How to avoid desperation dressing and bad outfits
Sometimes putting together a great outfit can feel like advanced math where you have to mix and match, layer together and accessorize in order to come up with a winning result.
On some days it seems as though outfits come together flawlessly, but on other days you’re left with a bedroom floor cluttered with discarded clothes and an ensemble that disappoints. In order to help you avoid the latter as much as possible, here are a few styling secrets from people who always seem to have something great to wear.
The way you organize your closet matters
If you have a hard time piecing together outfits, consider changing the way you organize your clothes so that you can have an easier time envisioning the possibilities. Organize your closet by category (i.e., sleeveless shirts, T-shirts, blouses, pants, sweaters, dresses, etc.) so it’s easy to pull something from each category.
Start with a statement piece and then pick basics to pair with it. This way you’ll be able to clearly see all your pieces and come up with formulas on the fly.
Tailor a small wardrobe
The key to always having something to wear is to pare down your wardrobe choices to only the best of the best. When you have a minimal wardrobe, in terms of quantity rather than style, you’re not left with the tyranny of choices that can slow down a morning.
With a carefully curated capsule wardrobe, you’ll know that almost anything you close your eyes, grab and put on will feel and look great. While it can be hard to limit yourself to a few items, it’s better to have a small closet full of excellent pieces than a big one full of “meh” options.
Have a separate rack of outfit winners
For those moments where you just can’t put anything remotely great together, consider carving out a separate space in your closet or wardrobe for your favorite outfits. This will also be a major plus if you tend to run late.
Try keeping a small clothing rack outside your closet with some of your favorite pieces that are easy to throw on when you’re particularly rushed.
Sometimes it’s all about the shoes
It might sound like a fashion cliche, but pairing unexpected shoes with a simple outfit can really take your look to the next level. Be sure to stock up on quality footwear and you’ll have an easier time putting together gorgeous looks.
If you are feeling especially lazy, go with two classic, simple items (like a black turtleneck and jeans) and pair them with fancier shoes (like suede heels.) The footwear will kick things up a notch without looking as though you tried too hard.
Only have clothes that feel good on your body
We buy pieces that we only half-love all the time, and rather than admitting that we made a mistake and donating them, a lot of us hold onto the pieces in question for years. I suggest getting ruthless and weeding out those pieces so that you’re left with things that you are excited to wear.
Take some time figuring out what items work for your body type and what items make you happy and then shop accordingly.