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Q: I love your style file, Kim! This is Kathy (a.k.a. Goldminegirl). I love to shop my closet! What advice do you have as to how to put outfits together easily? The style words that best describe me are: romantic, creative, classy and graceful with an element of sparkle. Thank you! --Kathy
A: Hi, Kathy (a.k.a. Goldminegirl)! You're not by any chance from the Sun Valley area of Idaho where they have one of the BEST thrift shops I've discovered yet?! (There's one called Gold Mine.)
Step 1: Identify Your "Closet Classics"
Your closet likely includes basics -- those things that never go out of style and can go with everything else. They are your wardrobe builders. I refer to them as "closet classics." For me, that would be a top/skirt/dress/pants/sweater/shoes/boots/tights/bag in black AND white jeans, which is my signature style all year long.
So get into your closet and decide on your go-to classics in a limited color palette so that they're back up to all else you wear with them.
br> Consider these the graceful, classy part of your closet -- the canvas upon which you can add the chic of your style -- the romantic and the sparkle. The creative part is how you decide to wear it.
Step 2: Jazz It Up
When you put outfits together, start by keeping it simple. Think 3 parts basics, to one part chic (as in something that jazzes up the basics).
This spring there will be lots of floral prints, which might appeal to your romantic style. Also, romantic might mean making your everyday clothes more feminine like wearing a ruffled shirt with jeans.
For sparkle (something that stands out), try a fab faux piece of jewelry.
I hope this helps, although it sounds like you have a wonderful sense of style already. Enjoy!
If you need fashion advice, just ask us on our message boards!
Kim Johnson Gross co-founded 'Chic Simple,' a book series selling over 1.5 million copies, which has helped women dress for every stage of their lives. Read her latest book, 'What to Wear for the Rest of Your Life' -- it will change your life! Got a question for Kim? Visit her expert page and ask away!
