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Category: Wardrobe Basics

Eyelet Skirt Refashion: Dress or Blouse?

posted in thrifted, Wardrobe Basics, women's fashion by Sara on

Since adding “refashioned” looks to our shop, we’ve been continuously planning and searching for more great new styles! I find myself thrift shopping at least once a week, trying to find those diamonds in the rough– pieces that have quality fabric, a good skeleton, and loads of potential! Last week while I was searching for such treasure, I found this gorgeous eyelet scalloped skirt. Immediately my mind started swirling with all the possibilities. Unfortunately, we just can’t make up our minds so we thought we leave it up to you to decide.

Eyelet Skirt Refashion (Dress or Blouse?) | Preciously Paired

We love the idea of summery dress that is versatile and easy to wear, while still giving you all the feminine details with the beautiful scalloped edges. Or, you all know how we love versatility in our wardrobe, so we thought a pretty blouse would be just the thing! You could pair it with pants or a skirt, and layer it with different pieces to wear year-round.

Eyelet Skirt Refashion (BEFORE) | Preciously Paired

So what’s your vote; dress or blouse?

We’d love your feedback!

Fall Wishlist | Stripes and Polka Dots - creating a versatile wardrobe

Friday Finds #18: Fall Wishlists

posted in fall, money saving tips, Wardrobe Basics, women's fashion by Sara on

Fall Wishlist | Stripes and Polka Dots - creating a versatile wardrobe

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Ok, so now that it is September can we officially declare it fall?

I absolutely love fall fashion…particularly all the layering and all the boots (can’t forget the boots)! I just love the depth and interest layering and mixing-and-matching different pieces gives an outfit. I always feel so “blah” in the summer when all I wear is a tee shirt and jeans because it’s too hot to wear anything more. I try, but truly fall is my comfort zone.

As fall is my favorite season to dress for, it may not surprise you that my wardrobe weights heavily of sweaters, jackets, and blouses (which is also why you don’t see any on my fall wishlist). I like to keep a functioning wardrobe, so this year’s fall wishlist mainly contains “filler” pieces that I’ve been obsessing over, and can also be mixed-and-matched with much of what I already have in my closet. Just by themselves I could probably make 4 different outfits! Versatility is absolutely essential when it comes to my wardrobe.

After having my daughter several years ago, my body was completely different and a lot of my clothes just didn’t fit anymore. Becoming a mom brought me so much joy, but when it came to my wardrobe it was black hole of ill-fitted, old, and random pieces of clothing. It was a struggle every day to get dressed. Finally after several months of this, I cleaned out my closet and started basically from scratch. I did a lot of research on how to create an awesome wardrobe and compiled it in a series I wrote called, “Wardrobe Essentials“. If you feel like you’re in a style rut, definitely check it out- it has changed my life! It sounds cheesy to say, but it literally has!

What’s on your fall wishlist?

Linked to: http://stylelixir.com/2014/09/fall-fashion-2014.html; http://www.rachelthehat.com/2014/09/faux-leather-skirts-linkup.html; http://twothirtyfivedesigns.com/2014/09/casual-friday-link-5.html

How to Clean Out Your Closet for Good

posted in home, inspiration, lifestyle, organization, Wardrobe Basics, women's fashion by Sara on
Find out how to finally say good-bye to those clothes you never wear and purge your closet of all that negative clutter.


It’s a new year and it’s time to whip your wardrobe into shape and finally say good-bye to those things you’ve been holding on to for years. You know, those items just sitting in your closet that you see every day when you go to get dressed but never pull off the hanger for one reason or another? Maybe it’s your favorite pair of pants that don’t fit anymore but you hold on to them with the hope that one day they’ll fit again. Or perhaps it’s a shirt that doesn’t quite go with anything else in your wardrobe, but you can’t bring yourself to get rid of it because (even though it’s been years) one day it might magically go with something.

