How To Always Have Something to Wear

1. Stop impulse buying. Every $10 mistake you would have picked up in the bargain bin goes to a really great fashion wardrobe.
2. In the first step of cleaning out your closet, eliminate everything that doesn't fit or that you haven't worn in a year.
3. A few weeks later, go back and get rid of all the stuff you fudged on the first time around.
4. With what's left, begin identifying a theme to your wardrobe, relying on favorite looks, colors and lifestyle pieces.
5. Decide on three colors that either match or will coordinate with what you own and buy only those three colors for apparel.
6. Establish a workable budget.
7. Make a "Most Wanted" list of all the items you need in your wardrobe. (For example: solid blazer, wool pants, white shirt)
8. Set aside an hour of time each week to shop -- online or off -- to buy the items you put on your "Most Wanted" list.
9. Avoid trendy items.
10. Buy fashionable, but timeless clothing that will span two to three seasons -- like wool crepe or matte jersey.
11. Purchase only clothes that work with something that you already own.
12. Pass on anything that doesn't fit -- no matter how great a buy.
13. Try to add only one or two well-thought out items per month.
14. Add punchy color and trendiness with accessories, shoes and handbags.

Tips:

1. Ignore that advice about buying "the best" of everything. Regardless of how well-made a garment is, moths, coffee spills and kids take their toll. Never choose between a mortgage payment and a cashmere sweater.
2. Try to plan your wardrobe around three neutral colors like black, white, khaki, navy or brown.
3. Buy more solids than prints - you won't get tired of them as quickly.

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