#closetintervention

Secrets From a Wardrobe Expert

Clever gals know that having a well-organized and functioning closet is key to dressing well. Knowing where things are, that every item is applause worthy and mixes and matches effortlessly takes the stress out of getting dressed each morning. But how to go from wardrobe mishap to warbrobe wonder? Jackie Hickson, owner of Power of Style, offers the following tips:

Clean it

Think of your closet as an invitation of honour – only those worthy of making you look your best may come in. This means clothes that don’t fit, are worn, stained,  out of date, unflattering, or the wrong colours are not invited. This is also a good time to evaluate your clothes to your lifestyle. If you just switched careers to become a full time yoga instructor, than you may need to edit down the collection of corporate suits.

Build it

Working with your newly edited down wardrobe, make a list of what’s needed to complete looks. That faded black cardi, or white blouse with the yellow pits that was tossed, make note to pick up a new one. A good wardrobe starts with some basics, and then some fashion pieces added in. Make a list then head to the mall! A good rule of thumb is to have a couple of tops that you can wear with each bottom – after all, people will notice your top first as it is closet to your face! Shopping style can be done at every price point!  Save money by purchasing for your specific body type and fashion personality!!!

Wardrobe must have’s:

A pair of jeans that fit well in a basic wash

A black (or other neutral) suit – jacket, pants and skirt that flatter and well fit to your body shape

A white or ivory blouse (depending on your colouring)

White and black tee’s

Jean jacket

Straight leg/dark denim jeans

  Then add in:

A wrap style dress

A few neutral cami’s

Neutral cardi (black / beige / white / charcoal)

Subtle print blazer/boy friend jacket

Leather jacket – blazer style that can be worn inside and out

  And add some fashion:

Skinny Jeans (curvy gals can do these if worn with boots)

Tees, collared shirts and cami’s in pop colours that are right for you

Printed tops that flatter you

  By using this formula, you should be able to mix and match effortlessly, and dress up or down depending on the occasion

Flatter it

Get to know what cuts and styles are best for you. Dressing for your body shape can be the difference between looking Ok to looking amazing! What may flatter one person may be completely wrong for the next. The same goes for colours. Knowing which colours make you look vibrant and fresh is an easy way to navigate a clothing store. Once it the fitting room in front of a mirror, use the “love it” rule…if you don’t love it the second you put it one, then it’s not for you. Getting your colours done and body shape professionally analysed is well worth the investment , as you will know exactly what to look for a not waste money on clothes that look good….but not for you.

  Bag it

Don’t overlook your handbag and shoes – they are just as important as the clothes, and should be considered part of the outfit. Include these as part of your closet edit, making sure you have some basics as well as statement pieces to go with all the outfits in your closet.

Choose a bag that has function, is comfortable, and has some style. Figure out beforehand what you need it to do….will it be carrying a days’ worth of stuff to and from the office? Do you need a large strap to keep your hand free?

For shoes, know what you can wear and any dress codes that may affect your choices. What activity will you be doing in them? (I do admit to having the odd pair of fabulous but tedious heels that are saved for the days that I only need to make it from my desk to photocopier…). We all know that heels can add a sense of power and make legs super curvy….but if the kids soccer practice is on the agenda, then they may not be the right choice.

  Style it

The difference between just putting on clothes and making a coordinated outfit comes down to the accessories. This is where your distinct personality can really be played up! It’s the easiest way to stay fresh, current, and to add a dash of a trendy print or colour without committing to a more expensive garment. Some of the best looks are the simplest – think basic jeans and white tee with the colourful printed scarf of the season – classic with a nod to trendiness!

Look for:

A fun scarf in a colour that works for your complexion

Cheerful baubles, bracelets, and necklaces

Belts in different widths – start with basic brown and black and a few trendy colours that can be swapped each season

Tights  - basic black along with some prints and seasonal colours

Just remember to wisely choose 1 or 2 statement pieces to add to your look. Too many accessories can take away from the outfit, instead of adding to it.

  Face it

You could have the most flattering and stylish outfit, but what about your hair and make-up? If it’s been a while since you’ve had a new ‘do, look through magazines or ask your stylist for ideas to update your look. Don’t be afraid to see a new stylist who may have a new perspective on your hair cut and colour. Instead of just replacing your old lipstick and eyeshadows with the same colours, take a few moments and ask the cosmetician for some ideas. Larger drug stores or beauty counters have professionals on staff that can advise on colour choice and show you how to apply, usually for free if you purchase product, which you were there to do anyway. If you do end up on your own, keep in mind that the colours from your clothing colour palette – these colours work for make-up as well! And don’t forget your glasses – a trip to the optometrist may in order to get some up to date specs for your peepers. Seeing as how these are on your face, this is probably the accessory that people will notice first!

Tailor it

Let’s face it. We all come in different shapes and sizes, so most off the rack clothing will need a nip or two to make it fit properly. Even the smallest adjustment can make the world of difference. This is well worth the investment for those wardrobe must have’s as mentioned above. Buy good quality, have them tailored, and they will serve you well for years. These small alterations can take an outfit from oh to oh la la! It will be more comfortable to wear, and give you confidence knowing that you look good from all angles.