Making thoughtful wardrobe choices
This is the time of year I start to get bored with my closet. I don’t love winter. It’s too long and dreary for me. So once the fun of the holidays is over, I am ready for summer. However…. I live in New England and it’s a long wait for summer.
I think I also suffer some depression from lack of warmth and sun. I find getting motivated and energized takes extra effort. One place I especially experience this is in my wardrobe. I recognize that what I wear has an impact on my mental state. I get dressed up for work to put my head in the right frame of mind. I also find colors impactful. I try brighter colors in winter to lift my mood. When I feel good in my clothes it has a positive impact on my mental state.
It’s not easy to fill our wardrobe with items we love. Most of us don’t have a closet that fills our hearts with joy. We might be sick of the clothes we’ve been wearing for years that are still hanging in our closet. We might hate shopping so much that we’re willing to settle for items that don’t really flatter us instead of searching for items that do. Budget is also a contributing factor to having the wardrobe you want. Quality clothing can be expensive. It’s work to find clothes that do us just justice. Fit and size vary from store to store and it can be a hassle trying to find what works for you.
If you find yourself wanting a better wardrobe but feeling the uphill battle, take it slow. You don’t have to build the perfect wardrobe all at once. You don’t have to toss out everything and buy the capsule wardrobe of your dreams in one sitting. Start with the basics. What do you love in your closet? Make a space for those items. Place them all together and think about why you love them. This will help you understand how to find new items that have the same quality you know you love.
When you do shop, think about what you need. Being strategic about your purchases will make a huge difference in your closet. Add the items you need now. This will help you fill the gaps in your wardrobe and result in a feeling of accomplishment. Start small so you’re not overwhelmed. Be thoughtful about your choices and you’ll start to see the impact it has not just on your closet but how you feel.
While I am definitely drawn toward gray, navy and black during these cold winter months, I also recognize the importance of adding color to my winter wardrobe. For me, a touch of pink or a bold magenta can make a big difference in my wardrobe and my mood. I also find a hint of color under a jacket or blazer can have a similar effect. Find your favorite color and make an effort to add it to your outfit rotation.
Also take time to focus on fit. When items fit properly, they are much more flattering. Take note of shoulders and necklines. Do items feel comfortable - too snug or too roomy can be a sign that an item might not fit as well as it could.
Finally keep in mind the versatility of a garment. Can it be worn in more than one setting for more than on occassion? Can you pair it with multiple options, so it goes further in your wardrobe? When an item can be worn in multiple scenarios, it can become a key staple to your overall wardrobe.