You might be surprised to learn that when it comes to fabulous dressing, it not about quantity or big-ticket items. It’s all in putting it together. Learn to shop your closet like a pro by following these simple steps, and turn your mismatched pieces into some fabulous outfits.

Step 1: First things first, pick your favorite items and build from there. For me, my favorite items are often the things I’ve saved up for, but they’re not always the newest items in my closet. They should be unique enough that you always feel fabulous in them.

Step 2: Pick your basics. You should keep SOLID colored staples such as: slacks, A-line skirts, cardigans, and sundresses. The basics go with anything and you wear them to accentuate or tone down your trendy pieces.

Step 3: Lay out your choices on the floor- or whatever works for you. The idea is to be able to see everything in front of you. It’s easier to hone a workable color, prints or texture palette this way.

Step 4: Make a list of what’s missing. With all this sorting through your closet picking your favs as well as your basics- you’ve got a pretty keen sense of what you like and have. Do you have too many of this or that? Consider adding textures or prints. Make a list of what you need and keep it in mind next time you hit the stores.

Step 5: Create and try on the different outfits—shoes and all! Dainty or chunky, heels or flats, shoes are crucial in how well your outfit comes together.

Step 6: Choose a handbag- some of you may only have 1, it’s time to expand. Leave no store uncovered You need a minimum of 3, a structured day bag, and small evening bag and a casual bag.

Step 7: Accessorize! Jewelry is highly personal so try on your array and go with what feels best.

DO place trendy pieces (like animal print) with other SOLID prints.

DON’T combine different textures

Remember, have someone check out your outfits to make sure your color, texture and print combinations look excellent to another eye besides your own.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 10th, 2008 at 3:56 am and is filed under Personal Style, fashion tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.