The Outfit Repeater

Category: Fashion

This category covers everything fashion related. From outfit inspirations by celebrities, to clever how-to posts for your own fashion blog.

  • Spilling All My Secrets on Styling a Local Play

    Behind The Scenes: Styling a Play

    I have shared a bit about styling my second play with the Monroe Theatre Guild this spring. The difference this time is that I am doing it solo!

    For my first play last fall, I collaborated with a lead costumer, and we worked together to bring the costumes to life for the actors.

    This time around for “Making Sweet Tea and Other Secrets,” I am on my own to source, style, and get everybody dressed. My collaborators, if you will, are the actors (making sure they feel comfortable in their outfits) and the director (am I accurately bringing her vision to life, too?).

    It’s been a great challenge. Even the frustration of not thrifting the piece that I envision for a character has its silver linings.

    This post is going to dive a little deeper into the process I’ve gone through to style the play from start to finish. Hopefully, you can take away some advice that can be applied to your own personal style or thrifting journey!

    Where I Sourced Costumes: Closets, Chain Stores, and The Community

    My inspiration started after reading the script, as I created mood boards of how I envisioned each of the characters.

    As soon as I was able, I dug into the costume closet to find pieces. I was disappointed by the lack of contemporary styles I was finding (especially since our lead is a teenager!) and knew this would mean a lot of thrifting in my future.

    Overall, I went to 17 individual thrift stores, some multiple times, all in the pursuit of costumes! (Though I may have picked up a Billy Joel cassette tape for myself along the way.)

    The biggest challenge, and the reason it took so many stores, is that most of the stores are only stocking winter clothes right now and this play takes place down south in the summer. I hit pay dirt when I visited the larger chains like Goodwill because they stock seasonal clothing all year round!

    A few pieces were ordered from Amazon, some were borrowed from the actors, and at the last minute, a dress was sourced by asking my friends what they had in their closets.

    How I Put Together Costumes: Try-ons, Timing, and Tiny Alterations 

    I had approximately two months to get everything together, do try-ons, and put together the final looks. Try-ons with each actor were scarce, so when an outfit didn’t work, I had to get creative to find a workaround or another piece while I waited for another chance to fit with them.

    Even though this required huge patience, it was one of my favorite parts of styling. I love the gratification that comes with choosing a piece (going off a list of measurements!) and having it fit exactly how I imagined it would.

    There’s also the part of my brain that’s worked in retail for so long that is focused on pleasing the customer. So when an outfit was right, I felt like I did a good job!

    And since I’m a very novice sewer, I made sure to pick pieces that only needed minor alterations. Overall, I only fixed two pairs of pants, ironed on a couple of patches, and deconstructed a couple of shirts.

    Final Thoughts 

    We’re currently in our final week leading up to the performances on March 6-8 and March 13-15, so I only have a little to say about what it’s like watching everyone in character with their costumes on (finally!).

    It is rewarding to see all the hard work pay off, both from a costume perspective that helps the actors get into character, as well as the literal work that the actors have gone through to memorize their lines, hit their marks, and endure the heavy emotional weight of this particular production.

    a stage is set to look like the front of a home. a group of actors stands around practicing a scene.

    I am anticipating seeing it come together and hope the story reaches the right audience, starts a conversation, and changes some hearts. It’s an important story to tell, and I’m honored I got to help bring it to life.

    If you’re near the Monroe, Wisconsin area, you can visit the Monroe Theatre Guild website for more information and to buy your tickets for the show. Thank you for supporting the local arts!

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  • What Fashion Bloggers Can Do To Fight Back Against AI

    This post contains affiliate links & I may receive a commission if you click or complete a purchase through them.

    Real Fashion Blogs vs Artificial Intelligence

    In the beginning, there were fashion blogs, and they were good.

    Then a big boom happened, and everyone jumped on Blogspot. Posts became sponsored, and everyone was sharing their lives online.

    Just when things got good, influencers popped up, and bloggers stopped renewing their hosting, they jumped on social media or retired from the internet altogether. (The book “Extremely Online” tells this story so much better than me.)

    Most recently, a new wave of young people discovered our old fashion blogs and Tumblrs, and with nostalgia in their eyes, they have reignited the blogosphere with their own websites and Substacks.

    But if bloggers are the good guys in this story, there has to be a bad guy, and that’s AI, or artificial intelligence.

