Closet Shopping: 30 Fits in 30 Days

When it comes to getting dressed on a daily basis, those of us who care generally take the sucka way out and either wear the same basic crap from week to week, and cop to buying some sub-par outfit to go out in.  We never devote the time necessary to building a fully functional wardrobe.  

That stops now.

  I am the first to admit on relying on retail therapy as my go-to plan of action when in dire need of an outfit, and rely on my *Reserves* as my backup plan.  What I will do moving foward is the exact opposite.

  RESERVES: Small supply of misc, never- worn items, however, cannot be an entire outfit. This is what sneakerheads refer to as deadstock.

   What I have been doing my last few shopping excursions is target items to add to the Reserve, not that I would not necessarily be wearing right away. With warm weather already here, and even warmer weather on the way, the Black Kennedys have a full schedule for the upcoming month. I decided to utilize it as a prime fashion experiment.  For the next 30 days, I am not allowed to purchase any items of clothing. I am to rely soley on my current wardrobe, and items in my Reserve.   The only acceptable purchases will be accessories or fairly inexpensive items to add to the reserve.  HOWEVER, no clothing items can be purchased.

Upon completion of this experiment, if sucessful, I will not only have solidified my place as the Flyest Nigga You Know, but I will have also been able to save the necessary funds to buy myself something fabulous.

P.S. As I get older, the more I find myself going for Quality moreso than Quantity. Pick an aspect of your life to apply that martra to and see how quickly things begin to hold their value for you. It works on the people "aspect" of your life too...Just a suggestion.***The Queen***

Outfit: The Blueprint

The problem for most people when it comes to getting dressed, or so they think, is deciding what to put on. Nope. The real issue is you have no idea how to construct an outfit.

An outfit should be built. It needs good planning, the right materials, and most importantly, flawless design. There are certain aspects that can be substituted for a less a less pricey counterpart. HOWEVER, there is one aspect that should never be so; Shoes.

Step1: BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF ABOUT WHAT SIZE YOU ARE AT THIS VERY MOMENT

 The biggest fashion crime being committed on the streets today is bitches being in denial about what size they actually are.  Why is it so hard to understand that you look fat and sloppy when your clothes fit improperly.  It also must be said that, just because it comes in your size, doesn't mean it made for you.  Every body type varies from one person to the next. Just because it works for someone else, doesn't mean it's for you. " If it's tight, you should not bite!"

Step 2: Buy a Fashion Magazine

 If it serves no other purpose, it will most certainly show you an example of what you prefer NOT to look like. I like to look at them to see what's new and how I can make it better. Nobody becomes an expert w/o a little studying ;-)

Step 3: Accessorize Your Outfit Initially, and Purchase Those Items First, Along w/ your Shoes.

 This way, if you find something fabulous, and need to spend a little extra, you can regroup on the rest of the outfit, and possibly wear it with something you already have.

Step 4:  Start Out With The Intentions Of Buying a Great Dress, Then Work From There.

 This way, if you find one, great. Outfit complete. However, doesn't it always seem like you find all these other fly things when you have a specific thing in mind?  Seize that opportunity to try something new.   I have been my most creative when I was unable locate a great dress for an event.

Step 5: ALWAYS Plan Your OutFit Around A Jacket.

 There is never a time when a jacket isn't necessary, it can always be removed, however, if worn, can act as an accessory to the outfit. It can also instantly transition your look from one event to the next for simplifying costume changes on busy days.

Step 6:  Purchase and/or Wear The Appropriate Undergarments For Your Attire.

 Nothing ruins a great outfit quicker than unsightly lumps and bumps underneath a beautifully made garment.  It also attests to the fact that you took the extra step to ensure you look good(Very Ladylike!!).

Step 7:  The Return Process

 Ok ladies, it's inevitable.  You have purchased all of your items and something doesn't work. I know it's a hassle, but you need to take it back.  If another size doesn't rectify the fit, then another item needs to be considered in it's place.  Prior to purchase, inquire with the sales rep as to what the return policy on that specific garment is, and if there are time restraints under which the item must be brought back.

Step 8:  Please Yourself

 At the end of the day, you need to be completely satisfied with what you see reflecting back at you in the mirror.  Regardless of what Advice you are given, if you are not pleased, then the process is pointless. Aim to please you; that's all that matters...***The Queen***