Wardrobe Essentials
If you are anything like I used to be, you hang onto clothes forever (and by that I mean, way past the expiration date). Part of it is the guilt factor – I paid for it, darn it, I am not going to get rid of it. The other part, sad but true, is that I think about when my children will have 90s or 00s day at school. Instant access to authentic vintage clothing! I know that is crazy…but platforms did come back in style last year and I had only to walk into my closet to hone in on the latest trend.
The real question we all should be asking ourselves - How much of what is hanging in my closet am I actually wearing? Let’s be realistic here, we need our wardrobes to work with us, not against us. We truly do end up wearing the same things over and over, so simplifying could be a good thing. Another good thing would be to learn how to pair different things together to get the most out of our wardrobes.
The first thing you need to do is develop your “essentials” wardrobe. This consists of your key neutrals (black, brown, white/off-white, olive, charcoal, navy) and consists of quality pieces. Everyone needs a pair or two (or three) of fabulous black pants that transcend season. Invest in your essentials … these pieces have to (and should) last a long time. Once you have gathered your essentials together, stand back and take a long, hard look at what is left. Probably 80% of your closet! If you are having a hard time putting these items into piles such as (1) consignment, (2) good will and (3) “too good to go to either but I still don’t wear it” – this becomes your sisters/friends pile, have your friend, family member or spouse take a look at your non-essentials to give you their opinion of how often (never) you have worn these pieces. It will become easier to part with these things after soliciting another’s opinion, I promise. Now, take a deep breath … don’t you feel better?
Each season, add colorful and modern pieces to freshen up your style. This allows you to add in some trend, while grounded by your essentials. If you don’t know your color palette, contact me for help. Be smarter about your purchases. If you know you only look good in the Martin Fit pant, only buy Martin Fit pants! Or if you still can’t trust yourself, bring an honest friend with you. I have a friend that is brutally honest (I compare her to shopping with my mom). Her opinion is transparent by look within 2 seconds and by mouth within 3. Gotta love a good friend.
Stumble it!
