Making a list for a new wardrobe??

minivanmom

So I'm getting down to the knitty gritty of what's left of my wardrobe. And it's pretty sad and bare. I want to start making a list of things I need and want. But I am so confused on where to start!! I'm assuming a list of pants/skirts, underthings and then a list of tops. Accessories last. I'm just not wrapping my brain about how to make it all work together. Any advice?

17 years ago

General

11 replies

Latest reply was from marianne

Sarah

(website)

Veteran

I would honestly start by going to a store you love and trying things on. My list contained only pants, but then I tried on a skirt that I LOVED and now my list has more skirts. After you find out what shapes and colors you like, sketch out a list - using what you love, what would be practical for your lifestyle, and using some of Angie's SAHM templates. I have personally found (on a somewhat limited budget) that I'm happier with fewer pieces that are killer, than a myriad of pieces that are "okay". Good luck!

17 years ago

julijuli

Active Member

I'm glad you asked this MVM! I've started making a list but I also wonder if there is a good strategy to purchasing new items. Should you try to have a certain number of bottoms/tops/jackets that work together? Should you shop for individual items or complete outfits? I like the idea of the template, but it would be helpful to know if there is a good strategy before shopping. I agree that it's better to have a few killer pieces, i just am wondering how to put it all together!

17 years ago

amy29

Active Member

Yeah, putting it all together is where I get a little lost too. I still have a really hard time matching the shapes of tops with shapes of bottoms.

There is the sort of quintessential basics list, MVM. You might already be familiar with this. I always encounter this or some sort of variant whenever I am reading a style guide. I found this post of Angie's that has quantities: http://youlookfab.com/2008/02/.....ssentials/

Can't wait to hear how others put it all together.

17 years ago

Dani

Veteran

I don't know if this is helpful because I tend to be a little anal and over organized in some areas of my life

I put all my clothes into a spreadsheet with my tops in a column and my essentials (jeans, cardigans, jackets, skirts, vests, etc.) across the top in rows. I put an "X" in the box where two items meet (eg. patterned shirt with a cardigan and jeans or skirt top with a skirt). I try to get at least 3 outfit combinations out of each shirt, I strive for 4 - 5.

I know this sounds involved but it lets me see immediately where I can pick up a few items to make more outfit options or where I've duplicated looks. It also helps me remember what other outfit options I have for a particular top when I feel like I'm wearing the same thing over and over.

I should add the disclaimer that I was an accountant in my working life

17 years ago

minivanmom

Active Member

Dang Dani! That's impressive!

17 years ago

Dani

Veteran

Thanks, but I don't know if I'd use impressive...maybe OCD?

17 years ago

minivanmom

Active Member

Well, OCD or not, I just whipped myself up a spreadsheet! And since I don't have many workable clothes it didn't take long. lol. What great idea. I love charts and lists so this is perfect. Thanks!

17 years ago