Shopping For The Perfect Wardrobe

              So many of us only have 1 size in our closets. When shopping we are reluctant to try on anything that "isn't our size".  We grimace to think anyone would even suggest such a thing! I say that's the wrong way to think. 

            And then there are others who have 2 sizes in their closets- the size they are in now and the size they use to be. Not good. Having clothing in our closets that are too small for us only make us feel bad about our size and figure we have now. We need to feel good about how we look and our clothes should fit and be comfortable. We SHOULD feel confident and even sexy.  

              Don't be afraid to have 2 or 3 different sizes in your closet, it's only a label (no one else knows what the label says). When out shopping, the important thing is to have the garment fit and fit well, even if that means you have to go up a size or if your lucky, down. We all know women's clothes are not like men's. One size DOES NOT fit all. Different designers vary in their sizes. The New York & Company size 6 may not fit the same as the size 6 of the Maurices brand. Also, not all the same exact garments (such as a cute blue t-shirt at Maurices) fit the same. They pile the fabric into a thick stack and as the cutter is cutting, the fabric on top is cut the right size but the bottom ones are just a bit bigger. It's like when you are trying to cut a thick stack of paper. The top cuts are right but the bottom are a little bigger. So, try on a few in the same size before you give up on that cute blue t-shirt.

            When out shopping, I have found it easier to have an idea of what it is you are looking for. Unless I am just looking for that new spring dress or blouse to add a little more color to my wardrobe, I make a note on my iPhone and even take a pic of the item I am trying to match. It's like going grocery shopping with a list and a full stomach. It keeps you from too much impulse buying and you actually get wearable additions. I'm sure you have all heard before, try to buy classic pieces. Pieces that will carry your wardrobe for years and years to come and add a few trendy pieces to that. 

           I have found that my key pieces that never go out of style are: a knee length denim skirt, a white button up (long and short sleeve), simple solid color tanks, khaki pants (in between  jeans and slacks), black slacks (be careful on your choice- you don't want look older), a knee length straight black skirt, of-course a great pair of darker washed jeans (nothing fancy-no rhinestones, patches, weird washes, etc.), a simple little black dress, a khaki skirt, a denim jacket (again nothing too trendy), black heels, red heels, brown boots, brown wedges and black wedges and a black summer sweater. All of these pieces can carry through for years and can be dressed up and down depending on mood and occasion. By adding some colorful, trendy and now pieces you have a complete wardrobe.

           And don't forget Jewelry!! By just changing a necklace, you can change the whole look and feel of the same outfit. And a lot of the time a cute necklace is less expensive than a new blouse. Accessories like belts, scarfs, vests, and purses are great in helping to change up your wardrobe, too.

          Some of my favorite brands are Ann Taylor Loft, New York & Company, Maurices (any brand that makes me feel thinner then I am gets my business), and Express. http://www.maurices.com/home/index.jsp

           Let's feel good about ourselves ladies. Let's dress to impress-ourselves!