Since founding Roberta Style Lee in 2015, wearing my values (#Wear Your Values) is an idea I’ve built upon to find my authentic style and that of my clients. One thing has become increasingly clear: what we wear is an extension of who we are, and our values should be reflected in our wardrobes.
The fashion landscape has shifted. Sustainability is no longer niche. More people are aware of the impact their clothes have on people and the planet, but awareness isn’t the same as alignment — and that’s where the real transformation begins.
As someone who once felt disconnected from her style, I know the power that comes from redefining your wardrobe through the lens of your values. That’s what I call wearing your values. And it changes everything.
Becoming the Sustainable Stylist
In the early days of my styling career, I watched other stylists promote fast fashion hauls daily. I knew that wasn’t for me. It didn’t align with what I stood for. There wasn’t much of a demand for sustainable styling, so I focused on the confidence coaching part of my work and used sustainable styling as an additional tool to embed confidence in my clients’ daily actions and routines.
Today, things have moved on – I’m proud to be known as The Sustainable Stylist. But being a sustainable stylist isn’t about perfection. It’s not about having the “perfect” wardrobe made up entirely of ethical and sustainable brands. It’s about intentionality, integrity, and making the most of what you already own. That’s where true empowerment lies.
My work has shifted into deeper transformational work for women looking for new levels of empowerment in their next chapter in life.
Sustainability isn’t a trend — it’s a personal value system. And it should show up in your wardrobe just like it does in your lifestyle. So this is why I am thrilled that the Wear Your Values concept has now been picked up by others and used more broadly in the industry.
Finding your values
Wearing your values starts with knowing them.
What truly matters to you, not just in fashion, but in life?
For me, it’s about:
- Reusing and reinventing what already exists.
- Supporting ethical production and fair wages.
- Choosing quality over quantity.
- Shopping less, but better.
But your values might be different. You might prioritise animal welfare, local production, or circularity. That’s the beauty of values-based styling — it’s deeply personal.
If you’re not sure where to begin, I recommend reading this guide: Values-Based Ideas to Build Your Personal Style
Reality Check: Your Wardrobe Won’t Be Perfect — And That’s OK
Let’s be honest — no one’s wardrobe is 100% ethical, sustainable, or “done”. Including mine. Searching for 100% perfection is likely going to push you to excess, and having more than you need, you’ll never get 100+ wears out of every piece.
Style evolves. Life evolves. And so do our values. But when you have clarity around what matters most to you, shopping on autopilot becomes a thing of the past. You stop chasing trends and start curating a wardrobe that’s truly yours.
Even I sometimes turn to the high street if I can’t find a petite piece in my shape or colour elsewhere — but it’s always a last resort, not the default.
Wear Your Values & Feel Empowered
There’s nothing more powerful than stepping out in an outfit that aligns with your identity, values, and aspirations. It boosts confidence, enhances presence, and reminds you who you are and what you stand for.
As my former co-host Jo Salter at a Fashion Revolution event once said:
“Having a deeper connection with our clothes, through our values, makes us happier.”
And I couldn’t agree more.
Ready to Align Your Style with Your Values?
Whether you’re just starting your style journey or ready to elevate how you show up in the world, there are two ways I can support you:
VIP New Chapter Styling Experience
For ambitious women ready for a full transformation. This is a high-touch, values-led styling experience designed to align your wardrobe with who you are now — and who you’re becoming.
Explore New Chapter Styling
The Sustainable Style Collective (TSSC)
Prefer to learn in a community of like-minded women? TSSC is for you. Discover your personal style, get clarity on your colours and body shape, and build a wardrobe you love — all while living your values. Online group-based sessions led by me, with expert guests coming in to offer new insights and ideas.
Join the Collective
Let your wardrobe reflect your journey.
Let your style tell your story.
And never forget — wearing your values is the ultimate power flex.
Roberta x