I’m as guilty as the next girl when it comes to this problem; and quite honestly, I’m tired of it. I mean really, why do we insist on keeping clothes that don’t make us feel good about our bodies?! These clothes, no matter what the attachment to them might be, are not doing us any favors. They’re merely clutter in our lives; roadblocks if you will, that are preventing us from truly embracing our bodies.
I’ve spent the past year striving to overcome these wardrobe roadblocks and build a new wardrobe for myself. You can read about my full wardrobe transformation HERE along with steps to create your own. I can’t say that I’ll ever be perfect at it but I am learning. I still make shopping mistakes and have trouble letting go of certain pieces that are more than overdue. With some of the lessons I‘ve learned, I want to share with you some tips on how to finally purge your closet of the clothes that are holding you and your style back. 
 

1. Get rid of anything that does not fit or flatter the body you have now (whether it be something from high school or a recent purchase)

 

2. What may have been your style 3 years ago may not be your style now

 

3. If you haven’t worn something for at least a year, chances are you won’t ever in the future.

 

4. If you have clothes that need mending but have been sitting in your “to-do” pile for months, either make it a goal to fix them this week or throw them out

 

5. Don’t keep something if you have nothing to wear with it (even if it is the most stylish skirt you own)

 

6. Don’t keep clothes that are uncomfortable to wear, that wrinkle easily, or that make you feel like you are always having to adjust or pull at them

 

7. Sentimental clothing can be hard to finally let go of, so allow a few minutes to remember the good times, take a picture of it, and either box it away or put it in the giveaway pile

Find out how to finally say good-bye to those clothes you never wear and purge your closet of all that negative clutter.

 

When cleaning out your closet, be truly honest with yourself. If an article of clothing falls into one of the categories listed above, get rid of it. Don’t allow yourself a lot of time to rethink your decisions. Cleaning out your closet can be hard in the moment; but believe me, it is so liberating when you are finished and you’ve freed yourself of all that negative clutter!

To reiterate what we have been talking about, let me share a few brief examples of clothes that were difficult for me to let go of and why I finally did.

 

Example #1: I bought this skirt almost 5 years ago. I fell in love with it the moment I saw and just had to have it. Before I thought much about it I bought it and took it home to hang in my closet. The problem is that it did just that…sit in my closet. I’ve always loved this skirt but have never really found anything I liked to go with it. I’ve worn this skirt a total of 6 times, none of which have been in the last 3 years. Needless to say it was time to finally let it go.

Example #2: This basic button-down shirt was a more recent purchase of mine. I bought it about 6 months ago because I wanted one I could wear and/or layer with other pieces in my wardrobe. I bought the first one I tried on in Target. It only took me several wears to realize that this was a big shopping mistake. First off, the shirt altogether was a bit too long on me which made it bunch up at the bottom when I walked or sat down. The sleeves were also too long so I could only wear it if the sleeves were rolled up. And lastly, the material was thin which caused it to wrinkle easily and loose shape when I tried layering it with other pieces. It was a literal fail; but I guess I kept holding on to it hoping that one day I’d try it on and it would magically be everything I hoped it to be. Instead I came to terms that is was a waste of my money but a good learning experience. This too is in the giveaway bag.

 

Linked to:
http://www.madetobeamomma.com/2014/01/hit-best-shot-link-party-2.html

Wardrobe Basics: Mix and Match

posted in Wardrobe Basics, women's fashion by Sara on

Step 2: Make a List {Part 1, Part 2}
Step 3: Shop
Step 4: Mix and Match
Step 5: Accessorize

I think it is about time for the next step in Wardrobe Basics…sorry to leave you hanging there. Anyway, you should have all had plenty of time to clean out your closet, discover your style, and start your shopping. Once you begin to add those basic pieces to your wardrobe you will find your wardrobe to be a lot more versatile. But in order to get the most versatility out of your wardrobe it may require you to think out side of the box a little and try new combinations. This might mean layering different pieces that you might not have before or mixing together new and exciting color combinations. You still want to feel comfortable in your clothes and remain true to yourself; but you never know, sometimes trying new things will bring a greater confidence in your wardrobe and better idea of what your true style really is.