    AI has already taken over many jobs and industries; is fashion blogging next? Let’s explore this topic together!

    What Is AI And How Could It Ruin Fashion Blogs?

    When you hear the term “AI,” you likely picture ChatGPT or images of humans with extra features.

    AI stands for Artificial Intelligence and refers to any computer system that can perform tasks usually accomplished by humans.

    This technology has been amazing in many fields, speeding up processes and helping with very complicated assignments.

    Despite the good that it does, it also has many downsides, including huge environmental impacts, increasing our reliance on technology, and taking jobs away from humans, obvs.

    As a decades-old fashion blogger, I have very mixed feelings about this emerging technology at our fingertips. (Note: AI, as we know it, was actually born in the 1950s, but it’s becoming a bigger buzzword because of the plethora of new products aimed at the everyday consumer.)

    In the past, I’ve demonstrated in numerous blog posts the capabilities AI has to create outfits for me. Let’s just say I don’t think AI will be becoming my personal stylist anytime soon.

    But now I’m posing the question of whether AI has the power to wipe out fashion bloggers altogether. We already see plenty of websites with nothing but AI-generated posts full of word soup. So, are fashion bloggers next, right after it’s about to enter its Renaissance?

    What Can Fashion Bloggers Do Take Back The Internet?

    But fear not, we’ve been through challenges before, and we can continue to pivot and come up with new solutions for blogging in the AI era.

    While traditional SEO (search engine optimization) has become nearly obsolete, we still have some tools at our disposal to drive traffic to our pages and build a successful brand. One that comes to mind is SGE (search generative experience), which offers a more dynamic, personalized, and engaging user experience.

    That means we can override those unreliable and uncredited answers you get from an AI search bot and provide you with a human point of view, complete with thoughtful responses and personal stories. Blogging is becoming more about problem-solving and not just ranking for keywords. It’s the best time ever to be a writer and connect with others!

    Main Takeaways For Fashion Bloggers

    While I believe fashion blogging is going to take a hit, I also think a new batch of writers is about to emerge with even more creative ideas.

    Personalization is the name of the game, and fashionistas have plenty of that to go around!

    We need to stay focused on the communities we’ve built and the real connections we’ve cultivated over the years.

    Your readers visit your page for YOU, so keep showing up and being your authentic self!

    The day that AI can style my outfits, edit my photos, write my blog posts, and engage with my audience is a pipe dream.

    I will always be here, showing up as myself and eager to chat with all of you about all things thrifting, vintage, and personal style.

    I’d love to hear your thoughts about all of this. Let’s a start a conversation in the comments, ok? 🙂

    this is a partially obscured image of a white woman in a striped t-shirt using a laptop. it's a silver laptop with many stickers all over.

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  • Let’s Talk About The ‘Freewill Fashion’ Theory

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    What Is The Freewill Fashion Theory?

    Get ready to hear the term “freewill fashion” for at least the next four years.

    Freewill fashion is a term I coined that highlights a concept that has been around forever.

    The loose definition of freewill fashion is choosing to wear whatever you want, whether that means getting dressed as an act of defiance, in protest, as self-care, in celebration of daily life, or for whatever you want to stand for that day.

    What Does The Freewill Fashion Theory Look Like?

    While freewill fashion is for everyone, it’s also not.

    Because of “times like these” and the place or body you might be born into, freewill fashion is harder to achieve.

    While one person can choose to wear head-to-toe animal print, another might have to settle for a colorful hair scrunchie to follow certain rules, regulations, and standards.

    Hannah is a white female, standing in front of a blue background with white clouds painted on it. She's wearing a pink and purple sequin cape and flipping through a rack of all pink clothing.

    At its core, I want us all to embrace having freewill when it comes to fashion and getting dressed.

    It goes hand in hand with the old adage that you shouldn’t save your best clothes for a special occasion.

    Today is that special occasion!

    Wear the thing you’ve been saving, wear your good vintage to the grocery store, style yourself like a freakin’ rainbow!

    Tips For How To Wear Freewill Fashion

    Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist, every day you get to wake up and choose a character from your closet.

    a pink carpet with colorful striped shirts and a rainbow striped purse laying on top

    A maximalist might use freewill fashion to “dress down” a ball gown with a t-shirt, jeans, and old beat-up sneakers. Their imaginations run wilder than the average person’s, and freewill fashion comes a little easier to them.

