Many of us ladies like to change things up. Every once in a while, we like to update our look or change the way we do things. Quite often, this can result in a bit of excess, adding to an already full closet or brimming drawers.

How can we change the way we look, how we dress or put ourselves together, without adding more? How can we update our look with less?

Light Hand

Some of us can be a bit heavy handed with the makeup. There’ll be times when I put my makeup on in the dim morning light, only to be absolutely mortified when I see myself in the full morning sun.

There’s also a point as we age, where the makeup we once used to put on to make us look older no longer serves us. I’m well past that point and notice that a lighter hand works wonders in keeping me from looking 10 years older.

If you happen to be one of the heavy handed, try putting a little less on and see what happens. You might be surprised to see that in the case, less truly is more.

Pick Just One 

If you like to stay on top of the trends, then you probably get quite excited at the start of a new season. So many trends to choose from – so few days to try them. I’ve seen some women so excited with all their new options, that they pile many trends into one outfit. Hmm.

How about just trying one trend at a time? And not even a whole look, but just adding one piece to an existing outfit. That way, the piece you do choose will be highlighted. It’s a simpler and subtler way of making a statement without actually making a STATEMENT.

Take it Off

Easy tiger. This ain’t no strip club. Many years ago, Coco Chanel  said something to the effect of: before you leave the house, take one thing off. I’m not sure of the exact wording or reference but the idea lives on.

These days, it’s very popular to layer. Necklaces, bracelets, clothing – whatever works. I’m guilty of it myself. Sometimes we women (OK, me) can overdo the layering. Most days I look like a jewelry sales rep.

So how do you know when you’re layering too much? Well, just take one thing off. And with clothing, if you’re starting to look bulky or resemble the Michelin Man, you’ve gone too far.

A Penny Saved

We’re very fortunate in Canada to have numerous fashion retailers in a variety of price points to choose from. No longer is fashion available to only those who can afford it.

This season, if you’re looking to update your look, how about hitting one of the less expensive retailers to pick up a few pieces. Not only will you save money, but if the look isn’t right, you won’t feel obligated to wear it.

Work Your Closet

Another great way of updating your look for less is to spend nothing at all. If you’re a creature of habit, you might have a tendency to wear the same pieces of clothing together every single time. Try changing it up a bit and mix your outfits. Don’t worry about being too matchy-matchy. It seems that these days, anything goes.