Practical Fashion Advice for Women | The Well Dressed Life

The Best Garment Steamer for Under $100

February 25, 2021February 25, 2021 by Megan Kristel

When I was in college, I worked at a bridal store for two semesters.

I could write a blog entirely about the antics that took place there, from the staff to the brides. It was pure, hilarious insanity.

One of our rotating tasks was steaming the gowns and veils. The steaming center was tucked away in the very back of the store, separated from the break room by a half wall.

No one ever wanted to do it because it meant losing a chunk of your time on the floor selling. I, however, would happily volunteer to help. Hiding away from the brides, their mothers, their 45 bridesmaids, and the rest of humanity appealed to me even then.

So off I would go for hours, left alone with my thoughts, or chat with whomever else working in the back. Steaming days were the best days.

It turns out; I find the chore somewhat therapeutic. I zoned out as I watched the wrinkles disappear. And I felt oddly satisfied as I hung each finished dress on the completed rack.

To this day, I still enjoy the process.

I get asked almost every day to recommend a good steamer. Over the years, I’ve tried several, from travel-sized to professional. But there is one that I recommend time and again.

The Best Garment Steamer

Steamer, $70

Our Full Review: PurSteam Elite Garment Steamer

My favorite steamer is the PurSteam Elite Garment Steamer, available on Amazon for $70. It’s high quality, well priced, and its features are useable.

Don’t you hate it when you buy something, and you don’t need all its bells and whistles?

Me too.

Here are the other reasons why I love this steamer and use it all the time.

Long Steam Time

This steamer heats up in under 60 seconds and provides a steady, strong steam stream for one hour. Most only go for 20 – 30 minutes. That makes a huge difference in getting through a family of four’s clothes for the week. My kids wear uniforms to school, and using a steamer instead of an iron to smooth out and freshen up all of their pieces saves me hours.

Bonus: the adjustable hanger is helpful. Sometimes I use it if I only have one or two items to steam. Other times I line up garments on my rolling rack and work down the line. Either way, the machine is easy to use.

Save on Dry Cleaning

I used to have a terrible habit of dry cleaning anything I didn’t want to deal with or just because I didn’t want to iron it.

I know, don’t judge; we’re all works in progress.

So a quality steamer helps because it lets you freshen up your garments in between professional cleanings and, in some cases, eliminates the need. In either case, you save a fair bit of money on your dry cleaning bill.

You Can “Unshrink” Things

Awhile back, I read that a steamer can help you unshrink specific garments depending on the fabric. I didn’t believe it until I tried it myself.

Run the steamer over the garment and gently pull the fabric as you move across it. You’ll start to see the fabric relax.

This trick works on cotton, some poly blends, and different knits. Because the steam in this particular steamer is so strong, it makes it quick and easy to bring shrunk garments back to their original size and shape.

Great for Other Household Tasks

Since our remodel and now going through decorating all our new rooms, I’ve used our steamer to fresh up fabrics, steam out curtains, and bedding fresh out of its packaging.

You can easily roll this from room to room. The cord is long enough to go where you need to within a space, and the arm extends to reach high up.

Pursteam has almost 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, including praise for their warranty and customer service. I don’t have any personal experience with them, and as usual, this is not a sponsored post, but it’s nice to know if you have an issue; they will take care of it.

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Recommendations are based on my experience as a personal stylist and wardrobe consultant for over a decade. I worked with busy, down-to-earth women who wanted to look chic and feel confident but were often confused by so much of retail.

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6 Comfortable Flats to Wear When You Can’t Wear Heels

February 18, 2021February 18, 2021 by Megan Kristel

6 Flats to Wear When You Can't Wear Heels

I love the look of heels. They give us height, elongate our legs and elevate even the simplest of outfits. But, like many of you, heels aren’t practical for my everyday life – especially these days. What I need is a chic and comfortable flat.

