It’s the begining of the year, and that time when resolutions are made. “Rock the Cloth” is recommending that you add a style resolution to your list, such as making 2010 your most fashionable year yet! Your resolution might be related to identifying your own style or about experimenting with fashion. Whatever it is might involve acquiring pieces throughout the year, so if you are embarking on a fashion journey in 2010, you had best make a good start.

Your first step, which may not be necessary for some, is to recognise your style identity. Once you’ve done this, make your fashion declaration! Finally, in preparation for getting ready to realise your style resolution of 2010, edit your wardrobe.

Your Style personality

You may want to try to mix it up a bit, but it is good to know for sure where you generally fit, so that the decisions you make from this point forward will be consistent with that. Style personalities may be:

o Classic / tailored,

o Sporty,

o Natural,

o Dramatic – high fashion,

o Romantic / feminine, or

o Creative.

The fashion resolution

This is to be your mantra throughout the year. Keep it in mind when you select items to purchase and every time you get dressed. You could decide to be more trendy or edgy, more polished, more creative, etc. The key is to drill down to a simple and achievable style goal, but one that excites you.

Editing your wardrobe

Of course each item and outfit you wear must live up to the declaration, so it may require getting rid of poor-fitting pieces, outdated styles, an outfit reflecting a different style personality, etc. Therefore we are providing some guidelines for editing your wardrobe. Before you start this task please be sure to look your best for fitting clothes – style your hair and put some make-up on.

Steps

1. Create three areas for sorting clothes: (i) those you keep (ii) those you alter/mend (iii) those you get rid of. This last pile should be later sorted into those to give to charity and those that may be thrown away.

2. Remove everything from the closet.

3. Try each piece to assess how you treat it. You can use the following guidelines:

a. Does it flatter?

b. Does it fit well, or may it be altered to fit?

c. Does the colour work well for me?

d. Is it still fashionable, or can it be updated?

4. Sort the item of clothing in one of the areas – keep, alter, give away. If you say yes to each, then this is an item you may keep. Otherwise place in the mend/alter pile those items requiring such work. Give away those in good condition.

If you think this might be a bit boring, engage your friends’ help. Maybe you can take turns working on each other’s wardrobes – with the benefit of feedback.

Never forget to strive ultimately for your own personal style.