Clarity In Your Closet
April 29, 2008 by globalgirlnetwork
By Danica Goward-Burns
If you’re anything like me, right about now, as the sun tempts the blossoms to come out from hiding, I feel a craving for everything fresh and jovial coming over me. You could set it to a clock. Spring is in the air!
Then I head to my closet to find that perfect little something to celebrate my elated mood. Apparently my wardrobe missed the memo.
How do we shift into gear for a new season? How do we make the most of what we’ve got? How do we turn these few random items into an inspiring collection of ready-to-wear ensembles? Here are a few tried and true tips to help you “spring clean” your wardrobe so you’ll be ready to smell those flowers in fashion.
1. Start with a clean slate.
Take it all out! Vacuum, wipe, and spritz with Febreze and it’s a fresh start.
2. Make your piles.
· The “Give Away” pile. In this mother of all piles should go everything you haven’t touched in over a year. Things that just don’t fit right (and ladies, might I beseech you to consider getting rid of the “pre-baby” pile. The point is to feel good about yourself today.) A cut or a trend that’s long gone. However subtle it may seem, the cut of fashion changes over the years. If the fit looks dated, if it’s faded, stretched out or pilled beyond repair, it hits the pile. No buts, be ruthless!
· Things to keep. Anything new, anything you wear regularly, neutral pieces and anything you know to be valuable and classic. Layering pieces like tank tops or cardigans are always good to have around.
· Things to store away. Anything that is seasonal and cluttering up your closet needs to get out of your way so you can make more sense of what you see when you’re getting ready in the morning.
· Things to mend. Collect any clothes or undergarments that need altering or fixing up, and leave it by the sofa to be dealt with the next time you’re watching an old movie. Pull out any shoes that need new heels or a new coat of polish.
· Things to change. Sometimes an out-of-date staple can be given a new lease on life. New buttons or a new hemline can transform an article. Try whimsical buttons for an eccentric appeal, or brass buttons to achieve the military vibe with an uninspired jacket. The ideas are endless!
3. Brainstorm.
Making the most of what we’ve got and what we will purchase doesn’t happen without due diligence. Take a couple hours and do your homework:
· Try things on in complete outfits. To expect yourself to pull together a perfect look at 6:30am is wishful thinking. Find the shoes, accessories, undergarments, tights, and any layers you might need for warmth. Make sure you’ve got everything you need to finish that outfit. And don’t forget to be creative! Now is the time to try on the “odd” combinations to see what sticks.
· Make a list. As you’re brainstorming, begin to make a list of the items you’re missing. The right bra for your strapless dress or the right shoes …
Don’t forget about warmth! I live in Vancouver, BC, and even in the heat of the summer I wouldn’t dream of heading out for the evening without a layer for warmth. Ideally, you’d look for layers that can be worn inside and outside like cardigans or a shrug-style sweater. You’ll get more use of your favourite sleeveless ensemble if you can wear it rain or shine.
For those who are keen on getting it right, consider asking a girlfriend to come brainstorm with you. Often someone else will think of combos you might miss, or she might have advice on what looks good on you and what isn’t making the cut.
4. Take snapshots.
A snapshot will help your chances of pulling it off with a toddler on each leg and breakfast in your hand. If space is limited in your closet and you can’t clearly see everything at a glance, put a cheat sheet up with thumbnail images of all your hidden pieces. This way you can imagine and locate an outfit without confusion in the morning.
5. Hit the shops!
Highlight the items that appear often on your list, and narrow down and prioritize what you’re looking for. With your head firmly planted on your shoulders, you’re ready to go shopping. It’s time to have some fun and express yourself!
Getting dressed is like wrapping up a gift. You choose your paper and ribbon with care. We’re all gifts to this world, and by putting your best foot forward in whatever shoe is “you,” you’re sending a message to the world that you value what’s hidden inside the box. You are a one-of-a-kind creation!
About Danica:
Danica is known for her love of all art, and fashion is no exception. As a mother of two, she manages to find a little time to design her own line of fashion accessories, to consult on image, and to shop! She lives in Vancouver, BC, with her husband and daughters.