Technically speaking, heels can help us look better in our clothes. They “lift” our bodies up, allowing clothes to drape well and hems to hit appropriately. So when you’re swapping a heel for a flat, you want to follow a few guidelines.

6 Comfortable Flats to Wear When You Can’t Wear Heels

updated 2/18/2021

Embrace tailoring

If flats are your go-to, you need to have your clothes tailored. Have pants and skirts hemmed; you may also have to have some fullness taken out of the leg of your pants so they don’t seem oversized and overwhelm your frame.

Full-length pants should have a break, which means the bottom of the hem slightly puddles (like a curtain on the floor) on top of your shoe. Bring the shoes you plan to wear to the tailor when you have things fitted to ensure your best length.

This leads me to my next point.

You will need two pairs of pants.

If you swap between high heels and flats with regularity (say it with me now), YOU NEED TWO PAIRS OF PANTS.

There are no magic pants that you can wear with both heels and flats. You’ll need a few pairs you can wear with flats, and a few you can wear with heels. Tip: Some clients would buy two pairs of their favorite pants and alter accordingly.

Proportions Matter

When you exclusively wear flats, you have to learn to notice the subtle difference in how clothes lay on the body in a flat vs. a heel. Often, a heel helps garments drape well, and a flat can feel frumpy and off-balance.

For example, full, wide-leg pants are a no-go with flats because they require height to work (for the most part). Conversely, an ankle-length pant that hits right at the ankle looks fantastic with a flat.

You Need a Point

Look for flats with a pointed or almond shape to to help elongate the line of your body. By doing so, you’re creating the effect you get from heels, and it will help bring balance to an outfit.

And before you say it, no, your big toe should not be shoved into the point of the shoe. If that’s happening, the shoe does not fit you properly. Instead, think of the point as a decoration that helps extend the leg.

Flats are Super Chic

So play with proportions, have your clothes tailored to fit your specific needs, and keep the line of your leg length with a point, and you’ll be in good shape to swap out your heels for some flats.

Scroll below for my top picks. There is something for everyone from an investment pair to under a $100 option that is both stylish and comfortable.

Our Favorite Comfortable Flats

Personal Favorite

Rothy’s, $145

I bought these specifically for running in airports but they’ve quickly become my overall favorite flat for daily, at home wear. Sustainably made from recycled plastic bottles, Rothy’s mix being eco-friendly with sophisticated style.

They are available in an array of colors and patterns to work in any and every wardrobe.

You need to give them a day or two to break in, but once they do, you’ll love the look and comfort they provide. Bonus points for being machine washable!

Worth the Money

Ballet Flat, $350

These are expensive, I know. In my personal shopping days, AGLs were incredibly popular with my clients who commuted to work and didn’t want to lug a change of shoes with them. I use to wear them on shopping days with clients when I would be on my feet for sometimes 10 hours straight, and they were terrific.

So while the upfront cost of these might seem steep, they may be worth it if you get frequent wear out of them. (Think cost per wear.) I had a pair (similar here) for five years and wore them into the ground before I had to part with them.

I appreciate the feminine shape of these and LOVE the neutral snake print for spring that adds some subtle texture to your outfit.

Chic and Customized

The Pointe, $258

Available in nine gorgeous shades and prints (including the above Zebra Haircalf that I am dying over), Margaux is an incredible shoe brand that mixes chic styling with comfort.

Here’s the BEST part, their entire focus as a company is fit, so they offer extended sizes, multiple widths including narrow, medium and wide and made to measure options.

Easiest to Dress Up

Ballet Flat, $75

Spend any time on Pinterest searching for inspiration outfits and you’ll quickly find yourself frustrated. The outfits are cute, but the heels are sky high. What to do? Go with a pointed ballet flat, in a simple style.

These will help mimic that long line of the leg a heel creates.

The J. Crew Gemma Flat is one of their Top Rated, Five Star Reviewed shoes and they are currently on sale for $75 in black and chestnut.