    A great case of someone going against the grain is Sara Camposarcone, aka @saracamposarcone on the internet. She’s basically freewill fashion in human form!

    A minimalist might choose a sweater with princess sleeves, a pair of dark palazzo pants, and pointy-toed flats with a hint of shimmer. Well-made basics, but still a little fun and a great use of freewill.

    I love looking at someone like Rachel of @inspirsession or Valerie of @vallerinagirl as models of how this looks in real life. Their styles are impeccable and never boring!

    Of course, style is subjective. If you feel like you don’t fit into either of those narratives but still consciously choose the most fab outfit from your closet every day, then you’re doing it right!

    Here are some examples from my own closet where I really felt like this look was created just for me.

    In Clothes-ing

    In times like these, the rules are going right out the window, so why keep trying to follow them?

    Let go of expectations set by others and take chances, make mistakes, get messy… or whatever Miss Frizzle taught us millennials on The Magic School Bus.

    Give freewill fashion a try, you just might like it!

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  • Could You Style Me Better? Let’s Put the Whering App to the Test!

    Virtual Styling With The Whering App: A Closet Experiment 

    Show me a millennial who never wanted a Clueless closet, and I’ll show you a liar. We’re living in future times where being able to digitize your closet is a reality!

    There are actually many apps that can make this happen – I’ve even reviewed lots of them on this blog in the past – but one stands out for me because of its ability to build a community of like-minded fashionistas. It’s called the Whering app.

    What Is The Whering App?

    Whering is a phone app that allows you to digitize your wardrobe so you can see everything you own in one place.

    It’s a powerful tool for helping people discover, rediscover, or refine their personal style to avoid chasing trends, reducing consumption in the process. It’s a slow fashion consumer’s BFF!

    It makes circular fashion solutions accessible via an app on your phone!

    Who The Whering App Is For

    A few months ago, I uploaded my entire closet (save for a handful of accessories) and immediately started playing dress-up like never before. But the best part of Whering is that other app users can also style the clothes in your closet.

    I was elated to flex my creative muscles and style others, and to my surprise, a couple of people wanted to style me!

    In this blog post, I’m going to try on the outfits that strangers on the internet dreamed up for me and do a deep dive into their chosen outfits. Let’s get started!

    Whering Outfit Styled By Kate of ReadWriteThrift

    Whering offers suggestions for people to follow, and I was excited to find Kate of ReadWriteThrift, a fellow style blogger and slow fashion consumer. She’s a regular on my TikTok FYP!

    Her closet is very different from my own, which I think is the beauty of the app: getting to peek inside the closets of other fashionistas and imagine new ways of styling their clothes.

    I created an outfit for Kate, and in return, she styled one for me. She was able to take multiple brightly colored items from my closet and put them together in a way I hadn’t thought of before!

    I normally reserve this heart printed sweater for Valentine’s Day and she was able to pair it with a striped button down, baby blue palazzo pants, and yellow flats to make it an outfit friendly for any cold weather day. I love it!

    Whering Outfit Styled By Lindsey of Dried Juniper

    The other closet I was introduced to was Lindsey’s from Dried Juniper, a Midwest thrifter and reseller. She was unfamiliar to me before this app brought us together, but her closet was intriguing as she wore simple, quality basics with whimsical colors and patterns.

    Again, I styled an outfit for her, and she styled one for me in return. I think this outfit perfectly reflects both of our interests! She matched a striped t-shirt from my wardrobe with a pair of pink overalls, a classic white cropped cardigan, and green ballet flats that tie into the colors of the t-shirt.

    What a true style collaboration!

    In Review

    This app has already been on my phone (and tablet!) for a couple of months and is proving to stand the test of time. From the organizational options, fun and friendly user interface, and of course, the community aspect, I am having a lot of fun styling myself, styling others, and letting their AI feature work its magic.

    There’s still so much to explore on this app, and I don’t think I’ve even touched the tip of the iceberg in this blog post. (Lookbooks, packing features for trips, etc. This app does it all!)

    I highly encourage you to check out the Whering app, download it, and try your hand at styling outfits in my closet! If there’s enough interest, I’d love to do a follow-up to this post and share more outfits created by The Outfit Repeater readers!

