FREE CLOTHES: 5 WAYS TO SHOP YOUR CLOSET

It's an age-old dilemma -- you have an overflowing closet and nothing to wear!  If you're like most people, you'll find an ensemble that looks good (enough) and wear it the same way over and over and over again.  If it ain't broke...  Right?  Wrong, for a couple of reasons. First, it might actually be "broke."  But even if it is a great outfit, you'll soon get bored with it.  Clothing boredom sends you out to shop far more often than you need to, a habit that's not only a budget-buster, but also creates the clutter you dread seeing in your closet every morning.  Here are some easy ways to change it up without hitting the mall.  Just try one of these tips per day, and by next week, you'll have plenty of new combos to try out!

1.  Spend one hour in your closet, grouping your clothes by type and then by color.  It's just easier to get started when things are even slightly more organized.  It's hard to find anything to wear if you can't see your options!

Image via Real Simple

2.  Choose a simple piece, and add a second, more exciting piece.  If you are constantly reaching for the same black or khaki pants and gray cardigan, pick one, and then reach a little further.  Wear the black pants with a bright green top today.  Or, keep the cardigan, but put on a great pencil skirt instead.

3.  Choose a statement piece, and add something simple.  Perhaps you bought a funky patterned blouse, just because you loved it, but now you never wear it because you don't know what to wear with it.  You're probably thinking too hard.  I'm willing to bet it looks good with jeans.  For now, go with something neutral to show off your fun or busy items.

4.  Find multiple uses for one item. Your outfit can become appropriate for a totally different occasion with one or two changes.  Jeans are an easy example.  For a more casual style, wear a pair of flats with jeans and a t-shirt.  Cuff the jeans, and swap out the flats for some great heels for a more date-night appropriate look.

Similarly, a black sheath dress would look great for work with a structured blazer and pumps.  Try it with a light cardigan and metallic sandals for a daytime event.  Pair it with slinky necklaces and black high-heeled booties for a night on the town.  Use your imagination to create looks for all occasions with other staples in your closet.

5.  Mix patterns.  You know that striped t-shirt you bought because, well, stripes are pretty hard to avoid these days?  How about the floral pants that the salesperson promised you'd wear a zillion times this spring?  Did you know that you can wear them together?  Pattern mixing is a bit of an art form, and it takes some trial and error, but if the combination is right, it's fabulous!  More information about pattern mixing to come, but in the meantime, give it a shot at home.

I would love to help you make all of these ideas part of your everyday routine.  If you want to know more about mypersonal styling services in Richmond, VA, I would love to hear from you.  Let's connect!