Do you look through social media and see these perfect wardrobes and think why can’t mine be like that? It’s hard to let go of the old, but trust me it is so freeing! In a world filled with endless fashion trends and fleeting styles, cultivating a wardrobe that stands the test of time is a pursuit worth undertaking. Whether you're a minimalist at heart or simply looking to streamline your closet, here's a guide on how to build an essential wardrobe.
- Assess Your Lifestyle: The first step in building an essential wardrobe is to assess your lifestyle and daily activities. Consider the environments you frequent, the climate you live in, the dress codes you encounter, and your personal style preferences. This will help you determine the types of clothing that are most practical and relevant to your needs. One thing to remember in purchasing; Just because its expensive doesn’t mean it will; fit well, stand the test of time, wash well. I learnt that the hard way, a designer brand doesn’t always mean great denim.
- Invest in Quality Basics: Every essential wardrobe begins with a strong foundation of quality basics. These are timeless, versatile pieces that form the building blocks of your outfits. Invest in well-fitted jeans, classic white and black t-shirts, button-down shirts, and a tailored blazer. These items can be mixed and matched to create a multitude of looks, making them indispensable staples in your closet. When you travel it makes packing a breeze, you will see how much less stressful the process will be to plan outfits, and less baggage fees and lighter bags to carry, what’s not to love!
- Choose Versatile Pieces: When selecting items for your wardrobe, opt for versatile pieces that can easily transition from day to night and from casual to formal settings. A little black dress, a tailored pair of pants, a versatile trench coat, and a classic pair of high heels or sneakers depending on your style. [Gone our the days of walking miles in shilettoes, someone please explain why was that ever a justified sacrifice?] These our examples of versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. In todays World we have all become more casual use it to your advantage.
- Stick to Timeless Silhouettes and Colors: Avoid overly trendy pieces that are likely to go out of style quickly. Instead, focus on timeless silhouettes and colors that have enduring appeal. Neutral colors like black, white, navy, and camel are versatile and easy to mix and match, while classic silhouettes like a-line skirts, tailored trousers, and structured blazers never go out of fashion. I love a new trend as much as the next girl but how many pieces do you currently have in your wardrobe that have been worn more than three times? Then you can mix in a trendy piece here and there as you wish, this can help your look remain current and fresh.
- Accessorize Wisely: Accessories are the cherry on top of any outfit and can elevate even the simplest ensemble. Invest in a few key accessories like a quality leather handbag, a classic watch, a statement necklace, and a pair of elegant sunglasses. Personally I love having my statement pieces of jewellery I find its adds your own personality to your look.
- Prioritize Fit and Comfort: No matter how stylish a piece may be, if it doesn't fit well or isn't comfortable, it won't be a valuable addition to your wardrobe. Prioritize fit and comfort when selecting clothing items, and consider having key pieces tailored to ensure they flatter your body shape perfectly. We all know that feeling when gravity towards our comfort wardrobe.
- Curate with Intention: Building an essential wardrobe is a process that requires intention and discipline, it won’t happen over night, and that’s ok, enjoy the process, choose items that speak to your personality, and you may be thinking, this is boring now everyone will look all the same, not at all essential doses not mean boring, build your wardrobe to speak to who you are, pick something with a quirky button or all rose gold jewellery, that’s me.
- Embrace Quality Over Quantity: In a world of fast fashion and disposable clothing, prioritize quality over quantity when building your essential wardrobe. Invest in well-made pieces crafted from high-quality materials, I always look at the fabric content when I’m shopping, I personally love viscose, it has a great feel and withstands the test of time and frequent wear. You will be amazed how your whole mood changes with the ease of choosing an outfit, and the less cluttered your closet is, and your mind.
- Edit Regularly: As your style evolves and seasons change, it's important to regularly edit and update your wardrobe. Remove items that no longer serve you or align with your current style aesthetic, and replace them with new pieces that complement your existing collection. If you don’t love it donate or resell it!
In conclusion, building an essential wardrobe is about investing in quality, timeless pieces that reflect your personal style and meet your lifestyle needs. By following these tips and principles, you can create a curated collection of clothing that is both versatile and enduring, allowing you to effortlessly look and feel your best every day, Happy Hunting! Need help reach out shankara@shankaracherie.com take a look at our online store shankaracherie.com