How to Build a Wardrobe from Scratch: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Do you dislike your clothes, your style, or the way your clothes look on you? Do you feel lost when it comes to putting together a great wardrobe, looking stylish, and feeling great? Whether you’re starting a wardrobe from scratch or simply looking to refresh your closet and style, this guide is for you! Just like fashion trends, life is constantly changing and our wardrobes should be an accurate reflection of who we are, who we want to be, and how we want to portray ourselves to the world. Though building a wardrobe from scratch is a process, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! The good news is that it’s not as daunting as you think, and this guide will help to make things even easier for you. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of wardrobe building!

How to Build a Wardrobe from Scratch: Getting Started

A fresh start means you have the chance to fill your dream wardrobe with quality pieces that you love. This won’t happen overnight while online shopping (with a glass of wine perhaps)! It may feel like a slower process at times, especially if you do this with a budget, but it’s worth it to do it right.

You know the saying, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have?” You want your wardrobe to be a reflection of your goals and the future you envision for yourself, while simultaneously fitting your current lifestyle. Because what help is a wardrobe full of clothes you have no place to wear? Not much help at all! So, find the balance of shopping for who you are now, but also for who you want to be.

If you’re a stay-at-home mom but plan to join the corporate world soon, you may want to stock up on a couple of pantsuits amongst the comfy sweaters and leggings.

If you’re in the corporate world but have plans to transition to a WFH job, then you might slowly start buying comfortable clothing pieces for your cute yet comfy outfits that feel good to wear (and look good for Zoom).

Your hard-earned money should go towards clothes you can enjoy here and now, not just sometime in the future. However, ultimately, you know the right balance for yourself!

1. Discover Your Personal Style

If you don’t already have a fashion aesthetic you love, then now is the time to find one before you start building a wardrobe! After all, how do you know what type of wardrobe you need to build? It’s like trying to put together a puzzle without knowing what the final picture looks like. But finding your personal style is like getting the cover of that puzzle box – it gives you the big picture and makes everything fall into place.

Not only will knowing your style save you a ton of time and money (instead of buying random pieces that you’ll never wear), but it helps you to start choosing items that you actually love and will rock every day. No more closet full of meh clothes!

In a nutshell, finding your personal style is essentially finding a style you like and that also fits with your unique lifestyle. For an in-depth guide, check out How to Find Your Personal Style Today.

2. Clean Out Your Closet

Cleaning out your closet is like hitting the reset button for your style. Before you dive into building that dream wardrobe, it’s crucial to start with a clean slate. First off, it helps you see what you already have. We all know that feeling of finding a long-lost favorite shirt buried in the back, right?

By clearing out the old, you make room for the new. It’s a lot easier to identify what essentials you need when you’re not distracted by stuff you haven’t worn in years. Plus, a tidy closet means you can actually find things without embarking on a mini scavenger hunt every morning.

It’s also a chance to let go of clothes that no longer fit or suit your style – especially after finding (or rediscovering) your personal style! Trust me, that high school hoodie or those jeans that haven’t seen daylight in a decade can probably go. Donating or recycling them not only helps you but also gives those items a second life.

Lastly, a clean closet is a mental boost. It’s like a fresh start! You’ll feel more organized and ready to curate a wardrobe that truly reflects who you are now.

3. Dress for Your Current Body Size

“I don’t have any clothes I like right now, but I want to lose weight.” Have you heard that one before? Maybe you’ve even said it before.

There are a lot of differing opinions about how you should shop when you hope to drop a couple of dress sizes. Some people even buy smaller clothes as motivation. In the end, you do what works for you, but ultimately I think you should dress for the size you are now. More than that, look good in the size you are now! You can keep working on your fitness goals and reevaluate when you meet them, but at least you are doing what you can to feel confident and enjoy the journey.

Sure, maybe you don’t invest in all of your clothes right now and instead, shop secondhand or at less expensive retailers, but at least you’ll still have things you feel confident in! And when you reach your fitness goals, you can always sell what doesn’t fit anymore or pass them on and replace them.

After all, why wouldn’t you want to dress the body you have now in the best way possible instead of wearing whatever pieces you can find? Not showing your body love in every stage can make you feel less than confident until you “reach your goal”.