    [su_button url=”https://app.whering.co.uk/profile/theoutfitrepeater” target=”blank” style=”flat” background=”#f20089″ color=”#ffffff” size=”7″ center=”yes” radius=”10″ icon_color=”#8790f0″ text_shadow=”0px 0px 0px #000000″ rel=”nofollow”]STYLE AN OUTFIT FROM MY CLOSET[/su_button]

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  • Every Fashion Trend I Tried On At Maurices This Season

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    Now Trending at Maurices

    It’s been a season or two since my last maurices outfit round-up, but I’m back with another look at all the trends I’ve been trying on while working as a social media manager at maurices.

    There have been a lot of fun pieces popping up in the store, so there will be a lot to cover. Some of these items aren’t available anymore due to the timing of this post. I hope you can still get styling ideas and feel inspired to go shopping at maurices.

    Let’s dive in!

    (Please note: any sale signs featured in the photos are from the past and do not reflect current sales or prices at maurices. Follow our page @mauricesmonroewi for the latest deals at our location!)

    Loving The Clearance

    The year started with big sales in-store, and I had fun styling up clearance finds that just happened to coincide with the upcoming Valentine’s Day.

    It never ceases to amaze me some of the incredible pieces that get marked down and overlooked by customers. Don’t forget to check out the clearance year-round; it’s full of gems no matter what!

    Cool and Casual Clothes

    We’ve had a big focus on denim and athleisure this year. So if “dressing up” seems intimidating to you, there’s some good news, right? Cool and casual styles are trending, so you can look in style without really trying. We’ve got lots of great jeans, leggings, and toppers to help you update your everyday look!

    Sweater Weather Forever

    While sweaters gain popularity in the fall, they’re a staple all winter and spring here in Wisconsin! I love that you can add one to pretty much any outfit and change the entire look. How great does this pom pom cardigan look with a graphic tee and jeans? So effortless!

    Going Green

    Green for spring? Groundbreaking. We love seeing the green grass poking through piles of dirty snow in the Midwest. Just as the grass starts popping, so do the brighter colors in our clothes. maurices is delivering this season with fresh shades of green, pink, yellow, purple, and more.

    In Clothes-ing

    Which look caught your eye? I’d love to hear your favorite in the comments!

    I hope these outfits spark some inspiration for your own wardrobe or give you the confidence to try out a new trend. If you need a style number or more details before your next shopping trip, don’t hesitate to ask—I’ve got you covered!

    And if any of these looks stood out to you, don’t forget to save them to your outfit inspiration board on Pinterest. Your support means the world—thank you for reading!

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  • A Year in Fashion: My 2024 Style Goals and What’s Next for 2025

    New Year, New Style Goals

    ‘Tis the season for list-making, huh?

    First, we wrote out a wishlist of toys for Santa, and now we’re expected to come up with New Year’s resolutions.

    I take a slightly different approach to New Year’s resolutions and instead choose to focus on creating style goals for the upcoming year.

    This is a “tradition” I started on my blog a few years ago, and it has continued to gain in popularity. Check out my 2023 style goals blog post by clicking here!

    To sum up what it means to create style goals: it’s an outline of trends I want to try, shopping habits I want to implement, or even a cleaning strategy I want to start in my closet.

    Basically, anything related to fashion!

    So let’s look back at what my style goals were for 2024 and what I’ll be changing in 2025!

    2024 Style Goals: How Did I Do?

    I kept my 2024 style goals simple with a list of only four items. But despite a short list, I was still only able to accomplish one of the goals on it!

    a pile of pink clothes

    ➡️ Buy Colored Jeans

    This might seem like a simple feat, but my preferred method of shopping is at thrift stores, so you have to be open to what the thrift gods send your way.

    I did try on a few pairs of creative jeans, but none were quite the right fit for my body or wardrobe. I’ll probably keep this as a rolling goal, as it would still be great to add some to my closet!

    ➡️ Be More Creative With My Scarf Collection

    Accessorizing with scarves didn’t really work out for me. I added a few here and there to my outfits, but nowhere near the amount that I used to in my early fashion blogging days. Again, I will continue to carry this goal into the future.

    a close-up of different vintage scarf patterns

    ➡️ DIY More Stuff

    Customizing my clothes was a HUGE success! I made a few changes to my crafting space, which made starting projects much easier for me. As a result, I crafted a whole line of jewelry, painted a jacket, and have many more designs lined up shortly.

