Since the New Year seems to be a perfect time to re-evaluate various areas of our lives, it’s a good thing to do it from the inside out. While tossing out the old and bringing in the new, let’s not forget our wardrobes!
Don’t even think about making a resolution to dress better, look more professional, or wear more age-appropriate clothing. Like with many New Year’s resolutions, unless you are specific about making a change and determined to stick to it, it will be too easy to put your good intentions on the top shelf and return to those frumpy sweat pants and sweatshirts that do nothing to flatter your figure.
Simply looking through your closet and weeding out what works and what doesn’t is a great place to start. Find out which items still fit, which ones should be discarded, and which ones should be donated to a local charity. Coats that no longer fit will keep someone else warm on these cold winter days. Donate work apparel to some place like the Professional Clothes Closet at the Hunger and Health Coalition, which provides office attire to disadvantaged women in the High Country.
It’s amazing how a seasonal inventory can help you re-invent your wardrobe. The skirt you didn’t like last year really might look good paired up with the new jacket you bought on clearance at season’s end. Who would’ve thought?
Experiment with color. Think charcoal gray and caramel, pink and purple, light blue and silver, apple green and chocolate. Guys, try wearing a pink button-down shirt. I promise the compliments will flow. If that's too much of a fashion commitment, add a tie with pink accents. Not convinced that color is the way to go? Create a slimming silhouette by wearing one color from head to toe. Black always makes a dressy statement. But don't be a one-hit wonder. Mix textures to create a unique look.
Don’t forget how effective the right accessories can be to change the appearance of an outfit. Take a fresh look at your shoes, bags, scarves, belts, cardigans, and wraps and decide if they can breathe new life into your existing clothes with just a re-match. Think outside the box. Check your jewelry box for old pins or visit the secondhand stores for funky, yet inexpensive, accessories.
Recycling your wardrobe can be fun and might just save you money as you discover a new look for yourself. Helping someone else out by sharing items you no longer need or want is also a great way to start the New Year!