Tips to Maximize Mix and Match

by T.B
(US)

Versatility is the key here. Also helpful is the ability to objectively look at things and think outside the box.

When buying blouses or tops, look for multi-colored patterns. As an example, I have both a brown and a black pair of dress pants. I purchased a top having both brown and black in it, along with white. That top works with either pair of pants, as well as a brown skirt I have. Another example concerns sleeveless shirts. A tan/brown striped shirt goes with tan capri pants in the summer. For cooler weather, it layers under a brown sweater (which also pairs with a patterned dress). That same shirt works with the brown dress pants, and skirt. I have four of those types of sleeveless shirts, and they get worn alot!

A jacket can also be a great way to help get more use from individual wardrobe pieces. It can be paired with a sleeveless shirt and pants, or with jeans if a casual look is more appropriate. The same jacket can work with a skirt for a dressy occasion. This will work more easily if you stick to basics when choosing a color. In other words, don't buy that lime green leather blazer if you want a something that works with many different looks or outfits.

You've probably heard this one before, but it's true: stick to styles or cuts more classic than trendy. A black sweater is great and will serve you well over several years unless it is one of the very short sweaters that was recently popular and now isn't as popular. The majority of your clothes should be things that you can wear over and over, with the additional of an accent in a trendy color or a new piece of jewelry.