The last two years have proven to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everyone. Much of our lives have altered dramatically, from where we work and how we vacation to who we may see and what we are permitted to do. Our approach to what we wear on a daily basis has also changed as a result of this, albeit less dramatically.
Whether you’ve been living in your pyjamas or shopping online more than ever before, there have been many changes in our approach to fashion this year. However, one advantage of spending more time at home is that we have had the opportunity to analyze what we actually need in our wardrobes – and a new year is the ideal moment to figure out what should stay and what should leave.
We’re all guilty of making poor wardrobe selections, from hanging on to outdated clothes that never get worn to panic-buying items that won’t get more than one outing. But this does not have to be the case.
Here, we break down 5 wardrobe resolutions to start right now so you can free up space, save money, and look your best.
1. Don’t buy or keep something that doesn’t fit
It’s not uncommon to hold on to items that no longer fit you in the hope that they will again one day. It’s also not uncommon to buy something in a size too small as an incentive to lose weight or because it’s in the sale and they don’t have your usual size. However, holding on to these items – that you can’t physically wear – is one of the worst things you can do if you’re trying to reduce the size of your wardrobe. Be realistic and honest with yourself. If it doesn’t fit you, it’s time to sell or donate it.
2. Avoid excessive buying sprees
We frequently become stuck in style ruts, feeling as if we despise everything in our closets and have nothing to wear. When this happens, we frequently go on a shopping binge, spending large sums of money on exactly these trend-led products that end up languishing in our wardrobes for years, never being worn. Don’t let it get this far. Instead, keep an eye out for pieces you like all year and write a list of what you’re missing when you realize it. Consider it a continuous and evolving process, rather than returning to square one every few months. Allowing yourself to buy one very good piece per month, rather than two big shopping sprees a year, would almost certainly result in much more well-thought-out decisions and, as a result, a lot more attractive wardrobe.
3. Don’t buy something just because it’s a bargain
It’s easy to be won over by a big discount, and you should make the most of huge markdowns – especially when it comes to investment designer pieces – but only if that piece is something that you really need to add to your arsenal. Never buy something just because it’s a great deal. No matter how affordable it was, if you never wear it, it’s a complete waste of money.
4. Make an effort to discover new brands
Another reason we get stuck into style ruts is because we get attached to and comfortable with certain shops. It’s great to have your core favourites who you trust and you know last well, but there are always so many new, amazing brands hitting the market that are waiting to be discovered. From high-end designer labels to more affordable mid-range brands, keep exploring all year round. You’ll end up with some truly special, stylish finds (that – bonus – nobody else has).
5. Adopt rental fashion
Renting garments has never been easier, thanks to an increase in environmental awareness, with a big increase in the number of fashion-rental companies available. Renting rather than buying is a terrific option to achieve a more attractive wardrobe for a variety of reasons. For starters, you will usually feel as if you are wearing something new, which is ideal for important occasions such as weddings or parties, where you may have previously purchased a one-occasion outfit. Another advantage is that you can be a little more daring with what you try – you might move outside of your style comfort zone and find excellent pieces that you would have been too hesitant to buy otherwise.
