Discovering The Best Ways To Build Your Dream Closet

I am building my dream closet and it is filled with clothes I enjoy wearing. 

My closet says so much about me. And all of it is true. 

I have pants that I wear on repeat more times than I would like to admit. I have dresses that are too good to be worn prematurely, so I am saving them for a day to remember. And even though my coat closet needs more space I am glad there’s always colors, patterns and asymmetries that never get boring.

I pride myself in the curiosity I was able to explore as a daughter of Caribbean immigrants as a young child. Our style is colorful, full of print and bold. I was surrounded by past images and contemporary nods to this rich display of culture. I was taught to dress my best. My grandmother would say “always show pride in who you are”. While I had a lot of clothes I hadn’t quite figured out my style yet. In a way, I am glad I didn’t. I might not wear white fishnet tights and a pleated skirt anytime soon, but I had so much fun experimenting. 

Now that I am older I can invest in pieces that will bring me joy and a return on my investment. So how am I doing this? Ahead, I am going to share what I’ve been learning. 

Define your style

My style is pretty expansive – I feel comfortable wearing all kinds of things. But there are definitely a few pieces I lean into a lot. For example, I like blazers. So guess what, I have a lot of blazers. In different colors and cuts. This is practically my closet essential. 

Your closet and the outfits you create are already defining the style you lean into the most. Take stock of what you already have. Notice how many tops, dresses or pants you have and become aware with what style they are.

See your clothes

I can create outfits from my bed without even having to move. Fortunately this is because I have an open concept closet in my bedroom. Furthermore the way I have my closet organized allows me to see at least 80% of my closet from feet away. This has been a huge game changer for me. If I am ever in a time crunch I can create outfits quickly. In order to build your dream closet you have to know what’s in it.

Don’t forget the basics

You wouldn’t believe how many black turtlenecks, v-necks and bodysuits I have. These pieces are the foundations of many of my outfits. Basics are critical to any wardrobe. Sometimes these are the pieces that are always on our list of things to purchase when we go shopping, and if you are like me, we forget to. 

Tops like these balance out the proportions in your outfit. They can be worn under a blazer, under a strapless dress or paired with your favorite pants for a more uniform look. See how I paired a few of my basics with my favorite tailored shorts in this post. The outfit options are endless when you add basics to your stash.

Invest in accessories

Accessories are proof that the smallest of details can make a huge difference. Stock up on hats, jewelry, scarves and bags for every season. These are the pieces that can turn a bad hair day into a chic dad hat ensemble.

Try sustainable fashion practices

Try to repair or rework an item before deciding that you no longer want it in your closet. Not only does this add a bit of originality to your clothing, it also helps to curb the feeling of not having anything to wear. 

I have taken jeans and skirts to the tailor that when returned literally feel like  entirely new items. I also like to cut old tshirts and jeans when the material gets super worn out.

Here’s to learning how to build your dream closet and many more days filled with great outfit.

Live abundantly,

Bethany