One of the challenges that many minimalist women face is finding the perfect outfits for various occasions. Practicing minimalism warrants that we make our purchases intentional. At the same time, we may come across situations when we feel that nothing in our closet feels right for the purpose at hand. So, what to do when in such a dilemma? The answer is actually quite simple and it’s called shop your closet!
Shop Your Closet- What’s That?
The idea here is very basic. Before you become desperate and rush to the store to buy a new dress or suit, look at your existing clothes. And then try to mix and match different pieces to create an outfit that’s brand new. It may sound overly simplistic, and therein lies the brilliance of the shop your closet concept.
Is It Tough To Shop Your Closet?
If you are worried that this process takes a lot of creativity and hence not your cup of tea- don’t give up without giving it a try first.
The art of dressing up is a very personal thing. Sure, there are trends and styles that you can follow. But ultimately, you express yourself through the way you dress.
When you shop your closet to put together unique outfits, remember that it’s all about who you are. Consider factors like colors you love to wear, a cut that you prefer, or a piece that makes you feel happy. Incorporate these details and you will not only find the process easy but also enjoyable.
Related Read: 7 Easy Tips On Creating A Personal Uniform That You Love!
So How To Shop Your Closet?
To make the process simple, here are 5 tips that can help you get started on the shop your closet journey. These are some basic steps that I have personally gained from. I hope that you will find them to be as useful too.
1. Start With A Basic Item
Having certain basic pieces in your closet will definitely make the process significantly easy. If you do not have the required basic items, invest in them as and when you can.
When you shop your closet, start with one of these basic pieces. It could be a classic pair of trousers or blue jeans. Build your outfit from thereon.
2. Unusual Combinations
We often tend to play it safe and stick to tried and tested pairings when creating an outfit. But what if you became a bit adventurous and tried something new?
That could be combining tops and bottoms from two different sets of clothes. Or pairing a neutral item with a contrasting color. Men can opt for interesting patterns and colors with their basic formals. Really, there’s no end to the possibilities here.
All you need to do is to keep an open mind and be ready to try new things. You can always go back to your comfort zone if it doesn’t work out well.
3. Don’t Forget To Try-On
There is a reason why all shops have trial rooms. What looks good on the hangar may not look good on your body and vice versa.
When you shop your closet, you may pass over certain clothes because you feel they aren’t what you are looking for. But you will not know for sure until you try them on. You might be in for a surprise actually.
Always remember to try-on your clothes while creating a new outfit from your existing options.
Related Read: Fashion Minimalism- 5 Practical Tips to Declutter Your Closet
4. Accessorize
Now, we know that accessories can lift any outfit and make it special. Even when you shop your closet and choose a previously worn piece, you can give it a new look with the right accessories.
Opt for classic pieces and dainty jewelry, especially if you want a minimal touch. Alternatively, you can pair a relatively plain dress with a bold piece like a scarf. Or grab a patterned tie with an otherwise neutral suit. Again, the choices are endless here. You can experiment with several combinations to find something that is uniquely you.
5. Look Around For Some Inspiration
Creativity often requires some inspiration. In this case, look around you for some ideas. A great place to find some outfit inspo is of course Pinterest. Other forms of social media also help.
Another way to get creatively stimulated is by watching real people on the streets. Every so often I come across someone in an outfit that I feel I can recreate with pieces in my closet.
So keep looking out and around and you will surely be inspired to shop your closet!
Related Read: Fall Fashion for Minimalists -Look Great for Autumn!
There Are Really No Limits
Dressing up or down is ultimately a crucial way of self-expression. And while there are a few basic rules, in reality, there are no limits in the number of ways you can go about it.
Remember this the next time you find yourself standing in front of your closet, bewildered about what to wear. Break the rules if necessary and shop your closet to your heart’s content.
Peace.
Do you have any related experience or story to tell? Please share in the comments below. I would love to hear from you.
