As we say farewell to one season and prepare for the one that is already knocking on the door, we suddenly find ourselves filled with the urge to pull out all of last year’s warm weather goods. There’s nothing quite like saying hello again to those beautiful statement pieces we cannot wait to style again.
As fun as our forthcoming fashion show try on session will be, it is arguably more important to shine a light on your trusty wardrobe foundations. We are talking about undergarments, slips and smoothing items, tees and tanks, socks, even your well loved go-to jeans.
Give your wardrobe basics some love
Wardrobe foundations are the building blocks of your wardrobe. They provide the literal foundation you need to make sure that your clothing wears correctly and they fill in the gaps when styling a head to toe look. Ultimately, if the foundation is off, everything else will be too.
The reason that now is the perfect time to evaluate these items in your wardrobe is because in winter we can often get away with foundational pieces that have been through the ringer because they end up under bulky items. A chunky sweater or puffy jacket is all it takes to hide, it’s really quite easy. It’s much better to be proactive about assessing these items before you shed too many layers so that you aren’t caught off guard.
First things first, let’s take a look at the condition of your wardrobe foundations. These garments work do all of the heavy lifting so that your statement pieces can shine.
Your go-to bra getting a little lumpy in the cup? White tees turning an interesting shade of yellow? Consider this your permission slip to recycle and replace. Basics in poor condition can detract from the overall appearance of your outfit, no matter how on-trend or expensive the rest of your pieces may be.
Tees and tanks
When looking at tees of any kind, look specifically at the neckline and underarms for discoloration. Sometimes our beloved tees can pill over time, and you can assess whether a pilling shaver will do the trick, or if it is beyond saving. Leave it to Martha Stewart offer 9 ways to repurpose your old tees so that they get the encore they deserve.
You can also take a moment to make sure you still like the style of your tees. With so many these days to choose from, having the right style in your wardrobe is just as important as the condition. Do boxy fits feel best? Are your tees too long making it difficult to style them? Do you like the sleeve length? Do you like the thickness of the cotton? Getting clear on these preferences can ensure that the basics you have actually resonate with your style.
Jeans and shorts
Jeans and shorts frequently show wear in places like the crotch, the pockets can come loose, and belt loops can come detached. While pockets and belt loops can be reattached, wear in the thighs is more difficult to repair. You can confer with your local mending business to see if repair is possible, or take to YouTube for a DIY approach.
Don’t forget to check for stains, especially on light wash or white denim. We imagine the last thing you want to communicate to the world as you run around town is that you forgot to do your laundry. Here are some tips and tricks for dealing with pesky, set in stains.
The Unmentionables
Just because we can’t see your unmentionables, doesn’t mean they don’t deserve attention. There’s nothing like an ill-fitting bra to take away the magic from your best outfits. Try on all of your bras and undies to make sure the quality is still holding strong. Does the band still fit, or are you finding that you are using the last set of hooks and it is still a little loose? Evaluate your straps, are they holding where they are supposed to be? We recommend getting a professional bra fitting once a year to make sure you are getting the right kind of support. Check your area for a local, professional boutique that offers fittings, or you can go to a Nordstrom near you for reliable help.
You also want to make sure that your underwear is still “wearing” as it is meant to. Are seams and bands stretched out? Do they cut in your body in uncomfortable ways? And, are they the right type for the garments in your wardrobe? Meaning, if you wear a lot of form fitting or thinner materials, make sure your underwear is smooth, rather than bulky, or else you run the risk of them being “visible” through your clothing.
Practical layers count too
Many items we wear require undergarments like slips, or maybe you like the way it feels to wear smoothing garments as well. These heavy hitters often feel like an afterthought, but because they support the rest of your outfit in coming to life, you really want to make sure these are in good condition and that they still work as intended.
When it comes to replacing items, we encourage our clients invest in high-quality basics that maintain their integrity over time, because they have to replace them less frequently – and also lends itself to sustainability. And, we are now seeing more of a trend toward underwear in all or mostly natural materials, rather than something like polyester that doesn’t give you the breathability that you need.
