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If you’re reading this post, chances are you probably already know your wardrobe is long overdue for a fashion shakeup. But if you’re feeling like it’s time to update your wardrobe but you just aren’t quite sure how to officially tell, or you need that final confirmation that updating your wardrobe is a good idea (spoiler alert: it is!), then this is the post for you.
From not feeling confident in your clothes to having nothing to wear, these 16 glaring signs will help you know that it’s time to update your wardrobe! Plus, each one will have a few ideas of how you can get your wardrobe updated and back on track.
1. You Dread Getting Dressed Each Morning Because You Feel Like You Have Nothing To Wear
Do you find yourself staring at your closet every morning, feeling completely uninspired and frustrated because you can’t seem to find anything to wear? If this scenario sounds all too familiar, it’s a clear sign that it’s time to update your wardrobe.
I don’t have to tell you twice, but feeling like you have nothing to wear can be a major source of stress and can leave you starting your day on a negative note. It can also affect your confidence and self-image, as you may feel like your current clothing options don’t represent who you are or how you want to be perceived in this world.
Investing in a wardrobe update can help alleviate these frustrations and boost your overall mood. By having a selection of clothing that you truly love and feel confident in, getting dressed each morning becomes a more enjoyable experience!
You’ll no longer waste time rummaging through clothes that no longer serve you, but instead have a curated collection of statement pieces that you can easily mix and match to create stylish outfits you love.
Related: How To Make Getting Dressed Fun: 10 Tips To Spice Up Your Morning Routine
2. Your Clothes Are Worn Out, Faded, or Damaged
Perhaps one of the most obvious signs that it’s time to update your wardrobe is when your clothes start to show signs of wear and tear. If your favorite sweater has developed holes or your go-to pair of jeans has a damaged zipper, it’s time to let them go (or get them repaired).
Wearing clothes that are worn out, faded, or damaged not only looks unprofessional and sloppy, but it also affects your confidence and self-image. When your clothes are worn out and you wear them anyway, it’s easy to feel not very put-together. That’s why there’s so much power in getting ready in the morning even if you aren’t going anywhere! Dressing up in nice clothes is an amazing way to make you feel empowered and ready to take on the day.
Additionally, damaged or faded clothes can give the impression that you don’t care about your appearance or that you don’t pay attention to detail. By investing in new, well-fitting clothes, you can instantly boost your confidence and present yourself in a more polished way.
And though it’s not necessarily a good thing, people tend to judge others based on their appearance, so it’s important to make sure that your clothes are in good condition and reflect the image you want to portray. Not only will updating your wardrobe make you feel better about yourself, but it will also leave a lasting impression on others!
blazer (similar) | dress (similar) | necklace | sandals (similar)
3. Your Clothes No Longer Fit Properly
Whether it’s because you’ve gained or lost weight, or simply because your body shape has changed over time, clothes that don’t fit properly can be a major confidence killer and source of frustration. Not only do they make you feel uncomfortable, but they also fail to flatter your figure.
If you find yourself constantly tugging at your shirt or adjusting your pants, it’s a clear indication that it’s time to invest in new pieces that will fit you perfectly. Wearing clothes that fit well not only makes you look better, but also allows you to feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin. Which is what really matters!
Your body shape is constantly changing, so instead of feeling frustrated or deflated about where you find yourself now, it’s important to regularly evaluate your wardrobe to make sure that you’re always wearing clothes that make you look and feel your best.
Related: Your Body Deserves Better: 15 Secret Lies We Tell Ourselves When Dressing
4. You Receive Constant Unsolicited Fashion Advice From Your Friends or Family
We all have that one person in our lives who feels the need to comment on our fashion and life choices, whether we ask them or not. And though I’m a big believer in shutting out noise, sometimes you need to evaluate when multiple people are saying the same thing over and over again.
If you find that you’re constantly bombarded with comments and suggestions about what you should or shouldn’t be wearing, it might be time to see if your wardrobe is in need of a refresh. This constant unsolicited fashion advice could be a sign that your current style is outdated or no longer flattering the current you.
It can be great to seek fashion advice from those we trust, but of course, it’s important to take their opinions with a grain of salt. At the end of the day, your wardrobe should be a reflection of your personality and style, not someone else’s opinion.
