Old habits die hard for me and shopping is one of them! But in this economy, trying to mix and match older pieces and adding accessories is a good way to keep current, be creative, and save money. Basics are great, you just have to build on them. Every 6 months or so, I go through my closets and drawers. I try everything on that I think *might* just fit! See what I want to keep wearing and if I haven’t worn it in the previous 6 months, I most likely won’t wear it again. Then I make piles – one to trash, one to donate, one to hang back up and keep. I also share clothes with my sister, even though it’s harder because we’re not living in the same house anymore.
I too keep my closet organized. Top rack are dresses, cardigans (in sleeve-length order), button downs (in sleeve-length order), and jackets. Bottom rack are pants, shorts, sleeveless shirts, t-shirts, and longsleeve shirts. It’s my attempt to move a bit faster in the morning when getting ready!
When choosing outfits for work/going out, I create looks. I layout the pants/jeans/skirts on the bed. Then with the shirts on hangers I begin to layer the pieces. Cardigan on top of tank, structured jacket over flowy top, etc. Match my shoes on the floor. Then I’ll lay my necklaces/bracelets/scarves/belts over that. I’m big into belts this year! If it looks way too outrageous, I’ll swap out one top/accessory for another. Work pants/skirts are almost always a neutral – black, brown, grey, or navy. I pair those with a
color. Almost anything goes! You can pair your neutrals as well. The only two colors I will never, ever wear together are black and brown! For instance, right now I have on brown slacks, a light grey sleeveless top, long blue cardigan, with a silver skinny belt. Don’t be afraid of prints either. And when in doubt, try it on! Being monochromatic is alright once in a while, but I like to have something that pops. I love to layer my tops. That way I can keep wearing a summer shirt right through the winter with the right sweater and belt it to tie the entire look together. Get mileage out of the pieces you already own.
And right now, if you can’t spend the money on new larger, basic pieces – accessories make a huge difference! When shopping look for bangles, statement necklaces, or even scarves that you can wear one hundred different ways. And they don’t have to be expensive. Places like Forever 21 and H&M have trendy little pieces. And always check online. I find a lot of brands offer a much bigger selection on their website than in-store. And use your online coupons! Scour sites like
http://www.retailmenot.com/ for codes at checkout.
As far as making your dress more casual - try tights and boots for the fall with a jacket or sweater. Good luck!
Hybrid Mode