If you are deadset against buying any new clothes for your current weight, then you can make sure your closet is stocked with shoes and accessories, at least. You can still have fun with your wardrobe and you’ll know they’ll always fit!

4. Make Every Purchase Count

This happens to everyone, but when building a wardrobe from scratch, it’s really important to eliminate (or at least limit) impulse shopping and make every purchase count.

Instead of impulse purchasing every trend and style that catches your eye, why not use that as an opportunity to pick up some things that would benefit your wardrobe and prove to be versatile long term? After all, what’s the point of getting clothes you were influenced to get and you only wear once?

5. Resist the Sales

Yes, they’re hard to resist, but unless you’re intentionally looking for a certain item, sales can sometimes do more harm than good. They can quickly fool you into thinking you need to buy everything just because it’s on sale. But stay strong! Don’t just buy to buy.

On the flip side, it’s a great idea to shop sales if you were going to get that item anyway! Having a wardrobe shopping list and sticking to it can help you build a wardrobe you love.

Once you have all your good wardrobe basics (which we’ll get into) and you want to add some pizazz to your wardrobe, feel free to experiment and try out some new pieces selectively. A statement top or some new accessories can make fashion feel fun!

Now that we covered the mental foundation of how to build a wardrobe from scratch, let’s get into the actual pieces that you’ll need!

If you need more help understanding your style and body shape, I created a resource for you here!

How to Build a Wardrobe from Scratch: Color Palette & Shopping List

When creating a shopping list and building a wardrobe from scratch, you’re primarily looking for neutrals and versatile clothing pieces that you can mix and match.

Before buying something, ask yourself:

• Do I like how it looks on me?
• Is it comfortable?
• Can I wear this more than once?
• Would it go with other things in my closet?

1. Pick a Color Palette and Signature Print

Not only will knowing your colors make shopping easier, but you’ll also develop your signature style and have a style you love! A signature style doesn’t have to be extreme (like Steve Jobs with his black turtleneck and jeans every day); it can be as subtle as a go-to pop of color.

For me, my signature style is mainly neutrals with my signature print(s) being stripes and leopard print. Now when my friends and family see anything leopard print they send me a photo saying, “That’s so you”.

Your base colors are what your key items (coats, tops, bottoms) are made out of. Your accent colors are how you like to accessorize or show interest. Your patterns are how you like to have fun and jazz it up.

Here’s an example below!

This doesn’t mean you can never stray from these colors. In fact, there are times when you should seasonally, but it’s a helpful starting point.

When deciding on your accent colors, it’s also important to know what colors suit your skin tone and what don’t, so you can shine in whatever you wear!

Your colors and seasons aren’t a foolproof science, nor are they meant to restrict you. Instead, they’re here to guide you, get you started on building a wardrobe from scratch, and even shed some light on why some things look better on you than others.

Now, it’s time to get into the shopping list. Here’s what you need and why it’s important for a timeless wardrobe!

TOPS

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1. White Tee – A white tee is a total classic! Your most versatile piece, it pairs with just about anything – jeans, skirts, or under a blazer. Perfect for layering or solo, it’s effortlessly stylish. Plus, it’s comfy! A must-have staple for any wardrobe.

2. Black Tee – A black tee is a wardrobe staple because it’s super versatile, pairs effortlessly with anything, and can be dressed up or down. Perfect for layering or wearing by itself in all seasons, it’s timeless and always in style.

3. Gray Tee – It’s good to have color options! Dress it up with a blazer or keep it casual with jeans. Plus, it matches pretty much everything in your closet.

4. Striped Tee – Perfect for a French-inspired wardrobe or adding interest to your outfit, a striped tee is the perfect piece for any wardrobe. Plus, it never goes out of style. Total classic!

5. White Button-Down – A white button-down is like the Swiss Army knife of your closet – versatile, timeless, and effortlessly chic. Dress it up with a blazer for meetings or pair it with jeans for a laid-back brunch. It’s your go-to for nailing any look, anytime.

6. Chambray Shirt – A chambray (or denim) shirt is perfect for any season. It’s comfy and stylish, adding a laid-back yet polished vibe. Layer it under sweaters or wear it on its own for a casual chic look.

7. Turtleneck – Versatile, cozy, and effortlessly stylish. Whether you’re layering up for chilly days or making a sleek statement, they’ve got your back (and neck!). Dress them up or down, they always add a touch of sophistication.

