This holiday season, make a list of all the things you need to ensure that your wardrobe is up-to-date and that you have accessories to pull everything together. Then, when the holiday rush is over and the sales are on, you can head down to your favorite stores and treat yourself to holiday presents.

Most of the things that end up in the back of the closet were bought on sale because that is when we make compromises. "I really wanted fuchsia, but all they had was pale pink," you say. Or, "They didn't have a jacket in the style I love, so I got a blazer jacket instead." A bargain isn't a bargain if you don't wear it.

This year, you won't make compromises or buy things you don't need if you make a list beforehand. Also, think about doing a little reconnaissance work early in the month, so you will know exactly where you want to head when the sales start. Following are the three things you will concentrate on.

COLOR
Color is perhaps the most important factor for tops and jackets. Which colors win you the most compliments? Don't buy anything that isn't in a color that doesn't look great on you. Some colors are more versatile than others. Navy blue spans the season, for example, while "beach" colors may limit you to summer or spring. Solid colors can take you to the beach or the office, while floral prints or wild patterns may have less versatility. When you are looking for precise things, it makes shopping faster and easier. Remember this: don't buy it if you won't get compliments. This means that it will be in your color and your style. And don't buy it if you won't get lots of wear from it. The exception is evening or gala garments. Think twice before buying a garment that needs lots of alterations because alterations may jack the price up considerably.

EXACT STYLES
Decide upon the precise items you need. Maybe you need a jacket or two for work. Go to your closet and see how many jackets or tops you have in "your" colors. If there are a few tops in your best colors, "Jackets" might be at the top of your list. Do you have a great-looking (and fitting!) pair of black pants or a black skirt to stretch your wardrobe? If not, add them to your list. One of the best ways to build your wardrobe is to team jackets with a black skirt or pants. You can make it look like an ensemble or suit by changing the buttons to black. Sale time is the perfect moment to get those expensive pants that flatter the figure. Designer pants just seem to fit better and, therefore, flatter the figure more.

ACCESSORIES
Accessories are what make you look distinctive and polished. Sometimes the greatest suit in the world looks boring without accessories. Here are a few suggestions:

. When your top and bottom garments are in different colors, a pin or brooch in the color of your bottom garment can tie the two pieces together and make it look like an ensemble. I collect pins and great-looking "flowers" in leather or fabric, so that I can tie things together. Add pins or brooches to your list. If you come across a pin that is fabulous and you don't have a skirt to match, get it anyway. You will find a way to wear it soon! Fabric or leather flowers that are in two or three colors can be especially versatile.

. If you have garments that are not in your best colors, think about adding scarves to your list. A scarf in a flattering color can give new life to a jacket or top in a "so-so" color.

. Sale time is the perfect time to pick up a pair of expensive shoes, which often fit better than less expensive ones. I have found that one brand in particular fits me like a glove. The shoes are so comfortable that it is like wearing bedroom slippers. Naturally, they are from an expensive manufacturer. If you have found the same is true, put shoes on your list. And don't forget, when it comes to shoes, simple pumps are your best bet.

. Belts are another fantastic way to smarten up your appearance. A suit or pants without a belt looks ordinary. I am always in the market for quality belts that look great. They last for years, so they offer excellent value. Add belts to your list, and make certain you determine the colors you need beforehand.


Sandy Dumont, THE Image Architect is an image consultant and professional speaker based in Virginia Beach, with 30 years of international and national experience helping individuals and Fortune 500 companies improve their image. She conducts customized Branding for People™workshops on a regular basis.
For more information, visit www.theimagearchitect.com or call 757/627-6669.

To view the original article in Tidewater Women, please visit here  

by Sandy Dumont, THE Image Architect © 2005
Originally published in Tidewater Women, December 2005