17/05/2011
10 WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR FASHION WARDROBE
1) Purge!
Before you can begin thinking about creating a new personal style or a new look, you must evaluate your current wardrobe.
Once the kids have gone to sleep, go through each item of clothing in your closet and dresser. If you have not worn a particular item in the past 6 months – or if it does not fit well – then you should get rid of it.
When you are finally free of your old wardrobe you will be mentally prepared to start anew. And the bonus is you’ll now have space to fill your closet with brand new pieces that flatter your figure.
2) A Clean Closet is a Happy Closet
Organize your wardrobe by type, and then by color within type. For example, arrange your closet as follows: dresses, skirts, pants, blazers and jackets, sweaters, blouses, long-sleeve shirts, and short-sleeve shirts.
Organize items within each clothing type according to color, such as: black, brown, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.
Once your closet is organized you will be more likely to arrange complimentary pieces of clothing into a beautiful outfit.
3) Shoes, Shoes, Shoes!
Never underestimate the power of a good shoe. For a quick wardrobe fix, change your shoes.
Imagine the look of jeans, a white button-down shirt, and ballet flats – cute, right? Now take the same clothing and throw on a pair of stiletto boots – sexy, right?
This tip can be used to take a look from day to night, or casual to dressy.
4) Swap It
Either organize or attend a clothing swap party. At this event you and other women of the same or similar size trade clothing and accessories.
This is not only an opportunity to have a girl’s night, but you will essentially score a new outfit or two. (Now you know what to do with the items you purged from your closet.)
Once you get home, feel free to play around with your new finds and add or remove embellishments, if you wish.
5) Layers
Another quick tip to update your look is play with layers. Layering is fun to do, and even allows you to wear warm-weather clothing in the winter!
In addition, it is a great tool for women who are trying to hide a rounder belly. You can use layering in two ways – start with a little and pile on the clothing until you like your look, or start with a lot and take it off until you like your look.
Essential layering items include: cardigan, thin long-sleeved t-shirt, blazers, and even a beautiful scarf or poncho.
6) Make Do With What You've Got
So you think your wardrobe is boring, huh? If you have these four key clothing (and accessory) items – the little black dress, trench coat, dangling earring, and a powerful high-heeled pump—you can look great for any night out.
These four articles of clothing (or accessories), when worn separately, can be the basis of four completely different looks. Don’t get stuck in a fashion rut – stop yourself from wearing the same clothes each week and experiment with your clothes.
7) The Basics
Now that you have rid yourself of that broomstick skirt and beaded neckline blouse, head to the store and invest some money into your new look.
When you’re out and about, you should purchase the following basics: tanks, camisoles, crew necks, V-necks, and scoop neck tee and tanks in neutral colors such as brown, black, grey, and/or white.
Pricey versions of these items can be found at high end specialty stores, but try hitting up a super store (ie. Target) or retailers like TJ Maxx, Old Navy, and the Gap instead. You can get good quality items for the fraction of the cost, getting more bang for your buck.
8) Pants/Tops Ratio
I am sure that you have heard this numerous times, but I will gently remind you once more—there is no need to have an equivalent number of pants to tops in your wardrobe.
People will look at your tops more often than they will take notice of your pants. For this reason, you only need a few trouser staples in your wardrobe: black pants (professional looking), brown and/or tan slacks, a great dark-wash pair of jeans that can be dressed up or down, and a pair of pants that fits your style (completely your choice, but make sure that they are flattering).
When you shop, pay more attention to great tops, as they usually make or break the outfit.
9) Underneath It All
If you want to look (and feel) better about yourself, you must start inside. Yes, looking and feeling good comes from within, but I am talking specifically about your innerwear (or undergarments).
A great bra and panty can take your look from frumpy and lumpy, to smooth and sleek. To find your perfect bra, take a run to your local department store or lingerie shop and ask to have your bust properly measured.
In addition, purchase panties that not only provide you comfort, but show little to no visible lines when worn under clothing. If you are still feeling a bit self-conscious, invest in some shape wear, such as Spanx.
10) Signature Piece
Everyone is known for their signature piece, whether it is your Grandmother’s earrings or your favorite blazer. Whatever you do, don’t lose yourself in the current trends and end up not having a look to call your own.
Borrow ideas from celebrities and fashion magazines, but don’t follow blindly. Sometimes the most beautifully dressed woman is the one who stays true to herself.
