We’re all familiar with that closet full of clothes but nothing to wear feeling. We’ve probably all dragged a bunch of pieces out the wardrobe and then left them on the bed or floor because nothing seemed right for the occasion.  These meltdowns are quite common.

Thankfully, I don’t have these experiences very often anymore and you don’t have to either. It all centres on building a wardrobe that fits your personality and lifestyle.  Don’t think this means you need to constantly buy new pieces.  It means making the most out of what you already have and thinking carefully about any new pieces you add.

So let’s get into some of the things you need to consider.

Forget that work clothes/”out” clothes distinction.

Obviously, you won’t wear your sexy club dress to church but wherever possible, buy pieces that can be styled differently depending on the occasion.  Jackets can help you transition a strappy top from the weekend to the office. Tights can make a shorter skirt more work appropriate. Jewellery, belts, hairstyles and makeup can go a long way in making an outfit look completely different. The dress below can easily be styled for both work and play.

Take advantage of flea markets and thrift stores.

This suggestion serves two purposes. Thrift or consignment stores give you a way to get rid of those clothes you’ve only worn once while also letting you buy new to you pieces that would be more useful. If you’re in Barbados you can try 2nd Encore Consignment Boutique, St Michael’s Cathedral Thrift Shop,  A’New Treasures. I’ve never shopped with any of them so I can’t vouch for the selection but they should be worth a try. You can also get a group of friends together and swap some of your clothes and accessories.

Invest in multi-way clothing

Convertible clothing is especially popular among frequent travellers since it reduces the amount of luggage you have to lug around. However,  they can also be useful for the average person since you can get a lot of mileage from one piece. Quite a few options are available online but my plug is for this 5-way dress designed by Barbadian Andrea King of The 5th Element Experience.

Get the right mix of colours.

You know that skirt you have that only goes with that one top? You may want to ditch it! Unless you are content wearing the exact same outfit all the time, you’re not getting much mileage from that skirt. Basically, you wasted your money. I would suggest giving it away or selling it at a flea market unless it has some sentimental value.

Don’t make the same mistake again. You want clothes that can easily mix and match with each other. For me, black and white make the perfect canvas but you may prefer earth tones. Whatever your preference, the point is to buy pieces that you can coordinate easily.

Do you have other tips for making the most out of your wardrobe?  Or do you have a specifc question you need answered? Drop me a line in the comments.