Wear the Clothes: Jane Stewart on Reinvention and Building a Movement

Have you ever looked up from the life you’ve built and thought, What do I want now? Jane Stewart asked herself that question after more than 20 years in the corporate world. What began as a personal change became a way to bring other women together. After both of her parents died, Jane Stewart decided to get help. In therapy, she began talking about childhood trauma. Then her therapist asked what her life was like at 16. Jane remembered spending her part-time pay on fashion magazines and studying everything from the fabric to how the clothes were styled. She’d forgotten how much she loved it. I interviewed Jane via Zoom from her home in Canada.  She talked about finding her way back to fashion and what happened when she started sharing that part of herself. At her Unbroken gathering in Calgary, women told her what they were trying in their own lives. That’s how Jane sees a movement taking shape, with women sharing what they’re doing and giving each other the courage to try.  And I agree - it is a movement.   Questions We Explore How did Jane Stewart rediscover an old passion after loss? A question in therapy brought back the hours she spent poring over fashion magazines as a teenager. Remembering what drew her to fashion helped her see something she wanted to make room for again. Why does Jane emphasize community in Inspired with Jane? She chose the word “with” because she wanted women to feel part of what she was building. Jane sees women sharing their own stories of change as part of the movement, each in her own way.   What’s one small way to start when you’re unsure what’s next? Jane suggests picking something you can do today. One example is wearing the jacket you’ve been saving for a special occasion on an ordinary errand and seeing how it feels. One Idea to Take With You “Wear the clothes” is Jane’s way of saying you can start living a little differently today. Think of one thing you’ve been putting off and take action. About the Guest Jane Stewart is the creator of Inspired with Jane. After more than 20 years in the corporate world, she turned to Western fashion storytelling, speaking and gathering women in community. Listen and Connect Stories of Change  •  Inspired with Jane Stories of Change: Helping You Navigate What’s Next Hosted by Judy Oskam Navigating a change or wondering what comes next? Hear real stories from people who have faced unexpected turns, made important choices, and figured things out along the way. A little wisdom to help you find your own way forward. Explore more at StoriesofChangePodcast.com.