Wardrobe Maintenance 101

A perfect wardrobe is, by definition, elusive. Just as soon as you think it’s all sorted, something changes — age, weight, body shape, trend, climate, geography, or all of the above all at once. Moreover, our personal style, appearance and grooming usually need adjusting as milestone birthdays usher in new decades. It’s a lot to keep up with, which is why regular wardrobe maintenance is the only way to avoid meltdowns. In order to have the right pieces at the right time, every wardrobe must be anchored by 5 tenets — color, silhouette, style, basics, fit — to be high-functioning. Use this roadmap to ensure your closet has both stylish and serviceable pieces at all times:

1. Color
   A smashing wardrobe can’t be smashing without flattering colors. Knowing your seasonal color palette is the first step in revamping your look, so find a credentialed, vetted professional in your area for an in-person analysis. For those who had color analysis more than 10 years ago, consider a refresh given a lot can change as we age. Once your color diagnosis is complete, accurate and up to date, take note of your top 3 best neutrals and accent colors to apply to wardrobe.

2. Silhouette
   As our bodies age they shift, forcing us to retire shapes and cuts that no longer flatter. But this is an opportunity to revamp your silhouette, so seize it with gusto. Work with proportions, keeping outfits parsed into thirds for the most flattering look and try monochromatic color columns to appear longer and taller. For body shapes wider above the waist, wear A-line skirts and wide leg trousers for balance. If your widest point is below the waist, balance with boatneck tees, shoulder pads, puffy and drop-shoulder sleeves. Classic hourglass shapes can keep it simple by accentuating the waist while keeping everything else in balance. For straight bodies, try adding volume top and bottom while creating a waist with fit-and-flare dresses, belts and three-quarter length sleeves.

3. Signature style
   Redefining silhouette often comes with redefining signature style. To find yours, start by making a Pinterest board of favorite looks and style icons that resonate with you, then adapt the same key elements into your own look. Adding flair with accessorizes is always a winning formula, so spend time and resources curating scarves, belts, bags, shoes and statement jewelry to define your personal style.

4. Wardrobe basics
   Once you get clear on color, silhouette and style, build a foundation of foolproof, fail-proof wardrobe basics that have flexibility to mix-and-match endlessly. Consider a capsule collection of 11 to 15 edited pieces that will prepare you for any life event, trip or daily uniform with both ease and flair. Consider fabrics too, making sure fibers are breathable for fluctuating body temperatures plus easy care, wash and wear durability. It’s amazing how many brands offer machine washable clothing these days!

5. Fit
   Above all, fit can make or break a great outfit. Commit to an aggressive wardrobe purge and let go of pieces that don’t serve you anymore. Find a great tailor for any garments in need of updating and, for those beloved pieces with sentimental value where fit can’t be salvaged, consider framing and mounting as wall art. And alterations apply to new pieces too — hemlines, trouser legs, sleeves and coat lengths should be shortened so they don’t swallow you whole!