It’s about this time of year that I am sick of wearing winter closets and dream about warmer days and spring fashions.  I know many of you probably feel the same way.   Unfortunately we have a few more months of cold weather ahead so it’s time to refresh your wardrobe to give you a lift as we wait for spring to arrive.

Those of you who have read my blog for a while might know that I have a degree in fashion.  I spent 20 years working in the fashion industry and ever since I was a little girl, I have been passionate about fashion.  Today I’m going to share a few tips to help you refresh your winter/transition wardrobe and a few items that are worth investing in right now.  As you refresh your wardrobe, it’s also a great time to give some thought to your fashion style and whether or not you’re presenting the fashion statement you want to the world.

No. 1  Pull, Sort, Analyze and Organize

Since many of you are in an organizing mood with the onset of the new year, put your closet on the list.  The best way to get your closet in order and access what you have it to take everything out.

*  Sort your clothes by category (shirts, tees, denim, pants, skirts etc)

*  Once sorted by category, sort by color–this will help you see just how many pairs of black pants you own

*  Try on!  This is a big part of the process. Try on your clothes and discard/donate anything that doesn’t fit and create a pile of items that need altering or mending.

*  Once you sorted through everything, place items back in your closet by category and then by style.  Keep long sleeve shirts together, short sleeves together etc.

No. 2  Identify Your Needs

  The closet is sorted and organized so now the fun begins.  There are a few fashion basics that every woman should own and these basic pieces  will become the foundation to your wardrobe.  With the right basics you will be able to create lots of outfits and use accessories to add additional style to what you’re wearing.  Make a list of the fashion basics you’re missing or need to replace and star those items that are in-season and can be replaced now.  Matchbook Magazine created this awesome checklist to guide you.  And while you on their site, check out the other great checklist they’ve created.

via Matchbook Magazine

Here are a few sources for some of my favorite classic pieces:

My favorite classic shirt is from Jones New York. They offer several different fits and all are made from no-iron cotton!

For classic jeans, you can’t go wrong with NYDJ (Not Your Daughter’s Jeans) or a classic pair of Levi’s.

Ralph Lauren is my favorite source of classic striped tees.

 

No. 3  Create An Inspiration Board

To avoid or limit those days when you wake up, go through your closet and find yourself saying you don’t have anything to wear, take time to create an inspiration board.

Pull together outfits that you love to wear and snap a photo of them and then hang the photos in your closet.  These outfits will become your go-to looks when you those fashion moments strike or when you need an outfit that you know you feel great in.

No. 4  Shop to Refresh

This is the time of year when stores are clearing out winter fashion and beginning to stock the store with transition and spring items.  It’s a great time to find classic cardigans and jeans on sale as well as outerwear and little black dresses.  Make sure you take your shopping list with you and stay focused on the items on your list (unless you come across a really cute handbag, because you can never have to many handbags in my book!)

p.s.  When you find that perfect fitting pair of jeans consider buying two pairs.  And if the jeans come in different lengths, buy a pair to wear with flats and a pair for heels.

No. 5  Own Your Style

All the hard work is done and now it’s time to own you style.  Make it your mission to never leave your house feeling less than great.  If you wake up feeling down one day, wear an outfit or color that you know will give you a spark.

  

I hope to see you on the runway!