InStyle Wardrobe Solutions

Begin by sorting what you own into three categories: Clothes and accessories that you love but are tired of wearing, clothes you never wear or that don't fit and likely never will (be honest!), and everything else. Put the first group on hiatus in clearly marked tubs or pins and store until you're ready to rotate them back in. Decide on an exit strategy for the middle group. Then look to boutiques for inspiration and arrange the rest like pros: first by style and then by color. You can also create separate sections based on your lifestyle-- work and weekend, or day and night. Remember, maintenance is an ongoing process: Try to edit on a smaller scale monthly. GENIUS TIP Use attractive serving trays for necklaces, brooches, and other baubles.…

It's time to play favorites. Pick out your 10 most beloved items-- think unique one-offs, not staples-- and lay them on the floor. Ask yourself what they have in common. Are these similarities a sign you need to shake things up, or do they indicate styles you should stick with? Shape Are all your favorite skirts A-line? Then you might want to think twice about snapping up a pencil silhouette (which is more constricting). But by the same token, if you reached for the same beaded halter throughout the fall, you could consider that cut in a vibrant pattern for spring. Color Check to see whether your top 10 have a cohesive palette. New purchases should be in a complementary hue so your wardrobe continues to work together. However, if…

Flip through InStyle to decide which trends you're most excited about. Experiment with a new length in your signature shade, perhaps, or integrate pattern into a silhouette you know flatters you. When you're considering what to buy, don't be afraid to step a little out of your comfort zone. Envisioning yourself in at least one piece that's totally different from anything else you own will help keep you from falling into a style rut. Finally, be sure to pull out your datebook and scan for any big evemts on the horizon-- weddings, graduations, bridal showers, or other parties. If you don't already have an outfit, think about how you want to look on those occasions, taking into consideration the destination and the dress code. SELLING ONLINE There are all kinds…

Here comes the fun part! InStyle’s fashion editors—seasoned pros at combing the racks—share their best advice for anyone ready to hit the mall. Fly solo Shopping with girlfriends is a blast, but if you want to focus, go alone. Be prepared Bring Spanx, special bras (backless, strapless), heels, and anything else you slip under an outfit. They’ll help you make an honest assessment of potential purchases while you’re still in the store. Know your limits Don’t shop for more than two or three hours. After that, resolve has been shown to weaken, especially if you’re feeling discouraged. You don’t need to find everything in one trip. Start fresh another day. Love it or leave it If you don’t absolutely adore a blouse or necklace in the boutique, don’t lay down…

Now that your new wardrobe is complete, take a day to put together some reliable go-to ensembles. Lay them out from head to toe (including accessories), then photograph, print, and post the images inside (or near) your closet. Remember the combinations that get the most compliments and move them to the top of the pile. This will make it simple and quick to get dressed when you’re in a rush. To help you generate more ideas, design a mood board and tack up magazine pages and other examples of looks you want to test. If you’re still not quite sure of a few pairings, email some shots to a friend whose style you love and ask for her opinion. GENIUS TIP Roll pairs of underwear to keep them separated and…

Double-stick tape If you can’t sew, this is an easy way to create a hem. Or use it to close a gaping shirt or to keep straps in place. Handheld steamer It’s so much easier— and more fabric-friendly— than ironing. Lint roller A must. Not only is an adhesive-tape tool brilliant at picking up fuzz, it also works wonders on pet hair. Needle & thread Use for a popped button or tiny split. Nipple covers If you’re going braless, these discreet pads keep you concealed. Safety pins Have both large and small versions on hand for last-minute adjustments. Small scissors Clip tags and loose strings. Seam ripper Opens pockets and other items that arrive sewn shut. Static eliminator Unless cling is your thing. Stain remover Erase spots the instant they…