My wardrobe style rules

The writer, Amy Collins, opined that 'Opening up your closet should be like arriving at a really good party where everyone you see is someone you like."

Considering it's one of the first things that we will do every single day, it makes sense that we actually like what we see! Items that we don't like, or pieces that elicit strong emotional responses can impact your mood and thoughts for the rest of the day. As well as what does belong in our wardrobes, we also need to be aware of what doesn't belong and suit our life right now.

A successful wardrobe is formulated around who you are, as well as the life and style that you want.

Whether your wardrobe is in need of a little TLC, or you're looking for a total overhaul, here are some simple steps to keep in mind when developing your own wardrobe wellness.

1. Quality

Looking over my wardrobe, I have a mix of both high end and low end pieces - a balance of quality pieces and some more everyday pieces. The quality pieces I've collected and bought over time - planning and budgeting for each one. Quality over quantity builds a better long-term, sustainable wardrobe, with pieces that you will care for and wear more over time. While it may not be realistic to dress head to toe in designer clothes, think about the items that you are inviting into your wardrobe, and whether they are worthy of the space.

2. Fits my lifestyle - now

Clothing that represents our past keeps us from enjoying the present moment. If your body shape has changed over time, but you are holding onto clothes several sizes smaller (hoping to fit into them again one day) you are triggering negative emotions and punishing yourself on a daily basis. Dressing well, in a way that feels good for you, is not dependent on your size. Find clothes that flatter your body shape now.

Likewise, clothing from a different time in our lives, can trigger complicated responses - although you don't need to eradicate these entirely, they should be out of sight and safely stored away. I have a few pieces that I wore to special events, and one or two that remind me of really fun and carefree periods in my life. These pieces are keepsakes from that era of my life, but they are not part of my wardrobe now.

3. Colour coordinated

I want all of the pieces that I own to effortlessly mix and match together, so I always go for clothes in my tonal colour palette - mostly vibrant, cooler colours with some brighter, warmer tones. My neutrals are a mix of black, white, navy and grey, and they form the building blocks to a versatile wardrobe. Understanding the specific hues, value and intensity of colours that enhance your overall image is one of the most powerful and cost effective ways to look your best. Organizing items in your wardrobe by category, and then in colour order (light to dark neutrals followed by each colour), will also create artwork-worthy colour harmony.

4. Flattering

This is such a simple, yet fundamental rule. Items that fit well, play up our favourite features, and reflect our personalities, are the only ones that truly deserve to hang in our wardrobes. Choose flattering over fashion, and never, ever compromise on fit. Fill your wardrobe only with things that showcase the best representation of you.

Lucy Owens, founder of Style Rises, is a personal stylist, communication consultant and mindset coach who loves bringing powerful personal style into the lives, businesses, brands, and careers of her high-achieving clients.

Deeply passionate about transforming women’s confidence through their closets, Lucy has fallen in love with watching women skyrocket their promotional appeal through reclaiming their power. As a certified image consultant who understands personal branding, power positioning, and has first-hand experience of working in the corporate world for luxury fashion and hospitality brands, Lucy has become an image advocate for women making an impact.

 If you'd like to discuss how Lucy can resurrect your style confidence, get in touch.