Meet the super-stylist on a mission to make us all feel more confident in our bodies

Do clothes have the power to change lives? This super-stylist, Lucie Clifford from BBC makeover show, You Are What You Wear, certainly thinks so...

Our appetite for makeover shows was at its most insatiable in noughties, when much of our Friday night-viewing consisted of taking a woman who was self-conscious about herself, asking others (more often than not, total strangers) to judge her solely on her appearance, then using those judgements as a barometer to measure her transformation against. And while we’re firm believers that clothes have the power to change not only how you look but, more importantly, how you feel about yourself, many makeover shows of old focus largely on the former—looks. That’s whereYou Are What You Wear comes in.

Hosted by Rylan Clark-Neal, the main difference between this fashion four-parter and its predecessors is simple—heart. It promotes confidence and self-love, which starts by elevating the wardrobes of those in need of a sartorial switch-up. On-hand are five seasoned stylists, who work closely with their clients to create looks they love, and make them feel more empowered in the process. And no one has the ability to lift others up quite like Lucie Clifford, the show’s resident ‘Queen of Curve’. Having spent years carving a name for herself in the fashion industry, Lucie radiates positivity and has an innate ability to make everyone feel their best self. So, who better to chat to about upping our confidence and doing away with body-induced anxiety this summer?

Congratulations on the show, Lucie! How does it feel to have transitioned your magazine career into the world of television?
Thank you! Well, let’s just say that TV is extremely different to the world of fashion magazines. Everything is very last minute and you’re put on the spot in-front of the camera, when I’m used to being behind it. Long hours are the norm in the fashion world, and it’s the same with TV, but it helps you get close to everyone. We really had the loveliest team.

Makeover shows aren’t new, but was it a conscious decision to move away from the borderline catty makeover shows of old?
Most definitely. We have so much negativity surrounding our bodies, the ideal shape and size, which can be fuelled by unrealistic social media expectations. It was so refreshing to be asked to be involved in a show that highlighted real people with real issues that we could actually help! It’s a great feeling being able to change someone’s opinion of themselves and really grow their confidence, which a lot of makeover shows fail to do.

What’s the dynamic like between the styling team on the show?
Honestly, we’re like a fashion family! From the moment we all met, I could tell it was going to be fun. If someone wasn’t sure on an outfit or how to style a client, we would all support each other and get stuck right in. We don’t always agree with one another, but that’s great! We have very different styles and personalities, and that’s the point—you wouldn’t want to ssee five samey stylists from samey backgrounds. It would just be boring.

Lucie along with her fellow You Are What You Wear stylists, and the show’s host, Rylan Clark-Neal.

How does the show differ to what you’ve done previously in your career?
I think the main difference for me is not working with industry models. They have to wear what you put them in as they are paid to do so. You have to be much more considerate when you dress ‘real’ women; you have to create a rapport and really build a trust for them to wear clothes you know will look great on them, but they might not have ever worn or believed they could have worn before. I started my career styling everyday people for features in magazines, and it’s been wonderful to come full circle! Boosting people’s confidence and showing them how beautiful they are on the inside as well as out is definitely the most rewarding part of my job.

Are there any special moments from the show that have stuck with you?
For sure. A highlight for me was seeing the reveals. You never think people will get that emotional seeing themselves in what’s essentially just a new outfit. However, it’s a whole process and it’s more to do with confidence- building and seeing yourself in a true light. It’s a privilege to play a part in that.

What advice do you have for people looking to change up their image?
Look for someone who inspires you and take note. It could be a certain colour you want to wear or a print you love. Instagram and Pinterest are great sources of inspiration as you can discover people with bodies similar to yours. Start slowly and take small steps into becoming the person you want to be.

Which piece makes you feel most self-assured?
A strong red lip has become my trademark. No matter what I am wearing, if I’ve got a bright red lip, I’ll always feel better about myself. It’s amazing how just a small pop of colour can make you feel so much more confident.

Many women struggle with their self-image particularly when it comes to dressing for summer—what would you tell them?
I’ll let you in on a secret—personally, I hate dressing for summer. However, there are some amazing dresses and jumpsuits in flowing fabrics, which are always my go-to! Lightweight and not too tight is what I look for but really, it’s just about honing in on things that make you feel fab. No one should feel the need to hide their body. Ever. We’re all beautiful! Embrace yourself, and everything else will follow.

So, is there going to be more from You Are What You Wear?
I really do hope so. We haven’t seen a series like this for years, especially on the BBC. So finger’s crossed, as it really does make a difference to people’s lives.

Stream all four episodes of You Are What You Wear on BBC iPlayer, now.