Growing up in a family of five girls in the mid-1900s, glamour was a huge part of our lives. How often we’d sit together at the kitchen table after attending a wedding. Critiquing every aspect of wedding attire, we were brutal. Was the bride’s dress properly altered? Did the dress match the shoes and gloves? What seamstress was used? What about the color scheme? All these were things that six women of that era found fascinating.
The oldest two sisters embraced glamour hook, line, and sinker. They posed so elegantly in angora sweaters and pearls for their senior pictures. They were also the two who were homecoming queens and majorettes. Their hair was perfect at all times, and they never left the house looking less than the young ladies they were expected to be.
Then, came the 70’s and me. Hot pants and mini skirts made my parents grey before their time. Homecoming Queens????? That was square. And so it went. The time for glamour and coordinated outfits gave way to tight jeans and chambray. I loved every bit of it.
My mother must be dancing in heaven now that I’ve finally decided to build a sustainable wardrobe. Living on the high desert plains of Northwestern Nevada, I’m going against the grain to revive the glamorous vibes of my older sisters. But where on earth will I start? Is it just about starting from scratch or is there some deeper, almost mystical about understanding fabric weights, content, and dye processes? Which clothing will spark confidence? What pieces are worthy and which ones must go?
Last week, I stepped into my closet to assess the situation. Opening that door like it was the entrance to Narnia, I prepared to meet old friends: five pairs of jeans that were two sizes too small, many slacks still tagged, and one “special occasion dress” that’s never made it to a special occasion. There buffalo-plaid flannel shirts in many colors and well-loved hoodies. All these are appropriate attire for my town. But, getting ready to sail away again, I need a new look. After all, glamour is fun, too.
Carefully holding each piece, I asked myself: “Does this bring me happiness, or does it bring me a sense of guilt from spending $$$ on a thing I wore once?” If it was the latter, I said goodbye. I donated wonderful bags of clothing to our local thrift while creating room for new additions.
Now, I plan to shop for quality pieces. Let’s face it, fast purchases are like a bad relationship—you get excited at first, but by the second wash, they’ve already started to fall apart. I plan to invest in timeless, durable pieces that will make me feel like the fashionista I was always meant to be.
I’m a huge fan of natural fibers like cotton, linen, or wool (especially cashmere). If buying something made from polyester, it better be a swimsuit used after a long summer day of gardening
Loving cashmere, the men’s sweater section is the first place I look when thrifting. Costo sold cashmere many moons ago and many sweaters live on. It’s a wonderful fiber that’s perfect for all kinds of weather. Kirkland Cashmere is a fabulous find.
What about accessories? You know that cool leather belt you’ve had for years? They are the final touch to your ensemble—and probably the thing that will get you the most compliments. Last week, I had fun going through old jewelry I’ve accumulated. Not having pierced ears, I especially love the selection of vintage clip-on’s Auntie TJ gifted me. I plan to keep them in mind when shopping for my new wardrobe. Vintage jewelry is another huge find when thrifting.
The true secret to building a workable wardrobe isn’t about being perfect. It’s about embracing what you already have while making conscious choices for additions. Choose colors that work well with your skin tone and fit in with your existing clothes.
Whatever you do, just begin. If you have ten of something, get rid of two. If those hoodies have seen better days, plan to donate them and find replacements. If you haven’t worn something for two years, it goes. Chuck those stretched-out tees. Don’t forget to sort through your shoes, as well.
Whatever you do, consider weeding your closet. On these cold winter days, there isn’t much going on in the garden!