Best Loafers

Loafer, $130

I read hundreds of online reviews every month, thousands every year, and I have never shared one in a post before today.
This made me laugh out load:

They are the shoe equivalent of Paul Rudd- handsome, wholesome, practical and somehow, works with everything.

What a compliment!

I for one am delighted to see loafers rise in popularity and equally thrilled that they are starting to take inspiration from menswear while providing a slimmer shape for a woman’s foot. Pair these with straight-leg pants, and have the hem puddle just slightly on the top of the shoe.

These Madewell France Loafers come in black and mahogany, available in half sizes and rave reviews for comfort after you break them in.

Under $100

Ballet Flat, $80

The challenge with most under $100 flats is that they either look great or they are comfortable but look like orthotics. But we want both comfort and style in one, and these BORN ballet flats are so sweet.

You can wear them with everything, including straight-leg trousers, ankle pants, jeans, and skirts. I’m featuring basic black above, but they are available in several spring ready colors, like soft grey, yellow and a light beige.

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

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J Crew Sophie Open-Front Sweater-Blazer Two Ways

February 17, 2021February 17, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Today, I’m taking the always popular J Crew Sophie Open-Front Sweater-Blazer and styling it two ways.

Work-life will be casual for the foreseeable future. And while I am happy not to have to pour myself into a pair of pantyhose, I am getting sick and tired of leggings, sweatsuits, and pajama bottoms.

Looking for a happy medium, I took today’s key piece and created two fresh looks ideal for the home office or anywhere you’re going these days.

First, let’s talk about our key piece, the Sophie Open-Front Sweater-Blazer.

J Crew Sophie Open-Front Sweater-Blazer

Sweater-Blazer, $69 (Usually $148)

This easy to wear sweater-blazer comes in nine colors including navy, featured above. Sizes run true from XXXS – 3X. I have no idea how long the sale will last so scoop one up today if you’re looking to add a few updated layers to your early spring wardrobe.

J Crew Sophie Open-Front Sweater-Blazer Two Ways

Sweater-Blazer

How cute are these looks?

When I create outfit posts, I try to use pieces I know many of you already have first. To do so, I check our best-sellers list. If something the community loved previously is still available, I use it first because my goal here is to help you build your wardrobe and not always buy something new.

All of the items I highlight I also recommend, the idea being that you can use these posts as inspiration and find a curated selection of items to purchase when necessary, saving you the time and hassle of searching on your own.

Let’s break each look down.

Preppy Pop of Color

Shirt, $22 | Jeans, $38 | Loafer, $35 | Readers, $68

This french blue stripe button-down is available on Amazon for $22. I know they are not everyone’s favorite, but if you can wear one, gosh, it looks great here.

Pair with these straight-leg jeans from Old Navy, available in regular, petite, and tall for under $40. You can also wear dark wash jeans or swap out for a white bottom in the warmer weather. I like the contrast the lighter wash jean provides against the polish of the button down.

Because we need a little sunshine, I went with yellow suede loafers for a pop of color. Navy and yellow is a classic, preppy combination; there is something so cheerful about it.

Don’t love yellow? You can wear any comfortable, polished flat; a pair of Rothy’s would be fun (this leopard pair is my personal favorite), or throw on your heels and start practicing walking in them again. 😉

Finally, I added this chic pair of readers by Kate Spade since I’ve recently joined the bifocal club, although now they call them progressives. I’ve decided to ignore how old they make me feel and embrace them as a must-have accessory.

Wear to Work Joggers

Long Sleeve Shirt, $25 | Cargo Joggers, $25 – ON SALE | Sneakers, $90 | Earrings, $51

This outfit is made entirely of reader favorite items that may be hanging in your closet.

First, grab your favorite Breton top. Maybe you have the Boden option (currently sold out) or this one from J.Crew (up to size 3X). The featured top is by COS as another classic option for only $25.

