The other day I went to visit a client who was struggling to put outfits together. She had all the right pieces in her wardrobe and knew exactly how to combine and style her outfits, but when it came to putting it all together, the overwhelm kicked in and her confidence diminished. 

So what do you do when the thought of putting outfits together becomes so overwhelming you forget everything you’ve learned? You break it down into a step by step process that’s so easy to follow, you forget you were ever stumped in the first place.

Step 1: ChooseYour Base

Start creating your outfit by choosing your base pieces. Not your undergarments (those you pick to suit your base), but your first layer of clothing – top and bottom (or single piece – i.e. dress, jumpsuit). 

Not sure how to choose your base pieces? These can be chosen based upon where you’re going, what you’re doing, climate, how you need to look, how you want to feel or who you want to be. 

They can also be chosen based on which cuts and styles suit your personal style, body shape and proportions, as well as which pieces work together in style, colour and pattern.

Step 2: Add Your Layers and Style

Once you’ve chosen your base pieces, you can add some layers and style your outfit. If you’d prefer to keep your outfit simple and/or the weather or outside temperature doesn’t call for any more pieces of clothing, then skip the layering and go straight to styling.

If you can or would like to add layer(s), how many pieces you add and the choices you make will depend on a variety of things, including the base pieces you chose, the type of outfit you’re trying to create and all the things you considered when choosing your base. 

Once you’re done layering, style your outfit (fold sleeves, roll pants, front tuck, etc.).

Step 3: Accessorize

The simple act of adding just one or two accessories can add pizazz and polish to your outfit. Much like accessorizing a room in your home completes it, the accessories you don also complete your look. Some women don’t take this final and most crucial step and then feel unfinished. 

When most people think of accessories, they automatically think of jewelry. Eye glasses, watches, belts, scarves, hats, handbags, gloves and shoes are more often than not functional pieces, but they’re also considered accessories. Treat them as such and factor in their effect on your whole look when getting dressed.

Now, if you struggle with knowing which base pieces, layers or accessories to choose and how to combine them, don’t worry.I’ve been working on something behind the scenes for a while now and it’s almost complete. It’ll provide you with the tools and knowledge to know exactly which pieces to choose and how to combine them to look your most fabulous self. When it’s ready to go, you’ll be the first to know.

Stay tuned!