Feeling stuck in a fashion rut can be frustrating and make it hard to get dressed. It’s also an opportunity to refresh your style and bring new life to your wardrobe. Here are some easy tips to help you break out of that rut and rediscover your fashion mojo.
1. Start with a Wardrobe Audit
The first step to revamping your wardrobe is knowing what you have. Go through your closet and take inventory of your clothes. Separate items you love, those you wear often, and pieces you haven’t touched in a while. Not only will this help you see what’s missing and what needs to go, but you may even rediscover beloved pieces you forgot you had.
2. Define Your Personal Style
An easy way to have a fashion renaissance is to take some time to think about what style resonates with you the most. Are you into classic, bohemian, edgy, or minimalist looks? Figure out what your style is will make shopping for new clothes a breeze. It’ll also reduce the risk of filling your wardrobe with a random assortment of pieces.
3. Invest in Quality Basics
Every wardrobe needs a strong foundation of quality basics. Think of timeless pieces like a well-fitted white tee or button-down, a classic blazer or trench, or a pair of versatile jeans. These items can be mixed and matched with trendier pieces to create a variety of looks. Not only this, but these pieces will last you a lifetime, which means you’re less likely to suffer any fashion ruts for the foreseeable future
4. Experiment with Color and Print
If you always gravitate towards the same colors, it might be time to switch things up. Try incorporating a new color into your wardrobe, whether it’s a bold statement piece or a subtle accessory. It can refresh your look and give you a new perspective on your style.
5. Play with Different Textures
Incorporating different textures into your outfits is a quick and easy way to add depth and interest to your look. If you feel like you’re stuck in a fashion rut or you’re wearing a boring outfit, experiment with different textures. Mix materials like silk, leather, denim, and knits to create visually appealing outfits that stand out.
6. Update Your Jewelry and Accessories
Sometimes, all you need to revamp your wardrobe is a new set of accessories. If you’ve shied away from treating yourself to new accessories over the last few years, this might be making you feel like your fashion is growing stale. A stylish belt, a statement necklace, or a trendy handbag can breathe new life into your existing outfits and make them feel fresh again.
7. Try Layering
When you’re stuck in a fashion rut, don’t run out and buy a whole new wardrobe; try layering instead. Layering is a great way to create new looks with pieces you already own. Experiment with layering different tops, jackets, and scarves to add dimension to your outfits. It’s also a practical way to transition between seasons.
8. Get Inspired by Fashion Icons
If you’re in a fashion rut, this generally means that you’re lacking inspiration. Not all of us instinctively know how to put an outfit together; we look to fashion icons for help. To revamp your look, find fashion icons, bloggers, or influencers whose style you admire. Analyze their outfits and see how you can incorporate similar elements into your wardrobe. This can help you step out of your comfort zone and try new things.
9. Tailor Your Clothes
It might seem small, but tailoring can have a huge effect on how your clothes look and feel. If you have items in your closet that you like but don’t love the fit, consider getting them tailored. A small adjustment can make a big difference, turning an okay piece into a wardrobe favorite.
10. Incorporate Statement Pieces
If you find that everything you own is too drab and neutral, then bring a statement piece into the fold. Statement pieces are bold items that can instantly elevate your outfit. Whether it’s a colorful coat, a patterned skirt, or a pair of unique shoes, these items can take a ‘meh’ outfit to an incredible outfit in seconds.
11. Mix High and Low Fashion
You might think that in order to be fashionable, you need a closet full of expensive designer pieces. This is not true; a great wardrobe has a mix of both high-end and affordable fashion. Don’t be afraid to mix high-end pieces with more affordable items. Pairing a designer bag with a thrift dress, for example, can create a unique look that feels luxurious without breaking the bank.
12. Revisit Past Trends
Fashion is cyclical, and past trends often come back in style. Take a look at some old photos or vintage magazines to get inspired by previous trends that could make a modern comeback in your wardrobe. As well as this, be sure not to throw too many things away, most of the time they’ll come back into fashion.
13. Reorganize Your Wardrobe
Sometimes, a simple reorganization of your wardrobe can help you see your clothes in a new light. A skirt that you thought you hated might actually look good when paired with a sweater you forgot you had – that’s the beauty of reorganizing. Arrange your clothing by category or color, and you might discover new outfit combinations you hadn’t thought of before.
14. Shop Your Own Closet
Before buying new clothes, try shopping in your own closet. Challenge yourself to create outfits using pieces you haven’t worn in a while. This exercise can help you rediscover forgotten favorites and see your wardrobe with fresh eyes. Not only this, but it makes you a better fashionista to be forced to be resourceful with things you already own.
15. Revamp Your Footwear
Perhaps the problem with your fashion rut doesn’t lie with your clothes but with your shoes. Shoes can make or break an outfit, so updating your footwear can have a big impact on your overall style. Treat yourself to an updated pair of classic shoes, like a timeless loafer, or if you’re feeling really bold, go for a statement pair of heels in a bold shade.