When it comes to cleaning a closet (that would be of the clothes variety), most of us are clinger-on-ers. In other words, we'll get around to wearing that purple beaded miniskirt at some point.
It never happens.
And the closet is jammed with ill-fitting, sometimes inappropriate attire for our lifestyles.
That's when you call Stephanie Cumberland.
She's in the image and wardrobe consulting business and has helped a variety of clients, from a 14-year-old girl who is just starting high school to a Sacramento Monarch.
Her local business, Presenting You, is just that: "I help individuals and businesses present the look they want. I empower them through that look," she says.
We sat down with Cumberland to discuss how Sacramento gets it right when it comes to style and what the fashion scene needs to work on.
So a gold medalist happens to be one of your clients. Who would that be?
I'm Kara Lawson's stylist. I did her makeup and the styling for her wedding. Now, I'm so proud of her incredible performance on the world stage. And I'm also proud to call her my friend.
Who else are you working with?
I'm the style consultant for Fox40. I do a lot of work with the media. And I'll be advising (former WNBA player) Kayte Christensen, who will be working the red carpet for Maloof Sports Entertainment at the upcoming Video Music Awards.
Well, both of those are tall orders in that you're working with women of height. What's the best improvement among the rest of the dressers in Sacramento?
We see ourselves as more worldly, not as a cow town. With the Kings and this being the capital, it's brought attention to the city. Those in the political arena have stepped it up, with the governor and Maria Shriver, who is so stylish.
Where is there room for improvement?
Too often we're quick to fall for the "look" of a season, even if we don't like it. Men and women often follow trends instead of setting them, including me.
So what's the one item of clothing you won't get rid of?
A little black dress by Betsey Johnson. I bought if for my 40th birthday, when I had a Barbie party. It's really short, and I could never wear it again. It just marks time for me.
Who's your favorite designer?
Donna Karan. I love how she cuts her clothing, and she doesn't over-design. Everything is simple and classic.
My favorite soap opera is "The Bold and the Beautiful" because it's set in the L.A. fashion industry. You were once on that show, right?
I was a house model for Forrester Creations from 1988 to 1989. My name was Fawn! When you saw Fawn appear, you knew you were getting ready for a fashion show. I had a couple lines here and there.
• You can reach Cumberland's business at (916) 284-3124 or www.presenting-you.net.
Call The Bee's Leigh Grogan, (916) 321-1129.