8. Lightweight Sweater – A lightweight sweater is like that reliable buddy who’s always got your back. Perfect for layering or solo, it effortlessly transitions between seasons, keeping you comfy and stylish. Plus, it’s easy to pack and goes with anything.

9. Graphic Tee – The perfect punch needed to jazz up an outfit or wardrobe; it shows off your personality effortlessly! Pair it with jeans, layer it under a jacket, or dress it up with a skirt.

BOTTOMS

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1. Dark Denim – Dark denim is like the best friend of your wardrobe – always reliable, never goes out of style, and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. From casual Fridays to weekend brunches, it’s versatile and timeless. Just think of it as your go-to jeans that play well with everything!

2. White Denim – White jeans are versatile, fresh, and always stylish. Dress it up with a blazer or keep it chill with a tee. It’s perfect for every season (yes, you can even wear them in winter if you want) and adds a pop of brightness to your look.

3. Black Denim – These can be dressy or casual. They’re effortlessly cool, pair with anything, and suit all occasions. Plus, they’re magically slimming and never go out of style.

4. Light Denim – It’s nice to have options if you want to lighten up a look! Light-wash denim is especially great for the spring and summer seasons, both laid-back weekends or coffee dates.

5. Dress Pants – Even if you’re not in a professional job dress pants, or trousers, are good to have! They’re versatile enough for the office, date night, or even a fancy brunch. Pair them with anything for an effortlessly polished look. Plus, they never go out of style, making them a smart investment.

6. Denim Skirt – Dress it up with heels for a night out or keep it chill with sneakers for a coffee run. It’s the all-season hero your closet didn’t know it needed! (Just add tights or leggings in the cooler weather.)

7. Straight-leg Jeans – They play nice with everything – from tees to blazers. Comfortable and timeless, they effortlessly swing between casual and chic. Plus, they flatter all body types. Basically, these jeans are your go-to for endless outfit possibilities.

DRESSES

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1. Little Black Dress – It’s that go-to piece you can dress up with heels and jewelry or keep it chill with a denim jacket and sneakers. Perfect for any occasion, it never goes out of style and always makes you look effortlessly fabulous.

2. Sweater Dress – Cozy yet chic, effortlessly transitioning from day to night. You can dress it up with boots or keep it casual with sneakers. Perfect for pairing with boots in the fall and winter!

3. Slip Dress – More versatile than you think! It’s effortlessly chic, transitions from day to night with ease, and layers like a dream. Perfect for any season, you can dress it up with heels or keep it casual with sneakers.

4. Floral Dress – It’s versatile enough for brunch or a date night, effortlessly blending style and comfort. Plus, the vibrant patterns add a splash of joy to any outfit. It’s perfect for spring but works in other seasons too, with the right layering.

5. Wrap Dress – The iconic and universally flattering wrap dress is a must-have. It’s comfy, versatile, and flatters every body shape. Perfect for any occasion, from brunch to a night out. Effortlessly stylish, it saves you from those I have nothing to wear moments.

6. Maxi Dress – Not all dresses have to be dressy! This is perfect for an easy casual look that still looks put together and stylish. Toss it on, add some cute accessories, and you’re ready to go. It’s a go-to piece that makes looking fabulous a breeze!

OUTERWEAR

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1. Trench Coat – One of the best spring and fall staple pieces that make you look chic anytime. It’s stylish, timeless, and goes with everything. Whether it’s a rainy day or a cool evening, this classic piece has your back, literally and fashionably. Toss it over anything and boom – instant sophistication.

2. Peacoat – The classy way to stay warm in the winter; the peacoat’s timeless style and cozy warmth make it a must-have for any wardrobe. Its versatility means it pairs effortlessly with jeans or dresses, making you look sharp without trying too hard.

3. Camel Coat – The epitome of timeless, this is the go-to piece for elevating any outfit. Whether you’re dressed up or keeping it casual, this coat seamlessly pulls everything together with a touch of class.

4. Denim Jacket – The perfect thing to throw over any outfit! Super versatile, effortlessly cool, and timeless, it pairs with just about anything, from sundresses to joggers, making it the ultimate layering piece.

