The older I get, the more I learn to streamline my closet. I’m not a celebrity, so there’s no point in having a gazillion pieces of clothes. Trends come and go, but to truly possess style, quality really does trump quantity. Now when I say quality, I’m not necessarily referring to the price-point. Quality is in reference to their worth: how much use can you get out of it? If it’s something that you can only wear once every couple of months, or with something specific, you may want to think twice before you make that purchase. Investing in pieces that are interchangeable and that complement what you already own, in my opinion, is the best way to build a wardrobe that oozes confidence while also displaying your individual style. Doing so also helps you simplify your daily routine.
Every season I take a Sunday to go through and reorganize my closet. I get rid of anything that I haven’t worn in months, that doesn’t fit the way I like, or that I’ve simply outgrown style-wise. Most of the clothes are donated to Goodwill, but if it was something that was poorly constructed or damaged, to the trash it goes. I will always keep a few pieces for nostalgic reasons (I still own my prom dress from high school) but jeans, jackets, dresses, blouses, shoes, etc. It’s all free game and subject to not making the final cut!
As I stated before, I believe in individual style. Inspiration is one thing, but being a carbon copy of someone is so passé’. While we are all influenced in some way and pull elements from the various style categories (Classic, Bohemian, Rocker, etc), that doesn’t mean you have to duplicate the looks verbatim. Your style should be a reflection of your personality (now if you don’t know who you are, that’s another post for another time). Below are a few staples that I think all women should have in their closet; these pieces are timeless and while the cuts and embellishments may change, their place as a foundation in your closet won’t. Just remember to adjust the look accordingly.
