Style Basics: How to Choose an Outfit

You might be looking at the title of this post feeling like you’ve totally already mastered this topic. If this were a real-life scenario and I told you I was going to explain how to pick out an outfit, then the convo would probably go down like this:

You: How to choose an outfit? Pssh… I’ve already got that down. Come on, now. I mean, how basic is that?!

Me: It’s incredibly basic. But, let me ask you a question: How many minutes do you spend staring into your closet each day thinking, WHAT DO I WEAR?!

You: (*crickets*) Um…

Me: That’s what I thought!

You see, no one ever goes over this most basic topic. I used to stare into my closet for hours in search of something to wear if time allowed. Now, I have guidelines. Let’s talk about ‘em, ‘kay?

1. Come up with a system. You are not going to know what you have unless you know where you keep it. Make sure you come up with a system for organizing your clothes so you remember to wear everything you own, not just what’s conveniently placed. Whether that’s organizing your closet by color and style, or having a dresser drawer for every type of clothing, keep things systematic to get the most out of your fashions.

2. Come up with a plan. Some people like to dress on instinct in the morning (skilled people… I am not one of them). Some prefer to pick out there clothes the night before so they aren’t hurriedly trying to get an outfit together before work or school. Find out what works best for you, and stick to a routine.

3. Think cohesion. If you get flustered while picking out clothes, then you’re in good company. Sometimes, you just can’t find the right ______ to complete your look. So, work toward cohesion — a connective thread that keeps you looking polished. Whether it’s a light brown threaded throughout the look in your heels, belt and watch or working within a color family, like cool teals, turquoises and purples, find a link that pieces your look together without having to match, match, match.

4. Dress based on mood. Don’t fight your mood. If you’re feeling like a standout, go with bold colors, a maxi dress, pair of platform wedges, etc. If you’re feeling like you’d rather walk over hot coals than put together a fully accessorized look, then work leggings, an oversize tee, a jean jacket and wayfarers for a comfy-and-cute vibe. If you’re not in the mood for a certain outfit, then don’t force it. You’ll feel miserable and look it, too.

5. Have a go-to outfit. I always have a back-up outfit in my closet — one fail-safe look I can turn to if I go to pick out an ensemble and find myself completely stumped, tearing my hair out. I suggest that you do the same. Keep one look in your wardrobe that you always, always feel great in, and save if for days when you sorely need it. Those days will come around (big test, major work presentation, important social event), and having an outfit you can always turn to is like comfort food on a cold, rainy day — amazing, and so necessary.