BASIC- a word that we never want to be used to describe us but a word that that is the fundamental of building out a wardrobe!
Figuring out your personal style can take time and effort. This is a major goal for some people and others could not care less. Even if you are not looking to asses your personal style there are definitely benefits to at least learning what you like and dislike. Too many times we all say "I have nothing to wear" yet we know that's not literally the case, there is just nothing we WANT to wear.
If you are one of the many that find yourself in this position, building out a wardrobe could be the task for you! Building out a wardrobe and finding your personal style can help make it easier to put looks together and also eliminate purchasing clothes you never wear.
So what is the easiest way to accomplish this?! Let's take a five step approach that will help us in the right direction.
Rule #1- Be Mindful
You may be thinking in your head "how does this even relate to building a wardrobe...?" but trust me, it is important. If you are not taking a mindful inventory of what makes you feel good and what doesn't, how will you know what clothes should become part of your wardrobe?! Also, this helps when purchasing clothes, you will be less likely to go for the impulse buys and waste money on items you will never wear! For example, if I feel uncomfortable in low rise jeans (which I totally would) I need to make a mental note of that so that I don't unnecessarily purchase them and then never wear them. This helps make your outfit choices more conscious but in turn will help you feel better in all the clothes that you DO have.
Rule #2- Know your go-to styles
Not saying you have to know everything you like and dislike, but at least start to become aware of your choices. Even being the slightest more mindful when making clothing decisions can be powerful. To begin, start taking inventory of clothing pieces you lean towards. This is all about how your clothes make you FEEL not look. Figure out some of your go to styles and fits of clothing because this will be the foundation of your wardrobe. For example, in the summer I love T-Shirt dresses but in the winter, my go to is a turtleneck sweater. Yours might be boyfriend cut jeans or loose fitting sweaters, whatever you find yourself continuously purchasing or clinging towards ..go with it! Remember the most important thing is feeling comfortable. If you do not feel comfortable in something you will not feel like your best self and that is the last thing we want!
Rule #3- Start with the basics
I originally thought that this would be rule #1 but that goes to show how building a wardrobe is really half the mental aspect and half the actual doing! Starting with the basics is the best piece of advice for actually transforming your wardrobe. There are some things we just can not have enough of. Black T-shirts, white button ups, light wash jeans. These are just a few basics that you can use as a base for almost EVERY outfit. When and doubt, these will be your fall backs if you really can't find anything to wear on that next date or dinner with the girls! I can't stress enough that as long as you have at least one of every basic, you will be ready for any occasion that may come your way. The next rule will show you how to build off that!
Rule #4- Use Accessories to diversify your wardrobe
I can't tell you how many times I have wanted a full pink suit or a pair of snakeskin pants and then I think to myself "how many times will I even be able to wear this?!" This is being mindful in your purchasing and can help you make appropriate choices. If you find yourself asking this question, I suggest that you use your accessories as the bold statements. For example, a pair of pink shoes or a snakeskin bag can be a more cost effective way to incorporate these trends that you like into your wardrobe and also you will be more likely to use them without having to worry about "outfit repeating." Of course, if you find yourself not being able to take your mind off that pink suit and you have some disposable cash by all means go for it, but if you are trying to build out a large wardrobe and cut some costs this is a good tip to follow! Dressing up your outfits with accessories is also the #1 way to make a basic style turn into a "look." You can start with your black tee, jeans, and black booties, but then if you add a red purse, gold belt, and gold hoop earrings it is a simple way to upgrade your outfit! This is a classic example of the rules coming together to make your looks stand out.
Rule #5- Don't buy it unless you have somewhere to wear it
Now, I can't say I ALWAYS follow this rule, but it is one way to eliminate the over-buying of clothes you don't wear. This tip applies mostly when you want to buy more outlandish items (that all sequin dress you needed but don't have anywhere to wear it to, etc.) We all have so many holiday parties, bachelorettes, and work events nowadays that there is always a need for a new outfit. That is why, unless that outfit you see that you need to have can be utilized for one of them, then don't buy it. If there is not something within 3 months you can see yourself wearing it to, it likely will only sit in your closet and gather dust. A waste of money in your pocket and a waste of a hanger!
Following these tips can help you make outfit choices easier and bring them to life! If you are ready to have more confidence in your wardrobe and find out your personal style, these are just some of the tips to keep in your toolkit. The rest will fall into place!
If you need further consultation or help in empowering yourself through personal style, you can take a look at the services I offer on my website.
Stay Glam!! xoxo
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