    ➡️ Grow My Hat Collection

    My hat collection remains exactly the same! I’m okay with this because the hats I currently own get a lot of wear. I’ll keep an eye out for more hats while thrifting, but I learned that I’m content with my current collection.

    2025 Style Goals: What Will I Do?

    To be honest, I wasn’t sure what kind of style goals to set for 2025. Because of this, I didn’t feel the need to “add” anything to my closet in the way of shopping, but instead resolved to get more creative with what I have. Can you relate to that sort of goal?

    a yellow smiley face mug with a bunch of vintage scarves coming out of it's head like hair

    ➡️ Try a New-To-Me Style Subculture

    It seems like there’s a new style subculture every day. While I don’t feel it’s important to keep up with trends, I also don’t see any harm in finding new ways to style what I already have and continue to evolve my personal style. Is there a subculture I should consider? Leave your suggestions in the comments!

    ➡️ Collaborate on Style Projects

    Collaborations with other online fashionistas are something I’ve put on the back burner for many years. But with my 10th blogiversary happening in 2025, I’d like to get back to my fashion blogging roots and connect with other creators to showcase our expertise and talents.

    ➡️ Mix Patterns More Frequently

    Another throwback from my original blogging days? Pattern mixing! I’ve gotten much more into color play in recent years but want to try my hand at pattern mixing again. Maybe my scarf goal will come in handy for this one?

    a pink striped tee, pink scarf, giant flower, surrounded by vintage fashion magazines

    ➡️ Host Another Local Clothing Swap

    If you’re a local reader or an avid follower of my social media pages, you’ve probably seen me promote a couple of clothing swaps this past year. With the help of a friend, we put together two inclusive clothing swaps for our community, where we all came together with our unwanted clothes and exchanged them with one another. Both times, we donated the leftovers to a great thrift store in our area that helps a lot of people.

    The clothing swaps continue to get bigger and better each time, and I’m hoping to host at least one or two more this year, energy permitting.

    In Clothes-ing

    I hope this post encourages you to consider some style goals to take you into the new year. Even if it’s just a small action, like documenting your outfits every day, it all adds up in the long run and can help you feel more connected to your clothes and discover your personal style.

    Be sure to follow along here or on my social media pages (linked below) to keep up with my style goals throughout the year. I’d love the accountability!

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  • Everything I’ve Styled at Maurices Lately

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    What I Wore At Maurices

    Working at maurices isn’t just a job; it’s an excuse to play dress-up every single day!

    How many people can say their closet is an entire women’s clothing store?!

    While I work behind the scenes as a social media manager, I still get to go on-site and try on clothes to learn more about how they fit, feel, and the styling possibilities. And now I get to pass that information on to you!

    Let me take you behind the scenes to share the trends I’ve been loving lately and how I’ve styled them for work, play, and beyond.

    (Please note: any sale signs featured in the photos are from the past and do not reflect current sales or prices at maurices. Follow our page @mauricesmonroewi for the latest deals at our location!)

    Trending at maurices: Big Bags

    maurices has been out of the purse game for a while but is slowly making a comeback with canvas totes for the holidays, large carryalls for trips, belt bags (or fanny packs, as they used to be known as), and even a faux leather handbag.

    They’re one of our most requested items, so I’m glad to see them on the floor again—and I’m even more excited that I get to style them with outfits. I think a cool bag can really make or break a look. Don’t you agree?

    Trending at maurices: Unique Jeans

    Trends come and go but denim never goes out of style! It just keeps reinventing itself with new washes, technology, cuts, and colors.

    My standouts from the season are the return of colored denim and the Silver wide legs jeans (as seen in the first photo but already sold out!).

    Trending at maurices: Holiday Outfits

    We’re almost done with the holiday season but it’d be a shame not to share what I’ve been wearing!

    The first outfit is my own thrifted outfit that I wore to host a live video on Black Friday. All the other images are head-to-toe maurices that I tried on in-store. My takeaway? Comfort is truly king during the holidays!

    In Clothes-ing

    Which look caught your eye? I’d love to hear your favorite in the comments!

    I hope these outfits spark some inspiration for your own wardrobe or give you the confidence to try out a new trend. If you need a style number or more details before your next shopping trip, don’t hesitate to ask—I’ve got you covered!

    And if any of these looks stood out to you, don’t forget to save them to your outfit inspiration board on Pinterest. Your support means the world—thank you for reading!

