Creating a Winning Wardrobe Strategy

Some months ago, I did a massive clean out of my closet.  Left were my all time favorite “go to” items, a few newer items, a few items I had never worn and some I’m not sure of.  As many closet organizers suggest, as I rehung my wardrobe, I turned the hanger around on any item that was “on probation”.  If, at the end of the season, I haven’t reached for it, unworn items will be donated.

Years ago, when money was tight, I chose my wardrobe very carefully because I was able to afford only a few new items every season.  The advent of TJ Maxx and Marshalls changed my strategy a bit, I could get so much more for my money I started to overlook my rules.  I ended up with lots of pieces that weren’t “ideal”;  I bought them on impulse and because they were inexpensive.  I’d do a quick try on and figure I could make it work once I got home.  Only, it never works that way does it?

When it came to assessing my closet and clearing out things I wasn’t wearing anymore, it didn’t bother me to pass on a pair of $12 jeans that never fit quite right, or a $10 top that was too big.  I began giving things to charity with tags still on them or things I had only worn once or twice. If the item had been $200 or more, I would have been much more careful in my decision making, much slower to make the purchase and much more discerning as to how it fit and it’s over all quality. And I wouldn’t be giving it away after only one or two wearing.

Last fall, as I did my clean out, I also began to re-evaluate my style.  You know—that old favorite question of mine: “Who am I now,” and “do my clothes reflect the person I am and the person I am becoming.”  

I am going back to my old M.O. the one that worked so well in the past:

1. I had my colors done way back (I probably need to do it again now that my hair has a bit of grey in it) I avoid colors that are not flattering to my skin tone.  (That eliminates a whole bunch of trying on.)
2. I like classic styling, which eliminates a whole bunch more. (I did enjoy boho, but I’m moving on.)
3. I use a capsule format to plan and fill in my wardrobe and I actually sit down and plan my wardrobe purchases in advance of each season.  I learned early on to make sure new items, especially expensive ones go with several existing pieces in my wardrobe before making a purchase and I don’t spend large sums on trend pieces or trend colors.
4. I build my wardrobe around color schemes such as my favorites, cream, navy, warm blue, camel, and an occasional pop of red or warm pink.  That way, my clothes go well together and I can mix and match around my favorite colors and I know they look good on me.

This summer, I have several pieces I have been really loving.  Just looking at them makes my heart sing.  

My blue floral dress from Mango.  If I could wear this dress every day, I would.  While we were in Rockport, I wore it with a white denim jacket over it, as the day was a bit cool, but here in Florida, I love the straps and bows at the shoulders, which I prefer tied to the back.  

Blue knit top (again from Mango). When I saw this blue top, I had to have it; I love the color.  It’s open in the back and looks super cute with a pretty bralette.  

I adore my Double Breasted Tweed Jacket from Boston Proper.  I was able to choose it as a part of a sponsorship in June.  It is so me.  It makes me smile when I see it hanging in my closet.  The weather is a little warm for it right now, but you can bet it’s going to get lots of wear as we head into the cooler seasons.

My white floral swimsuit from Amazon.  The fact that I would love this suit so much came as a surprise; I expected to be sending all the swimsuits I ordered from my Amazon swimwear post back.  Instead I fell in love and kept two.

While I am a girl who is typically in heals, I love my gold Mullen slides from Easy Spirit I got them during a sponsorship in May.  They are perfect for poolside, and look super cute with cropped pants.

Now to the juice.  There are a whole bunch of sales coming up over the next few weeks.  Nordstrom’s big sale begins today (July 12) and Amazon’s Prime days start on (July 15th).  

Which means I will be using the strategy above to update my wardrobe for fall.  Yes, I am thinking that far ahead!  So, stay tuned; I will be sharing my picks from Nordstrom over the next week or so.

Also:  I’ve been busy on other other outlets this summer: On July 12th Shopping for the Real You Expert Edition begins with our good friend Jodie from JTouch of Style. Each week is packed with valuable tips from fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and wellness experts. Click here to sign up. It’s FREE! As you can see, several favorite fashionistas, and lifestyle bloggers are being featured in this incredible event.

On July 15, I will be featured! Listen to all 21 speakers, one each week.  

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