
Here’s the thing. We don’t need more stuff. Most of us already have what we need in our wardrobes for just about anything that comes up.
I understand the pressure to buy new clothes regularly. New fashion trends come at us at lightning speed. We see someone with new things, and we want them, too. As someone who works in fashion, it’s easy for me to justify a purchase with the excuse of “fashion research.”
For now, let’s pause the pursuit of more things to celebrate the abundance that is there. January is the best time of year to shop your wardrobe. With fewer social engagements and healthy habits starting back up, enjoying what you have is right in step.
Top Benefits
Shopping your wardrobe benefits you in several ways. Here are a few.
- Sustainability: This has been one of my main focuses for the last handful of years. Buy less, buy better. The longer you wear your clothes, the lower your carbon footprint.
- Financial Benefits: Focusing on what you already have in your wardrobe, frees up your budget for other priorities.
- Personal Style Development: Shopping your wardrobe encourages you to experiment and discover combinations that reflect your personality. Most of the time, it is not what you are wearing but how you are wearing it. Get in there and get creative.
How To
Let’s talk through the practical steps of getting our wardrobes shaped up for the New Year.
Step 1: Declutter and Rediscover
Start by editing your wardrobe. As you look over what you own, separate items into three categories:
- Keep: Pieces you love and wear regularly.
- Maybe: Items you’re unsure about but see potential in.
- Donate or Sell: Clothes that no longer fit your style or your needs.
You would not believe how many times a client has found a forgotten treasure when I’m going through their wardrobes with them. Often, they are delighted to rediscover it. Place the keeps back into your closet, donate items right away, and email me to help you with the “maybe” items.
Step 2: Organize it
Now that you have the extras out of the way, you can see what you love to wear. When adding items back into your closet, I typically suggest organizing by type (shirts, pants, dresses) and color. Once organized, it is simpler to mix and match outfits.
Step 3: Style It
Now that you have edited and organized, it’s time to experiment. Here are some ideas to refresh your outfits:
- Layering: Combine different textures and lengths for unique looks. For example, layer a summer dress with a turtleneck for colder months.
- Accessorizing: Scarves, belts, and jewelry can take a basic outfit from good to “wow.” Don’t forget to edit these categories, too.
- Repurposing: Adjust the tailoring on items to make them perfect for you now and find ways to make them new. I change buttons on blazers, for example. I also use a button-down shirt as a lightweight jacket to give it another use. If you have items you only wear for work, can they be used for date night or weekend? Give your pieces more jobs.
Step 4: Address Wardrobe Gaps Strategically
Most wardrobes have a few gaps. Instead of impulse-buying, make a list of what you need and look for the best quality of those items within your budget to complement your wardrobe. Consider secondhand or sustainable brands when shopping. Take your time finding the right things. Close enough is not good enough. Some items will elude you, and that’s okay. It took me years to find the right pair of dressy leather boots. But I waited for the right pair rather than settling for something that wasn’t quite right.
Benefits Beyond Style
Shopping your wardrobe isn’t just about clothes. It’s a mindset shift that can extend to other areas of your life. You’ll likely find yourself appreciating what you have and being more mindful about future purchases. This intentional approach leads to a greater sense of fulfillment and confidence.
Final Thoughts
For 2025, instead of trying to keep up with trends and buying more, let’s discover the joy of authentic style using the best of our wardrobes. Open those closet doors and start exploring—your next favorite outfit is waiting for you!
Want help? I’m here for you. Email me to get started. Time with me is a great gift to yourself.
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