According To Frankie

Closetcloset factory / Foter / CC BY-ND

Looked in your closet lately? Want to wear that striped skirt but have nothing to wear it with? And why do you have 5 pair of brown shoes but mostly black clothes? That happens to me. It seems that with every season change some goblin has come and stolen half of the pieces I thought I remembered having. Since seasons are changing now, I thought I’d share these 7 steps to efficiently updating your wardrobe.

8 Steps to Efficiently Updating Your Wardrobe

1. Look Through Magazines – Before you even open your closet door, grab a copy of your favorite fashion magazine and see what people are wearing right now. It’s easy to get distracted by the over-the-top makeup, hair and clothing combinations, so I recommend you focus on the fabrics and the cuts of the clothing.
2. Decide on Occasion – Wardrobes can sometimes become unbalanced, either heavy on weekend wear or chock full of work clothes.
3. Inventory the Closet – Ok, take a deep breath. Open the closet door. What do you see? Try on everything. Every. Single. Thing. If it’s worn out, faded, ill-fitting or hasn’t been worn in over a year, toss it out. Seriously.
4. See What’s Missing – Now survey the quality pieces left hanging. What do you lack to create the types of looks  you enjoyed from the magazines?
5. Take Pictures – Grab your cell phone and take a picture of the contents of your closet. Include shoes if you like.
6. Make a List – Make a quick list of the items you’re lacking. Black skirt, tan shoes, etc.
7. Understand Your Body Type – Buy pieces that fit your body. I recommend watching Stacy & Clinton’s Rule #8 video on TLC’s What Not To Wear
8. G0 Shopping! – Now hit the stores. Remember that stores like TJ Maxx and Ross are great for buying name brand pieces for less, although I recommend you remain focused.  I also find that when Macy’s has a sale, you can save a lot of money. For staple items like camisoles for ladies or undershirts for men, you might save by going with store brands rather than name brands. It’s easy to get distracted by deep discounts on items you’ll never wear and don’t need. I would advise that you only buy items online if you are familiar with the brand and their sizing, or if you have special sizing that isn’t available in stores. Also, prior to shopping online, remember to search the store name with “coupon code.” I usually have success with RetailMeNot.

Following these steps can help ensure you don’t waste money buying duplicate items or items that don’t complete the look you’re going for. Also, it helps you use pieces currently in your closet to create new looks. Happy Shopping!