How to Simplify your Wardrobe

Simplifying your wardrobe will not only save you money, but it will relieve stress by taking the guess work out of what to wear each day. Although the suggested items in this article are for women, men can easily plug in equivalent male items.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   You don't need forty handbags.

   Simplify your wardrobe by cleaning out your closet first. If you didn't wear it once last year, donate it to charity. This can be very difficult for many people, but if you're serious about simplifying your life, it's got to go.

2. 
    
   Are these a keeper?

   Purged your shoe collection. This is a hard one for women. Women are born with a shoe gene. We love to collect beautiful shoes. The reality is most of us wear only one or two of our favorite pairs in any given week.
   
   Keep or buy these three pairs of shoes: one pair of athletic shoes, one pair of dress shoes, and one pair of summer sandals. If you'd like to own a pair of winter dress shoes and a pair of summer dress shoes, it's acceptable, but keep them in basic colors that will go with any outfit, such as black and white or tan.

3. 
    
   The most essential part of your wardrobe.

   Simplify your wardrobe by owning only two or three pairs of jeans. If you work five days a week and have to dress professionally, you should be able to get buy with two pairs of jeans. You'll only be wearing them after work.

4. 
    
   Flipflops are a must for summer.

   Keep or buy seven tops or blouses for winter and seven for summer. Pullover sweaters for winter and pullover knit tops are great because there's no ironing involved, but take into consideration what is most flattering for you.

5. 
    
   Sundress

   For the professional, simplify your wardrobe, by sticking to mix and match and keep it classic. These clothes will remain in style for a long time. You'll need five different coordinates for the five day work week.

6. 
    
   Always keep one fancy dress for special occasions.

   Women, if you rarely dress up, keep one dress, skirt, or slacks for winter and one for summer. You want to be ready for an impromptu occasion.

7. 
    
   Don't forget the underwear.

   If you live in a cold climate, you'll need seven pairs of winter socks and seven pairs of summer socks. Professional dressers will need the same number of pantyhose and/or tights.
   
   You'll obviously need seven pairs of panties for the week, but bras are your call. Four is a good number, unless you prefer to wear a fresh one everyday.

8. For nighttime, two pairs of pajamas or nightgowns should be sufficient. One bathrobe is all you need.

9. Buy a good winter coat a cardigan sweater and a raincoat.

Tips & Warnings

• Purge your closet at the beginning of each season. If you didn't wear it the previous season, get rid of it.

[frischy]

on 11/22/2009 I need to make myself do this. Good advice!

[Upon-Request]

on 10/26/2009 Good tips for keeping the wardrobe pared down.