New Year, New Wardrobe? Three questions you should ask before buying new clothes this year.

I’m keeping my resolutions low key this year. January is grim enough without writing a list of things I ‘should’ be doing and then feeling bad for not doing them. This time of year brings with it much talk about creating a ‘brand new you’ which implies we need to completely change who we are; something, I don’t agree with. From a wardrobe perspective (I’ll leave the deeper stuff to the psychologists) it’s important we retain our individual style and make this work for us in the best possible way. That means you don’t have to create a whole new image. Instead, build on the positives whilst editing out the items that no longer serve you. Your style will then continually evolve and remain modern. Out-of-date clothing can make you look tired and older then you are.

I’ve been inspired by a video I watched recently which was shared by Louise from Beyond The School Run. It features three questions we should reflect on before making our New Year goals. It got me thinking that the same principles apply to our wardrobes and image. It’s crucial to know what you have in your wardrobe, how it works for you and your future aspirations before you buy new items. So, before you hit the shops again these are the three questions you must ask:-

1. What are the items you love in your wardrobe?

Think about the outfits that put a spring in your step and you feel great in. They don’t have to be the all singing and all dancing pieces. In fact, it’s important that you have outfits that make you feel good most days of the week as opposed to just special occasions. Understanding what these are is key to developing your signature style and creating your ideal working wardrobe. Many clients tell me they have ‘nothing’ in their wardrobes but I haven’t met anyone yet who doesn’t have a unique style to build on.

2. What frustrates you most when choosing an outfit?

Is your wardrobe full of styles that make you feel ‘meh’? This happens when we are stuck in a rut of wearing the same old things all the time. Maybe you have lots of formal clothes but your circumstances have changed and you now need a more relaxed wardrobe. This is one of many reasons that will cause stress when you open your wardrobe in the morning. During a recent wardrobe refresh it became clear, once we had edited and organised the contents, that my client only had a three pieces that she could wear for her new role.

3. Where do you see yourself in 6 months time?

We have all heard the saying ‘dress for the job you want’ and it’s true, your wardrobe has to match your goals and aspirations. Are you returning to work, going for interviews, working in a client facing role or hoping for a promotion. If you have your wardrobe prepared for the future it will free up your time to focus on other areas of your life.

My aim is to help you discover and develop your own personal style, create a wardrobe that works for your lifestyle and ultimately feel confident in yourself. During a styling session we would work through these questions and more so I completely understand your needs and ensure you get the maximum benefit from our time together. I offer Wardrobe Refresh/Consultations, Personal Shopping sessions and other styling packages. All details can be found on our services page.

If you would like a helping hand to update your style then please contact sally@queenbeestyling.com.