During this quarantine it is not only a perfect time to clean out your closet, but also curate it. This does not require you to spend money right this second so don’t worry! Curating by definition is to” select, organize, and look after the items in (a collection or exhibition).” Essentially having a look book ready to go within your closet!

After I clean my closet I look at what pieces I have in my closet and make a list of items that are missing that will help elevate my looks. I first think through the classics (we will get into these below). Some peoples classics might look a little different based on your personal style and that’s okay! Besides a mental note of items I know I need, I also draw from inspiration on Pinterest, Instagram and magazines and see what looks I would like to recreate and if I have these pieces in my closet already. Finally, maybe you have some old pieces that are classics that do not fit anymore or need a little updating. I had a black blazer in my closet, but I have had it since high school and the fit was more “shrunken” which was in style in 2012 LOL. So I added that to my list to find a more business woman like blazer and got rid of the old!

So let’s break it down into simple steps:

1. Clean your closet out: Get rid of anything that doesn’t fit, doesn’t match your style, and really think through the pieces you haven’t worn in at least a year. It probably isn’t worth it to keep in your closet if you haven’t worn it in so long just because it fits. You want your closet to be filled with pieces that you love and want to wear all the time!
2. Start a list of items to curate: You do not have to have a mental list of things your closet is lacking but if you do then jot these down!
3. Pull inspiration from Pinterest, Instagram & Magazines: I then head to places where I find inspiration. On Instagram I save looks I like and can reference these back in my saved photos tab. Same goes for Pinterest. Remember you should always have your own style and not “copy” others, but just pull inspiration to make your looks even better! Inspiration can come from everywhere, even from art and home decor.
4. Get to searching!: Now it is time to get to hunting! Search through your favorite shops, search on Instagram, etc. I always think it is best to find the best quality and bang for your buck so keep your eye out for sales before jumping into purchasing this items you will hopefully have forever!

These are the items that I personally feel like are staples in any wardrobe. Keep in mind like I said earlier, this can vary for your personal style. Maybe you have a classic style and want a fit and flare black dress. Maybe you are more edgy and want a sheath leather dress. Remember fashion does not have rules so have fun!

• Denim Shorts: A staple for every summer wardrobe! So many options from distressed too high waisted. My personal favorite brands are American Eagle and Levis.
• White Button Down: I have had the same white button down for 6 years. It is the perfect staple to tuck into high waisted jeans, wear with work pants, tie up and make a cropped look with shorts. The styling options are endless. This is more of a classic piece so if this doesn’t fit your style you can pass this up.
• Denim Jacket: A piece you can throw on with jeans, sun dresses and so much more! A classic jean jacket will never go out of style. Express your personality by adding patches or buttons! My favorite denim jacket is from Old Navy which is so affordable.
• Dark Wash Jeans: A must have! The dark wash will go with anything and the darker color will be sliming on any body type.
• Nude & Black Heels: Neutral heels are a must in your wardrobe. I tend to gravitate towards nude in the spring summer and black in the fall winter. My favorite pair is from Target so remember you don’t have to break the bank!
• Black Blazer: I finally was able to cross this off my list! You can dress a black blazer up or down from work wear to distressed denim for a more casual look.
• Little Black Dress: TBH I have I think 6 LBD’s in my closet, all different shapes and styles. I will say this is my most worn dresses when I am in a pinch for an event or interview. You cannot go wrong with having multiples styles and fabrics of LBD’s.
• Little White Dress: The perfect spring summer staple. Trade in your LBD for a LWD! I mean except for when you attend weddings because we all know thats a no no.
• Black & White Crew Neck T shirts: I find myself wearing my neutral basics all the time to have a canvas for a statement pair of earrings, necklaces or to keep a simple chic look! Prologue at Target has the BEST crew necks. So comfy and the perfect sleeve length.
• Pair of Statement Earrings: I personally have about 15 hoops that I can dress up or down as my go to. Find your perfect statement earring that will add detail to any look.
• Pair of Dainty Earrings: From studs to a small gold hoop, I love having dainty pieces that I can wear when I decide to layer my necklaces!

Here is my current list of things I am looking to add to my closet! Also keep in mind that this can be for any season and when you start preparing for that season you can reference your list! I tend not to keep trendy pieces on my list due to the short lifespan it will probably have, but you can definetly add those pieces to your list as well!

• Spanx Leggings: I have these in my closet already but they are worn out. I am planning to grab another pair hopefully during the Nordstrom sale!
• Sheer Tights: A random thing to have on my list, but this winter my good pair of tights got a hole so need to replace! I have been wanting to try those sheetex tights I have seen on Instagram that promise no rips. Sounds too good to be true!
• Black Skinny Belt: Mine was super outdated from Forever 21. These are great to add to work pants.
• Raincoat: I mean honestly I just always use an umbrella but feels weird not having a raincoat in the midst of all my jackets!
• Leather Riding Boots: I recently got rid of all of my riding boots due to the outdated look. I haven’t worn riding boots in years but I always admire the Tory Burch pairs in the Nordstrom Anniversary sale. Still thinking over these and will probably need to try them on to see if this is really a need for my wardrobe.
• White Low Top & High Top Converse: Finally had to chuck out my pairs from college. They saw better times and stains so need a fresh new white pair!

Happy curating!