365 Fashion Rehab Rx - New Year, New You

I was recently reading in In Style magazine that 35% of women like to start the new year by hitting the mall for the end of season sales. That can be a recipe for disaster. Slashed prices can lead to a lot of reckless purchases. Here at 365FR we are all in favor of new things, but like to think we are little more conscious about it than we were say, a year and a half ago, prior to our entry into Fashion Rehab. So before rushing out and throwing down tons of cash just for the sake of a clearance sale, why not take our prescription for a "New Year, New You" by taking stock of your closet and finding out what is lacking in your wardrobe? A little research before hitting the shops is good for both your state of mind and your finances. (For many a wise word on closet cleansing from P and I click here and here).

After a quick assessment of my current wardrobe and an ear to the ground about what's hot for 2011, I am declaring it my year of the brights. My closet is stocked with some great classics and my makeup bag is full of what I would call "everyday friendly colors" (smoky eye kits and and soft pink glosses) but is definitely lacking in the bold color department. With very little financial commitment I know I can take myself from night (read: wardrobe of black) to bright in a matter of days.

Bright Accessories: Aldo cuff, $18, Estee Lauder Pure Gloss in Orange Poppy, $18.50, and printed scarf from H&M

My first purchase in the quest for color was in the form of a very inexpensive lime, cobalt, and coral paisley print scarf from H&M that I can pair with literally anything. Second on my list will be a fresh new lip color (think fuschia or coral!) and third, a new piece of jewelry (a multi color cuff from Aldo on the lower end of the price scale, or a pair of agate and quartz Kendra Scott earrings on the higher side). I like the idea of accessorizing with these new brights to bring my wardrobe up to date, but at this point I don't feel like I need to make any new big clothing purchases in these kaleidoscopic colors. Further in the season I may buy a lime silk blouse or brightly printed dress but I will wait for the weather to change.

So what is your fashion forecast for 2011? Pared down minimalism? Exotic florals? Whatever your choice may be, keep in mind to slowly ease into those purchases and don't be lured in by a 70% off price tag on something you would never buy full price. And lastly, just because it is a new year it doesn't mean that you need to buy an entire new wardrobe!

Happy 2011!

Love, A