Above are all the clothes I have purchased since starting my wardrobe overhaul almost nine months ago (minus my shoes and accessories). I was pretty much starting from ground zero since half of my wardrobe didn’t fit. In total I have spent about $400 over the last nine months building my wardrobe and have got 18 different pieces (not counting shoes). Disregarding the articles of clothing I kept from my previous wardrobe, with the 18 pieces I have bought alone, I can create over 50 different outfits! That is almost 2 months worth of outfits!

In this step of Wardrobe basics I hope to show you how to mix and match your wardrobe for maximum wear and versatility. I am still working on getting pictures of all the different outfits…because 50 really is a lot of outfits to photograph… but for now, here is a small example.

In this example, I’ve taken 2 pieces from my wardrobe (my black skinny jeans and striped tee) and created 4 different outfits. I could even create 4 more outfits with these pieces if I was to replace the striped tee with my white button-up shirt. Get the idea?

Linked to:
http://www.themrsandthemomma.com/2013/10/the-best-of-friday-style-link-up_25.html
http://www.muchadoaboutsomethin.blogspot.com/2013/10/tell-us-tuesday-13.html
http://www.thecraftyblogstalker.com/2013/10/blog-stalking-thursday-117.html

Wardrobe Basics: Shop

posted in shop, Wardrobe Basics, women's fashion by Sara on

Step 1: Clean Out 
Step 2: Make a List {Part 1, Part 2}
Step 3: Shop
Step 4: Mix and Match
Step 5: Accessorize

Before learning how to shop for clothes, shopping was often a very frustrating and overwhelming experience for me. In fact, I generally avoided shopping all together because we usually just didn’t have the money for it. When we did, it was very little. With only enough money for one or two items, I would stress over finding the perfect thing. The problem was that I usually didn’t know what exactly I was looking for other than it had to fall within me budget. With an infinite variety of clothes, styles, colors, and patterns to choose from I would become easily overwhelmed, lost, and confused. I’d spend hours shopping just to come out empty handed. In cases where I did find something it often was a random article of clothing that did not bring a lot of versatility into my existing wardrobe.

While I still have a very minimal budget for clothes shopping I am learning how to utilize the money I do have by shopping for quality pieces that will expand the versatility of my wardrobe. However, the key to a successful shopping trip is to first know your style and what exactly it is you will be looking for. If you need help or a little refresher on how to find your style and make a shopping list, make sure to read parts 1 and 2 of Step 2 in the Wardrobe Basics series. If you feel confident in your style and have your list ready, it is time to start shopping!

In order to help you have a more successful shopping trip I have come up with a few rules/guidelines for you to use:

1.  Stick to your list
If you’re like me and get easily overwhelmed when shopping, sticking to your list will give you a clear focus/direction as to what it is you are looking for. No more wandering around stores lost and confused– Hallelujah! Sticking to your list will also help you stick to your budget (if you have one). It is often easy for me to get sidetrack by something I want (but don’t necessarily need); however, being on a strict budget I try to only buy the things on my list.

2.  Don’t settle on the fit
In order to build a wardrobe you will love, fit is important. I’m not just talking about the size of your clothes, but also about buying clothes that flatter your body. If you’re not quite sure what styles and shapes work best for your body, chances are you’re going to have to do some experimenting. Try on multiple styles and shapes to discover what is going to be the most flattering on you and work to your advantage. Finding clothes that both fit and flatter your body may also require you to sometimes try on different sizes than you would normally wear. All clothes are made and fit differently, so don’t necessarily rule something out because the size you normally wear doesn’t fit.

3.  Versatility is key
Buying versatile pieces is going to end up saving you money and giving you a more workable wardrobe– it’s a win win! Buying versatile pieces doesn’t necessarily mean having to buy all neutrals just because neutrals go with anything. Like we talked about in Step 2, it is good to have a few basic neutral pieces but colors and prints can be very versatile as well. When trying on clothes, the questions you should ask yourself to determine if something is going to be a versatile piece in your wardrobe are: Does it go with a least four other pieces in my current wardrobe? And, can it be layered, tucked-in, or belted to create more looks?