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  • Budget-Friendly Personal Color Analysis: Affordable Ways to Find Your Palette

    What Is Personal Color Analysis?

    Color analysis for personal style has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, thanks to the internet. Stylists, apps, and dedicated businesses are popping up to help you discover your “perfect” colors. While many are reputable, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming.

    The idea of learning about your flattering colors and getting a professional analysis can be exciting. It promises a personalized color palette to empower you, navigate shopping dilemmas, and bring balance to your overflowing closet.

    But what if you’re on a budget? This post is here to help! Forget spending a dime – we’ll explore free ways to discover your best colors on your own.

    I believe color analysis should be just one tool in your fashion toolbox.

    In recent years, I’ve become immersed in personal color analysis as a way to combat decision fatigue. It was the missing “tool” from my closet that changed everything!

    In this post, we’ll explore how I utilize personal color analysis, why I love it so much, and how it helps streamline my closet overall (and how it can benefit yours too!).

    Let’s start learning!

    Why You Should Care About Color Analysis

    I used to think color analysis was solely about adding more clothes to your closet. But it’s so much more!

    Here’s what I truly value about personal color analysis:

    • Effortless Shopping: It can make shopping for clothes a breeze by eliminating options that might not flatter you, saving you time and money.
    • Closet Confidence: It can help you cut down on closet clutter and build a versatile wardrobe you’ll actually love wearing.
    • Finding Your Style: Color analysis is just one piece of the puzzle. But once you have the colors figured out, a whole new world of color pairings open up and you’ll find yourself trying new things and exploring your personal style much deeper.

    white female with brown curly hair, pink paper background, holding a vintage book titled color in fashion

    How To Find Your “Perfect” Colors For Free

    Some experts use a method of holding up swaths of colorful fabric up to your skin tone to check if they’re a match. These fabrics are usually categorized by seasons like “warm autumn” or “cool summer”.

    While that’s all well and good, I wanted to take a more casual (and free!) approach to finding my colors. I wanted to create a color palette that was truly unique to me. Not only are the colors flattering to my skin, but they match my personality and express who I am!

    To do this, I scoured hardware stores for paint chip samples. I picked up handfuls of samples that looked appealing to me, as well as others that I didn’t like—all for the sake of experimenting and learning.

    a pink rug with a Vintage book titled Color in fashion, a stack of paint samples, paint samples on a key ring

    Once, I had all my samples together, the fun began. I sat in front of a well lit window (don’t skip this important step!) and had a mirror in front of me and help up each color sample one at a time to see how it “popped” against my skin.

    Eventually I had a stack of color chips that looked great against my skin. The next step was to narrow them down to round out my personal color palette.

    To do this, I compared all the colors together, seeing how they looked next to each other. Slowly, I built a mini-rainbow of colors that felt happy and balanced.

    And guess what? It totally confirmed what I already knew all these years – cool colors are my jam, and a pop of brightness always makes me smile!

    Seeing all the colors together was like a little “aha!” moment – it felt like a tiny snapshot of my personality laid out right there!

    How To Use Your New Color Analysis Tool

    So what do you do with all the paint samples and how do you actually implement it’s powers?

    Take all of your samples and cut them down into little strips, punch a hole through the tops, and add a keyring. This makes a keychain you can have handy on you at all times.

    white female with brown curly hair, pink paper background, holding up a stack of paint samples

    But if you want to take it to the next level, add a bracelet, hair elastic, or another stretchy band and create a bracelet. This is the exact method I use when I’m shopping. Before heading into the store to shop for clothes, I throw on my bracelet and go!

    My color palette is always with me! While shopping, I can quickly hold my color swatches against a garment to see if it flatters my complexion. (Remember, fashion is all about fun! If a piece speaks to you, regardless of color, grab it!)

    This is especially helpful in stores with harsh lighting, which can distort the true color of clothes. Black and white pieces can be particularly tricky in these conditions, so having your color palette handy is a lifesaver!

    a hand is holding a fan of paint samples and comparing them to a rack of colorful clothes

    Other Tools To Put in Your Style Toolbox

    Other “tools” I love are choosing silhouettes that help you look your best, getting measured and wearing clothes that are your true size and, of course, taking style quizzes to find out what aesthetic(s) resonate with you!

