Part 2 of the Style Guide Series

Often, we buy clothes. We don’t have a real purpose or idea; we only see something we like and buy. This is one of the many reasons that closet and bedroom clutter are hard to manage and, for many, financially organized when it comes to spending. People end up with boxes of clothing or overstuffed closets. They never know where some items are, or worst they don’t see what they have. Here is my very simple guide to starting over with your wardrobe, downsizing, and organizing.

Step 1: Experiment.

Don’t be afraid to try different looks. Think outside the box. Sometimes you may not realize that something is so very you.

Step 2: Find what makes you happy ( aka determine your staples).

Start by noting your favorite item in the following categories:

1. Top
2. Outerwear
3. Pants
4. Skirt
5. Jacket
6. Flat shoe
7. Heel

This is to start. You may not even have a favorite but, it will give you an idea of what you will likely wear the most.

Example:

1. Top – I have two favorite styles of tops. Both are basics that are very easy to mix and match. I wear Basic Camis a lot, mostly V-necks. They are the part of my wardrobe that is the most colorful. Then my second favorites are Basic V-Necks.
2. Outerwear – I’m cold all the time, even in summer, so I have an array of cardigans, from thin enough to wear in the Texas summer to thick ones to pair with your peacoat in winter.
3.  Pants – Again, I have a tie, but based on the accessories, it gets easier. I have one pair of skinny jeans and one pair of flare legs that get a pretty decent amount of wear. ***Purge note: I only have three pairs of jeans because I realized I don’t wear pants a lot and a few pairs of dress pants for as needed occasions.***
4. Skirts – I’m a mini skirt person and what’s great for me is that since I’m short (I haven’t hit five feet yet), I can wear them in many situations. I have one mini pleated skirt that is just so versatile and fun.
5. Jackets – I spent much time looking for the perfect jacket before actually throwing money at it. I love the look of leather; I don’t like the cruelty that goes into mass production, so it took some time to find an alternative that was durable and that I could make fit every aspect of my wardrobe.
6. Flat shoes – I don’t wear many flat shoes, but in this category, I am putting my combat boots because they are my most worn flat shoes.
7. Heels – Depending on the season, have a favorite pair of black heels, and for when it’s cool-ish, I have a pair of cute faux suede boots.

Step 3: Define your personal style.

When you figure out your favorites take note of the:

• Color
• Cut
• Accessories you pair with your favorite items or what you wear the most. It will help you determine your personal style if you haven’t figured it out yet.

Example: Shalyse

• Prep
• Grunge
• Punk
• Earth Fairy

In the end, this helps you minimize your wardrobe clutter because you have defined your taste, your staples, and accessories. If you also take care of your clothing, you will not have to worry about replacing things or buying multiples that you will forget about.

xox,

shalyse

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