The Question:
Dear Belinda,
Happy New Year! I’ve been wearing the same clothes since I got out of college (2 years ago), and now that we’ve entered 2012, I want to take the opportunity to redefine my style. What are your tips for finding a new look and rebuilding my wardrobe?
Thanks,
Ellie M.
Belinda Says…
Dear Ellie,
Happy New Year to you as well! I still don’t know where 2011 went, but thank goodness for a new year and new opportunities! While the most popular New Year’s resolutions usually entail getting fit, losing weight or quitting habits, the New Year is a great time to refresh your style. Here are my tips for redefning your personal look and how to find inspiration:
1. Assess Your Wardrobe. Before you buy anything new, head to your closet and evaluate what you currently own. You’ll find that some items may not fit the way they used to, are outdated, or simply aren’t your style anymore. Decide what you want to keep, donate, or, if it’s a complete wreck, throw away. Be critical and keep only what you know you will wear and love to wear.
2. Make A Basics Shopping List. After you clean out the old and make room for the new, start jotting down a basic list of must-haves to get you started. If you need a new jacket, pair of jeans, dressy flats or what-have you, put it on the list. You can never go wrong with basic pieces, as these serve as the foundation of any wardrobe.
3. Start Browsing and Exploring. Once you have your list of basic items, start browsing for inspiration. Fashion magazines, style blogs, and sites like Pinterest offer a plethora of fresh ideas that can inspire and help you define your style personality. If you find yourself gravitating towards similar colors, trends and style icons, then make note. This will help you out when you go shopping for a new wardrobe.
4. Try On and Experiment. Once you’re at the store, try on everything and anything that catches your eye. That blouse may be brighter than you’d like, but if you’re curious, try it on. It may just become your next favorite item. Always make sure that what you wear flatters your figure; it may be on trend, but perhaps may not compliment your frame. Always try before you buy.
5. Own It and Rock It. So what if what you’re wearing is funky and eclectic (or minimalistic and muted). If you’re comfortable in it and you know you look and feel great wearing it, then that’s all that matters. The most important part of defining your personal style is wearing what makes you feel good. Fashion is an expression of who you are, not the next person, so own your look and rock it!
Hope these tips help you find the look and style that’s right for you. Have fun with it and don’t be afraid to switch it up every once in a while. 
Happy Stylin’,
Belinda
Have a question for Belinda? Send an email to belinda [at] smarter.com with all of your fashion inquiries. I may not be able to answer everyone’s questions, but I will try to get to as many as possible. Be sure to stay tuned for next week’s Ask Belinda Column, the next one may be yours!
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