Picture this: you’re standing in front of a closet that’s bursting at the seams, but it feels like you have absolutely nothing to wear. The thought of putting together an outfit feels impossible! Sound familiar? We’ve all been there. Decision paralysis can get the best of us, and even the smallest choices feel impossible – like picking out something to wear. Next time you feel stuck, try one of these 9 tips to get you out of your outfit rut and excited about getting dressed again.
1. Try the “wrong shoe” theory
baseball cap | shirt | pants | sneakers | coat | tote bag
Sometimes we’re so focused on how to do things “right” that we get stuck on the idea of perfection. The best way to shake yourself out of this mindset? Try going for what feels “wrong” instead!
The “wrong shoe theory” is exactly what it sounds like. When you have an outfit put together, you probably know inherently what shoes would look best with that look. But if you want to be a little more experimental with your choices, try reaching for the “wrong” shoe instead – one you wouldn’t normally consider wearing with that outfit.
You can use this theory to start your look, too. This works well when it feels like you have nothing to wear! For instance, pick a shoe and a top that normally wouldn’t go together – like a polished white button-up shirt and sneakers. Or, try a ballet flat with a t-shirt. Then, fill in the rest of your look with pieces that balance the vibes of both pieces to create harmony.
2. Go for a monochromatic look
sweater | skirt | heels | bag | earrings
When getting dressed feels impossible, go for a no-fail outfit that will always look put-together – a monochromatic look. This eliminates the need for you to worry about putting together color combinations that pair well, and you can narrow down your choices to just one shade.
If you want to take this one step further, you can apply this methodology to your accessories, too. An all-black look will always look chic! And if you want to stand out, try a bright white look in the summer, or elegant ivory in the fall or winter.
3. Start with a statement piece
jeans | sweater | boots | bag | earrings
Another way to start an outfit when it feels like you have nothing to wear is to begin with a statement piece. We all have those pieces in a section of our closet! These items might include that expensive piece that you feel like you need a special occasion to debut, a piece from a specific event or occasion, or just a wow-worthy item that you don’t normally reach for on a daily basis.
When you’re in a rut, your statement pieces can serve as a fresh spark of creativity. Plus, once you’ve picked out your statement piece, you want to keep the rest of your look relatively simple, which makes things easier for you. Focus on complementing your hero piece, and you’ll have a new look put together in no time.
4. Mix and match textures
jeans | jacket | top | boots | earrings | bag
Sometimes it’s easy to get hung up on putting pieces together that match, rather than pieces that complement each other. If you want to mix things up a little, try challenging yourself to incorporate a variety of textures into one look. This gives your ensemble depth and dimension – not to mention, it makes any outfit more interesting!
Fall outfits are the perfect excuse to try this tip. Luxe suede, smooth leather, velvet, corduroy, etc., are all ideal for putting this tip into action. Try to use at least three different textures in one look! That will give you a great foundation for your outfit to build upon with the final styling touches.
5. Start with your favorite basics
t-shirt | sweater | trench coat | tote bag | flats | skirt
When it feels like you have nothing to wear, try going back to basics! That is, your favorite basics. These are the longtime staples that you feel most comfortable in. By starting an outfit with these pieces, you’re giving yourself an instant confidence boost and beginning your look on the right note.
While staring at a closet overflowing with options, basic pieces, like a white shirt or button-down, a black skirt, classic denim, etc. These pieces will give you something to go off of! Next, add your layers. It’s a lot easier to do this once you have the foundation of your outfit chosen.
6. Reach for a dress and add a layer
dress | cardigan | flats | tote bag
Cut the effort of getting dressed in half by choosing to wear a dress! A dress gives you an instant outfit that’s easy to elevate or make more casual depending on the occasion. All you have to do is add a layer and accessorize to complete your look.
Dressing for chilly fall temperatures? Add a trench coat, a sweater tied over your shoulder, and tall boots. Styling a look for the office? Try pairing your dress with ballet flats, a cardigan, pearls, and a work bag. Going for something a little more casual? Style your dress with a denim jacket and sneakers for a busy day on the go.
7. Try a simple top and fun pants
gingham pants | flats | bag | t-shirt | sweater
A fun, patterned pair of pants is a great way to start an interesting outfit. Although “jeans and a cute top” might be the popular formula, try reversing it when you feel like you’re in a styling rut. You could wear a unique silhouette, color, or pattern of pants, depending on what you have in your wardrobe!
For a classic, preppy look styled with gingham pants, keep the rest of your look simple. Stay within the same color palette as your pants for a complementary combination. On top, try a white t-shirt and a black cardigan. Accessorize with black Mary Jane flats and a black top-handle bag.
8. Play with interesting proportions
coat | pants | shirt | bag | heels | earrings
Interesting proportions are another way to start a look when you don’t know what to wear! When you’re not sure what pieces to reach for, try looking for items in your closet with interesting proportions. For instance, you can style two oversized pieces together. If you’re pairing wide-leg trousers with an oversized button-down, you have a challenge to help guide your next decisions.
First, try tucking in your top to balance out the proportions of your pieces. Then, add other layers that might complement the oversized look you’re going for! Pointed-toe heels help to elongate your legs, and a large tote bag looks harmonious with the rest of your pieces.
9. Add a belt
blazer | turtleneck | skirt | belt | bag | heels | earrings
If none of your outfits are feeling quite right, little styling tricks can make all the difference. One of our favorites? Adding a belt! This little fashion hack can completely change the look of your outfit. If you’re struggling with pieces that are too oversized or feel unflattering, a belt can change the shape and silhouette of any piece. It will not only make coats, dresses, tops, or pants fit better, but also look more tailored, expensive, and put-together. When your clothes feel tired, a belt can give them a whole new life with a fresh look.
“I’ve Got Nothing to Wear!”
If you frequently find yourself saying “I’ve got nothing to wear,” these nine tips can help you view your wardrobe in a whole new light. Using these tips and outfit formulas can help narrow down your frantic morning search through your wardrobe. The clothes you love are right in front of you; all you need are a few styling tips to help create outfits that make you excited about getting dressed again.
Want more styling tips to elevate your look? Up Next: 9 Things Stylish Women Over 50 Almost Never Wear (and What They Wear Instead)
