Mindful Makes 2019: A Wardrobe Commitment!

Happy first day of spring! The snow is melting and I am having deep thoughts about having a wardrobe that speaks to me!

Here goes…

We are deliberate about many things in our lives when we make up our minds to address them. I think our wardrobe deserves some attention as well and not only when there is a change of season. If you have been wanting to be purposeful about your accessories, clothing and shoes, keep reading. Whether you are a maker, a new mom, house wife, business woman, entrepreneur or someone looking to get their closet in check, this post may provide you with some nuggets to get you started in 2019. PS: This is not just for women only. 🙂

This attention is not meant to be obsessive, rather a purposeful act to make your wardrobe more friendlier to you. Let’s face it:  have you been too busy to take the time out to do this and then only become aware of what you are missing or what you dislike about your closet until an occasion arises? Probably a big YES!

Keep reading :).

I started sewing as a means to address the clothing aspect of my wardrobe needs. Since day one of this journey, I have learned so much and have had perspective shifts about creating the pieces I love and about creating a collection that speaks to the needs of my ideal customer. Once I did my research, I realized that the wardrobe challenges are not isolated. They are universal and not every well dressed person has it figured out. More so, in my opinion, the more access to disposable clothing we have, the harder it is to define our ideal style and create a conscious wardrobe.

Mindful Makes/Purchases & Additions

To be mindful speaks of being aware of something. To be conscious. To be focused on a particular moment, situation or thing. This word captures the intention that I hope to have for my collection and my wardrobe. I also hope that it encourages you to consider a conscious approach to creating that wardrobe that you desire. You know the dream closet? The one that you are not instantly in a panic about the minute you get an invitation. Rather you are at peace within knowing that whatever you need to wear for this event can be found in your closet that very moment.

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to experiment with various looks and pieces that have allowed me to weed out the undesirables and include more of that which fits my clothing needs. I am sure you can relate to wearing that piece a friend suggested and totally not feeling yourself. You know the one. It looked great on the mannequin but once home it was a different story. lol hahaha. Gone are those days. I think the weeding out of what works and what doesn’t is a rite of passage for anyone on a quest for loving their wardrobe and embracing their unique style.

So what’s the deal?

The deal is when you know what works for you, you make an effort to strategically include and go after those pieces (clothing, accessories and shoes). It’s not just the fit. It’s also the feeling of the clothing – the natural feeling of comfort and ease that exudes confidence in your stride and when you enter a room. Not the constipated look of a wardrobe mishap about to happen. We don’t want that anymore. Lets be rid of the days when we step outside thinking “I hope this outfit holds up throughout the day/event”. I encourage you to consider yourself and how this aspect of your life influences others.

Now it sounds easier said than done, but like the word mindful suggests – it’s an awareness that influences action. It will take time. Just start the process.

Is it possible to absolutely love and create (by making, purchasing etc.) a wardrobe you love?

Yes it is!

Finally, here are a few questions to ask yourself to get you started? I have added my own answers in response to these.

1. What are you holding on to in your closet that doesn’t work with your lifestyle now?

A lot of mismatched pieces that I haven’t worn in years but proudly display on hangers. They are basically taking up space. Let’s not talk about the shoes that are uncomfortable but I still own. 😦

2. What pieces do you find yourself wearing every week that you enjoy?

It depends on the season. I love a cropped jeans tank top and a cardigan. Also statement earrings are a thing for me. 😊

3. What pieces do you currently wear that you don’t enjoy?

Blazers that are tight on the arms. I refuse to part with them though lol. Tops that are too close fitting. Once upon a time it was a thing. Now…I can’t stand anything too clingy.

4. What words best describe your wardrobe influences now? (How you select pieces)

Function, Fun, Flowy, Bold 😊

5. Are there pieces that are missing in your wardrobe that you would like to have?

Yes. Blouses made by me 😊 A memade fall coat and some crop pants. (Working on these now).

I hope these were questions that helped you in some way to as you consider a thoughtful approach to creating and building the wardrobe you love in 2019. I know it won’t happen overnight, but I hope you feel inspired like me to start that quest. 😊

I would love to hear what other tips you have developed or know of and if these were helpful questions.🙌🏿

The journey continues. Thanks for stopping by.

Blessings

Uta