Take a deep Breathe, this is going to be worth it.
Firstly, remove the clothes that don’t fit (even if you plan on getting back into them, they are in the way right now). Remove any items you never wear, and anything that is worn or torn – you need a few old items for painting, spring cleaning and the like.
Next, remove the clothes that are not in your colour palette, or flattering to your body shape – some may have to come back if you don’t have enough clothes left.
Be really honest with yourself here about what looks good on you. If you are not totally happy with something put it aside for now, until you can toss it for good.
Sort into dresses, tops and bottoms, summertime and wintertime.
Do you have enough outfits to suit your life style – work clothes/uniforms, every day, sport/recreation and formal/party according to your needs?
Identify your most flattering neutrals – a light and a dark colour eg black and white, or cream and brown. These are best for essential items in your wardrobe. Choose a solid colour for maximum versatility. This could be a jacket, skirt or pants.
You may have a lot of prints, because you find solids boring, and that is fine, but solids provide a base that prints can bounce off. Try something and see what you think. Things like a basic white shirt or t shirt, and dark jeans can be very versatile.
On the other hand you may have a wardrobe full of solid coloured items and are scared of prints. Go for prints with your best colours in them, particularly your neutrals. There will often be colours that aren’t your best within a print, but so long as the dominate palette is right they will work. Geometrics are a great place to start- stripes and spots in 2 colours are classic and easy for pattern- phobes. A great way to introduce pattern gently to your wardrobe is through scarves and other accessories.
A monochromatic outfit with an exotic print scarf can look striking, but still be quite conservative.
Once you have examined your existing collection, think about what you can add to give variety, interest and flexibility to your wardrobe. Are there styles and colours you have been wanting to try. Here’s your chance, add them to your list.
Make a list of some items to shop for. This will give you a plan and help you stay focused on building a wardrobe that really works for you. Always have your colour swatches with you too. You can lay your key items out on your bed or dining table and take a photo, so you have your wardrobe with you when you shop. There are some great phone Apps that allow you to do this. Don’t deviate from your plan, especially if your budget is limited. Once you have a versatile collection, you can add fashion items or something fun.
Remember only buy things you love and know you look great in, nothing else will do. A wardrobe that makes you look and feel wonderful is within reach and worth working for.
