How to Update Your Fall Wardrobe

As the warm summer nights fade into memory and the fall season ushers in cooler weather, you're apt to start digging through your stash of cool-weather clothes. But when a search for sweaters, long pants and long-sleeved blouses leaves you uninspired, you know it's time for a wardrobe update.

Things You'll Need

• Women's Dress Shirts
• Women's Dress Shoes
• Women's Dress Sweater
• Men's Boots
• Mens' Dress Pants
• Women's Dress Coats
• Women's Dress Pants
• Scarves
• Men's Dress Sweater
• Men's Dress Shirts
• Women's Boots
• Men's Dress Shoes

Instructions

1. Empty your closets, drawers and trunks. Display your fall clothes in one room so you can get an accurate idea of what you have.

2. Edit your wardrobe by eliminating those items you know you'll no longer wear. Be prepared to part with worn-out favorites, outdated trendy styles, and silhouettes and colors that no longer flatter you.

3. Check the front closet. Decide if you're due for a new coat, hat, and gloves, or if your current set will last through another season.

4. Consider your pared-down wardrobe from the perspective of what's missing. Make a list of basic items that need replacing and flip through catalogs and magazines to get an idea of what new looks are on the racks.

5. Set your budget and then go shopping. Visit department stores during their pre-season sales for great buys on clothes you can wear at once.

6. Look for modern shapes, new prints and fresh colors that complement you. Think about buying items that can be paired with multiple pieces - a blouse that matches more than one bottom, for example, or a pant that can be dressed up or down.

7. Wear your new looks when shopping for updated fall shoes and accessories. It's the best way to determine if your boots will look good with your new slacks, or if a print scarf matches your new crimson top.

Tips & Warnings

• To earn some extra clothing cash, try consigning your fall wardrobe discards (see "How to Sell Clothes to a Consignment Shop," under Related eHows). Items you consider should be in good condition.

• Shop vintage stores for unique and well-priced accessories. You may also find tailored coats in rich fabrics for a fraction of what you'd pay at retail.

• Check secondhand buys thoroughly for stains, tears, raveling seams and holes.