100 Ways to Wear for $1,000

February 22nd, 2016 admin

One of the things I love most about wardrobe consulting is that I get to work with clients with all types of lifestyles. And, with budgets ranging from $1,000 to $30,000 per season, I am often asked what I enjoy more:  the unlimited budget or a smaller budget. While I love a trip to Bergdorf Goodman, my answer is always the same. I love, love, love working with a tight budget: minimizing money spent while maximizing ways to wear is my sartorial Rubik’s Cube.

I recently had the great pleasure of styling a client whom I really admire. She is an everyday ambassador who makes a positive impact on the world around her. Not to my surprise, this talented lady was recently promoted to a director level position at her company. And, since great responsibility often comes with the need for a professional look, she was ready for a wardrobe refresh.

The challenge: build a capsule of interchangeable items, focusing on multiple ways to wear, with a $1,000 budget and a few gift cards.

The strategy: wardrobe cross-pollination.
I kept the color palette tight and focused on finding her great basics that cross-over from desk -> date -> weekend. Each piece was special enough to stand-alone (great fit, fabrication and detailing) and could be worn at least five ways.

The result: 100 ways to wear for $1,000.
This capsule exponentially expanded her wardrobe and resulted in an optimized closet. She could easily get dressed for her professional and personal life, with more time freed up to maintain her socially butterfly standing.

Here is a short list of items from her buy plan that, regardless of personal style, I find are essential to every wardrobe.

 

Key-item jacket (tweed or leather)
Camisole (printed or solid with lace trim)
Button front shirt (blue chambray or denim)
Drapey tee (white or gray)
Slim gray jean (I like the Topshop Leigh jean)
Slim black ankle pant (the slimmer, the better)
Novelty skirt (full, pencil or maxi)
Fun heel (printed or solid color within color palette)
Dressy flat (lace up ballet or metallic menswear inspired)
Printed scarf (that ties together the color palette)

Track down the pieces on this list that spark joy for you and I guarantee you will have an easier time putting outfits together. Have questions or need recommendations? Just ask ali@alicallconsulting.com .