I love spring cleaning my closet to get it ready for summer, but before I start adding in a bunch of new pieces, I always take a good look at what I already have. It’s important to see if there’s anything I can easily build upon to create fresh looks before I go filling up my closet again.
Every year, I’m surprised to find how many new outfits I can come up with just by re-working my existing pieces, or adding a few simple accessories! It’s just a matter of thinking creatively about the clothing you use every day. With that in mind, here are my top five tips for refreshing your wardrobe for summer that are quick, affordable, and will give your entire look new life.
1. INTRODUCE A STATEMENT ACCESSORY
It’s amazing how far one statement accessory can completely change a simple outfit. A ribbon worn as a choker, for example, is an easy way to add interest to a simple white top and jeans. (Add a couple necklaces for an extra punch of style!).
2. REWORK YOUR OLDIES BUT GOODIES
Take a closer look at the pieces you wear the most, like your favorite pair of jeans. Can you try cuffing them differently or wearing them with a unique top? For example, if you always wear your skinnies with a flats and flowy top, try them cuffed with block heels and a more structured top.
3. EXPERIMENT WITH LAYERING
It’s easy to get into a styling rut, but layering is a great way to keep things fresh and exciting. One of my favorite upgrades is wearing a shirtdress over jeans. It’s casual but also a little dressed up. If the shirtdress is a button-down, you can also wear it open with a tank underneath, and it functions like a lightweight coat!
4. CONSIDER PIECES FROM ANOTHER SEASON
Speaking of coats – it might seem counterintuitive to wear one during the summer, but if you choose a lightweight fabric that’s big enough to wrap around your body completely, you can belt it and wear it as a dress! (With no stockings or pants underneath, of course.) I also love the look of a bootie with a light summer dress – just as long as you balance the heaviness of an off-season bootie with something that’s in season, it’s a fun twist on a fall/winter classic you can wear year-round.
5. BORROW FROM THE BOYS
While I tend to keep my overall look feminine, I do borrow from my husband’s closet from time to time. (Bonus: I can return the pieces right back to his closet when I’m done, so they don’t take up space in mine!) Whether you wear your significant other’s clothing or simply buy an oversize men’s shirt, the idea is to play with proportions in a new way – for example, tying a men’s button down shirt at the waist to accentuate your curves and add dimension to your overall look.
TAGS: accessories, style tips