I got this question from a client the other day, and I could tell he felt frustrated. Feeling stuck is never fun.
He explained further…
“I feel like I wear the same things over and over. Maybe I need new clothes, or better clothes, I don’t know. I’m definitely stuck in a rut with getting dressed.”
My answer:
You probably don't need more clothes. You need more outfits.
Before you buy anything new, let’s style what’s already in your closet!
According to research by Marks & Spencer and Oxfam, people regularly wear only 44% of the clothes in their wardrobes. So there's a pretty good chance you already own more options than you think.
The trick is figuring out how to wear them differently.
First, look at what you actually wear
What are the pieces you reach for again and again?
There’s probably a reason those pieces keep winning. Maybe the color looks good on you. Maybe the fit is right. Maybe they're easy to combine with other things you own. Or maybe you simply feel like YOU when you wear them.
When I work with clients on a closet edit, my goal is to make getting dressed easier. Most guys own a lot of pieces that were purchased without much thought about what pieces go with what other pieces.
I help organize your wardrobe so it truly works for your lifestyle.
So first, identify your go-to pieces.
Next, look at what you're not wearing.
Why does that shirt stay on the hanger?
Why does the expensive jacket lose out to the same two jackets every time?
Those are clues, too.
But before we start getting rid of things or buying new pieces, let's see if we can get more mileage out of what you already own.
Start with accessories
This is the easiest place to start.
Change the jewelry. Add a scarf. Try a different watch or bracelet.
And no, you don't have to wear three strands of pearls because I do. The point is to change one detail and see how different the whole outfit can feel.
Change the shoes or belt
Take an outfit you already wear all the time and change the shoes.
Or the belt. Or both!
You haven't bought a single new thing (yet), but suddenly it's not quite the same outfit and you feel more stylish. Perhaps a cooler version of yourself. ;)
And by the way, your shoes and belt do not always have to match. That’s an outdated rule.
Now let’s play with your other accessories
Try the usual outfit, but add a killer bag.
This bag is so luxe, it elevates the entire look.
And then, there are socks. To help my clients loosen up and step out of their comfort zone with style, I often suggest starting with socks. It’s low risk and really fun.
Choose a color that’s brighter than you normally would. Or try a bold stripe that’s more daring than you’re accustomed to.
You can add interest to any outfit this way, like pairing striped socks with patterned shoes. Why not?
Change one piece, not the whole outfit
This is where people tend to get stuck. Many men find a combo that works for them and then mentally glue the items together.
This is the shirt I wear with those pants.
This is the belt I wear with those shoes.
Says who?
Keep the pants and change the shirt. Keep the shirt and add a different jacket. Wear the brown shoes with a mustard-colored belt. Mix it up!
Start breaking up your usual combinations and see what else works before you start shopping.
So when should you buy something new?
Sometimes you really do have a hole in your wardrobe. That’s where a Closet Edit can help. We look at what’s working, what’s not, what you can wear differently, and where you actually have a gap.
A Color Analysis helps make the whole thing easier by showing which colors work best on you and with each other.
And if something really is missing? Then we shop for it with a purpose.
The goal isn't a bigger closet. It's more outfits you actually want to wear.
If your closet is full but you still feel like you have nothing to wear, I can help.
You may need a Closet Revamp & Edit, where we’ll go through your closet, find out the gaps in your wardrobe, and put together the “right’ outfits.
And if you don’t yet know your best colors yet, a Color Analysis may be for you.
Start by scheduling a complimentary style consultation.