When in Doubt -- Don't

by Barragan

One of the biggest mistakes I have made in working with basics and mix-matching is not following my instincts. If we start with the idea that to successfully mix and match we need well-designed quality garments in a range of neutral colors and we continue on to accessorizing to stay in fashion, we are left at the end with our JUDGEMENT.

Everyone has experienced that feeling of, "well, if this goes with this, then this similar blouse (or whatever) should go with this." Stop on that word right there. "Should" means you are forcing it and the look you will get out of it will be forced also. I could always tell by the look of coworkers. That look of "okay, maybe that works together" and it's not horrific mind you, it's just not an easy, complete look. The same rule seems to apply to clothing on sale and bargain clothing.

If I try too hard to make clothing that is on sale "work" then I have found it will sit in my closet unused. The temptation to "settle" is hard especially for some jobs where you need a certain level of formality each day of the week.

It's optimal to have two weeks of outfits that you can rotate and mix and match. Well, that can be expensive and it can be even tiring to acquire.

I would use my weekends to be able to take my time in choosing, knowing I didn't want to have a bunch of returns, but don't hesitate to return if necessary. Returning items is far better than having clothing that is not doing it's "job" just hanging in the closet. So, what I have learned is when in doubt-- Don't :).