Then, I paired it with satin cargo joggers from Banana Republic (in regular and petite sizes up to an XXL). These beauties are marked down to under $25.

Doing this creates an interesting polished athleisure suit, ideal for long days in front of the computer with the occasional Zoom call.

Next up, the most popular pair of sneakers we featured in 2020 were these sophisticated Cole Haan lace top sneakers. I adore them! The bright white is ideal for springtime outfits.

Finally, you need some kind of earring. These small CZ stud half hoop earrings are lovely. I’m featuring them in gold, but you can pick them up in rose or sterling silver depending on your preference.

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

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Classic Trench Coats for Spring

February 16, 2021February 16, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Over the last few weeks, many readers have requested some recommendations for classic trench coats for spring.

And if we’re talking trench coats, that means winter is almost over – hurray! So let’s dive in.

As I was organizing this article, I realized there’s a lot to unpack.

Over the years, trench coats have been a category former clients and current readers have considered splurging on, while others have wanted something moderately priced and better quality, and then those that want something affordable yet well made.

We frequently talked about how to create a high-end style without breaking the bank. Knowing were to splurge, spend, and save is essential to creating a layered, functional, stylish wardrobe.

In a nutshell, a splurge is a piece you wouldn’t typically purchase, with timeless, high-quality elements. Sometimes it’s a celebratory self-purchase or a gift, like a handbag, a special piece of jewelry, accessories, and in some cases an iconic piece of clothing.

Classic Trench Coats for Spring

I splurged on a Burberry trench (above) almost a decade ago at a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. At the time, the coat was about $900 and the most expensive single piece of clothing I have ever bought for myself.

At the time, I had just landed my first big client and decided to treat myself to something I always wanted for my birthday.

I’m thrilled I have it, more so now, because I love the idea of passing it down to one of my girls. (Similar current style here.)

Would I buy it today? Probably not.

Life is much different now; my priorities have changed drastically, and so has my body after having baby number three.

Splurging on fit-based items is tricky because, as women, our bodies are shifting and changing all the time. If your body tends to stay the same over the years, and it’s in your budget. Go for it.

Today, Burberry trenches start around $1700. They are truly wonderfully crafted garments. You feel like you’re wearing something special without having to be precious with it. The downside is their sizing is incredibly limited and run small.

But if you want the same look, I found a fantastic, high-quality dupe at a much better price point.

Banana Republic Essentials Trench

Banana Republic Essentials Trench, $229 (take an additional 40% off)

Admittedly, it’s time for me to retire my Burberry. It’s a little snug, and starting show its age. I feel good about how long I was able to enjoy it and am happily packing it up for my girls to fight over in the future.

I’m replacing it with this Banana Republic trench I featured yesterday.

I’m always cautious of calling something affordable because that’s relative to the individual. I say “spend” when something would be a considered purchase.

With the current 40% off sale, this trench is under $140, and incredible value. From the double-breasted buttons to the side pocket details and cuffs on the sleeves, it share many of the elements of the Burberry – making it a timeless, ageless piece.

And because it’s Banana Republic, you get a broader size range, from regular XXS – XXL and petite options here.

What’s even better is the functionality. This is water-resistant, so it’s functional in addition to being a fashion piece.

Under $100

Looking for something under $100? I can’t get over this one from J.Crew Factory. It’s $85, has similar details, and comes in regular sizes from a 00 – 24 and petite 00 – 16.

Shop Classic Trench Coats for Spring

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

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How to Wear a Simple Grey Dress Two Chic Ways

February 16, 2021February 4, 2021 by Megan Kristel

We talk a lot about creating a chic and classic style affordably. No matter how large or small your budget, you need to know where to splurge, spend, and save.

The best tip I can give you is to be selective about every item you bring into your wardrobe, especially those pieces considered a bargain.

