Wardrobe staples can make or break our entire wardrobe. Without the proper wardrobe staples, you may constantly feel like you don’t have anything to wear. Or worse, you may be stuck buying a brand new outfit for every occasion you attend, leading to a mish-mash of different styles and no aesthetic cohesion.
Fear not — we’ve got your back. Say goodbye to canceling spontaneous plans or avoiding leaving the house. Let’s take a look at a few super simple rules for mixing and matching wardrobe staples.
Focus on Your Favorites
The clothes that make you feel and look your best are the winners of your closest. As often as you can, plan your outfits around your favorite articles of clothing. Mix and match outfits with pieces that you already know you love. This will allow you to change up your look while keeping you comfortable.
Upgrade Your Wardrobe
One of the biggest keys to mixing and matching wardrobe staples is adding new pieces. Adding new pieces here and there will keep your wardrobe fresh and fun. Preventing you from feeling tired and bored of your outfits.
We’re not saying that you have to spend thousands of dollars on clothes every month. But, adding a few new pieces here and there wouldn’t hurt. Add more options to your mix and match cycle by picking up one or two new pieces of clothing every month.
Understand Basic Outfit Formulas
Most of the time we feel like we don’t have anything to wear, we do. The issue is, we may not know what we’re looking for when we’re searching our closets. A strategic combination of boho chic women’s clothing can go a long way. Mix and match combinations that will make you feel confident and complement your style. We’ll list some examples of basic outfit formulas below:
- Pair skinny jeans with a cardigan and tank top.
- Pair white or dark jeans with a utility jacket or sweater. If it’s chilly out, top off your outfit with a cute scarf.
- Pair a denim jacket with a top that you absolutely adore.
Have Fun Accessorizing
Have fun accessorizing! The right accessories can take your outfit from plain to “wow” with little to no effort. And best of all, quality accessories can literally last for years.
Add flair to your wardrobe with quality hats and luxury watches. If you’re super happy with your accessories, they may even become a statement look for you. Adding a permanent taste of your personality to every single outfit you wear.
Fall in Love with Layering
If you have a decent amount of basic tops, mixing and matching with layers will make a perfect outfit. The right layer can make a plain white tee that you only wear to the grocery store into a stunning girl’s night-out outfit. Here’s a list of must-have layers:
- 2-3 cardigans in a variety of colors
- 1-2 uniquely designed kimonos
- 1-2 utility jackets (one unique, one neutral)
- 1-2 bomber jackets (one unique, one neutral)
- 1-2 denim jackets
- 1 trench coat
- 1 stylish raincoat
- 1-2 winter coats (if you live in a colder climate)
Understand Color Theories
When mixing and matching wardrobe staples, it’s important to understand color theories. To keep things simple, you can group colors into two categories: warm tones and cool tones. These can also be called earth tones and spring tones.
If you want to keep your outfits simple, stick to one color family. If you’re looking to make a statement, experiment by mixing and matching outfits from both families. For example, you may want to pair a vibrant pink top with neutral-colored bottoms.
Know When to Let Go
Everything has its season and even clothes should retire. If your good old faithful wardrobe staples are stretched, faded, stained, or just don’t look that great anymore, it’s time to let them go. Mixing and matching new items with old and worn pieces won’t serve your outfits any justice.
Find Inspiration
If you’re feeling stuck, you may need to seek inspiration. Do research, browse apps, and check out the latest blogs.
Another great way to get your wardrobe creativity flowing is by asking ladies around you for help. If your sister-in-law, neighbor, or coworker always wears outfits that catch your eye, ask them where they shop. And, of course, you should ask the employees at your favorite stores for help as well. They will be more than happy to give you a personal shopping experience and help you take your wardrobe to the next level.
Conclusion
No matter what you’re wearing, make sure your most important accessory is confidence. Experiment with new styles and have fun with your wardrobe. Getting dressed up should be fun, not a chore!
About the Author
Tess DiNapoli is an artist, freelance writer, and content strategist. She has a passion for yoga and often writes about health and wellness.