As the song goes, “it’s the most wonderful time of the year” and that means it’s a good time to reflect on the year that has passed and the New Year that is upon us. Holiday shopping is in full swing and so are my thoughts on resolutions for 2012, specifically fashion resolutions. It is time to make those all important wardrobe changes that I’ve been putting off since summer and install some new bold and trendy looks into my daily ensemble. Since fashion is always evolving I really sat down and gave this some thought and came up with a targeted plan to reach my fashion goals for 2012.
My first fashion resolution is to add more classic styles to my wardrobe. A black blazer, slacks, skirt and shirt are important, as are basic black pumps. They not only go with any color and style I already own, but also make it easier to mix and match separates for both casual and business settings. This leads to fashion resolution number two, to add more color to my wardrobe. Having several options in grey, brown and black are okay, but after a while my style gets very boring. Adding seasonal colors like deep blues, purples and oranges are perfect for fall and winter, while yellows, pinks and greens lighten up the spring and summer. Color also helps me express my personality and doing that with fashion is fun and creative. By shopping at stores that carry different styles with various color options is on my to-do list for 2012.
Fashion resolution number three is to wear clothes that compliment my body shape and size. The reason why is because wearing clothing that are not right for our unique body shape can make us look older and heavier in addition to being uncomfortable. To find the right clothing size my first goal is to do my body measurements. Bust, waist and hip measurements will let me know my proper size in undergarments, tops and pants which is a great help when trying on new wardrobe. Since no clothing is the same when it comes to size and fit, we are ready for my New Year fashion resolution number four, to try on clothes before I buy.
As many women will attest, and despite the long lines in the dressing rooms during the holiday season, trying on clothes before we buy is not always a top priority. We are more interested in what we think the clothes will look like on us rather than having real validation in the dressing room. In the New Year, I am going to make the commitment to choose items that are my proper size, based on my measurements and try them on in the store. If the clothes don’t fit I will not buy them. In the long run, this will save money and keep my closet free of clothes that I bought months or years ago with tags still attached.
Finally, fashion resolution number five is to toss out those ill-fitting clothes still adorned with price tags. I plan to try them on one more time to make sure they don’t fit before donating them during the holiday season. Someone, somewhere is more than happy to wear clothes I have given little attention to because I was in too much of a hurry to buy them without making sure they looked presentable. Hopefully in 2012 I will look better and be more comfortable because of my top five fashion resolutions, but save money at the same time too.
Source: The author is a certified image consultant that assists clients in wardrobe fit and style analysis. She is also the Principle Consultant for a boutique healthcare recruiting firm.