How to Always Have Something to Wear
Always buying clothes but never have anything to wear? Step by step instructions on how to develop a wardrobe.
Difficulty Level: Average Time Required: Varies
Here's How:
- Stop impulse buying. Every $10 mistake you would have picked up in the bargain bin goes to a really great wardrobe.
- In the first step of cleaning out your closet, eliminate everything that doesn't fit or that you haven't worn in a year.
- A few weeks later, go back and get rid of all the stuff you fudged on the first time around.
- With what's left, begin identifying a theme to your wardrobe, relying on favorite looks, colors and lifestyle pieces..
- Decide on three colors that either match or will coordinate with what you own and buy only those three colors for apparel.
- Establish a workable budget.
- Make a list of all the items you need in your wardrobe. (For example: solid blazer, wool pants, white shirt)
- Set aside an hour of time each week to shop -- online or off.
- Avoid trendy items.
- Buy clothing that will span two to three seasons -- like wool crepe or matte jersey.
- Purchase only clothes that work with something that you already own.
- Pass on anything that doesn't fit -- no matter how great a buy.
- Try to add only one or two well-thought out items per month.
- Add punchy color and trendiness with accessories, shoes and handbags.
- Continually eliminate and replace essential wardrobe pieces once it is built up so that
you are never caught without a necessary item.
Tips:
- Ignore that advice about buying "the best" of everything. Regardless of how well-made a garment is, moths, coffee spills and kids take their toll. Never choose between a mortgage payment and a cashmere sweater.
- Try to plan your wardrobe around three neutral colors like black, white, khaki, navy or brown.
- Buy more solids than prints - you won't get tired of them as quickly.
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