Have you ever imagined a shopping spree where the clothes are free? Currently, many of us are looking for ways to cut back on expenses.  What if I told you there's a place where you can shop with no need for a credit card, check book, or cash; and that this great place was right on your doorstep!

It's your closet......

When a client tells me they have "nothing to wear", the first place I take them shopping is their closet. Why? Well consider what's actually in your closet:

• Clothes you liked when you purchased them.
• Clothes from the past that remind you of a particular time or event.
• Clothes that were gifted to you.

But so many of our clothes are never worn. Why? Do any of the following reasons sound familiar?

• The closet is so full you've forgotten what's in there.
• It contains clothes that no longer fit you.
• It contains clothes that are out of style.
• It contains lots of individual pieces, but not a lot matches.

Think again! Your closet can become your personal boutique, all you have to do to shop there is allocate some time and consider the following;

• Include a family member or friend to help in the process and encourage you.
• Take out each item of clothing and really, really look at it. Try it on.
• If it doesn't fit, could it be altered to fit? Could the style be changed? (An out of style calf length dress could be shortened and now worn over leggings for a more modern look. Or could you remove sleeves or a belt?)
• Would the item look different if you just changed the buttons? (Imagine that Navy jacket with new, bright red buttons, a red tee and denim jeans; it might just work)
• Have fun and think outside of the box.
• Try putting a cocktail dress with a denim jacket and a simple pair of sandals for dressed-down look.
• Add some bright accessories to a plain tee to dress it up.
• Try colors together you never dreamed would match; you'll be pleasantly surprised. (Forget the old rules Black and Brown should not be worn together, YES THEY CAN).
• Forget all the rules, just get creative.
• When you have been through all your clothes only put back the ones you want, or can, actually wear. Separate any suits and hang these as separates. Keep all your jackets together, all your pants together, all your tops together etc....

At the end of your closet shopping experience you may have some clothes that have to go. For these items consider the following;

• Look at each item and consider, has it been worn much? Is it still in style? If the item is hardly worn and still somewhat in style then make sure it is pressed and cleaned and take it to a consignment store. You may earn some extra cash.
• Alternatively, put it in a box for your local good will organization.

Finally, in six months time go through the process again and reinvent some new outfits from your personal boutique......what fun! As always, I welcome any questions on closet shopping.