    In Clothes-ing

    Remember, discovering your best colors is just the beginning! This newfound knowledge will empower you to build a wardrobe you love, shop with confidence, and ditch the decision fatigue. Plus, it’s a fun and creative way to express yourself!

    Ready to dive deeper? The internet is a treasure trove of free resources on color analysis. Explore articles, watch YouTube videos, and experiment with online tools. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with the process!

    Most importantly, remember that fashion is all about embracing your unique personality. Your color palette is a guide, not a rulebook. So go forth, experiment with confidence, and rock those colors that make you feel amazing!

    Happy color hunting!

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  • Putting The YOU in Uniform Dressing

    Repeat After… You?

    What’s your outfit uniform?

    I recently analyzed over 100 outfits from my blog archive, and to my surprise, a pattern emerged!

    I found myself gravitating towards outfits that included skirts, palazzo pants, and floral print.

    It’s funny considering how much I love fashion, but apparently, even I fall into a comfort zone.

    Why Should You Be an Outfit Repeater?

    People choose outfit uniforms for many reasons whether it’s budgetary constraints, to reduce decision fatigue, or simply being unable to break long-standing habits.

    Having a go-to outfit formula takes the guesswork out of getting dressed and streamlines your get-ready routine.

    Are Some People Better Outfit Repeaters?

    While some tend to literally repeat the same outfit formula day after day, others often repeat colors (i.e. all black or “purple” ladies) or have a go-to silhouette that they don’t stray away from.

    Unfortunately, women especially are often held to a higher standard according to social norms when it comes to outfit variety. Men seem to get a pass for repeating outfits, while women might face social commentary.

    There are surely double standards at play when it comes to judgment around repeated outfits. A person in a simple uniform may project an image of concentration and focus on more important matters to some. Others, however, may perceive the same person as lazy or lacking stylistic creativity. These are outdated notions we need to overcome.

    How To Build Your Own Outfit Uniform

    So, how do you build your own outfit uniform and stick to it despite potential negativity? Here are some tips:

    • Lifestyle First: Choose pieces that fit seamlessly into your daily routine.
    • Confidence is Key: Select items that make you feel amazing and radiate self-assurance.
    • Find a Signature: Find simple pieces with unique details like statement sleeves, eye-catching buttons, or timeless distressing. These can become your signature elements.

    Having some personal touches will prevent you from feeling like you’re wearing someone else’s prescribed outfit.

    How To Embrace Being an Outfit Repeater

    Once you have a uniform, are you stuck in it forever? I think those in private schools or certain professions with strict dress codes can attest that uniforms get old, but if YOU get to choose the uniform, then you get to be very flexible.

    Having control allows you to evolve the uniform to match your taste and mindset. You’re never truly “breaking” it because you decide what it means.

    Your uniform should serve you, not the other way around. Evolve it as your taste and needs change over time. That’s what separates an inspired personal style from an obligatory one.

    How To Respond To Outfit Repeater Shamers

    Let’s talk about those awkward moments when someone calls you out for wearing the same outfit. Here are some witty (and truthful) responses you can have in your back pocket:

    • “Yes, and.. ?”
    • “Thanks for noticing!”
    • “Yup, you caught me!”
    • “It makes getting ready easier for me.”
    • And my favorite “Maybe I’m an outfit repeater but you’re an outfit remember and that’s just as pathetic!” – Lizzie McGuire

    You could even ask them why it bothers them so much. The key is to not let their comments make you self-conscious about your choices.

    Confessions of an Outfit Repeater

    Everyone has their own reason to be an outfit repeater, and it might be worth it to try it for yourself – maybe for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Having a uniform takes out the daily stress of getting dressed and lets you focus your energy elsewhere.

    While it may go against societal norms for women, choosing an outfit uniform can be an empowering form of self-expression. Don’t let outdated social conventions hold you back from finding what works best for YOU!

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  • Want To Sell Clothes Online? Read This First

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    This post contains affiliate links & I may receive a commission if you click or complete a purchase through them.

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    Why It’s Not So Easy To Sell Clothes Online

    We’ve all had that moment when we clean out our closets and think about taking everything to a thrift store. But what if you could actually make some money from it or even start a new side hustle?

    Selling clothes online may seem daunting with all the different apps and platforms, not to mention the scammers. However, it can be a rewarding experience. I’ve sold items from my closet over the years with varying success. While I’m not a pro seller, I love thrifting and want to share my perspective as a beginner online seller!

