Missy Blog

When you are in your late teens to early twenties, your entire wardrobe is going to need quite an overhaul. You aren’t going to be able to get away with just shorts, jeans and t-shirts anymore. Out in the working world, depending on where you find employment, you will need a wardrobe that fits your needs ? as well as fits your budget!

During your college career is the perfect time to begin finding your way with fashion. You know what you like, but don’t necessarily have to follow a strict “dress code”, which is common in high schools. Here are some easy tips to follow when choosing your first wardrobe which is all your own:

• Have in mind just what type of “look” you are going for. Browse through fashion magazines, catalogs, and look closely at those in your age group who you feel have a great style. Determine which stores in your area can best fulfill that image by browsing their selections online.
• Know what you need to round out your wardrobe. For example: do you need 5 pairs of dress slacks or 5 skirts? Do you work in an office or are you working in a warehouse? On the weekends, do you frequently relax on the beach or do you enjoy the theatre? All of these factors need to be assessed before you even set foot into a department store.
• Now ? go shopping! Have fun with the experience. Don’t feel pressured to buy on your first trip, but just take in all the various fabrics, colors and clothing pieces. Ask the sales staff questions and for their opinion on the fit of outfits you try on. (You can even take a friend along and have him or her take some digital photos as you try on!) Do not be afraid to try new styles which you believed weren’t for you before.
• Don’t forget to accessorize! Even pieces currently in your wardrobe can be spiced up with a colorful scarf or some inexpensive costume jewelry.
• Keep in mind you will need matching footwear! Shoes should be purchased just like any other part of your wardrobe.

Since you will be on a budget, this process will probably stretch out over several months. Set aside some money each paycheck for wardrobe development, so you will not have to rely on credit for purchases. Purchase items at first that will go with items already in your wardrobe and build from there.

After many fun shopping trips, you will have a completely new wardrobe that is all yours! It won’t happen overnight, but you will be surprised at how quickly you develop a look that is all your own.