How to Build a Stylish Wardrobe

Great tips to build a wardrobe that is stylish and usable.

Trends come and go but style is something that only you can own and you can create. All of us use 20% of our wardrobe 80% of the time so why not invest in the other 80% and make it your 100%. Here are some tips on creating that 100% stylish wardrobe that you’ll wear the year round. 

Your wardrobe should have a mix of neutrals (black, beige, navy, brown) and colors. Be careful while choosing colored clothes. Go for colors that complement your skin. Also, heed the fashion forecast. While you’ll get great tips on colors that are “hot” each season, be careful how you translate those colors into clothes—and your skin type. Go for styles that flatter your shape and colors that compliment your skin. Pastel shades are safest on any skin type but please do not color-coordinate your clothes. It looks boring to say the least and sends “pseudo” signals. 

Keep things simple. Minimum is maximum in terms of style. Go for clean cuts with simple details. It makes your outfit look classy and expensive even if you bought it for 20 bucks. Turn that buck to its maximum advantage by carefully choosing what you wear. Mix and match and accessorize your outfit but keep that to a minimum too. No point in having a well-styled outfit if you kill it by over accessorizing. 

Every wardrobe should have the following: 

The Little Black Dress: Heard of multi-tasking well here’s your ace performer. This dress can transform itself from a professional office wear to a cocktail party head-turner. Keep in mind the style should suit your personality and figure. 

The Brave White Shirt: This is another classic. It’s not only timeless but like the black dress, it’s as versatile. It can be worn to work with trousers or for that weekend getaway with jeans. Go for one that fits well and tailored in comfortable fabric. 

The Black Skirt: A “must-have” for your wardrobe. Choose a well-tailored skirt that just about skims your knees. Wear it with a jacket to work or a tank top when you go clubbing! 

The Jacket: Make sure you invest in a good one. Choose the fabric and style with care. Too much detailing will send confused signals and cramp your style. Simple cuts are best. Fit is key so ensure there are no puckering. A well-tailored jacket will turn heads. Have a minimum of five jackets. Of course, have black and white but also play with colors and fabric. Think leather. Think color in leather! Think Uma Thurman in “Be Cool”. And, Be Cool! 

Jeans: Lets not forget we lived in them as teenagers and still do. They’re our all time favourite in the style department. Nothing compares to a comfy and stylish pair of jeans. Feel like a Diva at home. You go girl! 

Couture: Invest in a few couture styles. You’ll never regret it at those society parties. 

Also, have a funky belt and scarf as part of your clothing accessory. And lastly, create your own style! Be Cool. Be Stylish! 

FABRICS 

Cashmere: This fabric looks rich whether paired with jeans or the most elegant skirt. The more you wash it, the softer it gets (wash in shampoo). If the price of cashmere throws you off, look for blends.

Lightweight wools: Summer-weight wool is wearable throughout the year giving you tremendous mileage unless climatic conditions melt you down. It drapes beautifully and wears forever with every fabric imaginable. 

Lycra: A small percent of it can make all the difference. It helps clothing keep its shape. 

Leather n Suede: Look for soft and supple materials. There are very realistic faux leathers and suedes at a fraction of the price. Get rid of the word “shiny” in this department. It kills style! 

Oriental and brocade: Mix and match these jewels. Wear these with plainer pieces and for the evenings, flaunt the delicate ones with beads. 

Sheer: Choose items with built-in layers and linings that look elegant and sexy! 

Jersey: Go for heavier weight; they fall elegantly. Consider a size larger to avoid that clinging. 

Denim: The darker the denim, the more it will work like black. Dark denim is dressier than its faded counterparts. But faded denims are for casual style. 

Linen: Don’t let the wrinkles bother you. Linen is supposed to wrinkle and be work-wrinkled. It’s part of the look and texture. If it really bothers you, heavy starch will keep the wrinkles at bay.