THE BASICS OF STYLING (As I know it)
KNOWING YOUR OWN STYLE (AND KNOWING WHAT LOOKS GOOD ON YOU)
My style philosophy has always been mixing the old with the new--something that I learned from my mother who ironically dresses simply (unless I force her not to, she likes to muse that simplicity is beauty). She once told me that styles recycle and that is the reason why I have this penchant for keeping old clothes (sans the ones that don’t fit me anymore, body-size wise, as yes I did gain a few pounds). My sister thinks it’s just the hoarder in me. Partly true! But the thing is, I just love clothes as much as the next girl does. I do not have a preference as to brand names though. My dad always says that it’s not about the clothes you wear but how you wear them (and I could’ve sworn he also said “who wears them” but then again that’s just my dad).
So how does this philosophy affect what’s in my closet? The greatest impact is on my shopping habits, and I tend to purchase clothes based on the following things:
1.) Overall look and feel of the clothes on me. Because what may look good on Beyonce does not necessarily mean would look on me (unfortunately, I don’t have her glamorous job and her body shape). Although I emulate celeb styles, I only take in what fits my personality, budget, and style.
2.) Finances. I only buy what I can afford and since dressing up is my natural Prozac, I set aside a certain amount each month for what I’d like to call my “shopping binge”. From high-end brands to no-brand clothes, I bag them as long as they fit my style and my pocket.
3.) What I already have. Though it might seem convenient to buy the whole ensemble on display, I don’t ever want to fall fashion victim. So I buy new clothes with my old clothes in mind, mentally mixing and matching.
4.) Pair-all colors and styles. Or what others would call basic colors. While it would be a dream to own Chanel flaps in every color, that just seems impossible. SO I stick with the colors and styles that I can match with almost anything. That is money well-spent.
ORGANIZING YOUR CLOSET BASICS
The best way to get to know your closet is by de-cluttering and organizing it. Nothing feels better than getting rid of old clothes and doing something charitable with it. Add to the fact that it brings more room for new outfits (a much better feat ). And I discovered that a clean, organized wardrobe can change the overall well-being of your closet and yourself as picking out clothes and putting together outfits now becomes easier.
So what basics should you have in your closet? These are the basics that I keep in mine:
1.) Flats. I always want to be comfortable when I do a lot of walking around (which is most of the time) so I keep a lot of flats in (of course) basic colors and some loud ones if I’m feeling bold.
2.) Jeans, leggings, jeggings and more. I like them skinny, they make your top pop out and give your shoes definition. And you can never go wrong with jeans whether you’re vying for a simple or sophisticated look.
3.) Thong sandals. For when I wear maxi dresses on a night out and wearing slippers would seem tacky. I go for thong sandals for that simple, sexy look on my feet.
4.) Pumps, heels. I have recently discovered platform pumps are more comfortable. That and it adds more height and it gives an illusion of endless legs.;)
5.) Outerwears. Blazers, cardigans, coats. I have them in basic colors and they have saved me during the times when I want to look simple yet classy. I just pop in a plain tee and finish my look with a stylish blazer.
6.) Shorts. In a variety of colors and styles. I wear denim during the day and go for a dressier kind if I go out at night.
7.) Dresses. Minis, Medis, Maxis. Depends on my mood really. And living in Florida makes wearing dresses more fun.
8.) Bags. Now this I consider my best accessory. No matter how simple my outfit is, I feel like a million dollar when I have the right bag in tow.
PUTTING IT TOGETHER
It takes inspiration, imagination and creativity to create a crisp look for yourself. But ultimately, you are your own style so go with something that speaks YOU. And remember, always vie for class!:)
I am hoping that my posts will all give you the inspiration you need because I, too, was inspired.:)
XoXo
myclosetdiaries@yahoo.com 
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