5. Printed Blazer – The silhouette adds a sophisticated touch to any look and the print adds interest to your outfit. It effortlessly jazzes up jeans or balances out a dressy look. Timeless and stylish, it’s that go-to piece for when you want to look sharp without overthinking.

6. Cardigan – Super cozy and a great layering piece, a cardigan is always there to add that perfect blend of cozy and chic. Toss it over anything, and voilà, instant style upgrade! It’s versatile, comfy, and dependable for those unpredictable weather days.

7. Blazer – Get one in many neutral colors! It’ll make any outfit look sharp. Throw it on over jeans or a dress, and boom – you look instantly polished.

8. Utility/Barn Jacket- A barn jacket is a great light outerwear piece that is perfect for not just wearing in the fall, but for transitioning the seasons too. It’s versatile, effortlessly blending with both casual and style.

9. Moto Jacket – A leather jacket jazzes up jeans and adds an edge to dresses. Perfect for layering and always in style, it’s your go-to piece for that instant cool vibe.

SHOES

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1. Ankle Boots – Dress them up with a skirt or keep it chill with jeans – they fit every mood. Plus, they’re comfy enough for all-day adventures. With ankle boots in your wardrobe, you’ll always have the perfect shoes for the fall and winter seasons!

2. Brown or Beige Flats – Their neutral tones effortlessly match almost any outfit, making them your go-to for both casual and semi-formal occasions. Plus, they’re comfy and chic, adding a dash of understated elegance to your style.

3. Black Heels – They might not be something you’ll wear every day, but when the occasion comes up you’ll be glad you have them. Whether it’s a job interview, a night out, or a brunch date, these beauties have got your back!

4. Sandals – The ultimate spring and summer shoe! They keep things breezy and cool while adding that laid-back, effortless vibe to any outfit. Perfect for beach days, backyard BBQs, or shopping around town.

5. Knee-high Boots – Ready to elevate your outfit? Try knee-high boots. They effortlessly blend style and practicality, keeping you chic and comfy from fall to spring. Perfect with jeans, skirts, or dresses, they instantly elevate any outfit.

6. Black Flats – Easy and versatile, slip them on, and they instantly adapt, adding a touch of chic to jeans or elegance to dresses. Comfortable yet stylish, they effortlessly balance practicality and pizzazz, making them a no-brainer for any wardrobe.

7. Loafers – Loafers are perfect for adding a preppy chic touch to your outfit. Whether you’re dressing up for a meeting or keeping it casual chic on the weekend, they’ve got you covered. Plus, no laces! Just slip them on and you’re good to go.

8. White Sneakers – They effortlessly pair with just about anything, giving you that crisp, clean look. They’re your go-to for both style and comfort and they add the perfect amount of casual to a look!

ACCESSORIES

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1. Watch – A watch is the perfect accessory – functional yet stylish. It keeps you punctual and polished. Plus, it adds a dash of timeless flair to any look.

2. Dainty Necklace – Perfect for wearing alone or layering, it adds just the right touch of elegance and charm to any outfit without overpowering your look. It’s a versatile piece that effortlessly elevates your style game.

3. Leather Tote – It’s stylish, durable, and roomy enough to stash all your daily essentials. Not only that, but it matches just about anything, making it your go-to for any outfit.

4. Pearl Earrings – They add a touch of elegance to any outfit, whether you’re in jeans or a little black dress. Their timeless charm fits every style and occasion, making them a must-have gem that effortlessly elevates your look.

5. Crossbody Bag – The type of easy bag you can wear with any outfit, a crossbody bag is hands-free, stylish, and oh-so-functional. Whether you’re dashing to work or exploring the city, this pick adds flair and convenience to every outfit.

6. Large Scarf – From fall outfits to traveling, it adds flair, doubles as a cozy wrap, and can even transform into a makeshift blanket on chilly nights. It’s the ultimate accessory that marries style with function.

7. Black Sunglasses – Who wants instant chicness? Black sunglasses are the secret sauce to any outfit. Whatever you’re rocking, they add instant style and mystery. Plus, they’re perfect for those no-makeup days or when you need to hide from the world.

8. Silk Scarf – Take a note from French fashion and get yourself a silk scarf. Effortlessly blending in while adding a splash of elegance to any outfit, it’s versatile, timeless, and oh-so-chic. Drape it, knot it, or wrap it, and voilà – instant glam.