Inexpensive, sale-priced, clearance items tend to be where we let down our guard. It’s too easy to throw a $20 top or dress in our carts. But what happens when we do that repeatedly is we end up with a closet that doesn’t make any sense.

You’ve been there, I’ve been there, we’ve all been there.

That’s why it’s essential to know the style you are trying to achieve before you shop and then hold even the most affordable item to that standard.

Today’s dress, this simple Ponte shift from Old Navy, is on sale for under $30. It is the perfect example of what to look for in a “save” piece that adds tons of value to your wardrobe.

How to Wear a Simple Grey Dress

Dress, $28 (Missy, Tall and Petite, up to XXL)

Ponte knit is ideal for this time of year. It’s stretchy, soft, and fits well. You can dress it up or down. It pairs with everything from tall boots (below) to sneakers and a denim jacket.

This dress works well because of its timeless cut and heather grey color. It’s also not too short, so you can take it to work, dinner, or to run errands.

Today, I’m showing you two sophisticated looks with this inexpensive piece at the center.

How to Wear a Simple Grey Dress Two Chic Ways

Layer with Neutrals

Boots, $268 | Coat, on sale $99 | Scarf, $39 | Earrings, $90

To say I love this look is an understatement. My favorite way to dress is in layered neutrals. It creates such a gorgeous richness that works for any occasion.

Here, I paired the dress with these stunning cognac boots from Banana Republic.

Then, a classic camel coat. I picked up a similar jacket last year and have got so much wear out of it. I like this one from Express; it has a flattering tie waist without looking like a bathrobe.

Finally, add an ivory scarf (under $40 at Nordstrom) and pretty pearl and gold statement hoops.

Simple, classic, timeless.

Pair with Basic Black

Booties, $105 | Tights, $15 | Belt, $45 (on sale $15)| Earrings, $7.50

When you focus on wardrobe building, you’ll eventually get the point that you already have everything else you need to create a fresh look when you bring in one piece.

This look is an example of that. You likely already have a pair of black ankle boots. If not, these booties by Vince Camuto are on sale at DSW. Their block heel makes them incredibly comfortable. Pair them with opaque tights to give your leg a long line.

Then, I added this gorgeous belt from LOFT. Right now, it’s on sale for only $15. It’s subtle but has a designer look and feel. Wrap it around your waist to bring in some visual interest.

Finally, small door-knocker earrings mimic the belt buckle’s style, creating a cohesive, thoughtful outfit.

Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

Learn about our mission to help women look and feel their very best, every day, here.

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5 Workwear Blouses to Wear with Black Pants

February 16, 2021February 3, 2021 by Megan Kristel

After wrapping up our Wardrobe Challenge last Friday, many participants realized they need some new blouses to wear with black pants

So I thought it would be helpful to feature some well priced, size-inclusive options. I’m focusing on black and white blouses because it’s the easiest combination that always looks chic and modern, and chances are, you already have a pair of workhorse black pants hanging in your closet.

5 Blouses to Wear with Black Pants

This round-up has everyone covered, including petite and plus-size options, starting at only $17. So whether you’re heading back to the office after almost a year of working from home, or you want to break up the monotony of endless days in loungewear, there’s something here for you.

Twist Front

Twist Front, $99

The side ruched detailing of the Vince Camuto blouse creates a faux wrap that will bring in your waist. The length makes it ideal to pair with skinny or straight leg bottoms, avoid a wide or boot cut leg with this.

Available in XS – XL, $99.

Animal Print

Animal Print, $35

Right now, if you put this 5 Star Reviewed LOFT knit blouse in your cart, it’s marked down to $17. It has a flattering v-neckline and a pretty drape. You can wear it tucked, half-tucked, or out depending on what looks best on your body type.

Available in XXS – XL in regular and petite.

Velvet Dot Tie-Neck

Velvet Dot Tie-Neck, $33

I adore this velvet bow blouse from Banana Republic. It will add some drama to any basic black bottom, and it’s only $33. A black cami is sewn in, so you don’t have to worry about what to wear underneath.