5. You Have Too Many Outdated Items From High School or College
If you find yourself still holding onto clothing items from your high school or college days, and they’re not classic pieces, then it’s time to update your wardrobe! Fashion styles, bodies, and tastes are constantly evolving, and what was once a good idea in your younger years may no longer be fashionable or age-appropriate now. (Though sorry, I’ve got to say it, but wearing a high school band t-shirt is never very fashionable!)
Plus, having too many outdated items in your wardrobe can give off the impression that you are stuck in the past and not keeping up with your current self. It’s important to adapt your style as you grow and change as a person. Letting go of these outdated items will not only make room for new and more modern pieces but also help you feel more confident and put together.
6. You Notice That You Have a Lot of Items You Haven’t Worn in Years
So you take a look inside your closet and notice a plethora of items that haven’t seen the light of day in years. Yep, it’s time to update your wardrobe. We’ve all been guilty of holding onto clothes that we no longer wear, whether it’s because they no longer fit, they’re out of style, or they simply no longer reflect our current taste and lifestyle.
But having a lot of unworn items taking up valuable closet space can make it difficult to find what you actually want to wear. It can also contribute to feelings of clutter and overwhelm when it comes to getting dressed each day. By purging these unused items and making room for new, more relevant pieces, you can streamline your wardrobe and make the process of getting dressed each morning a breeze.
Plus, holding onto clothes that you haven’t worn in years may be a sign that your personal style has evolved or that you’re simply holding onto outdated trends. Letting go of these items can be a freeing experience and can open the door to discovering new styles that better align with your current fashion preferences!
Related: How to Clean and Organize Your Closet Like a Pro
7. Your Style Has Changed and Your Current Wardrobe Doesn’t Reflect That
Has your personal style changed in the past few years? Do your current clothes fail to reflect that change? As we grow and evolve as individuals, our sense of classic style often undergoes a similar transformation. Maybe you used to be into bold and vibrant colors in your college days, but now you prefer a more polished and sophisticated look. Or perhaps you’ve developed a newfound love for easy-to-wear clothes, but your closet is still filled with tailored suit separates.
When your current wardrobe doesn’t align with your evolving style, it can leave you feeling frustrated and uninspired. If you find yourself constantly reaching for the same few items because the rest of your wardrobe feels outdated, unflattering, or not aligned, it’s definitely time for a refresh.
8. Your Wardrobe Is Lacking Essential Pieces That Could Make Getting Dressed Easier
Do you find yourself spending way too much time every morning trying to put together an outfit? Do you feel like you have nothing to wear, even though your closet is full? If you’re nodding your head, then this is a glaring sign that your wardrobe is lacking essential pieces that could make getting dressed easier.
Having a wardrobe filled with essential pieces can save you time, stress, and even money in the long run. These pieces are versatile, timeless, and can be easily mixed and matched with other items in your closet. They serve as the foundation of your wardrobe, allowing you to create countless outfits effortlessly.
Need help knowing what essential clothing pieces are worth getting? I created a resource for you that will help you build your wardrobe from scratch – all the steps you need from start to finish!
9. You Haven’t Updated Your Wardrobe in Years
Yes, “everything comes back around”, but there is such a thing as outdated. Fashion trends come and go, and it’s easy to get caught up in the latest fads. However, constantly chasing after trends can leave your wardrobe feeling stale and out of touch.
If you find yourself with a closet full of items that were once trendy but are now outdated, it’s a clear sign that it’s time to refresh your wardrobe. It’s important to remember that what you wear is an extension of your personal style, rather than simply following what’s popular at the moment.
Instead of investing in trendy pieces that may quickly go out of style, focus on building a timeless and versatile wardrobe. Opt for classic pieces that can be styled in multiple ways and withstand the test of time. This way, you’ll always have something stylish to wear, regardless of the current trends.
And remember, updating your wardrobe doesn’t mean you have to completely disregard trends! Instead, aim to incorporate them in small, subtle ways that enhance your overall style. By finding the balance between trends and timeless pieces, you’ll create a wardrobe that feels current and reflects your personal style for years to come.
Related: Reinvent Your Wardrobe: How To Put Together Outfits With Clothes You Already Have
10. Your Clothes No Longer Align With Your Lifestyle or Career
As we go through life, our lifestyles and career paths may change, and it’s important for our wardrobe to reflect those changes. If you find yourself wearing clothes that are more suited for a different time or stage in your life, then it’s time to accept your new season and update your wardrobe accordingly.
