Outfits

Hey Pres, Love your site. I am almost 42 and have been working on my personal style the last 2 years. I feel like I have lots of good pieces in my closet, but since I have not bought outfits in the past, I struggle with how to put things together. What is a good method for putting together outfits and do you ever take pictures for future reference?


Thank you! I don't use photographs myself, but I have friends who do. I don't need them because my wardrobe of wearable items isn't extensive. Although I have some clothes that I save for the next season, my actual closet is very small, and holds items that are wearable now only. Mostly, I wear the new stuff, and not a lot of that. That's how I am able to move on regularly. And, since I wear the good outfits almost immediately upon assembling them, I don't need a memory log. What I see is what I wear.

About creating ensembles, try The Pres Method in your closet. Sort by season first, and put all out of season clothes away. Put all current skirts in one place, and all pants. All tops go in in a different area. Try on the best pair of pants/or skirt. Find the shoes that are the correct height. Now try the tops, seeing what ends at the right spot on your hip and has the best fitting shoulders and waist. You'll be surprised what you can do with a few pieces that fit properly. Try on some outerwear, and see if the collars are compatible, the hems work, and the sleeves fit over the top. Try all your coats and jackets this way.

Once you have the fabric items and shoes, look through your jewelry collection, and go for pieces that are large enough to make a visual impact. Anything skimpy, pale, or delicate should be shelved.

Now, look for a bag that stands alone. The bag should be stunning on its own. Don't try to match the color to anything in the outfit, except need. (For a gym outfit, you need a gym bag. For evening, a clutch.)

Today's non-matching makes clothes more versatile. Look for items that support each other with the proper weight and cut, and you'll be racing out the door in them in no time. You don't forget the good stuff.