(to the Ladies...)
I'm doing a lot of online shopping these days because I have a bum leg. Too much time on the treadmill I suppose, but now I can barely walk. So, for now I have my purchases delivered to me. Not such a bad thing, really. Other than the fact that about 50% of them are NOT what they appeared to be in the pic on the website. It still feels like Christmas to unwrap the box, seconds after the UPS man has left, ripping into the tissue, packing peanuts flying all about... Will it be cute? Will it suck? Will Hubby cut me off from online shopping once and for all? Probably...since he has to be the one to take the Returns back to the UPS since I, Gimpy, cannot walk.
I will never be finished shopping. Never. I don't do Spring shopping, or Fall shopping. I am always shopping, I always “need” something. (If Hubs reads this his eyeballs will surely roll completely out of his skull, as you could not fit another thread into the closet that we share.... yes share!) I know many of you can relate to this.... “need”, and have your favorite online shopping sites minimized in the corner of your screen.
(need= bras and panties. “need” = want really bad to wear this weekend!)
Others of you cringe at the thought of going out, elbowing your way through the masses, to desperately weed through rack upon rack of clothing, trying to find something, anything, that doesn't make you look washed out, doesn't make your arms look flabby, doesn't give you uniboob, does give you a waist, and doesn't make you butt look big. And if you can find all these things in one store and in less than an hour, even better. Some of you, and you know who you are, will keep these items for years. YEARS. This, ladies, is shameful.
I know you're about to type your comments that you have these items in your closet, that they are still in good condition, and they still fit and … guess what... they're in style again! NO. They are not. That is a lie. Stop typing and let's go shopping.
But, before we do, here's what needs to happen!
Closet Clean-out: First, put away Winter items for storage. Focus on Spring and Summer garments. Items that must go: stained, with holes, not worn in 2 years, very faded colors, sweaters with pilling (tiny yarn balls), items that no longer fit. Also purge your wardrobe of items that were very trendy, from seasons past. (PLEASE, these hurt my eyes.) Keep your basics, simple skirts and pants. They will last for several years, but tops with funky sleeves and necklines or embellishments have GOT to go. If possible find a place in your area that will give you cash for gently used clothing. In NY we have Beacons Closet, and there are Buffalo Exchange locations all over the US.
Ensemble Assessment: This part is fun, but time consuming. You'll be glad you did it though, on those mornings when you're standing in front of your closet, in your bra and panties for 20 minutes, saying over and over that you have nothing to wear. This is where you put outfits together using, hopefully, everything you have in your Spring/Summer wardrobe. If you have the time, and the desire, try them on and take a picture to reference later! Be creative, mix and match. If you are repeating an item in many outfits, make a note of it as something that you need to shop for another one of. If items don't get used at all, add them to the purge pile.
Research and Reference: Save pictures from magazines and search the internet for runway shots or pics of celebrities with styles that you'd like to emulate. Perhaps you've always dressed a certain way but would like to gradually change your look, you can do it, a few items at a time. Looking at other peoples' styles can help. It's important to dress in a way that makes you feel most like YOU!
Ideal Items: Invest your money in good quality basic items. Your basic items will last through the seasons, if you keep them basic!
Here are a few item suggestions: Basic pants (slim fit, or straight leg) and skirts (pencil or a-line), that can be dressed up or worn casual in a dark color or khaki. A lightweight double or single-breasted trench coat with removable hood if you live in a rainy climate. Black, navy or khaki works well with most wardrobes, or if you're more of a pop color girl, a ruby red is great too! Lightweight cardigans of various body and sleeve lengths, keeping colors bold and bright, as pastels look a little like Granny. A button front, white woven top of any sleeve length, worn by itself or layered, is a great Spring basic as well.
Fabulous Finish: Once you have your basics the rest is just fun. You still want to make sure the items you purchase work back into outfits within your wardrobe, and that each item is something that is cohesive with the look that you are seeking, and makes you feel like YOU when you wear it! Don't forget to leave room (funds) for accessories! For Spring/Summer 2009 the chunkier the better! Look for oversized bangle bracelets and large stone necklaces, layer them on, the more the better!
All Alone?: Bring an honest friend. Or perhaps you'd like to bring me?! While your BFF knows what you always wear and will help you select items that are in your comfort zone. I'll select items that suit your skin tone, eye color, hair and body type, and will consider your lifestyle as well as your personal style goals!
Pigeon Purchase: I would love to shop with you!
For Friends: let's go anytime, you'll just have to push me around NYC on a dolly!
For Acquaintances: let's go once bum leg is healed!
For Friends-to be: contact me for details!
There is lots of shopping to do, ladies! I know some of you are wearing things that you purchased in the early 90's, I see you on the streets in your faded florals and your high water khakis. And don't tell me those are capris... you'd better be leaving me a comment about when we'll be getting together to hit the stores! I'm waiting!
