Tell us what you’d like us to know about yourself;

My name is Monique in Den Bosch, mother of two creative children. When I was 32 I met my partner in a record store. He had a side job there in addition to his teaching job. After buying some CDs for several Saturdays in a row, I put on my naughty shoes and asked him out. Pretty soon after, we lived together. I never thought of children with my previous boyfriends, but I dared to dive into the deep with Arnold.

We recently moved to a village just outside Nijmegen near the forest, only the two of us and our Greek stray-dog. ​​We both felt the need to live in a greener environment, which was quite a step away from the big city after 60 years. During the renovation of our new house, I served as a “contractor” for a few months. A lot had to be done, nobody had lived in that house for over two years. The house has a second floor, and that had been empty for 6 years. We both felt that the house deserved a second life.

Tell us about your career?

I used to have doubts about studying to become a social worker or something in fashion. Ultimately, I chose a private fashion academy in Amsterdam; however, I did not consider myself a real fashion designer. Making mood boards went very well for me, I still like making them. Practical styling training would have been a better option for me. In addition to my studies, I worked with a great team at a fashion boutique called Foxy Fashion during the weekend. I am still in contact with a number of them. After the fashion academy, I started working as a window dresser for a large retail chain.

About 10 years ago, a friend asked if I could help her dig out her wardrobe. I thought, hey, you don’t see the fun and fashionable combinations that you can make with the items in your closet?! That same evening I came up with a plan to start my clothing advice business (next to my regular job). My motto was and still is: “Get more out of your closet.” I have followed some extra workshops to learn more about the styling profession. I mainly work on my intuition and creative eye. I often see immediately what suits someone or not.

So in a way, I am still working as a social worker occasionally and use my sensitive feelers. I particularly like customers who are in a transition process and allow me to help them. When they look in the mirror and look at themselves full of confidence, those are beautiful moments for me. I recently did a session with a customer who has had breast cancer. I was so thankful to give her a bit of confidence in my own way.

Two years ago, I stopped my work as a window dresser. Working in fast fashion no longer suited me. I had attended a masterclass on sustainable entrepreneurship with my daughter Nina, which got me thinking even more. In addition to closet-styling sessions, I also organize styling advice events in a theme. I start the day with a guest speaker, and then participants receive color and style advice. We also discuss good and bad purchases from the past to erase awareness. Participants make a personal mood board, which we discuss and analyze together. It is terrific to style the event to my liking in a suitable theme. During this day, it is essential to merge the inside and the outside in a relaxed way. I think clothing is a beautiful means of communication. I love creating awareness in a society where fast fashion has become a normality.

What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?

I found it difficult to quit my part-time job. Let go of a reliable income and go all the way to be an entrepreneur. I had many sleepless nights deciding what to do.

What are you most proud of?

I am most proud of starting a new adventure and quit my job at the age of 58. Nowadays, I do and experience such beautiful things, I am thankful every day that I had the courage to make this step.

I am also proud of my son and daughter. Both of my children follow their hearts and are beautiful people who are always there for their friends. My husband and I used to take them to the forest a lot when they were little, we visited beautiful cities and museums. Today I notice that they both appreciate those kinds of things, like nature and the beauty in small things.

And I am proud that my husband and I dared to take the step of selling our house and bought an old house to renovate. Many of our friends declared us crazy.

Knowing yourself now what would you tell your 80-year-old-self?

Follow your feelings. Do what feels right and maintain confidence in yourself. I’d tell myself to:

• Keep learning and enjoying.
• Inspire or be inspired.
• Stop thoughts or things from becoming negative.
• Keep your life fun.
• Train your mindset.

Latest Google search?

Plants that can bare a lot of sun, our front garden is sunny all day. Although I always read the plant tags while shopping, some plants not very happy when planted on a bright spot.

How do you stay healthy, both physically and mentally?

I try to drink a lot of water and eat healthily because I have many problems with my intestines. I often feel a blanket of fatigue going over with me. I walk a lot and do as much as possible by bicycle. I spend a lot of time in our new garden, and I occasionally follow a coaching session. Good to sometimes hold up a mirror to yourself. I also think it is important to read a lot about different topics.

What is the first thing you do in the morning to start your day in a positive way?

From our bedroom window, I look at a few trees. I love to be able to look at trees when I wake up, muse, and let ideas sink in. After showering and getting dressed, I go for a walk into the woods with the dog. A great start to the day. Wonderful to hear the birds and see all those shades of green and see the different light between the trees. New ideas often arise during those walks in the forest.

If You Could Give A Good Advice, What Would It Be?

Trust your body and your gut feeling. Don’t let your issues get swept off the table by doctors or specialists. My stomach ache complaints were always related to my intestines. After multiple examinations, it turned out to be a large cyst on one of my ovaries. After it was removed, I got my life back. I had more stomach aches, no more fatigue, and fewer intestinal complaints.

And also; do what makes you happy and speak out. Do something occasionally that is out of your comfort zone. Dare to take steps and look at life with an open mind.

How old are you?

I am 60 years old.

Monique is wearing a shirt by Luisa Cerano and pants by Summum

Styling was done by Dayenne Bekker

Hair and makeup by Esher van Maanen