Wardrobe philosophy. What a great topic to touch on while in the middle of seasons changing. Thank you for giving me the inspiration!
Because of what I do and of course my large interest in fashion and clothes I have a large wardrobe with way too many options. Personally, I’ve learned that having too many options often lead to the troublesome feeling of “I’ve got nothing to wear”. Getting dressed while traveling with only a suitcase full of outfits is optimal for me. I’ve planned, tried on and made my selection of what to bring. Choosing from that selection becomes so stress and care free I rarely question myself after getting dressed. I’ve learned to pack well and the secret behind that is planning ahead as well as comfort and minimalism. Everything matches and can be worn to almost any occasion.
Before I purchase something I usually ask myself these questions: Will I wear it tomorrow? How many times will I wear it? Can I instantly name at least 3 ways and actual occasions to wear it and do I already have those pieces/ accessorize to pair the piece with in my existing wardrobe? I’m very picky with materials and washing possibilities. If it’s a piece I know I’ll wear for everyday use, it is important to made sure it’s washable. It’s also important to remember to dress for the life you live. Don’t stack up on party dresses and heels (note to self), if you don’t know when you’ll actually get to wear them.
When ordering online it’s important to be as critical as when you shop in a physical store. It’s so easy to just click away. If it doesn’t meet your expectations or the quality or fit is poor, send it back. If you don’t follow this rule don’t shop online. Harsh but true.
If I have an obsession I can’t get over, buy it. It is much more affordable buying that one expensive piece after saving up instead of buying 2 cheap versions that won’t last. Saving for something you dream of without loosing motivation is the best test to know you really really want it. Clothes with a long life span priced a bit higher actually becomes more affordable in the long run and is easier to sell forward when you’re done with them.
One thing that’s really important is to understand is that just because you find something beautiful you don’t need to own it. This is something I’ve come to learn. The stores are filled with gorgeous pieces and especially for someone like me who is a typical mood dresser and want to challenge myself with new styles, it is important to know everything doesn’t have to move into my closet. I can manage without most trendy pieces. That is a fact.
Don’t hoard! This is a rule I should follow. Unfortunately I don’t. Last fall I felt like I couldn’t live without every grey knit in the universe. So I binged. Now I have way too many and only two I actually wear.
One of the most boring things know is laundry. I never seem to manage to fit everything back into the shelves and my unorganized closet gives me anxiety. However, organizing laundry is the perfect opportunity to go through both the children’s wardrobes and my own. I put away clothes that no longer fit the kids and the ones that I no longer need. Every time I organize laundry I sort out the closets.
What do I do with the clothes we no longer need or fit into? I’ve saved everything my children have worn. I simply can’t get rid of anything since the clothes have too many memories and feelings attached. Giving or lending baby clothes to friends and family is a different story. That I do constantly. When it comes to my own clothes I usually give them to friends and family or sell on flea markets (either online or self service ones). Recycling is something I’m very good at. I do it all the time and I don’t attach feelings to my own clothes. They’re just clothes with the one exception of my first leather jacket I’ve travelled the world with.
