I do my best each season to clean out my closet, beauty bag and beauty containers. This way I don't feel as guilty splurging for new items. Also, when you donate your goods, you can deduct them at the end of the year. Cool, huh? It's like cash just sitting around in your closet collecting dust. If you aren't into that, having multiple yard sales through the year is another great resource for turning a profit on things you no longer need, want or use. The other end of this is by visiting various yard sales or visiting your local thrift shop, you can find new goods at low prices. There are some consignment stores that do this, but sometimes they can be as expensive as the name brand store itself.
With Fall approaching, don't focus too much on which trends are floating around. Some of those trends are very ill fitting on a curvy woman and it is better to stock up on the basics while adding a hint of color, pattern or personality to each outfit.
Work Basics: Fitted jackets, great slacks and skirts, cute flats and modest heels - It's good to have various pieces that can be mixed and matched together, that way you will never run out of things to wear. You can always throw in various pattern tights for a fun twist in the office.
Casual Basics: If you are a demin kind of woman, invest in a quality pair of jeans. It can be very hard to find jeans that fit. I personally hate them but to each their own. It is better to invest in a more expensive pair that fits you well because it will last longer. If you opt for something cheaper, be prepared for it to fade and not last more than a year. Other basics to remember are thin and thick style tops that can be layered that are various sleeve length. Here in the North East part of the US, our Fall weather can be just about anything from somewhat warm days to very cold nights before winter sets in. Be ready! Hoodies and sweatshirts are great for those cool nights but look for something more put together. Save the super casual stuff for nights in at home.
Dressy Basics: Wedding season isn't just once a year anymore, it can be all year round for some. It's important to have some cocktail dresses stocked in your closet just in case. I can't count how many times I have had to rush to a store in search of something to wear to a formal occasion. It's a pain, it's annoying and it's unnecessary. Buying a few key items that you can switch things up by adding a scarf, new shoes or great jewelry helps and extends the life of the items in your closet. I like to browse and shop at the end of a season when things are on sale or already on clearance. You'd be surprised at how a cardigan or blazer can change a dress or how opaque tights can warm you up but also slim you down. Give a shot - be bold!
Makeup Basics: Play with new colors that blend well with neutrals for your skin tone that can go from day to night or meetings to that great dinner date. A time saver for your makeup routine is to do basic foundation, eye liner, mascara, and your favorite color lip gloss or lipstick. This fall, deep crimson and various mauve's can be your best friend through either lip gloss or lip stick.
Remember to have some fun when it comes to fashion and keep it tasteful. It is more important to showcase who you are versus what item you have on your body.
You are timeless and unique.