Available in regular and petite in XXS – XXL.

Piped Trim

Piped Trim, $51

Need a professional, statement-making blouse to perk up your boring basics? This black and white piped trim blouse by DKNY (at Macy’s) is lovely. You can wear it tucked into a pencil skirt, half-tucked in pants, or wear it with your pajama bottoms for a Zoom meeting 😉

Available in XS – XL.

Plus Size Popover

Popover, $25

When I saw this pretty blouse at my local Target from their Ava and Viv line I knew I wanted to feature it. The quality is impressive (for only $25) and will work with any black bottom worn tucked in or out. You can even layer it under a open cardigan or blazer.

Available in 1X – 4X.

Shop Blouses to Wear with Black Pants

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Our Style Content is Inspired by Our Readers

Our readership inspires all of our posts and is not sponsored or paid for by brands or retailers.

Some links are affiliate links, which means if you purchase via our site, we receive a small commission.

Learn about our mission to help women look and feel their very best, every day, here.

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The Well Dressed Life Wardrobe Challenge: Week 4

January 31, 2021January 29, 2021 by Megan Kristel

Happy Friday, Ladies!

Today we wrap up our last set of challenges. We’ll focus on discovering new outfit combinations you already own, making sure you have what you need for all aspects of your busy life, and creating a strategy for going forward.

But before we jump in, I have to thank everyone for participating with such enthusiasm!

It has been so fun to see everyone’s closet “after” pictures. You’ve shared so many examples of how to get creative with organizing a closet. Isn’t it so beneficial to see regular closets instead of the ones we see on Instagram and Pinterest?

One of the things that, I hope, sets this site apart from others is that our readership genuinely fuels it.

I never wanted to start a blog to talk about myself (you would be so bored). So while I certainly feel a connection with our audience, even friendship in many cases, I want this to be a resource first and foremost. The content produced here is inspired by your comments, questions, and requests.

This week is going to wrap up the challenge, but not the process.

Remember, it takes time to put all this into practice. That’s why so many women do this challenge every season.

Once you figure out what you need, it’s time to do the work to not only find those items but figure out how to translate all those gorgeous inspiration pictures into an outfit that will work with your lifestyle, budget, and body type.

If you are new to our community, I encourage you to ask specific questions and request posts covering different topics. Our readers influence every post on this site. I consider our readers more like clients, so the recommendations, tips, and advice I share are based on everything I know about you.

Use our archives while searching for inspiration. Every style post is filled with inspiration and guidance, and advice and offers recommendations for all sizes.

Simply type what you’re looking for into the SEARCH box on the ride side bar.

Week 4: Create New Outfits and Write Your Wish List

If you haven’t completed week 3, please do that first. Do not stress out if you are just starting, or feel like you’re running behind. This is suppose to be fun!

If you are having a hard time letting go of some of your items, read this post about the mindset shifts we need to make in order to gain control of our closets.

And take your time if you need to! There is no rush. These posts will remain on the site for you to reference. If you use Pinterest, you can pin these to a board for easy access.

Challenge #1: Create New Outfits

Spend some time in your clean and organized closet.

Doesn’t it feel so good?

With the clutter removed you might be amazed at the outfit combinations you never noticed. Every time I go through this process I always find a new way to wear something, discover an old favorite, or simply get re-inspired.

And there is just something so motivating about a clean, tidy closet.

To guide you, use your curated Pinterest boards and your lifestyle diagram. Try to recreate a few of the looks for each of your categories.

The idea is not to replicate each look. Instead, be inspired by them. Look at the color combinations, pattern pairings, layers, and accessories. Those are the essential elements.

Here’s an example of how I recreate a look:

I pinned this image of Victoria Beckham because I love how it mixes casual elements with a touch of glamour.

