Building a Winter Wardrobe (For Men and Women over 60)

Full of holidays and festivities, preparing your wardrobe for winter can be a fun and fulfilling thing to do. Starting with basics that you likely already have in your closet, you can be ready for any activity at a moment’s notice. Preparing ahead of time will save you both money and time and keep you feeling comfortable and looking great!

Creating a wardrobe that works for you, your comfort, and your personal style rather than something trendy that is dictated from the outside, works best. Here are some steps that will help you define your style, assess what you already have, and add the items that will round out your entire winter wardrobe.

1. Keepers - Think of the items that you currently have that you love. Do you have one cozy sweater that you wear anytime you have the opportunity? A pair of jeans that fit you perfectly? A T-shirt that represents a special time or occasion? These are the items you set aside and keep as part of your wardrobe no matter their style, color or condition. If they make you feel good, nothing else matters.
2. Necessities – You will need a coat, a jacket, and a cardigan. If you don’t already have favorites, choose neutral tones that will go with everything. Greys are always a winner, browns, tans, creams, and blacks are good too. Even more muted blues and greens work well. Style is up to you.

   Underwear – Make sure you have enough underwear to have clean every day between launderings. Get rid of uncomfortable, torn, or poorly fitting underwear.

3. Daily Wear – Get together the items you tend to wear every day. Pants, shirts, skirts, dresses, whatever you wear the majority of the time. Choose the ones you enjoy most and that fit you well. Veer toward classic items that will easily mix and match. Pick items that will stretch your wardrobe like a well-fitting pair of jeans, a pair of classic black pants and a dark colored turtleneck.

   Again, be sure that you have enough items to last between laundry days. If you do laundry every week, you will need 7 days of clothes, but if you do laundry every 2 weeks, that means you need 2 weeks of daily wear.

   Unless you are doing something that gets your clothing dirty, sweaty, or smelly, you can wear your daily wear more than once before they are laundered. Hang them over night so that they can air out a bit and they should be fine to wear a second day.

   As you sort and choose the items to keep in your wardrobe, make sure they are all in good repair. If a button is missing, sew, or have someone sew it on for you. Get rid of torn, stained, and ill-fitting clothes. Keep only clothes that you like and feel comfortable in, and those you will actually wear.

4. Occasional Wear– Do you have special occasion wear? Do you have items that you only wear occasionally for special activities or events? This includes special holiday wear. Put these to the side in your closet but keep them ready for those special times. Be sure they are in good condition and repair for when you want them.
5. Fun Wear – This can include those orange skinny jeans or that hibiscus flowered jacket. Choose the items that you enjoy and that can fit with your basic wardrobe.
6. Embellishments – These items include jewelry, scarves, hats, and other items that spice up your outfit. Assess what you have and decide on how and when you will wear them. Consider which of your basic items they will blend with.

Purchasing Items For Your Wardrobe

As you look over the items that you have chosen for your wardrobe from the clothing you already own, are there any gaps that need to be filled? Do you need a new cardigan or a classic wardrobe item? Do you want to purchase something fun to spice up your clothing choices? Do you need to replace something that doesn’t quite work?

As you prepare to make a purchase, decide on your budget. Look online or in stores to get some idea of what the item might cost. Look for sales and bargains. Consider purchasing at a consignment shop or thrift store where you can get much more for your money.

Be Prepared

Preparing your wardrobe for an upcoming season can make you feel more confident and ready for any occasion.  It can simplify your life by reducing the time and effort it takes to get dressed each day, and it can ensure that you have clothes that work for your lifestyle. It can also help you to clear out unnecessary items that are cluttering your closet.

A Professional Caregiver  

A professional caregiver can be an important part of your support system when you are working on living your best life. A professional caregiver can provide care, and companionship for you in the comfort of your own home. They can help you gather and prepare your wardrobe for the coming season. You can find a professional caregiver through our website whether you need someone full-time, or for just a few hours a week. Right at Home will work with you to select the perfect, qualified, professional caregiver to make sure that your loved one’s needs are met. Each caregiver is screened and bonded to ensure professionalism. Our unique five-step process will provide just the right fit for your family. Contact us today at 631.352.0022 and ask for a FREE in-home consultation.