Winter Wardrobe Overhaul pt. 2

Now that we've all had time to do our Winter wardrobe overhaul from my previous post, it's time to tackle that dreaded 'had-to-have-but-have-not-worn pile'... These pieces may have been a gift, expensive, or just pretty to look at, but whatever reason you're holding on, does not negate the fact they are creating clutter, and dust. Our goal today is to go through each piece and see what actions we need to take in order to create a wardrobe that we love, and that loves us back.

Step 1: Go through each item and identify WHY you do not or have not worn it.

Ask yourself these questions before fighting to put them in the keep pile: 1. Are they in good condition? 2. Do they fit well? 3. Are they YOUR style?

I ask this last question because sometimes we receive gifts or make an impulse purchase on something that we don't typically gravitate towards. I'm all for stepping outside of your fashion comfort zone and experimenting with new styles, but many of us have a go-to style. For me its a pair of skinny jeans, lace up booties, graphic tee, scarf, and my wool coat. This is why I had no problem donating my never worn before, beaded tank.

It's most likely that you only wear 20% of your wardrobe on a regular basis, so what about the other 80%? If your go-to style does not involve boyfriend style denim, then you don't need more than one great fitting pair. So try to think of your own everyday style and pair down and minimize anything that does not fulfill that need.

I would also like to point out the option of alterations. If your pants are too long or the waist is too big, the cost of altering a great pair of pants is usually $15-$20. So worth it if that's whats keeping you from wearing them.

Let's say you answer 'yes' to all of the above questions, but you can't seem to find a complete outfit. If you have nothing in your existing wardrobe that you feel works, can you think in your head of what you do need? I sometimes look up outfits on Pinterest or on other fashion blogs to get inspiration. If you can identify something that you need to complete the outfit, does it go with other items in your closet? It's all about getting mileage out of every piece. Don't try too hard to make something work, because even if you do find one debuting outfit, you're most likely still never to wear it more than is worth the time or money.

Step 2: Once you've identified the reason for having never worn the item, what action needs to be taken (alterations, purchase a matching top, take to dry-cleaner etc.)? If you're not willing or able to fulfill that request, throw it in the donate/sell pile.

Step 3: Take action! Make a trip to the dry cleaner- many do alterations, and pick up whatever missing items you need in your wardrobe. You have now successfully created a complete wardrobe that works with your lifestyle! Now let's try to keep it that way :)