Addressing fit challenges and strategies
Now that we have evaluated for condition, it’s time to address the fit. Even if an item is in pristine condition, if it doesn’t fit, it’s just not going to work. Our magical bodies change and evolve over time, and what once might have been a great fit may not be so great now.
Try on your go-to pieces and take notes. There is nothing wrong with needing to adjust your sizing up or down depending on what you’ve been through. Or, maybe your size hasn’t changed but the way you want your clothing to fit you has changed. Are you interested in going up a size for a slightly looser, relaxed fit? Would you prefer your tee to be more fitted than last year? Perhaps a size down would accomplish that. It is less about the number or letter on the size tag, and more about how you want a garment to wear on your body.
If you end up with garments that are in great condition but simply don’t need or want to replace, we recommend considering donating them to a local clothing organization that provides support to those who need it most. Clothing resale is also growing, with platforms like Poshmark, ThredUp, TheRealReal, Depop, and more, if you want to try to make a little extra for your new purchases. (Note that items like underwear are not a good fit for resell).
Finding your best fit
Struggling with fit is an extremely common issue, as clothing used to be made for real, human bodies but are now made with mass production in mind. It’s less about the body and more about reaching a quota. Bodies are not at fault for fit challenges, but acknowledging that doesn’t make it any easier. While we will always advocate for developing a relationship with your local tailor, we also have digital guides geared toward supporting you find the best fit for your style and your body. Specifically, our Denim Guide covers best jeans by body shape, Style Archetype, and seasonal palette, so you’re covered on all fronts.
Wardrobe basics: questions to think about
Are there wardrobe foundations in your closet that you just aren’t grabbing? If so, think about the why. Does it fit, do you still like it? Do you not know how to wear it? We totally understand, been there and done that (repeatedly). First of all, try it on. This goes back to our point about fit. If it fits, the next step would be to shop your closet. We know it sounds like an interesting concept, but giving yourself the time to try your items on in different ways can lead to some great discoveries.
As you’re giving your basics the once-over, think about whether they still vibe with your current lifestyle. Maybe you’ve entered into a new work environment, or perhaps comfy chic is more your jam these days. Whatever the case may be, you deserve to have clothing that not only looks good, but feels appropriate for what you have going on that also gives you the confidence to show up.
That said, updating your wardrobe basics provides you with the perfect opportunity to slow down and take a moment to get to know yourself again. Has your body changed? Do you feel like your outside appearance doesn’t match the inside? Do you feel like you need direction or support? Asking these questions can help you gain clarity on your goals.
You don’t have to go through it alone
We know that these questions can get heavy fast. The good news is, you don’t actually have to go through it on your own if you don’t want to. In our last newsletter, we reiterated the point that you don’t actually have to buy new things in order to work with a stylist, and that is a point that often gets lost in the shuffle. Two of our core services (available for existing clients who have gone through our foundational services) are geared toward focusing on what you already have: a Virtual Closet Edit and a Power Hour session.
Virtual Closet Edit
A Virtual Closet Edit prompts you to comb through your wardrobe (clients of this service receive a detailed PDF guide full of our professional guidance), document your keepers in our digital wardrobe platform, say goodbye to the things that no longer work for you, and have a Zoom session with your stylist to discuss the process, your findings, and problem solve your challenges. It’s like having your stylist in your closet with you to support you in getting to the bottom of everything, wardrobe foundations included.
Virtual Power Hour Session
A Power Hour session is a newer offering that we are very excited to offer. While it works best for clients who have already gone through a Virtual Closet Edit, it is available to existing clients who haven’t as well. This service is an opportunity to talk through literally anything regarding your wardrobe, styling challenges, fit woes, or simply getting clear on what your style goals are. After an hour long video session with your stylist, you’ll receive a follow up with stylist approved strategies for moving forward.
Click here to book these services.
Building a wardrobe that works
Revisiting your wardrobe foundations regularly ensures that you have what you need when you need it. Having these trusted items also supports you in building outfits, whether its for every day or a special occasion. Being prepared equals less stress, and that is the ultimate ideal scenario. Consider this your friendly reminder not to sleep on your foundations.
