Wardrobes built on basics
Basics are the foundation of a functional wardrobe that can take you from work to a swanky soiree.
And basics aren’t so basic anymore. The strongest trend in fashion has been individuality — dressing for your unique lifestyle and body.
Start planning now
There’s no better time to update your wardrobe. The summer sales are on, so you can replenish your warmweather (and mid-winter getaway) essentials.
More importantly, the first autumn pieces are starting to arrive in stores, so you can plan your serious shopping without falling for the first pretty thing you see.
This fall sees a continuation of the major trends of the past few years, so it’s easy to invest in garments that are likely to stay in style for a while. Expect to see lots of animal prints, texture, volume, tailoring and dark neutrals, as well as shots of red and hints of blue.
Look at your lifestyle
What kinds of events are you likely to attend in the next year? A business meeting? A funeral? Dinner with your boss, or a job interview? Maybe you’ll be going to a family reunion, a conference gala, a confab with your kids’ teachers, a cross-country trip to visit family, or enduring a chilly commute in January.
Write it all down. Then look in your closet. Do you have something appropriate to wear to each event? If not, make a note.
Take stock of your closet
Look at what you already have. Does it fit? Does it flatter? Is it still in style? Do you really like it? If not, toss it.
Some experts advise throwing out anything you haven’t worn in the last year, but you might find great, long-forgotten treasures.
Do get rid of anything that is hopelessly stained or damaged, that still has the price tag though it was bought years ago, and anything that requires major alterations to fit properly. Hemming is one thing; resetting shoulders rarely works out.
Fine-tune your style
Once you’ve made space in your closet and prepared your shopping list, spend a little time doing some research to decide exactly what you need.
Do your best to identify the styles you like and the retailers who carry them. After all, if you know what you’re looking for, you’re less likely to make an expensive mistake.
Try, then buy
Also, be prepared to try things on. Don’t buy the first thing you see.
Do expect to spend serious money on your major basics, such as your winter coat or interview suit.
Don’t expect to find everything on your first trip to the mall.
Also, stick to your list. Once you’ve built your basics, you can add gorgeous accessories to create a style that is uniquely yours.
Before you know it, you’ll be ready to tackle anything life throws at you in beautiful, appropriate, perfectly pulled-together style.