring for what you already have is an investment too.

Taking pride in yourself can be personal and simple. Your clothes can reflect your taste, your mood and the woman you are becoming. There is no single way to look confident; the aim is to feel comfortable being yourself.

This week, put together one outfit that feels like you — and wear it.

Give yourself ten minutes to choose it properly. Check that it feels good when you move and sit down. Add the detail that makes you smile, whether that is a favourite colour, earrings or a jacket you love. Enjoy getting dressed for your own day.

A little support for your next step

That is the connection between this blog, Styled by Blake and my coaching: making space for what matters to you, feeling more comfortable in yourself and taking practical steps towards the things you want.

If you would like support with confidence, career direction or clearer communication, you can explore my coaching programmes below.

Explore coaching with Blake

See you next week,
Blake x