Reader Struggle: "I hate making decisions and not knowing whether things go together. I feel tired and cranky in the morning and don't want to waste energy choosing my clothes. I wish I could just pick a ready-made outfit that I knew I liked and would look good."
I totally get where you're coming from. When you're feeling rushed and groggy in the morning, the last thing you want to deal with is figuring out an outfit that works. But don't worry! I've got some practical solutions to help you simplify your morning outfit choices and take the stress out of getting dressed.
1. Build a Wardrobe That Works Together with a Colour Palette
The first step to making your mornings easier is having a colour palette that ensures your clothes mix and match seamlessly. When everything in your wardrobe works within a defined palette, you can rest easy knowing that all your pieces go together without much effort.
Think of it like a puzzle where all the pieces fit. You don't have to second-guess whether your top matches your trousers or whether you're pairing the right colours together. Once you have a palette that suits your complexion and personal style, choosing clothes becomes a breeze.
2. Sticking to Your Silhouette Simplifies Mornings
When you simplify your morning outfit choices by having a consistent silhouette, it's easier to mix and match. If you know which silhouette works for your body, you can focus on buying clothes in that shape. This helps avoid the frustration of trying to mix different styles that may not go well together. By sticking to your preferred silhouette, you'll find it much easier to create outfits that feel cohesive and flattering.
You don't have to let it get boring. Use patterns, textures, colours, fabrics and construction to make your outfits sing. Here's an example of the same denim skirt in three different outfits. You'll notice the silhouette is the same, but I've used different colours, accessories and textures to make each feel more unique.
3. Plan and Photograph Your Outfits in Advance
Since you don't enjoy making decisions in the morning, one of the best things you can do is pre-plan your outfits. Set aside some time on the weekend when you're more relaxed and try on different combinations of clothes.
Once you find outfits you like, take photos of them and create an album on your phone. These become your go-to outfits, and when you're in a rush, you can just scroll through your album and pick one without any stress. You'll know it looks good because you've already tried it on and loved it.
4. Keep Updating Your Outfit Album for Stress-Free Mornings
Every time you add a new garment to your wardrobe, take a moment to create a few new outfits with it. Snap photos of these outfits and add them to your album. That way, when you want to wear the new piece, you already know how to style it with the rest of your wardrobe.
This shirt is a favourite and I've worn it with so many different outfits - here are just three options! I love to make a feature of the double cuffs which add interest to the outfit through the interesting construction. I'm also wearing the same boots in both the left and right outfits which I painted silver to match my hair, making them an easy option that goes with so many different outfits.
Doing this for each season and every new addition to your wardrobe will keep your album fresh and updated, making mornings easier all year round.
5. Invest in Style Education
Finally, investing in a style education can save you so much time and frustration in the long run. When you know your body shape, your personal style, and your best colours, it takes the guesswork out of shopping and getting dressed. By the time a garment makes it into your wardrobe, you'll be confident it suits you, and you'll know how to style it effortlessly.
This knowledge can also save you from wasting money on clothes that don't work, because you'll know what to avoid. You'll only buy pieces that fit seamlessly into your existing wardrobe, making it much easier to put together outfits that look and feel amazing. So many women have a wardrobe full of clothes and nothing to wear but they can't figure out why. Catch my free masterclass on this subject here.
Final Thoughts
With these tips, you'll simplify your morning outfit choices and feel more energized for the rest of your day. By curating a wardrobe that works within a colour palette, sticking to your silhouette, and pre-planning your outfits, you can eliminate the stress of getting dressed. Your mornings will be simpler, and you'll have more energy to focus on what really matters.
Thank you for your question, and if you want to dive deeper into understanding your personal style, I'd love to welcome you into my 7 Steps to Style program. Have a wonderful day, and happy dressing!
Further Reading
Fashion Simplified: Discover the Power of a Personal Colour Palette
How to Create Your Own Figure Flattery Guidelines with the Body Equation
Discovering Your Sense of Style: A Journey of Self-Expression
Simple Outfits vs Complex Ones - Which Should You Choose?
The Value of Having Go-To Outfits and Your Own Outfit Formula for Speedy Stylish Dressing