IMAGE INTERNATIONAL NEWSLETTER - July - August 2003 issue

Useful tips and news on business protocol and social etiquette

Diane Craig's miraculous and simple 7-step remedy for those “closet-full-of-clothes-and-nothing-to-wear” blues.

Can you imagine building a house without a plan? The structure would tumble down around your shoulders long before the first wall was erected. And you'd be pretty daring if you were to undertake a business venture – or a sales meeting -- without some sort of strategy. Timing may be everything, but planning is right up there. Don't you go to the local supermarket with a list—really a plan--of ‘must-buys'. We all live by the axiom “Never go food shopping when you're hungry.” Right? So if you need milk, juice, meat, and baby food, and soap—don't buy a pound of cashews first. It's the same for clothes; start out with a strategy and don't buy on impulse.

Okay? Now answer this: why do so many people think that they can wing it when they shop for clothes? Clothes are the first measure of the person. The way you dress speaks volumes about you, even before you say a word. For many clothing is one of the biggest expenses after food and shelter. But you may still buy a blouse just because it's on sale, indulge in a pair of shoes because they are so neat looking or, we let ourselves be talked into a particular dress or hat “because it's you.

”No wonder we see so many clients wondering why they have closets full of clothes and nothing to wear!

Here's the solution. It's easy; perhaps somewhat emotional, and worth every dime and every second you'll invest in it.

Step one: Be objective. It is imperative to dress for the way you are, and not as you wish you should be.

Before you start buying, throwing out, or giving clothes away, ask yourself, “What is my personal style?” And write this down, memorize it before you go shopping. Moreover, think through what you really need to fit that style you identified. (Grocery list, remember?) What type of necklines, sleeves, bodices, skirts, pants, or shoes are really suitable for you? Do you feel best in a Dramatic, Classic, Natural, or Romantic look? You would think that most women would have this figured out. Well not always and, if you are one of those who don't know, then consider this: Invest a bit of time and money with a reputable image consultant who will help you recognize your personal style and show you what suits you best. And they should explain why things work or don't work for you.

Step two: Clean your closet.

A) Remove:

i) anything that doesn't fit.
ii) anything you have not worn for the past year.
iii) everything that is dated or out of style.
iv) colours that don't work for you.
v) items that need to be altered or repaired.

B) Be sure to break up all your matched ensembles. This will make it easier for you to mix and match and re-sort items with some strategy in mind. You might discover that the blue jacket you picked up on a whim some time ago, goes really well with those slacks from another store's inventory sale.

Collect and put together all:

i) your jackets
ii) blouses
ii) skirts
iv) pants
v) shoes
vi) sweaters, wraps, etc.

Step three: Take inventory.

Now you know which clothes you're keeping and which are going to Goodwill. Next, make a list of the small items you might need to complete a few little ensembles. It could be a simple turtleneck to wear with that fine wool ivory jacket you don't wear on very cold days because all you have to wear with it is the silk blouse you purchased at the same time you bought the jacket.

Step four: Tea time!

Take a break and relax for 10 minutes. Then back to work. We're almost done.

Step five: Make a list of your weekly activities.

You probably need outfits in a few of the following categories: Career clothes, Casual-chic clothes (for dress-down days, dining out or a night at the theatre with friends), Sportswear, Daytime and Evening dressy. You'll want to spend the lioness's share on those clothes you'll need most of the time. And, of course, if you live in the Great White and Mostly Cold North, you will spend more on warm clothes than if you're a Texan.

Step six: Make sure you have the five most essential pieces.