Have you ever gone shopping, felt thrilled with your purchases, only to come home, try them on again, and realize they’re not quite what you expected? Maybe you try styling them in different ways, at different times, but they just don’t work. Then you think, “Maybe if I buy a new top, bottom, or shoes to match, I’ll finally be able to wear it.” And so, the cycle continues. Before you know it, your wardrobe is full, but you still feel like you have nothing to wear. Dressing becomes stressful, your closet feels chaotic, and you end up wearing the same few pieces over and over again.

I used to fall into this trap too, especially during times of transition—like when my body changed after pregnancy, then changed again as I started working out, or with shifts in the seasons or weather.

Each new phase brought its own challenges, and I often struggled to adapt my wardrobe to my evolving body and lifestyle. But with the help of my styling knowledge, I’ve learned to navigate these changes with confidence. Now, no matter what phase I’m in, I know how to curate a wardrobe that truly works for me.

My wardrobe is now so curated that it takes me just 5 minutes to do my makeup and another 5 minutes to get dressed. Even shopping has become fast and easy. And here’s why: before I shop, I consider the following:

1. Accessories Near My Face: I analyze my face shape to understand which accessories flatter me most. This has saved me from wasting money on items that don’t suit me.

2. Knowing My Best Colors: I don’t waste time scanning every item on the rack. I go straight to the colors that work best for me.

3. Choosing a Signature Color: I start with my favorite color (for me, it’s red) and pair it with complementary colors like green. My wardrobe is grounded in neutrals with pops of red and green, while other colors are used as accents.

4. Understanding the Color Wheel: I’ve studied how colors work together, which makes pairing pieces effortless.

5. Analyzing My Body Shape, Scale, and Proportions: From fabric types to necklines and cuts, I know what works for my body and what doesn’t.

6. Identifying Fabrics I Love and Hate: I’ve learned which textiles feel comfortable on my skin and suit my lifestyle. This prevents me from buying fabrics I dislike, even if the design looks good.

7. The Rule of Three Outfits: Before buying something new, I make sure I can create at least three different outfits with it.

8. Avoiding Duplication: I check if I already own something similar or if I truly need multiples of a particular item.

9. Balancing Proportions: I focus on creating a harmonious look by understanding balance in clothing.

10. Reflecting My Personality: I ask myself who I am, who I want to be, and how I want to present myself.

11. Lifestyle Alignment: I consider if the item fits my everyday routine and whether I’ll actually use it.
    

It might sound overwhelming, but once you’ve mastered these principles, life becomes so much easier. Dressing is an integral part of our daily lives—it has the power to empower you, boost your confidence, and bring you joy. So, don’t take it for granted. We only live once, so make it a beautiful one!