Fashion trends come and go at lightning speed, and getting overwhelmed or stuck in a rut is easy. It’s also easy to accumulate clothes that waste space in your wardrobe and make you look outdated. Here are 20 fashion looks past their prime to retire ASAP to look cooler and chicer instantly.
1. Duplicates and Identical Looking Pieces
Do you need three identical black blazers, ten basic white T-shirts, and endless jeans? Streamlining duplicates makes room for new pieces and keeps your wardrobe clutter-free. We only wear 20 percent of our wardrobe, so it will never happen if you haven’t reached for it in a while.
2. Dressy Outfits You Wore Once for a Special Occasion
Free yourself from outfits that will never see the light of day again. Sequin, glittery, and metallic looks are dated and over-the-top and should never be worn by day. While they seem fun, there are more modern ways to incorporate a hint of sparkle. Choose clothing or accessories with subtle embellishments or metallic accents for a more sophisticated sparkle.
3. Clothes That Don’t Fit
If it doesn’t fit you now, it’s just taking up space and making you feel bad every time you see it. Let go of those “one day it’ll fit” clothes and make room for pieces that flatter your current shape.
4. Stained and Worn-Out Pieces
Clothing like button-down shirts, leggings, and faded, stretched, or holey underwear has no place in your wardrobe. Freshen up your basics with high-quality pieces that last longer. Always wash, dry clean, and iron your clothes to look professional and polished.
5. Overly Trendy Items Whose Moment Has Passed
That neon crop top was a summer hit, but if you haven’t worn it recently, it’s time to part ways. Stick to timeless pieces that can be worn across seasons: a classic black blazer, a chic button-down, a simple midi dress, or a striped tee.
6. Shoes You Never Wear
Unworn sky-high stilettos and worn-out sneakers? Free up space by donating shoes that no longer suit your style or are dirty or uncomfortable. Invest in versatile, comfortable pairs like a mid-stacked block heel, a white trainer (not too chunky or platform), and a chic ankle boot.
7. Outdated Tacky Workwear
If your work wardrobe no longer aligns with your job or looks worn out, refresh it. Keep your professional wardrobe current and reflective of your career. Always err on the site of safe and professional; steer clear of bold colors, loud prints, and tricky silhouettes and flounces.
8. Impulse Buys
Impulse buys like flashy fur coats or sequined anything can seem fun but often end up collecting dust. If they don’t work in real life, it’s time to part ways. And better still, resist the urge in the first place.
9. Clothes Still with Tags On
If something’s been sitting in your closet untouched, tags still on, it’s time to let it go. Rehome it through donation or resale to free up space for pieces you’ll actually wear.
10. Outdated Denim Styles
Say goodbye to bedazzled or embellished denim and ultra-low-rise jeans. Stick with timeless denim styles that suit your body shape and will last for years. A mid-rise, mid-wash in a straight leg, or slight flair is where it’s at right now. Or if you can pull it off a high-waisted pant is chic.
11. Excessive and Overly Trendy Accessories
Over-the-top accessories that were trendy once can date your entire look. Focus on simple, timeless pieces that add elegance to your outfits. Don’t do oversized or colored sunglasses; layer a couple of gold necklaces and avoid loud printed scarves.
12. Clothes That Need Repair
If you haven’t fixed that ripped hem or missing button in months, it’s probably time to let go. If you don’t have time to repair it, it’s not worth keeping.
13. Paperbag Waist Shorts
Shorts are ready to be retired now that fall is here. Especially paper-bag waist shorts, which add bulk and create an unflattering silhouette. Replace shorts with cropped jeans or cigarette pants.
14. Ugg Boots Outside
Ugg boots may be cozy, but pairing them with dresses or skirts as a style statement is a fashion faux pas. Leave the Ugg boots to wear around the house and choose ankle boots, a classic loafer, or dressy leather sneakers in black or white to maintain style comfort and style.
15. Tacky Fanny Packs
Wearing a fanny back can make you look like a tourist, especially if it has a busy print or in a tacky vinyl. A more sophisticated and stylish option is a sleek crossbody bag. And if your bag has a top handle, you can buy a crossbody strap to attach and wear it both ways.