How to Build a Wardrobe That Matches and is Versatile

Have you ever stood in front of a closet full of clothes and felt like you had absolutely nothing to wear? Many people find themselves in this predicament, because they lack a strategic approach to shopping, buying random pieces that catch their eye without a cohesive plan. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Let’s tackle this issue head-on and transform your wardrobe from a mismatched jumble into a stylish, coordinated collection

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The Power of a Plan

Do you shop with a plan, or do you buy whatever catches your eye?

Shopping without a plan is like setting off on a road trip without a map—you may enjoy the journey, but you might not reach your destination.

It’s like going to the supermarket and buying a bunch of random things and not being an expert chef, expecting to be able to put together a delicious meal when what you have in your shopping cart is some bacon, oatmeal and truffle oil.

Without a strategy, it’s easy to fall into the trap of buying random pieces that catch your eye but don’t necessarily fit into a cohesive wardrobe and this makes is super hard to create a variety of outfits with what you own. This is where a style education becomes invaluable. By understanding your personal style, you can develop a set of criteria to guide your purchases, ensuring each item complements the others in your collection.

Discovering Your Colour Palette

Finding your best colour palette is a game-changer. When your clothes are in harmony, it becomes much easier to create outfits. Imagine waking up in the morning, opening your wardrobe, and knowing that almost everything in there can be mixed and matched effortlessly. This is the power of sticking to a colour palette. It narrows down your options and makes the shopping experience less overwhelming.

Invest in a professional colour analysis to discover the hues that best complement your skin tone, hair colour, and eyes. This personalized palette will serve as a foundation for all your future purchases. It’s the best investment you can make if you don’t want to always be wearing black (because you’re not sure how to put other colours together).

Once you know your colours, commit to them. This doesn’t mean you can’t have variety, but it does mean that most of your wardrobe should stick to this palette for maximum versatility. A defined colour palette will simplify your shopping by reducing the overwhelming choices. Instead of feeling lost among endless choices, you can quickly dismiss anything that doesn’t fit your palette.

If you’d like to get your colours done and a palette that includes your signature colours (which are your WOW colours) you can get it done online here or as part of my full style education program 7 Steps to Style.

Invest in your style education

When I first delved into style education, I was amazed at how much I didn’t know about what truly suited me. Learning about colour theory and body shapes helped me make more informed decisions, and my wardrobe transformed as a result. My style morphed from safe and boring into something way more interesting that reflects my personality, highlights my colouring and is in harmony with my body.

Understanding what colours suit you, what shapes flatter your body, and what styles align with your personality are crucial steps in developing a cohesive wardrobe. A style education provides you with the criteria to evaluate potential purchases, ensuring they fit seamlessly into your existing wardrobe.

If you’re interested in more tips and personalized style advice, check out my 7 Steps to Style program. It’s a comprehensive guide designed to help you master your personal style. Visit 7 Steps to Style to learn more and start your style journey today.

Create a shopping strategy

Before you hit the stores, take stock of what you already own and identify any gaps. This helps you avoid impulse buys and ensures that every new piece you purchase adds value to your wardrobe.

When you are in the store trying on garments, rate each garment on a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being perfect and 1 being crap. Don’t leave the store without it being at least 8 out of 10.

When you get home, try the items on with your existing clothes. You want to ensure that new purchases can be paired with at least three other items in your wardrobe. This maximizes versatility and wearability. Again if the item doesn’t rate as at least an 8 out of 10 when you are trying it on at home, then take it back!

Don’t be afraid to use a tailor. Alterations can make a huge difference in how clothes fit and flatter your body. Simple adjustments like hemming pants or taking in a blouse can transform an off-the-rack item into a perfectly fitting piece.

Next time you plan to go shopping, make a list of specific items you need. Stick to this list and see how it changes your shopping experience. Were you able to resist impulse buys? Did you find items that complemented your existing wardrobe?

Empower Your Wardrobe

Shopping with a purpose isn’t about limiting your options—it’s about making choices that enhance your style and simplify your life. You’ll save money by avoiding impulse buys that don’t work, and you’ll gain confidence knowing that everything in your wardrobe is a perfect fit for you.

Transforming a mismatched wardrobe into a harmonious collection takes time and effort, but the benefits are worth it. It won’t happen overnight as you’ll never be able to find what you want in any one season or shopping trip. But when you have the right tools and knowledge at your disposal it becomes easier.

So next time you head to the store, arm yourself with knowledge and a clear plan. You’ll be amazed at how much easier and more enjoyable the process becomes.