Need a New Outfit? Want to Go to School a Little More Stylish? Shop In Your Own Closet

What's Up?

How many times do you say I have nothing to wear, yet both the closet and dresser are full.  Maybe you just need a little imagination or help to see the potential in your own wardrobe.  The foundation of a perfect outfit or the zaa zaa piece that completes an outfit could be hiding in there.

Idea

Take Inventory

Take inventory of what you own.  Group it into the following categories:

  • Clothes that fit and flatter
  • Clothes that with minor alterations can be flattering or worn
  • Clothes for recycling
  • Clothes for discard (stained, worn, torn)

Gain Inspiration

Gain inspiration for new outfits or looks.  Go to the library or on-line and view pictures of clothes in up to date magazines.  Look at use of color combinations, textures, and proportions.  Write down or copy the ones you like.  Bring them back to your closet.

With pictures in hand, go through your closet and see what pieces you own that match.  You might own everything but the sweater, or belt.  A family member might own that piece you are missing and could be willing to trade or let you borrow it.

Be Creative

The item in your closet might only need slight alterations to work.  For less than $10 a tailor might be able to take in a pair of pants.  Or an item might just need updated buttons, or embellishment to be the "item" of the season.

Bring a friend or parent in to help.  They might see more possibilities than you do.

How Does It Help?

Saves Money

By shopping out of your own closet you are spending significantly less on new clothes.  You can now focus your funds on the few items you need to round out your wardrobe.

3 R Concept (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle)

You are reducing your need for new things, and reusing what is in your closet.

Those items that really do not work for you and are in good condition, recycle them to a thrift store or others.

Discarded items also have alternative uses besides filling a landfill.  Used jeans can be made into multiple things.  Flannel makes great cleaning clothes for dusting or polishing.  Silk that is not damaged can be used for doll clothes.

Parent(s)

Your child might need help with this project, depending on their age and skill level.