THE PERFECT WARDROBE; HOW TO PLAN WHAT YOU WEAR

THE PERFECT WARDROBE;

HOW TO PLAN WHAT YOU WEAR

To have the perfect wardrobe you need a plan. It may be debatable whether there is such a thing as a perfect wardrobe. However, darlings, I'm here to tell you there is. With some planning, you can achieve a near-perfect wardrobe. There will be those moments when we go crazy for the latest fad, but overall planning your wardrobe, will save you money, lessen stress and give you style. Planning the perfect wardrobe should ease you into the next season with no anguish. Planning the perfect wardrobe should be fun.

THE PERFECT WARDROBE PLAN

Each season, planning the perfect wardrobe should begin with an inventory and a list. I love making lists. However, it is not just about making the list It's all about the discipline of following thru. Being a fashion writer, I love the lists of my latest blog ideas, fashion that stands out, and what I need and want in my wardrobe.

When making a wardrobe list, start off doing that inventory. What this should include is going through your closet and recording the basic's that need replacing (black pants, white shirts), items that need repaired, and altered. Once your inventory is complete, list the pieces from the runway, shops(online), and magazines (blogs) that you are coveting. Include your long-term desirables like that Gucci bag or Prada loafers that you lust after. Now armed with the information you need, you can go about devising a well-edited wardrobe that will epitomize your style. This is where the fun begins. However, if this is your first foray into planning your wardrobe, let me be your guide.

THE PERFECT WARDROBE

I'm sure many of you are wondering why do you need to plan your wardrobe. You can shop haphazardly with no particular focus. However, the result will be a closet full of clothes that have little relationship to each other. Therefore, your garments will be more difficult to mix and match, lack a definitive style, and cost more money. When you work with a stylist, they will focus your wardrobe on your style. Indeed developing your on style is key to having a perfect wardrobe. As an illustration, look to the women whose style you admire.

WOMEN WITH STYLE

I love women with thoughtful style, women like Cate Blanchett,  Traci Ellis Ross, and Jane Fonda.

These are women who know what works for them. These stylish women aren't afraid to be somewhat repetitive about their looks. They find silhouettes, colors, and designs that suit them and repeat them. While still updating and refreshing it in unexpected and inventive ways. We could all use a little help now and then. Women with incredible style have certain things in common. First, they embrace their style and try not to follow trends. Second, they look and feel confident in what they wear. True chic is effortless, and it’s got to come from you. Not everyone has an impeccable taste. However, by the following of advice, thinking, and planning and looking and learning you can have the perfect wardrobe. Here are some tips on how to create an anything but ordinary wardrobe.

PERFECT WARDROBE RULES

In our quest to achieve the perfect wardrobe, here are some of my rules. There are 3 tools I suggest you use to analyze every major fashion expenditure. Only if the item fits all three categories, do you get my seal of approval to shell out .

1) BE TRUTHFUL ABOUT YOUR LIFESTYLE, AND BUY ONLY WHAT YOU LOVE

Lifestyle is the key factor in selecting what you wear. Wearing high heels and tailored suits is pertinent if you work in the corporate world. However, not too logical or comfortable if you're working from home or spending the day speeding around town. Thankfully, the clothing choices available are endless. Therefore, you can find pieces that suit how you live and that you love. Only wear garments you love and make you feel good. Buy clothing that speaks to you and that you enjoy wearing. Buying something because your friend is wearing it or just because it's the latest trend does not work. Also, be sure you purchase a cohesive aesthetic. I recommend that you focus on only two style personalities, for example, classic lines, edgy minimalist, or boho chic.

2) 70 PERCENT NEUTRAL

 I love pink and will admit to owning more than one brilliant blazer, indulge in color! However, let's put the brakes on that a bit. A majority of what you wear should be drawn from neutrals. That includes black and white. The 70 percent neutral rule allows you to have a wardrobe where you can mix and match and still enjoy a spectrum of color. This will help keep your wardrobe feeling new and fresh.

3) QUALITY AND FIT ARE EVERYTHING

Darling's I'll say this till I am blue in the face, quality over quantity. Purchase less and purchase the best that you can afford. These are the truest words I'll speak when it comes to wardrobe planning. My next proclamation is no matter what the quality is or how great the deal if it doesn't fit you're wasting your money. Make friends with a quality seamstress. In the right hands, a good seamstress can make almost anything look fabulous.

