5 Steps to Update Your Wardrobe

Just like the weather is on the brink of changing from winter to spring, it's time to update and change our wardrobe. I'm so glad that we don't have to wait for the weather to officially change before we can get started with our own personal makeovers. Regardless of your budget, here are just a few tips for you to follow in order to get ready to receive your new and updated wardrobe finds.

1. Go through your closet and drawers and remove at least 5 outfits that you can donate or give to either another person or a local charity. For example, if you are a woman who works in an office, then consider donating some of your business apparel to a soon-to-be or a recent college graduate or a person just entering the professional work force. Often times, money is tight when you are first getting started with your career and you can use some assistance.

2. Before you begin to shop, go through your closet and pick out your favorite 5 outfits. Now see if you can multiply those outfits by purchasing different items to wear with them. For example, take your favorite navy blue pants suit and purchase a new top to wear with the pants and match the navy blue blazer up with a new skirt and blouse. The key to this is to make sure that each garment can be worn with several other items. This way you can turn 5 outfits into over 50 different combinations.

3. Don't be scared to try new colors or patterns and designs. Take a friend with you that has a different style of dress than you do. Allow them to pick out some pieces of clothes that they think will look great on you. The key to this exercise is that you MUST try them on. You are not allowed to say, "no". Go in the dressing room, put them on, and model them with confidence for your friend. This is a fun and quick way to help broaden your wardrobe horizon.

4. Resale shops are wonderful places to find treasures. To maximize your experience, develop a relationship with the owner or the sales person that is cheerful and helpful. They are your connection to always finding out when new things come in. Ask them to call you when outfits or accessories come in that they think would look great on you. Periodically call them and ask them if anything exciting has come in also. With you calling them, they will know that you are a serious customer and often times will give you a great financial deal.

5. Don't forget to update your handbag. Whether it's the real thing like a Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Fendi, Coach, or a Juicy Couture or even a look-a-like fashion purse, tote, satchel, hobo, sling or evening bag you can't go wrong. Display your personality by selecting a handbag that is fun and functional. Don't forget to change out your wallet also.