Fashion is something I love, there’s no doubt about it [you’re looking at the girl who made a career out of it]. But a piece of fashion that I DON’T love is not wearing items I bought because they’re no longer in style. Trends are constantly changing, which means our closets are constantly evolving as well! New trend in, old trend out, right?

I have a habit of seeing a new trend, scooping up several items in that print or style, and then only wearing them for a season or two. And if you’re like me, you didn’t exactly pick them up at the local second hand store- you spent some hard-earned money on those pieces and now they’re just sitting in the back of your closet getting no love. We want to change that.

Moving forward, try to incorporate trends in other ways, like accessories, that are less expensive! That way, we’re keeping our investment pieces items that will be staples for years to come!

So today we’re going to walk through our virtual closets together and understand how we can shop intentionally to keep our closets timeless [while still incorporating trends]!

Outta Here!

First up, let’s talk about trends that are on their way out. A year or two ago, we saw a ton of these items, but now we’re seeing them less and less. I’d consider that to be a clear sign that it’s time to start donating these styles. Many people already have establishments they choose to donate their used clothing to, but if you’re looking for something new to try, consider one of these ideas! Get together with girlfriends to host a clothing swap or donate to a local chapter of Dress for Success, like the LIY team did recently! Let’s start going through those closets!

It’s time to get rid of…

• Bell Sleeves – Let’s try to make the sleeves a liiiiiitle less flowy.
• Cut out / Cold Shoulders – While we love to show off those shoulders, try doing so with an off the shoulder style instead!
• Layered Ruffles – Say no to ruffles on clothes. Say yes to Ruffles potato chips. Sour cream and cheddar, to be specific 😉
• Chunky, Statement Necklaces – Try replacing your big statement necklaces with more delicate, layering necklaces!

However, all this to say, if you love it then girlfriend, you should rock it! Don’t let me or any fashion magazine tell you what you should or shouldn’t be wearing! If it makes you feel good, that’s what’s most important!

Classic Closet Staples

Now onto the closet staples. This is where I’d suggest spending a bit more for quality, because these items aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. As long as you buy them in a classic style that’s not ultra-trendy, you’re going to be wearing it for years to come.

Be sure your closet has…

• A Denim Jacket [this is my favorite]
• A Little Black Dress
• A White Tee [see our favorites here]
• Black Work Pants [these are my favorite]
• A Classic Blazer [this is my favorite]
• A Faux Leather Jacket
• Black Pumps [these are my favorites] 
• A Black or Cognac Tote
• A Pair of Jeans You Love [this is my favorite pair] 
  

Trendy Items

If you want to incorporate trends, do so in small ways, like belts, jewelry, bags, shoes, and  affordable tops! That way you’re spending more money on your long-term pieces, and less on items that you may not have around as long! Examples of a few items that are currently trending are snake skin [leopard is still in if that’s more your style!], longer cardigans, and statement earrings! Check out more examples below!

Now that you have the tools that you need for a little closet evaluation, it’s time to get rid of what’s on it’s way out, and make some space for the timeless pieces!

Erin Schrader

Founder and creator of LIY, Erin turned her dream of a hobby blog into a full-time career which she now runs alongside the LIY team! When not in front of her computer screen [with a La Croix or wine in hand] or in front of a mirror taking mirror selfies, you can find Erin spending time on the water, cuddled up with her two pups and husband most likely watching the latest Shark Tank episode, or getting lost in an easy beach read.