For example, if you have recently started a new job that requires a more professional or polished look, but your current wardrobe consists mostly of casual outfits and laid-back pieces, it’s time to invest in some appropriate work attire. Similarly, if you have transitioned to a more active and fitness-oriented lifestyle, it may be necessary to update your wardrobe with activewear and comfortable athletic clothing.
By making sure that your clothes align with your lifestyle or career, you not only look more put-together and confident, but you also feel more comfortable and prepared for any situation that may arise.
11. You Feel Stuck in a Fashion Rut and Want To Revamp Your Style
Stuck in a clothing pickle? You’re not alone. We all have those days when we stand in front of our full closets, not interested in anything we own. (No? Just me?)
Making changes to your style can be fun! Honestly, it lets you check out new trends, try out different shapes, and find clothes that actually show who you are and what you like right now.
Whether you’ve had the same look for years or you just want to add some newness to your everyday outfits, changing up your style is a great answer.
Related: What To Do When You Are in a Style Rut?
12. Your Wardrobe is Missing Capsule Wardrobe Essentials and Versatile Key Pieces
Do you ever look at your closet and pass over a cardigan or hoodie because it doesn’t seem to fit with anything else you have? Layering can turn this situation around. It’s a strategy to change the look of your outfits and adjust to all types of weather. Using key pieces like a button-up shirt, a tank top, or dresses of various lengths, can open up many more combinations.
By the way, layering is crucial if you want a compact collection of high-quality clothes that harmoniously blend together.
Related: Capsule Outfits That Build a Timeless Wardrobe
13. You Haven’t Mastered the Art of Color Palette Coordination
You’d think a matchup of a good color mix is key for a clothing collection that goes well together and seems to be carefully chosen. When you pick a couple of main colors that match your style, it becomes much simpler to buy something new.
It’s not just about large t-shirts or tight jeans. It’s about ensuring that your standout clothes, either a regular-fit pants or an everyday relaxed outfit, all fit nicely together.
Related: How to Color Mix and Create a Killer Outfit
14. You’re Not Embracing the Power of Clothing Swaps and Online Shopping
Clothing swaps are a pretty easy way to find new styles without spending any money. This is a green approach to get rid of your unwanted clothes and add in some fresh, fashionable items. And if buying is what you need, you should try out online platforms.
Take Amazon, for instance. You can discover a wide range of clothing choices, from loose lounge clothes to traditional button-up shirts, which are perfect for your style and needs. It really is a convenient way to shop!
Related: 14 Ways to Expand Your Wardrobe on a Tight Budget
15. It’s Time to Reconsider Your Denim Choices
Skinny jeans aren’t the only game in town anymore. A lot of people still wear them, but there are other kinds of jeans to check out. You see, you’ve got loose jeans and straight-leg pants which also look sharp. There’s a whole universe of denim you could be rocking!
Don’t forget, fashion keeps changing. What’s popular now could be out of style before you know it. So, it’s important to stay flexible and open to wearing different styles and cuts of jeans.
Related: 4 Seriously Stylish Ways to Wear Denim
16. Consider Seeking the Guidance of a Personal Stylist
Don’t panic if redoing your clothes collection feels overwhelming. It’s alright to look for assistance. Someone who is really good at picking out new clothes – a personal stylist – can offer you different clothes combos, advice on fashion, style tips, and even help sort out a smaller, more manageable collection of old clothes for you. They know what’s popular, from that old reliable button-up top that is back in style, to longer dresses gaining popularity.
They can also guide you in figuring out how to use wardrobe essentials like sweaters, cardigans, and vests to look stylish and be comfortable.
Related: In a Style Rut? Here Are 20 New Places To Get Fresh Outfit Inspiration
The writing is on the wall: It’s time to update your wardrobe! If any of these glaring signs resonated with you, then acknowledging them is the first step to walking into your new confident wardrobe.
Need help addressing these problems? I created a resource for you that will help you build a wardrobe from scratch. In this eBook, you’ll find out how to declutter and clean your wardrobe, shop for the right pieces, and wear clothes that you make feel confident and improve your wardrobe!
