How to create a PRACTICAL & STRATEGIC Wardrobe
2020 has become a year of so many hardships. I find myself personally questioning so many more things lately. I’m also hearing that from my clients as well. So much attention on Big Brands filing for Bankruptcy, Responsible Fashion, Politics, Shopping Small/Local Brands, Diversity, Ethically & Sustainable Brands, Rioting and Vintage clothing. I guess that’s where the growth starts with us questioning everything.
We have become a society of wanting everything FAST, at a cheap price and then TONS of things. I’m always working towards shifting the mindset to less clothes, better quality. Why do we let low prices hypnotize us to buy? I literally witnessed this yesterday with my husband. I noticed he had on a pair of shorts that weren’t as nice as his favorite shorts but he bought them because they were cheaper. $30 cheaper!!!! So many of us have closets full of clothes that just kinda work, BUT I got a good deal!!! Hasn’t this time at home taught us to slow down & improve our ways?
We have an opportunity to put our $$$ where our heart is while refining our wardrobe. There are SO many more options now that are ethically & sustainable brands, vintage, social impact focused brands, conscious companies, minority owned businesses, and TONS of small/local brands. Also with so much uncertainty, I find everyone is working towards making smarter choices with their dollars.
Steps to take to be Practical & Strategic:
What are your goals with your wardrobe? Literally schedule 30 minutes to brainstorm your goals and what you want to accomplish in your wardrobe. So often our clothes/wardrobe are a result of reactive shopping. Take the time to actually think through what you want.
Wardrobe Essentials-I’ve created a list of wardrobe essentials that prepare you with a closet that is versatile and ready for any occasion. You will want to take an inventory of what you currently own and what you need to acquire. This is your road map for shopping strategically and being practical with your wardrobe budget.
Create a list of Brands/Stores-Based on your goals and if there are any specific types of values you are looking for in a brand, I would make a list of your “go to” brands/stores. You want these options to not only meet your criteria in values but also match your own individual style. Once you’ve made this list you can be much more strategic and efficient with your shopping time.
Questions to ask yourself when shopping:
Does this item fit my lifestyle? Consider the fit, fabric, colors
Is this item “on brand” for my individual style?
Do I have any other tops (or dress, or pants, etc.) in this color?
Do I actually have room in my closet to store this?
Do I LOVE this item instantly?
Is this a quality material that will last?
Bottom line, you have to put in the work. I promise, it’s well worth your time. I keep the end results as the prize that keeps me going. You deserve to have a wardrobe that makes you feel CONFIDENT!
with LOVE and grace,
Elizabeth