    Best For Beginners To Sell Clothes Online

    Poshmark is a peer-to-peer marketplace for new and secondhand styles.

    Poshmark is recommended for beginners because it’s easy to get started and offers a wide range of categories beyond just clothes.

    Pros: Poshmark is available as an app and a website. You can complete all the steps right in the app from taking and editing photos, listing items, and printing a mailing label. The interface is very user-friendly and easy to navigate. Listings stay live forever with no fees to post or relist.

    Cons: For all sales under $15, Poshmark takes a flat commission of $2.95. For sales of $15 or more, Poshmark’s commission is 20%. There is no private messaging feature if you need more contact during a sale. Sellers don’t have very robust profiles where you can learn more about them, this can make earning trust with your customers difficult.

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    READ MORE: These Poshmark Selling Tips Are Too Good To Keep To Myself

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    READ MORE: An Honest, Unpaid Poshmark Review + Selling Tips

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    Best For Consigning Clothes

    ThredUp is an online consignment and thrift store where you can buy and sell secondhand clothes.

    Not everyone has time to list clothes online for sale. That’s where consignment stores come in handy! ThredUp is a great choice because they send you a bag, you fill it with clothes, and then you can mail it back to earn some cash. It’s super easy!

    Pros: Anyone in the US can request a bag, fill it up with on-trend and seasonal items, and then mail it back with USPS. ThredUp is pretty open to what they accept. If an item is not accepted, ThredUp can take care of donating it for you on your behalf instead of sending it back to you.

    Cons: Items are listed for consignment so you only get paid when they sell. Payouts range between 35 cents and $2.45, including designer and NWT items. Waiting for items to sell can take a few months, and then an additional week or two for each payout.

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    READ MORE: Selling Clothes Online to thredUP: Is It Worth It?

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    Best For Handmade and Vintage Clothes

    Etsy is a global online marketplace for selling, buying, and collecting unique items.

    If you’ve ever searched online for a gift for someone who seems to have everything, you’ve probably checked out Etsy. It’s a great place to discover a wide variety of items that you won’t find anywhere else.

    Pros: Etsy is available as an app and website with a simple interface for listing and communicating with customers. Etsy gives you a storefront that you can fully customize and include information about your business.

    Cons: Many Etsy sellers complain that their listings are only seen if they pay for ads. And then there’s a listing fee of $0.20 for each item you post, plus an extra 3.5 percent on top of that. Which means you don’t get to keep every dollar you make. Not to mention the fees for credit card payments or PayPal. The secondhand market is very saturated and competitive.

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    READ MORE: What Selling on Etsy for 5 Years Has Taught Me

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    Best for Unique Clothes

    Buffalo Exchange is a “buy, sell, trade” chain of stores in the US.

    Another great way to consign from home is the Buffalo Exchange “Sell By Mail” program. Buffalo Exchange is a chain of stores in the US where you can sell and shop. It stands out because it offers an online program, unlike many other consignment stores.

    Pros: Anyone can easily request a bag and have it shipped to their house to fill up and send back via USPS. The process is rather quick with payments happening promptly.

    Cons: Your items aren’t listed on a website but rather sent to a specific store to be resold. They’re much picker than a program like ThredUp with most items not be accepting. The payout is low, but if you opt for store credit, you’ll get almost double the amount. (Which isn’t helpful if you don’t live near a Buffalo Exchange) They’ve vague about telling you what they bought.

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    READ MORE: Is The Buffalo Exchange “Sell By Mail” Program Too Good To Be True?

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    More Resell Platforms To Consider

    Other platforms to consider where you can sell your clothes online.

    This post doesn’t even begin to cover the different platforms or methods of resale available to you. It just outlines a few options that I’ve personally tried in the past and have some experience speaking about.

    You could consider other peer-to-peer apps like Depop, Mercari, eBay, Vinted, Carousell, or Tradesy.

    You could take the process into your own hands and post sale listings on Instagram or Facebook. (Following the proper guidelines, of course.)

    You can consign with other big names like TheRealReal.

    You could even host live sales through District, Whatnot, TikTok, or CommentSold.

    Whatever you decide, remember to read the fine print on the platform, keep an eye on your finances, pace yourself to avoid burning out fast, and enjoy the journey of learning.

    We may not all be cut out to sell clothes online, but there’s no harm in giving it a try to see if you enjoy it!


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