Before you head to the stores to shop for more new clothes take a look in your closet and rework the clothes you already have.  You will be surprised at how many outfits you can create.   Here are some tips on how to begin creating new looks from your closet.

• When creating new outfits look for neutral colored top/bottom pieces to begin building your outfits.  I usually begin building my outfits with a neutral bottom pieces because I find they provide the maximum wardrobe potential.  You can mix and match so many different tops with a neutral color skirt or pant. Some neutral colors are black, white, gray, navy, ivory, tan, brown, and wine.

• Using the neutral color bottom piece as your starting point, begin looking for coordinating top pieces.  When you start with a neutral bottom piece almost any color top can go with it.  To get inspiration for color combinations flip through fashion magazines.  Be creative and try different color combinations you might not ordinarily wear.  Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.

• Now that you have the top and bottom pieces it’s time to add some flare to your outfit with accessories.  Accessories make your outfit “pop”.   An ordinary top and bottom piece can look EXTRAORDINARY with the right accessories.  When deciding on accessories try to remember to have just one focal accessory piece.  Don’t overpower the outfit with lots of accessories that are competing with each other for attention.  Also avoid the total matching jewelry look it makes you look dated and doesn’t have much interest.

• Finally shoes and hosiery.  When looking for shoes to go with your outfit, think of what shoes goes with the outfit, not necessarily what is an exact match.  Make sure your shoes are well maintained; they are not scuffed up and unpolished.  If your outfit needs hosiery try some interesting color or pattern hosiery to add some interest.  However, be aware that if you do wear a pattern or color hosiery they will draw attention to your legs, so if you don’t want the attention on your legs stick with neutral flesh tone color or solid black tights.

• Once you have pulled all the pieces together use the Clothes Mates system to record the outfit you created.  The Clothes Mates system offers an easy and convenient way for you to keep track of the outfits you create.