The Basics of Pre-Styling Your Wardrobe That Are Not So Basic

The season of lightness is here, take advantage for a pivotal reset with my 5-step method; beach body not required

Jun 06, 2024

My clients want a more mature and gracefully styled version of themselves, playful and edgy without the usual clutter or confusion.

Organizing your wardrobe and pre-styling your closet is hard for many reasons. Lack of time, size fluctuations, emotional attachment, decision fatigue, limited storage space, changing seasons, shopping habits, and lack of organizational skills can make getting into the routine daunting. With summer’s slower pace, we have a rare opportunity to reset our priorities.

Here is my 5-step method to pre-style your wardrobe, prep for upcoming events, and make organization a habit. The key to looking pulled together and glamorous is not a perfectly sized body — it’s an organized wardrobe. But it's not just about managing; it's about pre-planning your outfits like a pro. Let's dive in.

Step 1: Control the volume by editing what is irrelevant for the next 3-4 months. Join the circular economy and sell quality brands you’ve outgrown or give you a distinct feeling of NO. Donate when your cup is overflowing, and store ‘forever’ items out of sight. Remember that holding on is based on fear. Stay positive that you will have what you need when the time comes. Making a wardrobe out of what you already own and streamlining that process begins with a “less is more” attitude rooted in your present needs. Creativity is also a renewable energy source.

Step 2: Grab your calendar, look at the next two months, and consider the season. What special events, meetings, or casual day agendas are coming up? List it out if that helps, and do not judge your physical needs. This will help you achieve an “authentic” personal style. So many great stylists (myself included) started by addressing a perceived handicap (I am 5’2” with a pear shape). Be kind to yourself, and your confidence will expand. There is something innovative, alluring, and chic for everyone. Self-love is about Joy in the present moment, not a fix-it list for the future.

Step 3: Plan your outfits accordingly. Mix and match pieces, noting what you need. Lay out your look to assess the accessories and color palette. Make sure it works well for your desired effect. Take photos to remind yourself. Then, hang your looks near each other so your closet matches your style goals. Is your goal to look like a Vogue Editor or West Coast Bohemian? What story are you telling? Pre-styling saves time in the morning and money in the long run. Fill in any gaps with a prize purchase or the simplest basic, depending on your budget. In summer, it may just be new white tees and shoes, which are always a potent game changer.

Step 4: Keep your wardrobe organized. Invest in slimline hangers, shelving, bins, and under-the-bed storage solutions. Ensure everything has its place; the aim is to see what you need quickly. Putting in the time to create organizational systems is critical to consistently keeping up with organizing and pre-styling.

Step 5: Regular maintenance. Take a few minutes to review your outfits for the upcoming week. Adjust, and if something needs cleaning, pressing, or mending, tend to it immediately. Your future self will thank you.

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Bottom line? Pre-styling and organizing help you take inventory of what you have and prevent you from overbuying or feeling that you “have nothing to wear.” It saves you time and ensures you're confident in what you have. You will feel abundant, clear, liberated, and pulled together.

Try it out, and let me know your questions. As always, contact me for personalized help here. I adore organizing closets to pre-style your looks and would LOVE to work with you.

The Basics of Pre-Styling Your Wardrobe That Are Not So Basic

The season of lightness is here, take advantage for a pivotal reset with my 5-step method; beach body not required

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