HOW TO WHITTLE DOWN YOUR WARDROBE

OPERATE a one-in, one-out policy. Anything you buy you must love enough to ditch something else for.

YOU don’t include jewellery or handbags in your final tally, but you should pick carefully. Have at least one smart bag and a playful casual bag. Follow the same principles with jewellery — and have a mixture of silver and gold.

BE RUTHLESS when you clear out your wardrobe. ‘Anything which doesn’t fit can go, as well as anything you haven’t worn for the last couple of years,’ says stylist Camilla Ridley-Day.

ON-TREND pieces are appealing, but it’s more sensible to buy quality, well-tailored items.

IDENTIFY which colours suit you and build your wardrobe around them. If you look lovely in bright pink, have one or two statement tops in that colour, and pair them with neutral trousers.

USE the money you save on buying cheap stuff to spend on dry-cleaning, repairs and tailoring.