Maybe there's a better way...
How to find the right balance of practical clothing that work from general household chores to running to the shops.
Reader Question - How do I find the right balance of clothing for my varied life? From home cleaning and yard maintenance to going out to the shops. I like to dress nicely but I'm getting changed three times a dayThis is very common. We will often change clothes for different activities throughout the day and finding the right balance of clothing for your lifestyle can be tricky. Athletic clothes, swimwear, and other activity-specific clothes are self-explanatory. You might come home from work and change out of your work clothes into loungewear, much the same as you did if you wore a school uniform when you were younger. A uniform for school and play clothes for playing.... If you find yourself changing outfits through the day, then the following tips might be helpful for you.
Switch Up Your Routine
If changing your outfit multiple times and ending up with piles of laundry is frustrating, consider changing up your routine.
When you're doing particular things like yard work, I would recommend choosing a time of day to do your yard work - first thing in the morning or at the end of the day.
For me, I put on activewear that is very comfortable, easily washed, and gives me freedom of movement. If I'm particularly sweaty or dirty then I might take a shower and change into my more casual clothes. If you don't want to mess up your regular clothes when you're doing heavy cleaning or gardening, you might need clothing better suited to yard work or using cleaning chemicals.
Saving your deep cleaning for one specific day, leaving only a surface clean needed for the rest of the week, may also save you a change of clothes or two.
Try An Apron
You could also consider an apron. Hear me out! When you think of aprons, you probably think of Grandma cooking a sponge cake with cream. However, the use of an apron is not restricted just to protecting our clothes around food. A bib apron is ideal for cleaning as it provides protection to your clothes. It's also very handy in the garden with the added benefit of pockets to store your tools. I can't begin to tell you how often I will lose shovels, scissors, and other items when I'm gardening. It's frustrating!
Non-dull Basics
Basics are the staples and hard workers of your wardrobe. They often provide the canvas for an outfit. Basics are the plain pieces that are the supporting acts of your wardrobe. Your basics don't have to be boring! Look for garments with some detail in construction, not too much embellishment, otherwise it's hard to accessorize, but a little of something different will go a long way to making your outfit more exciting.
A t-shirt with a pattern you really love will look dressier than a plain or solid colour cotton t-shirt, so choose one you can just throw in the washing machine and the tumble dryer. You could also find a t-shirt with a unique construction element - asymmetric hemline, lace cap sleeves or decorative button detailing
Jeans or chinos could also be a great staple for you. They can be worn to the shops and worn for jobs around the house. Chinos are certainly more refined than jeans. The side slip pockets and slim-fit style of the leg create an elegant appearance. .
Wear the simplest version of your outfit when you're just home cleaning, cooking or chasing your kids around. When you are leaving the house, add another layer or several accessories to get that polished look for going out in public.
I often start with jeans and a t-shirt while I'm home doing chores. I will do my hair and makeup. When it's time to leave the house, I add a scarf or necklace, add a jacket and then I may change out my shoes for a ballet flat from sneakers. Because I took care of my hair and makeup when I first got up, I'm instantly dressed up.
Assess Your Lifestyle
Take the time to work out what your average week looks like, and then your average month. What kinds of clothes do you need to wear and how much of the time will you be wearing them? Your lifestyle influences your clothing choices. For more information, figuring out your lifestyle and the right balance of clothing appropriate for what you do, check out my blog post How Does Your Lifestyle Influences Your Clothing Choices?
There is no magic list of clothes that works for everyone. Your life, and how you spend your time, will determine what you need in your closet to look stylish every day, yet be totally appropriate for the occasions in your everyday life. In Step 4 of my 7 Steps to Style program, we assess your lifestyle and give you the knowledge and tools to start building a shopping list to fill your gaps so you don't keep buying the wrong clothes or duplicates of what you already own so you can have a cohesive wardrobe that works well together, easily, and so that you feel confident and stylish every day. Join the program now.
Further Reading
Do You Need Interesting Basics or Understated Staple Garments in Your Wardrobe?
How Non-Dull Basics Make Your Whole Wardrobe Exciting
Shopping Tip: Check the Label Before You Try It On
9 Essential Steps for a Successful Wardrobe Transition
How Does Your Lifestyle Influences Your Clothing Choices?
