Empowering Yourself Through your Wardrobe
Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva from Pexels
Fashion is functional, an art-form, but more importantly, a way to express who you are. It doesn’t have to be about following the latest trends, but rather dressing in a way that makes you feel confident. You may be looking for ways to reinvent yourself this new year, and your closet is a great place to start. Begin with evaluating what clothing you currently have and what you currently need - purchasing a brand-new wardrobe is not necessary. Let’s get started to create the version of yourself you want to present to the world!
How does your current wardrobe make you feel? Do you struggle to find outfits each morning that allow you to feel comfortable and confident? Do you wear the same few pieces and rarely touch the rest? This is a sign that you need a wardrobe refresh.
A great way to create a timeless wardrobe is to build it from basics in neutral colors. Items such as denim jeans and neutral-colored tops are pieces that can easily work in different outfits, and you can make them trendier by adding a few statement accessories.
Clean out your current wardrobe. Go through your closet and create different piles. Start with two: one pile for items you wear often, and a second pile for items you rarely wear. From the items you rarely wear, separate those down further into multiple piles: special occasion items, trendy statement pieces, and donations. If you’re keeping clothing that is too small, too big, or pieces you haven’t found the right time to wear, it’s up to you whether you want to keep or donate.
At this point, you will know what you’re working with. If you realize your wardrobe is much smaller than before, this is your opportunity to invest in versatile basics that fit you well and can be worn with multiple outfits.
Now is the fun part of defining your style! Think about the items you love to wear. Is there a common theme such as comfort, tailoring, or colors? Consider how you can elevate on those characteristics to create a wardrobe perfect for you.
Pinterest is great for finding ideas. Make a board of outfits you like, including accessories, shoes, etc. You can also look at your favorite celebrities’ styles for inspiration.
Once you invest in the basics, find the fun statement pieces. Additions such as jewelry, belts, shoes, jackets, funky pants, etc. are all great items to enhance your basics.
Have you thought about hair and makeup? Getting creative in these areas of style is the perfect way to complete your look.
Dressing within your personal budget is important, however, consider buying consciously and sustainably, especially when purchasing your basics. These items will last much longer than fast fashion, and you will be supporting ethical and sustainable products.
2021 can be your year for style! Whether you are staying in or venturing out, you must feel confident in what you wear - and besides, who says you can’t make the grocery store aisle your runway?
Jen Chavarria is a freelance writer and graphic designer passionate about promoting low impact living and mental health awareness, along with writing about other topics. In her free-time, you can find her at jenchavarria.com or at Instagram at @jen.chavarria.
