Whether you’re looking to have a no-spend month or you’re simply feeling tired of the clothes you have and want a refresh, I’ve got good news: The key to refreshing your style might be closer than you think. In fact, it’s right there in your wardrobe! Learning how to shop your own closet is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your existing outfits without spending any money. It’s all about seeing your clothes through fresh eyes and discovering new outfit combinations that you maybe haven’t considered before. Knowing how to shop your own closet is a very valuable skill to have, and these tips will help you head into the new year with an appreciation of what’s already in your wardrobe – and some more dollars in your wallet!
1. Assess What You Already Have
In order to shop your own closet, first, you have to see and know what’s already in your closet. The first order of business is to clean out your wardrobe. Start by pulling out every piece of clothing and laying them out in a way that lets you see everything clearly.
This step might feel a bit overwhelming, but it’s essential for gaining a fresh perspective on your collection. The idea behind this first step is to be reminded of what you have so you can see what you’re working with. To make this process even smoother, consider categorizing your clothes into sections like tops, bottoms, dresses, and outerwear.
Pay special attention to those essential items and versatile basics that can serve as the building blocks of multiple outfits (never get rid of those!). Think classic jeans, a white shirt, or that little black dress that always makes you feel classy. These are the pieces that offer the most flexibility and can be styled in numerous ways for any wardrobe, whether you adopt a capsule wardrobe or not.
While you’re sorting, make it a point to pick out the pieces you haven’t worn in a while. Maybe they’ve been hiding at the back of your closet or you just forgot about them. Sometimes, a piece just needs a fresh pairing to shine again!
Have clothes that don’t fit your body or style anymore? It may be time to consider donating them or storing them away. That way your wardrobe can live up to its full potential.
Lastly, take note of any standout pieces that can serve as the focal point of an outfit. We’re talking statement pieces that can help elevate your everyday looks, like a bold red cardigan or a leopard print coat.
By the end of this process, you’ll have a clear understanding of what you own so you can create new and exciting outfits!
2. Try Things On to Experiment (Mix & Match!)
This step is key to shopping your own closet! Shopping your own closet means using what you have to put together new outfits. If you don’t try anything new, then you’re not coming up with any new looks! And if you don’t have any new looks, then you’re still stuck in the same old pattern of feeling bored and wanting to shop to get that thrill and feel inspired again. Though there’s nothing wrong with picking up a new item or two, the thrill of new clothes wears off, leaving us in the same spot if we haven’t made some real lasting changes (or learned how to truly style clothes!).
But it’s not all doom and gloom – it’s time to feel inspired by the things that have been lying dormant! Start trying things on that you’ve neglected and then start putting outfits together. Don’t worry about whether anything “goes” or not. Right now, you’re just having fun, trying new things, experimenting, and… maybe getting a little crazy!
It could be as simple as pairing a cardigan over a t-shirt that you’ve never paired together before, or it could be as unique as wearing a dress over pants, wearing a sweater over a dress, or wearing a cardigan as a top.
Layering always makes a difference in an outfit too. Try adding 1-2 layers to everything you try on and see how you like it. While you’re at it, go ahead and do an “opposites” thing. Pair a pantsuit with sneakers or a vintage tee with a dressy skirt. Opposites do attract, after all.
Try something outside of your comfort zone. Do you usually wear leggings and oversized cardigans? Then try on jeans and blouses! Even something as simple as rolling up the sleeves of a shirt or tying a knot at the waist can make a big difference.
Don’t forget about seasonal clothes either. A summer dress can be easily adapted for cooler weather by adding tights and a cardigan. Or, give your winter clothes a warm-weather twist by pairing them with lighter fabrics and brighter colors. Possibilities: unlocked.
3. Add a Statement (or Something Unexpected)
Ready to unlock the hidden potential of your closet? Start by wearing one of your go-to outfits and adding something new or unexpected to it. Need ideas? Something unexpected could be a baseball cap with a blazer, a motorcycle jacket over a flirty dress, or a blazer with your active dress that you wear for pickleball. A statement could be bright red lipstick, a shiny accessory, or a leopard print scarf. Seriously, so many possibilities!
It may go without saying, but don’t be afraid to get creative either. That dress you usually save for special occasions could look fantastic paired with casual shoes like white sneakers. Or maybe those pants you only wear to work could be dressed down with a cozy sweater.
4. Add Spice With Accessories
Accessories can truly make an outfit pop, transforming even the simplest look into something special. Think of belts, scarves, and jewelry as the final touches that bring everything together. A necklace or a stack of bangles can turn a plain tee into a chic statement. Similarly, a well-placed belt can add definition to a flowing dress or give structure to an oversized top.
Don’t forget the power of shoes and bags! Changing your footwear can alter the whole vibe of your outfit. Swap out sneakers for ankle boots, and you’ve taken your look from casual to polished in seconds. The same goes for bags – a sleek clutch can elevate your evening attire, while a roomy tote is perfect for daytime.
5. Take Note of the Winners
During this try-on session, you’re bound to find some new outfits and combos you like that you haven’t tried before. Find a way to remember these so you can try them again!
If you like to write things down, then get a notebook and write down the pairings. If you’re visual, then take a photo of the outfits you love on your phone and create a separate album of go-tos. You can even print them off and put them next to your closet.
After all, what good are new outfit ideas if you never wear them? You can also keep these ready-made outfits on a clothing rack to make your life easier. Pick a day and set up your whole outfits for the week. This can make the getting dressed experience fun and enjoyable. Plus, every time you wear an outfit you love you get closer to finding your personal style!
Creating Great Outfits Using What You Have
Embracing your existing wardrobe can be a game-changer, helping you see your clothes in a whole new light and saving you some money while you’re at it. By creating outfits out of what you already own, you unlock endless outfit ideas without needing to buy anything new. There are so many benefits to this, of course, but perhaps one of the best ones is a newfound appreciation for your clothes, which can make you feel more connected to your personal style.
Now that you know how to shop your own closet, let’s learn How to Never Run Out of Outfit Ideas Again: 10 Wardrobe-Changing Style Tips!
Great post! Thank you for sharing.
It is certainly more important than ever to re-use our own clothes as much as we can, without forgetting that looking great can boost our mental health.
Lindifique
So so true! Thanks for sharing, Natalia.
Fantastic post! Love these suggestions!
xoxo
Lovely
http://www.mynameislovely.com
So glad you do, Lovely!