4.  Be yourself
Buy clothes that represent you and your personality. They should be clothes that you feel comfortable in and are functional to your lifestyle. Being a mom, I buy things that I can move freely and comfortably in. I don’t buy anything that can’t be thrown in the washer or is high maintenance.

5.  Keep a positive attitude
While shopping use to be a very frustrating and negative experience for me, I’ve since willed that sort of thinking out of my head. It may take you some time, along with some trial and error, to figure out what works best on your body, but don’t get discouraged. If something doesn’t fit, the problem is in the clothing not your body. Take this experience of shopping and building a new wardrobe to embrace your body just the way it is. Have fun and good luck!

** I apologize for the wait on this post…I’ve been without a computer. This entire post was typed on my Kindle if you can believe it. 

Linked to:

Wardrobe Basics: Make a Like {Part 2}

posted in Wardrobe Basics, women's fashion by Sara on

Step 1: Clean Out 
Step 2: Make a List {Part 1, Part 2}
Step 3: Shop
Step 4: Mix and Match
Step 5: Accessorize

With your closet cleaned out and your style defined, you are now ready to make your shopping list! Keep in mind that you are not necessarily building your wardrobe from scratch…if you are, that is ok too. You may have some really great pieces already in your wardrobe, so the goal now is to determine what additional pieces you need in order to complete your wardrobe. However, when writing your list make sure your get specific about what it is you are looking for. This will inevitably save you time and money, and will also make shopping a lot easier because you will know exactly what you are looking for. If you need pants, don’t just list “pants”. Write down what style it is your are looking for; jeans or khakis, straight or bootcut? Below I’ve given some simple guidelines and examples of good basic and versatile pieces to include in your wardrobe. From these guidelines, determine what best fits your style then go through your wardrobe and decided what pieces you need to go shopping for.

Jeans:
You should have at least 2-3 pairs of medium to dark wash jeans in your wardrobe. Whether they are skinny, straight, bootcut, or flared, jeans are definitely a wardrobe staple. Try and look for more darker washed jeans as they tend to be more flattering, versatile, and can easily be dressed up.

Pants:
Try and have at least 1-2 pair of neutral colored pants– khakis, trousers, cargo pants…you name it! If you’re brave and love a splash of color, you can also add in a pair of colored pants as well. I have not ventured so far as of yet, but a great pair of colored pants is on my list. Having a few pairs of pants in addition to your everyday blue jeans will even further the versatility of your wardrobe.

Skirts:
It is always good to have at least 1 basic neutral skirt in your closet that can easily be mixed and matched with many of  your other pieces. It can be any style: pencil, a-line, high-low, or maxi…whatever best fits your style. Adding some great printed and colored skirts into your wardrobe can also increase your wardrobe’s versatility. However, when adding color into your wardrobe, make sure they are colors that fit in and can be worn with the clothes you already have. If you are not big on wearing skirts, you can always substitute another pair of pants.

Tops:
This area is very broad and is completely up to you and your style. I love to layer so I tend to buy tops that can easily be layered with other pieces. I also like using cardigans, vests, and jackets to add dimension and color into my outfits. Above are just a few examples of tops that are both basic and versatile. Each could be paired with a pair of jeans, a pair of neutral colored pants, or a variety of different skirts. These are all aspects you should look for when buying tops.

Dresses:
To be honest, I am not very big on wearing dresses. I almost always choose wearing a skirt over a dress but having a great dress in your wardrobe will serve you well. Even if you only have 1 dress, as long as it fits great, is comfortable, and versatile you can get a lot of use out of it and create many different looks. It is probably good to have at least 1 dress in your wardrobe that can be worn to fancy occasions but the rest can be for everyday wear.

Good luck making your list and remember to be specific! See you next week for Step 3: Shop!

