How to put outfits together

I pulled most of this from my post about how to get dressed but this one is just about how to put outfits together.

How to put outfits together is where many of my clients struggle most.

My ladies have plenty of clothing and accessories but they don’t know how to put them together into outfits.

There is a science to it!

OUTFITS

Here’s what I regard as the Winning Outfit Formula:

I use this formula often. This is what I wore to teach a “Blogging for Business” workshop for the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce Small Business Expo in 2012.

Your “completer piece” (especially if you live in a warm climate) can also be a scarf, wrap, headband or even a fun belt.

It just adds that extra pizzazz that pulls an outfit together and says, “I’m making an effort!”

This jeans and tee would be pretty boring without the kimono and jewelry! 

The look below would be rather forgettable without the vest. But the vest is cool, light and easy to wear. Every wardrobe needs easy “completer pieces” or accent pieces like this.

BONUS TIP: Arrange the items in your closet by type so it makes putting outfits together that much easier.

I keep my jackets, cardigans and blazers in one section to “complete” my outfits. You might consider keeping basic pieces (plain black blouse, basic white jeans) separate from your more colorful/unique pieces, too. Then you know you need one from each category.

SHOES & ACCESSORIES

If you’ve ever admired a woman who always seems put together, she’s probably following this rule, even if only instinctively.

The 16-point Accessory Rule comes from Shari Braendel.

It’s the perfect amount of accessories. I wrote a whole post about it! Click here

Pretty fingers and toes, an extra ring, a funky bag, pretty shoes, a statement necklace, makeup, a garment with a print…that’s what elevates an outfit.

Here’s a recent visual:

I didn’t use the check-list when I wore this…it just comes naturally to me after a lot of practice.

If I’d been carrying a bag with me all day or had my glasses on, that would’ve put me a little over the top. When that’s the case, I might go for a simpler necklace or a solid-colored skirt.

Likewise, if you wore a cute belt, you’d probably want to do simpler jewelry. If you wear little or light makeup, you can go for an extra bracelet.

I know most of my clients are UNDER-doing it in this area rather than overdoing it. So add some texture, shine and color!

You can download your own 16-point Accessory Rule check-list by clicking here.

Print several copies and try it a few times. See how it feels. I bet you’ll get compliments AND feel amazing! 

As for shoes, I own a few basic pairs (black heels, nude heels, silver heels) and some fun pairs (gray polka dots, turquoise flats). The point is to pay attention to your shoes and make sure they enhance your outfit. If your outfit is a little more plain, add cute shoes!

I hope you enjoyed these tips on how to put outfits together. Let me know if you have questions, or invite me over to play in your closet so we can put some outfits together!