6 Tips to Help You Build A Wardrobe That Will Last

My husband is always amazed when I put something on that he thinks is brand new, but I’ve had forever. Over the years I have invested in many quality pieces of clothing that have stood the test of time. Though you may have a closet full of clothes, developing a wardrobe that reflects your personal style doesn’t happen overnight. As you start to accumulate pieces follow these tips to help you build a wardrobe which will last for years to come.

Choose Quality over Quantity

This way of shopping has been my motto since I started investing in my wardrobe. Buying a lot of inexpensive pieces of clothing will lead to replacing items in your closet more often than needed, eventually costing you more money. Investing in quality clothing will be worth every penny! This is especially the case when you are buying wardrobe staples like suits, dress slacks, leather goods and cashmere. Quality pieces are made to last. The fabric is a better quality, the stitching is stronger and will not fall apart after a few wears. I have literally have had items for 10 years that still look like new, and I wear them on a regular basis.

Choose Style over Fashion

Trends in fashion come and go, but style is forever. This is one of the most important points when you build a wardrobe. Style is the way you carry yourself, how you outwardly express your inner being. No matter what is considered to be in fashion or trendy, you can stay true to your personal style. Buying ultra trendy items or colors that do not reflect your own style will just sit in your closet the moment it goes “out of style.” Purchase timeless pieces that can be brought out season after season and worn with your trend items of that moment.

Define Your Signature Look

Are you a jeans and blazers kinda gal or are skirts and silk blouses more of your style? No matter what you like to wear, knowing what types of looks you gravitate to can help guide when you are shopping. If you never wear rompers, it probably wouldn’t be practical to invest in one that will just sit in your closet. When you build a wardrobe, shop for pieces that you can easily interchange with other items in your wardrobe.

Take Inventory

Go thru your closet and organize your items by color, type, and style. I hang all my pants in one section, grouped by color and do the same for every other item. If you find yourself with 6 pairs of black pants or 5 gray turtleneck sweaters, it may be time to diversify. As much as a signature look is important, buying the same type of items can be a waste of money when there are gaps in wardrobe. Take an inventory to see what is missing and what you have too much of. If you need help, read my post on getting rid of clutter and organizing your closet.

Versatility is Key

I never buy anything that I can only wear with one other item. It limits to my wardrobe’s flexibility and doesn’t allow me to create new looks. When you build a wardrobe try to find pieces that are flattering with more than just one other color or can be worn with both pants and a skirt. This will allow you to really expand your looks with what you already have in your closet.

Comfort Over Everything

No matter how amazing those 5-inch stilettos are, if you cannot wear them for more than 15 minutes without killing your feet, then you don’t need them. Having shoes or clothing that is uncomfortable to wear will just take up space in your closet. When I buy a new pair of shoes, I try to wear them around the house for a while to see if I can actually wear them. If they hurt – I RETURN THEM. Surprisingly, some major department stores will allow you to return shoes with slight wear, especially if you want to exchange them for something else.

Do you love your wardrobe, what changes would you make to be more stylish?

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Stay Fabulous,