I had never really been interested in fashion, but after having a baby and realizing I lived in €11 amazon sweatpants, I knew I needed to make a change. I discovered a website called Top Vintage that proved to be a gateway to so many fantastic European brands. Every link led to another page of very wearable items at reasonable prices. Or extraordinary garments that although pricey and for special events only, were certainly worth the money.

From time to time I have taken an interest in high fashion only to feel less than impressed by hefty price tags on garments that didn’t fit into my lifestyle. Or insane prices on a dress that I really didn’t think looked flattering on a highly paid model, so not likely to look good on me or anyone I knew for that matter.

This inspired me to ask myself these questions to assess my true needs.

What kind of wardrobe did a life like mine need, and why?

How could I create a wardrobe that would be both functional and flattering?

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What do I need?

There are some days I have combed various sites and found so many dresses, shoes, boots that I want right away without hesitation. This is no easy feat as I don’t like to wear animal products, so finding myself with a full shopping cart is rare. However, what I love and want isn’t always what I need for a few reasons.

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Lifestyle – Work

During the week, I wear yoga pants to drop my son off at school and go to the gym. At home, I wear sweatpants and a shirt or sweater while working. I wear a dress or cords to pick up my son, shop, run errands, or head to the city for after school activities.

Sugarhill Brighton is my go-to place for lightweight sweaters. They have a huge selection of colorful, fun sweaters in a variety of colors with different finishes. From whimsical patterns such as clouds or palm trees to colorful cuffs and shoulder stripes, to sparkles for the holiday season. These cotton sweaters are great for a casual well put together look.

Saturdays and holidays are the only times I really need to dress up. Whether it’s going for lunch, strolling in Barcelona, or going to the theatre or a museum, I make it a point to shine on Saturday. It is my only day to really stand out. Vacations especially city vacations are also a time to bring out all the dresses, especially for photo memories.

I only need a handful of outfit options each season. This is because I’m only getting dressed up maybe 4 times a month. And even then, it is not for some lavish party or event but a casual outing.

I am obsessed with this brand 4funkyflavours. There are so many things that I want. Sometimes, I don’t know what to do with myself. I eyed this dress for ages before my husband bought it for me as a Christmas present.

Brown and pink are always a good idea and I haven’t seen anything like it in some time. Of course, I tried it on and the style and cut are so flattering… so then I bought the similar one in green with black cuffs and collar – perfection! I could talk about this company for days so I’ll make another post about them. Until then,check out their website!

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Space

This is a major issue for most of us living in apartments or sharing our homes with multiple family members. Even though we are lucky to have quite a bit of closet space, it’s not a lot between 3 people. Especially as one of us has a lot of toys, books, puzzles, and games.

So, even if I wanted to fill my closet with style choices as far as the eye could see, I only have room for less than 15 dresses and skirts a season plus a dress coat, long parka, and a ski jacket in fall/winter.

I have another closet for the rest of my clothes including pants, shirts, and sweaters but it’s not endless. As well, I try to keep my closet organized so I can see my items – not crammed with things I haven’t worn in years.

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Age

I’m in my 40’s. I definitely grew up in the age of fast fashion and have had times in my life when my closets were filled with somewhat wearable items. And other times, where I lived in jeans and owned one random skirt and a never worn dress.

I usually wore the same pieces repeatedly and left others to sit for years, waiting for some specific moment. I’m not sure if I ever cared about trends, but with age, I definitely don’t now. I know what I like. Whether it’s a dress or the toe or heel of a boot, my style for better or worse is pretty well-defined. This is another reason to pick my items wisely. When I buy something, I am buying it to wear for the next 5 hopefully 10 years.

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Quality vs. Quantity

Sometimes it’s best to have solid parameters. My lack of space, age, and home-based lifestyle have inspired me to buy pieces that I really love and are very wearable.

Instead of impulsively buying anything that seems well-priced and looks OK, I take a lot of time to decide. I don’t want a lot of clutter, or to buy clothes that will end up in a landfill after one season. I want items that will last for years and that I look forward to wearing.

There is nothing better than waking up late, putting on a favorite dress and footwear, and somehow looking well put together.

Coton Doux, Paris, makes the most exquisite patterned polo shirts that worn with a jean skirt, make me look like I made an effort. No matter how tired and sweaty I am – I still look like I made an attempt to be even a little bit put together.

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Climate

Although I would love to fill my closet with an endless array of winter coats and jackets, I live in Spain. And the last few years were hotter than ever. Last year, there were still people swimming in November! Whether I live in a country with four distinct seasons, or just two – summer and winter, I need to weigh my needs against my wants.

If I do buy a few coats and a large selection of winter dresses, pants, sweaters, and skirts, they will only be used for maybe four months. Then they will spend the rest of the time in storage. So, it makes more sense to buy a few winter items and more spring/summer.

It’s safe to say I own a lot of Circus Clothing an Irish brand that offers ethically made clothes with great patterns and styles. As well, the weight of the fabrics are ideal for the climate in Spain. Whether it’s very lightweight cotton for the endless summer or some heavier fabrics for the constantly fluctuating climate of the winter, I always find something to wear!

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Let me know…

So, I have tried this strategy and have thoughtfully purchased items that I’m excited to wear now or for years to come. I’ll keep trying to carefully curate my wardrobe. However, I swear, all it takes is an unbelievable dress, pattern, or fabric and my neatly organized closet will be a little too full once more.

Let me know if any of these tips have helped you rethink how you create your wardrobe.