Again if you missed Step 1 about cleaning about your wardrobe, click {HERE}.
If you missed Part 1 of making your list, click {HERE}.

Linked To:
http://staceyembracingchange.com/2013/09/05/creative-inspirations-linky-party-52/
http://www.everydayfashionandfinance.com/2013/09/three-fer-thursday-link-up.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:%20EverydayFashionAndFinance%20(Everyday%20Fashion%20and%20Finance)
http://stylelixir.com/2013/09/fridays-fab-favorites-join-the-link-up.html
http://www.naptimecrafters.com/2013/09/friday-favs-party-123.html

Wardrobe Basics: Make a List {Part 1}

posted in Wardrobe Basics, women's fashion by Sara on

Step 1: Clean Out 
Step 2: Make a List {Part 1}{Part 2}
Step 3: Shop
Step 4: Mix and Match
Step 5: Accessorize

Now that you have purged your closet of all that extra baggage, you’re ready for a fresh start. Don’t freak out if you only have a few items left in your wardrobe. This doesn’t mean you’re going to have to spend a fortune filling it back up. Remember, we’re going for quality and versatility, not quantity. Your wardrobe won’t do you, or your self-esteem for that matter, any good if it is full of clothes you dislike and will rarely ever wear for whatever the reason may be. But, before we can talk about making a list and then going shopping you need to know your style and be confident about what it is you are looking for.

A lot of you probably already have a good idea about what you do or don’t like when it comes to different styles. If so, shopping is going to be a lot easier for you. Unfortunately this was not something that came easy to me right away. Before reworking my wardrobe I was stuck between the clothes I had owned since high school and a few pieces of an attempted “grown up” look. It was a random wardrobe with no clear style direction. I’d often see outfits I loved but was unsure about how to translate those looks into my own style in a way that would flatter my body. However, with some experimenting and a little bit of research I have since been able to develop a style that I feel confident in. If you’re like me and having trouble determining what your style is, here are a few pointers:

1.  Learn from your past experiences.
We’ve all tried on clothes in the dressing room before that we winced at the sight of. What might have looked great on the hanger just didn’t do for your body what you were hoping for. Please note, and drill into your memory, that this is not a problem with your body but with the article of clothing. If a particular style doesn’t work for your body, make note of it and move on. Finding your own style can sometimes be a little bit of trial and error, but from these experiences you can learn what styles, shapes, and colors most flatter your body and should be the ones that you incorporate into your wardrobe.

2.  Use Pinterest as your personal style tool.
Pinterest is a great tool in getting a sense of what your style is. If you’ve created a fashion/style board on Pinterest, scrolling through your pins can show you a lot about your style. As an example, below is a picture from my style board on Pinterest. From this little clip you can get a pretty good idea about what I like in terms of fashion. It is quite apparent that I am in love with stripes and layering. It is also clear that I tend to like more neutral and muted colors. Keep in mind that the goals is not to replicate the outfits that you pin, but use them as inspiration to develop your own style that is fitting to you.

3.  Be realistic. Be you.
When you think about your style and the look you want to achieve through your wardrobe make sure it is a style that is both functional and reflective of the person behind the clothes. As a mother of an active one year-old it is not realistic or functional for me to wear heals on a day-to-day basis. I also prefer a skirt or a pair of pants over a dress, which is why I own very few dresses. If you live in a hot climate, heavy layering may not be a realistic option for you. These are all things you should keep in mind.

Once you’ve determined your style, you can then begin to make a list of the pieces you need in order to fill the gaps in your wardrobe. Tomorrow I will be posting Part 2 of this step and discussing the essential pieces that should be in every woman’s wardrobe. If you missed Step 1 of Wardrobe Basics click {HERE}.

See you tomorrow!

Linked to:
http://www.adventuresofadiymom.com/2013/09/terrific-tuesday-79.html
http://www.muchadoaboutsomethin.blogspot.com/search/label/tell%20us%20tuesday
http://www.livelaughrowe.com/readers-choice-awards-live-laugh-linky-77/