5 Reasons to Upgrade Your Wardrobe

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The changing of the seasons always highlights how much my body changes throughout the year… do you find the same? It’s one of the reasons that I love being able to sew custom clothing exactly for my measurements. One of my favorite traditions each season is creating a capsule wardrobe that can be mixed and matched. I evaluate the gaps in my seasonal wardrobe and start with those essential pieces in a color palette that coordinates.

Even if you don’t sew, you may feel like you’re stuck in a fashion rut. Like you’ve been wearing the same things for years, and it’s time for a change? Or, like me, you may also find that many of your garments are uncomfortable due to body changes. Here are five reasons why upgrading your wardrobe seasonally is a good idea.

1. To Boost Your Confidence

If you’re not confident in what you’re wearing, it can show. Maybe you don’t feel comfortable in your clothes because they’re too tight, too loose, or just not your style. On the other hand, if you love your clothes and feel great in them, that confidence is going to shine through, too. So, if you want to boost your confidence, one of the easiest things you can do is upgrade your wardrobe.

Having said that, do not allow others to influence your clothing decisions. This is all about how YOU feel in your clothes. When you walk out of the house dressed for any occasion, fully embrace your unique style and rock it unapologetically!

2. To Make An Impression

No matter your opinion of them, impressions happen. How do you want to show up and be seen? Whether you’re meeting someone for a business lunch or going on a first date, what you wear can say a lot about your personality.

As someone who works from home, getting dressed for the day takes true intention on my part! Even on days filled with Zoom interviews, I want to wear clothes that show thought and effort as a display of respect for the people that I am chatting with. I frequently “audit” my wardrobe to replace garments that need replacing and identify gaps that need to be filled. Tending your wardrobe can help to make sure you always make the impression that you’re going for.

3. To Stay Up-To-Date With Fashion Trends

Love them or hate them, fashion trends will always change. Even if you’re not a fan, trying new trends can be a lot of fun! A quick review of the latest fashion trends can inspire new, forward-thinking directions in your own wardrobe. Of course, you don’t have to follow every trend… **please don’t bring back the bubble suit.** Pick and choose the ones that appeal to you and that work with your personality and lifestyle.

4. To Improve Your Health

Wearing clothes that fit correctly and are comfortable can positively impact your health. If you wear clothes that are too tight, it can restrict movement and cause potential health issues. I learned this the hard way after surgery. I donned a pair of yoga leggings too soon during the healing process and caused major issues that impeded my recovery!

On the other hand, wearing clothes that are too loose can also lead to problems such as tripping or getting caught on something. You don’t want to know how many times I’ve tripped over a long hemline. I once fell down an entire flight of stairs!

Consider your undergarments, too! Bra sizes change over time, and it’s important to wear the correct size to avoid health issues, such as back pain and breast tenderness. I only recently had my first proper bra fitting and it was very educational! I’m lamenting all of the years of ill-fitting discomfort!

5. To Reduce Your Environmental Impact

Whether sewing or shopping, it is important to do so with an eye for quality and heart for environmental and social impact. Cultivating a wardrobe should never be about “fast fashion” or building an overflowing closet of wear-once-and-done items, but rather garments that last longer and transition with you through seasons. Look for sustainable textiles, like organic cotton or bamboo, instead of conventional fabrics, like polyester. You can also look for secondhand options or buy from brands that focus on sustainable practices. Upcycling is a fabulous way to keep your wardrobe fresh and make your clothing investment last longer.

I made this zero-waste jacket – a bog coat – from a vintage kantha quilt. It’s reversible!

From boosting your confidence to reducing your environmental impact, there are plenty of good reasons to upgrade your wardrobe. Doing so with careful intention can help you build a wardrobe that goes the extra mile!