Getting dressed isn’t simply the items we choose to wear, it’s also how we wear them. In order to help me decide what to wear each day I like to collect photos that inspire me. I look for outfits that fit my style, looks that I like that include items similar to what I own, and photos that generally just inspire me and remind me of something I might like to wear.
I collect those photos on Pinterest, on Instagram, in actual folders if they’re tear sheets from magazines, and on my phone so that, when I’m getting dressed, I can easily browse them to find something that inspires me for the day. Sometimes I also print collections, or mood boards, that I post inside the door of my closet as a reference. That way, if I’m in a hurry, I can quickly find an idea to base my outfit on.
Sometimes I use inspiration images very literally, assembling a similar version of the outfit shown. But often I use these images as looser inspiration, or as a starting point, and I try to make my own spin on it, using what I have and what I love to wear. I might just be inspired by the color combinations, by the silhouette, or by the type of items being worn together.
Occasionally when I see something that I like but have nothing similar it might also inspire me to sew or buy something new, but only if I keep coming back to that look and feel like it’s my style and could be the basis for a lot of other looks. For example, the bias Garibaldi Skirt was inspired by photos I was seeing and collecting. Once I knew it was my look and it would fit into my existing wardrobe I was ready to give it a try, and in the end I made that skirt in four different colors that I continue to wear on a regular basis.
When you find images you like, pay close attention to how the clothes are styled. Frequently the addition of a belt, pushing up the sleeves, tucking in a shirt a little bit to define the waist, all these details can take an outfit from basic to cool with just a few adjustments.
If you are always on the lookout for photos that inspire you, you might be surprised how quickly you assemble a collection that you can use. Keep a folder on your phone where you can collect photos and easily browse them, or make a Pinterest folder you can easily add to when you see something you like. And a mood board or collage is always helpful if you take a few minutes to assemble it.
Give it a try and see if it doesn’t help you answer that “What should I wear?” question and help inspire you to wear the items you already own and love.
Excellent idea. Thanks for sharing.