Fashion
We've just made your fall closet clean-out so much easier
Photography by Alvaro Goveia
Fashion
We've just made your fall closet clean-out so much easier
We're highlighting the wardrobe items to ditch, donate, invest in and stock up on this season.
While cleaning out your closet might not be your favourite fall activity, the change of season is the perfect time to decide what to keep, what to get rid of and what to stock up on. To make the task seem less daunting, we've sorted the organization process into a few easy guidelines.
What to Ditch
Before you get to the fun part (shopping!), you'll need to decide what to get rid of to make room for the newbies. This will take some time, but we promise it's worth it. Look at each and every item in your closet. Don't just shuffle through the hangers—take out each piece and think about it. Put any pieces you haven't worn in a year in a pile. From that pile, pull out any pieces that are uncomfortable, ill-fitting and you don't truly love. If something doesn't make you feel amazing when you leave the house, why bother holding on to it—or better question—when will you ever put it on?
Where to Donate
From thrift stores to consignment shops to shelters, there are plenty of places that will accept used clothing. If you want to get more creative with your drop-off, look into options like Dress for Success, which provides women living in poverty with the resources that they need — including work-appropriate clothing — to find a job. If you have items that aren't in good enough condition to donate, recycle them at your local H&M. Every location has a drop-off bin that collects clothing and textiles (even household textiles like bedding and towels) from any brand in any condition. Best part? You'll get rewarded with a voucher to use on your next purchase.
What to Invest In
Once you've made space in your closet, you've earned the right to get a few fresh pieces for the new season. While checking out the latest trends is a good starting point, we suggest stocking your closet with pieces that you can wear with multiple different outfits and for many seasons to come. Here, the eight items that won't fail you this season.
1. Plaid blazer
A blazer is a fall wardrobe staple, but for fall 2018, we're mad for plaid. Wear it with matching trousers and blouse, a pair of jeans and a t-shirt or over a shift dress for the office.
Classic-Fit Machine-Washable Italian Wool Blend Blazer, $240, bananarepublic.gapcanada.ca.
2. Relaxed-fit jeans
The denim du jour is relaxed and comfy. Unlike other vintage-inspired styles — we're looking at you, mom jeans — this type of denim is cool and comfortable.
The Billie Boyfriend Jean, $90, frankandoak.com.
3. Block heel booties
Boots with a chunky heel can be as comfortable as they are stylish. This pair gets bonus points for the on-trend animal print!
Aurealla, $110, aldoshoes.com.
4. Statement skirt
A midi skirt with a fun print or texture will be the hardest working piece in your closet this fall. Pair it with any footwear—boots, sneakers, pumps—depending on the occasion.
Topshop Print Pleated Midi Wrap Skirt, $104, shop.nordstrom.com.
5. Textured coat
A coat that keeps you cozy and that's fun to wear is a win-win. Look for textures like faux fur, shearling or different types of wool for the chicest look.
Mock-Neck Bouclé Coat for Women, $70, oldnavy.gap.com.
What to Stock Up On
Basics that you reach for on the reg—like tights, turtlenecks and button-down shirts—deserve to be replenished every year or two. We suggest stocking up on these essentials before the season starts.
1. Black turtleneck
Worn on its own or layered under a blazer or spaghetti-strap dress, a turtleneck is a versatile wardrobe must-have. This 100% merino wool option will keep you warm well into the winter months.
Turtleneck Sweater in Merino Wool, $75, gapcanada.ca.
2. White button-down blouse
A crisp white blouse never goes out of style. Keep it classic or look for something with a bit of flair, like this ruffle sleeve option which is available up to size 3X.
Flutter Shoulder Shirt, 29, joefresh.com.
3. Tights
Chances are each and every pair you currently own has a run. Save yourself the future grief by stocking up on a few pairs now.
Heattech Tights, $15, uniqlo.com/ca.
Comments