Photo: Oleksandr Pidvalnyi
Do you feel like you're stuck in a fashion rut? Are you tired of buying clothes that only last for one season? If so, you're not alone. Many people find themselves in this situation, and it can be tough to know where to start when it comes to building a timeless and functional wardrobe. In this article, we will discuss some tips that can help you get started!
What is a Timeless Wardrobe?
Before talking about the tips, it's important to understand what a timeless wardrobe is. A timeless wardrobe is a collection of clothes that are not trend-dependent. This means that they can be worn year after year, and they will never go out of style. Timeless pieces are typically made from high-quality materials, and they are often neutral in color. Now that we've defined what a timeless wardrobe is, let's move on to how you can build one.
Understanding the colors:
This is the first and most important tip when it comes to building a timeless wardrobe. You need to understand colors, so you can buy clothes that go well with a wide range of other clothing pieces and last longer.
When it comes to colors, there are three categories:
- Neutral colors: black, white, gray
- Basic colors: brown, tan, camel, olive
- Accent colors: red, yellow, purple, pink
Most of your wardrobe should be made up of neutral and basic colors. These are the colors that will last you for years to come. You can then use accent colors to add a pop of color and personality to your outfit. Including makeup is another way to incorporate colors into your fashion – check my article on how to make your beauty routine more affordable.
Photo: Liza Summer
Comfort never goes out of style:
When you feel good (and comfy) about what you're wearing, it shows. You move with ease, your posture improves, and you radiate a certain self-assuredness. This doesn't mean sacrificing your style entirely – it's about finding that sweet spot where comfy and chic collide into one ensemble.
Think relaxed fit, cozy fabrics, and weatherproof clothing with some polishes, and more classic details. Flowy dress with a pair of timeless sneakers, tailored joggers with a polished top, or Weekend Offender Shorts with a tank top and espadrilles: the options are countless! When comfort meets your personal style, you create a look that's both timeless and authentically you.
Don't forget the basics:
When you're building a timeless wardrobe, it's important to remember the basics. These are the pieces that you will wear over and over again. They are versatile and easy to style. And, they will last you for years to come.
Some of the basics that you should have in your wardrobe include:
- A well-fitting pair of jeans – check out Maplestore for some visual examples;
- A white t-shirt;
- A black dress;
- A blazer;
- A pair of nude heels.
These are just a few of the basics that you should have in your wardrobe. Of course, you can (and should) add more pieces as you see fit. But, these are the essentials that you need to create a timeless wardrobe that you love.
Choose quality over quantity:
This is another important tip when it comes to building a timeless wardrobe. It's better to have a few high-quality pieces than a bunch of cheaply made clothes. When you buy quality clothes, they will last longer and look better. They are also typically more comfortable to wear.
So, how do you know if a piece of clothing is high quality? There are a bunch of different things you can start looking for:
- The fabric: is it made from a natural fiber like cotton, wool, or linen? Or is it made from a synthetic fiber like polyester?
- The stitching: are the seams straight and even? Are there any loose threads?
- The details: are the buttons securely sewn on? Are the zippers in good condition?
Pay attention to fit:
The next tip is to pay attention to fit. This is something that many people overlook, but it's important. But how does it help build a timeless wardrobe? Well, if you pay attention to fit, you will be able to buy clothes that flatter your body type. This will make you look and feel your best and you won't feel the need to upgrade your wardrobe very often. When you're trying on clothes, pay attention to the following:
- Shoulders: the seams should sit on the edge of your shoulders;
- Bust: make sure there is no gaping or pulling;
- Waist: the waistline of the clothing should sit at your natural waist;
- Hips: the garment should skim over your hips;
- Length: the hemline should hit you at the right spot (varies depending on the garment)
Define your style and stick to it:
This is another important tip when it comes to building a timeless wardrobe — define your style and stick to it. However, this doesn't automatically mean you can't look up to new fashion trends. But, in general, you should know what kind of clothes you feel most comfortable in. This will make it easier for you to build a wardrobe that you love and that you will want to wear for years to come.
If you're not sure what your style is, take a look at your current wardrobe. What clothes do you like wearing most often? What kind of clothes make you feel your best? Do you use accessories like classic round glasses, pearl necklaces, or huge earrings for a regal look? Once you have a good understanding of your personal style, you can start building a timeless wardrobe that reflects who you are.
Photo: Liza Summer
Consider trans-seasonal clothes:
If your area's climate is relatively constant, then it's easy to build a timeless wardrobe. But, if you live in an area with a lot of seasonal changes, then you need to be a little more strategic.
One way to do this is to invest in trans-seasonal clothes. These are pieces that can be worn in multiple seasons. For example, a light sweater can be worn in spring and fall. Or, a pair of shorts that can be worn with tights in winter.
By investing in trans-seasonal clothes, you can get more use out of the pieces in your wardrobe. And, you won't have to buy a whole new wardrobe every time the seasons change.
Take proper care of your clothes:
Last but not least, it's important to take proper care of your clothes. This will make your favorite pieces look better, stay in good condition, and serve you as long as possible.
Here are a few tips for taking care of your clothes:
- Wash them according to the instructions on the label. Here’s a guide on understanding laundry symbols.
- Be careful when you're ironing or steaming them. That's because you can easily damage the fabric.
- Store them in a cool, dry place. This is important because moisture can damage your clothes (via mold and mildew).
Cost-Effective Clothing: Look Good, Spend Less
Building a stylish and, at the same time, cost-effective wardrobe is absolutely possible! The key lies in prioritizing cost-per-wear over impulse buys. Before heading to the store, critically examine your closet and identify versatile pieces you can mix and match. This will help you pinpoint exactly what gaps need filling. When shopping, focus on quality materials and classic styles that won't go out of fashion quickly. A well-made cotton tee or a tailored blazer might cost more upfront, but they'll last for years and can be dressed up or down for countless occasions.
Embrace the thrill of the hunt for pre-loved treasures! Thrift stores and consignment shops are goldmines for unique finds at a fraction of the retail price. Look for items in good condition with timeless silhouettes. You can even unearth designer pieces for a fraction of the cost. With a little creativity, you can transform pre-loved garments into personalized staples, adding a unique touch to your cost-effective wardrobe.
Summary...
Building a timeless wardrobe doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. By following these simple tips, you can easily create a wardrobe that you love and that will last you for years to come. It may demand some research, high attention to detail, and your precious time. But, in exchange, you'll receive something more than a rack of dull clothing – a comfortable and functional wardrobe you love wearing!
Lots of love,
Liz