9. Studs – Tiny but mighty! Though they’re simple, they polish up a look. They add a bit of style without screaming for attention. Perfect for both day and night, they effortlessly elevate any look.

Making Your Wardrobe Work for You

This guide is a great resource (I’m biased), but of course, everyone is going to have unique climates, lifestyles, and personal styles. Adapting your wardrobe can feel like a bit of a puzzle, but it’s actually pretty fun once you get into it. Let’s break it down into some easy steps to make sure your clothes are both stylish and practical.

Lifestyle: If you’re working from home most days, you probably don’t need a closet full of suits and ties. But if you’re out and about, meeting clients, or going to events, then having a few sharp pieces on hand is a good idea. Think about your daily activities and dress accordingly.

Personal style: Are you more into classic looks or casual looks? Maybe you’re somewhere in between. It’s all about feeling comfortable and confident in what you wear. If you’re not sure, start by picking out your favorite pieces and think about what they have in common. That’s your style starting point. While you’re at it, spend some time thinking about what makes you feel good and what you actually wear, not just what you think you should wear.

Seasonal Changes: You may not need a camel coat if you live in a southern state, and you may need to add some winter boots to this list if you live in the Midwest. Wherever you live, layering is always a good idea. For cooler months, stock up on versatile pieces like jackets, sweaters, and scarves. When it warms up, you’ll want lighter fabrics and breathable materials. Don’t forget to mix and match so you can transition easily between seasons without needing a completely new wardrobe. This core set of items in this post is great for year-round, but make sure you swap out those heavy sweaters for lighter tops as the weather changes. Keeping a small storage box for off-season clothes can help to keep things organized.

Personality: Now, basics are great (and a must-have), but a little variety never hurts anyone! Throw in a few pieces that show off your personality. Maybe it’s leopard print flats or a bold scarf – these items will keep your wardrobe from feeling too bland.

Body Shape: When building your wardrobe, select the clothes and styles that fit well and flatter your body shape. Clothes that fit you well can make a world of difference in how you look and feel!

Climate: When building a wardrobe, it’s important to consider your climate. Living in a chilly area? You’ll want more cozy layers, sweaters, as well as a coat. If you’re somewhere warm, think breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to keep cool. Wet and rainy? Maybe you choose a coat in a waterproof material.

A great way to get started on finding what you like is to pop into some clothing stores and just start trying things on – there’s no obligation to buy! Pick up some pieces you know you like, but surprise yourself with some new pieces as well. Go ahead, check yourself out in the mirror. How do these items fit and make you feel? What sizes are you generally? Take some pictures. Make some notes. Create your own personal resource for you to come back to.

Where to Shop for Your Wardrobe

It’s completely normal to collect pieces for your wardrobe over time, and as you do, here are some places to consider.

First off, thrift stores are a goldmine. Think Goodwill, Salvation Army, or local consignment shops. Not only can you find unique, vintage items, but it’s also a budget-friendly way to score high-quality pieces. Plus, thrifting is sustainable!

When shopping for your wardrobe, quality over quantity is always the best approach to take. When investing, I love places like Madewell, Everlane, J.Crew, and Banana Republic. Whether you splurge on a quality blazer or a white tee, these pieces will last you years.

For those who love a good deal, outlet malls can be great. Stores like J.Crew Factory, Nordstrom Rack, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls carry nice, brand-name items at a fraction of the price. You might have to do a bit of digging, but the treasures you’ll unearth make it totally worth it.

Lastly, don’t underestimate the power of local boutiques. Shopping local supports small businesses, which is always a win.

As you shop, just remember to stick to your shopping list first!

Getting Ready to Build a Wardrobe From Scratch

Whether you are looking to elevate your own style, try some different looks, or just add some flair to your current wardrobe, use this style guide to help you find your new go-to versatile pieces and craft a wardrobe you love!

At the end of the day, building a great wardrobe from scratch can certainly be an overwhelming venture to take on, but you’ve already gotten started on the first step (reading this post!).

By taking into consideration factors like your lifestyle needs, favorite pieces, and your ideal wardrobe that can be styled in tons of different combinations, you’re well on your way to having all of the outfit options you could need!

Do you know your personal style? If not, here’s How to Find Your Personal Style Today!

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