THE PERFECT WARDROBE

ESSENTIALS

Where your style is concerned, I say go for it. However, there are some core pieces that the perfect wardrobe of a stylish woman should not be without. These are those items that are make-up your wardrobe basics. These go-to items will make putting your outfits together so much easier. The number of items in your wardrobe depends on your budget. However, try to have at least three top options (a casual-sporty, a dressier day, and night) for every skirt and pant. These items are based on your Spring/Summer wardrobe.

PERFECT WARDROBE STAPLES

A PENCIL SKIRT

The pencil skirt is one of the most flattering pieces on the market. Placing the emphasis on the hips and beautiful curves of the female form.  A perfect wardrobe staple that is not just for the office, but can work for evening looks as well.

No.21

click image to purchase

Anine Bing

À La Garçonne

click image to purchase

PERFECT WARDROBE STAPLES

2 PAIRS OF PANTS

One black. (My vote this season is for the skinny version.) In fact, the best choice would be a tuxedo pant, since it's a perfect day-to-night, go-with-anything item. The other pair should be a pair of jeans. Certainly classic blue denim works while you could also select a pair of black jeans. ( link to my post on denim 2020)

Kiki De Montparnasse

Fitted Tuxedo Trousers

click image to purchase

Dondup

Ganni

PERFECT WARDROBE STAPLES

TWO DRESSES 

First, I recommend one of the two dresses should be a little black dress. I have written about this many times (latest post), a LBD is your best friend. Nothing in your wardrobe will serve you better than a LBD you love. The other dress should show your style personality. Whether you like bohemian or romantic or countless other styles, this is your opportunity to shine.

Preen By Thornton Bregazzi

Norma Kamali

A.L.C.

Ganni

Simone Rocha

Alice + Olivia

PERFECT WARDROBE STAPLES

 A WEAR-WITH-EVERYTHING BLAZER

First, a tailored blazer is one essential of a perfect wardrobe. Second, by choosing a neutral jacket you can wear it with everything. Third, fall in love with a tuxedo jacket and you will have a friend for life. By splurging on a well constructed classic menswear-inspired jacket you will add a featured element to your wardrobe for years to come.

Karen Walker

Veronica Beard

AllSaints

PERFECT WARDROBE STAPLES

SIX TOPS

 Since you now have two pairs of pants and a skirt it's time to mix and match. You need to have enough tops to give yourself some variety. Therefore, I'm suggesting that you select at least six tops. First, start with two silk tops that can take you from office to dinner. Second, select three shirts, include a button-down if that's your style, a polo, or a turtle neck. It's important to have fun with your wardrobe. It's equally important that you choose tops you love. Finally, select a nice light cashmere pullover or a light knit sweater. Now you have enough diversity to give your wardrobe a wide range of looks.

Escada Sport

Self-Portrait

Jacquemus

Isabel Marant

The Kooples

Proenza Schouler

THE PERFECT WARDROBE

THE SEASON'S UPDATES

 While we enjoyed putting together the perfect wardrobe staples and followed all the rules, it's now time to have some fun. After all, fashion should be fun. Certainly, the best way to add a splash to your wardrobe is with a directional pair of shoes or a bag. Here are some items to consider to add  seasonal flair to your closet.

Elleme

Paco Rabanne

STAUD

Cos

Rochas

Marni

THE PERFECT WARDROBE 

MAKING A FASHION STATEMENT

Since I am a fashion lover in the most extreme way, I love it when someone makes a fashion statement. If you attend fashion events, the bolder your fashion statement may need to be to get that derived attention. Feathers, zebra print, sky-high shoulders, and ultra mini skirts turn heads. This is where the rubber meets the road because this is where one's style will shine.
However, you don't have to go to extremes to make a fashion statement. I recommend adding two pieces to your wardrobe every season that are unique, different, and that you love so much they will be with you for years. Notably, this is when you may want to visit a vintage store, thrift store, or local designer. You can also search for different items online and visit independent designers. As an illustration, here are some items that may inspire you to make a fashion statement.

Noir Kei Ninomiya

Comme Des Garçons

Palmer Harding

Balenciaga

Matthew Adams

Ellery

THE PERFECT WARDROBE

While some of you may be resistant to wardrobe planning, I encourage you to give it a try. Certainly prior to this pandemic , I was out 2 or 3 times a week, each event required a fabulous outfit. Therefore with out careful wardrobe planning I'd be lost. In fact it lessens stress and makes fashion and getting dressed much more fun.

 CIAO FOR NOW J.ANDREW