Inspired by Hand-Me-Downs: How Style Helped Me Find Myself

Allow me to introduce myself. I’m Carol Davidson—a certified image consultant and life coach. For the past 25 years, I’ve helped clients transform how they look and how they live, giving them the confidence to show up for what matters most. My ability to see people at their best is like a light that never turns off—it’s always on, shining with possibility.

My “Before”

Before I stepped into my role as a style and life coach, my world was clouded by all the “shoulds” that tend to keep us small.

I played it safe. I focused on pleasing others. My choices—big and small—were shaped by who I thought I should be, and what I thought I should look like.

Even though I felt drawn to the fashion world, I took the traditional business route. As I climbed the corporate ladder, I realized there was no room for my warm, cuddly self. I couldn’t change my petite stature, and I didn’t want to hide my softer side—so I worked on what I could change: the image I projected.

A Transformation

I was amazed at how a few subtle tweaks could make such a powerful difference. Using my wardrobe as a tool, I learned how to highlight what truly made me shine—my keen mind and my deep understanding of people. At just 5’2”, I stood taller. I got noticed. And I got results.

That shift lit a spark in me—I wanted to help others do the same. Still, I told myself it didn’t fit with the life I thought I was supposed to lead. So I pushed that dream aside.

I kept getting promoted and living what looked like a pretty enviable life: dining out, meeting fascinating people, making great money. But something didn’t feel right. I realized I was checking all the boxes—but not the ones that mattered most to me.

The Big Aha

After some soul-searching, I knew it was time to stop living by the “shoulds” and start living by what made me feel alive. I gave myself permission to follow my passion.

I launched my own image consulting business and built a client base of people who wanted style and ease in their lives. I loved every minute of it—seeing real, lasting transformation, inside and out.
Because it turns out, it’s not just about the right dress or perfect shoes—it’s about walking more powerfully in them.

In 2016, I became a certified life coach. I had already been coaching clients beyond the closet for years, so it felt like the natural next step. Now, I help people design lives that feel just as good as they look.

No Dress Rehearsal

Let’s be real—there’s no dress rehearsal for life. We only get one shot, so the question is: How do you want to live it?

Whether I start with the outside in, or the inside out, the goal is always the same: to help clients create a look and life that lights them up. I believe in showing people how possible, effortless, and fun that can be—once they give themselves permission.

It’s a lifelong practice of honoring who you are and what you love, no matter what gets in the way.
I’m grateful I had the courage to walk away from the “shoulds”—even when it was hard.

My mission now is to help others find that same freedom and power, and step into a future that’s bright in every way.