Whether you have gained a little weight, lost a lot of weight, or a new graduate you maybe looking in your closet and thinking "I have nothing too wear". Before you break the bank here are a few of my suggestions to rebuilding a wardrobe.
1. WHAT CAN YOU WEAR
Assess what you can wear. Try everything on and be real with yourself. Solicit someone that will give you honest feedback. It is extemely important that you try EVERYTHING on and see if it can be worn alone..no rips, bulging or stains!
2. BACK TO THE BASICS
Make sure you have all the basics for your style. Find your style for your lifestyle, are you a professional, casual, stay at home Mom, what ever your style write down a list of basic items or things you must have. Here is an example of my personal basic list
Pant Suit - Black, Navy and Grey
Tops - White, Black
Tanks - Black, White, and a Fun Color
Dress - Black, Neutral Color
Jeans - Dark Wash (fit is most important, find some that will flatter your shape)
Skirts - Black Pencil Skirt
Slacks - Black, Navy, and Grey or Brown
Shoes = Black Pumps, Long Black Boots, Flesh Tone Pump (Bronze or Redish Brown)
Handbag - Nuetral Color - (it is better to have one nice quality real leather purse than 10 cheap knock-offs)
Bodyshapers (top and bottoms) , Proper Size Bra, Thongs and Bra Clips.
3. WRITE IT DOWN
Make a list of items you need to complete your wardrobe. This list will be your end all, if its not only the list keep it moving. Your goal should be to rebuild your wardrobe with your most needed items. A list will keep you on track and focus. Keep your list in your car or your purse so you will have it with you at all times.
4. SET A SHOPPING BUDGET
I know clothing can be expensive but it doesnt have to be. Planning is key. Never impulse buy, purchasing your items will be intentional that way you wont have to cut corners. Set aside a weekely or bi-weekly budget. This takes time but in the long run you will have key quality pieces you need. Also look into stores that offer layway.
5. GIFT IT
If you have a Birthday, Anniversary, Valentines Day, or Christmas coming up ask for gift cards to stores you frequent.
6. STOP LOOKING AT THE NUMBER
Knowing your size is important, but obsessing with your size will keep you from looking your best. Try on EVERYTHING you buy. Let me say it again TRY ON EVERYTHING YOU BUY! Sometims one size up is the key to a perfect fit. Sizes are not standard a size 12 may be a size 14 or 16 in a different brand. Unless you remove your clothing no one is going to know what size you have on unless you tell them. Know your measurements and write them down. If you are short try on petites if your are tall try on the long. When you go shopping dress for the occasion, I love wearing tights, wedges and a t shirt. Some experst suggest wearing your spanks to see how something is truely going to fit, but I have been doing this for so long I know my limitation and soon you will know yours.
7. THRIFT IT
The Thrift Store is a wonderful affordable option. Thirft Stores carry a variety of clothing, shoes and handbags. Buyer beware you can get a lot of stuff you dont need if you dont stick to your list! (Check out my post on how to Thrift Shop).
8. QUALITY NOT QUANTITY
When shopping to rebuild your wordrobe never think having endless amounts of clothing is a good thing, having clothing that is versital and of good quality is more important. For instance a black pencil skirt you can wear it to work, wear it to happy hour, or wear it to church all you have to do is change your top. These are the type are key to rebuilding your wardrobe. That is why making a list is so important. Also employ a tailor that can hem your pants or shorten a dress so you can get that perfect fit.
9. READ AND COPY
One of my favorite things to do is read fashion magazines and duplicate the looks. There are numerous of fashion blogs that have look for less article that can show you how looks can be accomplished with cheaper options.
10. OUTFITS AND TRENDS
If you are one of those people that buy outfits, STOP!. Please buy things that match more that one item in your closet. Avoid trends if you are in the rebuilding stage. Stay focused and stay away from pieces that you dont see yourself wearing again in the next 2 to 3 years.
11. ASK QUESTIONS
The most important thing is to ask questions. No one is off limits. The woman in the supermarket that has on shoes or a dress you like, ask her where she shops. If you have a friend that dresses the way you want to dress ask here to go shopping with you or give you some tips.
Rebuilding a wardrobe will not happen over night, even with a big budget it takes time. When you focus on the fit and the versitility of a garment a one day shopping trip will not do the trick. Be patient because it will pay off in the end.