But there is no one on earth LESS like Victoria Beckham than me. I’m about a foot taller, probably a hundred pounds heavier, and our lifestyles and budgets are, umm, different. LOL.

The challenge inspired me to get out of my rut and pull together a look for a quick lunch out with my husband last week.

It’s not the same outfit. It’s inspired by the pin, which is likely made up of pieces from her own collection and other brands I can’t afford.

Instead, I pulled out my favorite dark skinny jeans (not sure how they still fit), an inexpensive white blouse from J.Crew Factory, my camel coat from H&M and heels, yes, heels. Don’t want to wear heels yet? Go with neutral flats instead.

I felt fantastic, like my pre-pandemic self. And I was able to get dressed quickly and easily.

Now, I can use this look as a base and swap out the blouse for a striped long sleeve tee, replace the pumps with crisp white sneakers and as the weather turns, replace the wool jacket with a camel trench.

Another example

Here’s an outfit I “found” after I did this challenge last January . I wore it on one of our last date nights right before the world shut down.

View this post on Instagram

🎉How many unknown outfits are hanging in your closet?? . 🥂For date night I gave myself 2 challenges: . 1. Find an outfit I didn’t know I had, . 2. No jeans! . 🤚🏼So many of us go to jeans all the time. . I know I do because my life is super casual and jeans just fit me better. . I’m THRILLED with this outfit. . I had both pieces in my closet and never thought to put them together – and this is what I do for a living! . It shows how important it is to have an organized closet (you have to see your stuff!) and you have to give yourself a minute to look through what you have. . I love a monochromatic moment that combines various textures like the knobbiness of the sweater and the shine of the silk skirt💕 . And, this outfit was so affordable. The sweater was under $30 and the skirt was on clearance for $20. . So carve out some time and see if you can find the hidden looks in your wardrobe! . Swipe to see tagged retailers in picture. . 👼Photo-bomber just turned 14 months and is fresh out of the bath💕

A post shared by The Well Dressed Life (@thewelldressedlife) on Feb 22, 2020 at 3:58pm PST

This outfit really delighted me. Because my closet was cleaned and organized I immediately noticed these two pieces and how the colors were a near perfect monochromatic match. Before that I had NEVER thought to wear them together. And, again, I’m using affordable pieces, a H&M sweater, and J.Crew Factory skirt.

Remember to use your entire wardrobe. Break up “sets,” and incorporate pieces you are saving for a schedule special occasion.

Pro Tip! Take pictures of your outfit options and keep them on your phone so they are at your fingertips when you need a reminder.

Challenge #2: Write Your Shopping List

As you work through your wardrobe, creating new looks, jot down what you need to create more outfits.

Could you use a different style pant?

Maybe an updated shoe would pull several outfits together.

You might need something as simple as a cami so you can start to wear a lightweight sweater.

Write down anything that would add more life to your existing wardrobe.

Keep this list with you (I keep mine on my phone) and only purchase from the list!

By doing so you will stay focused, and your wardrobe will become more functional. If you buy things that are not on the list, you’ll end up with a closet full of items you don’t need all over again.

AND share your shopping list in our FB Group. I use all of the conversations on that feed to help create posts for each season.

Enjoy your new space and the fresh start!

Your closet won’t always look this great. Life will get busy, and you’ll need to regroup. The good news is it will be so much easier to keep it tidy now that you have a system. I follow this process twice a year, only it doesn’t take four weeks; it takes about an hour to get back on track.

Remember that your wardrobe is ever evolving.

You’ll never be “done.” There will always be something on your shopping list, an item that needs to be replaced or a new look you want to try. I hope that after this exercise, you start to hold your purchases to a higher standard and realize you don’t need so much, you just need the right options for you.

Join me in our Private Facebook Group for a LIVE Q&A!

This week we’re doing our Facebook Private LIVE Chat on Sunday, January 31st at 7PM EST. I want to give you some time to get your questions together, and we’ll toast a job well done!

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