The 7 Essentials To Keep When Cleaning Out Your Closet

We’ve all been there – stared at a closet bursting with clothes we just can’t bear to chuck, wondering… How? … Why? … When did this even happen? Times like this, you just have to suck it up and face the music – you need a closet clean-out.
But don’t worry; you don’t have to pull a complete Becky Bloomwood in your wardrobe detox. Tactical tossing and strategic saving are your secrets to starting over! And just so we’re clear – you can save way more than just the basic white top.
 
 

1. Black Trousers/Pants

trousers
Image from asos.com

This tops my list, and with good reason. A quality, fitting pair of black pants is more versatile than even the beloved Plain White Tee – it can see you through a hard-pressed workday in the office, to that GNO you’ve been looking forward to all week; slap on a slouchy tee and it’ll even work for a casual day out. The best part? It’s the definition of effortlessness – looking sleek and sharp without even having to try. You’ll be surprised at how good they make you feel too.
 

2. Blue Jeans

jeans ts
Image from topshop.com

For those days when you want to let your hair down a little, a comfy pair of true blue jeans is a good substitute for your daily trouser. Whether you opt for a classic, flattering skinny jean, or a more alternative boyfriend jean, trust that denim indeed, hand to heart, goes with everything.
 

3. Any Black Top – seriously, any black top

black top
Image from asos.com

There’s a reason why many big names in fashion are only ever seen in black. As much as I do appreciate the clean freshness of a white top, black just seems so much more… sophisticated. Regardless of the cut or style, like the black trousers, a black top can pull any outfit together instantly. Plus, it’s a lot less “recognisable” as a co-ordinate – which will help when you’re trying not to look like an outfit repeater with only half your wardrobe left.
 

4. A Bodycon Skirt

Screen Shot 2016-03-02 at 7.10.18 PM
Image from boohoo.com

Contrary to popular belief, a bodycon skirt is actually flattering on all body types. It adds more shape to a skinny silhouette, and accentuates a curvy girl’s killer figure. Not to mention, it can be both work-appropriate and party-safe *wink* That said, don’t go for the tightest fitting mini skirt you have – if it clings too tightly it’ll only emphasise any bumps you’ve been otherwise trying to hide.
 

5. Thin Stripes

Screen Shot 2016-03-02 at 7.09.53 PM
Image from forever21.comstripesstripesstripes

Another good alternative for a basic top is a striped tee – or tank, crop top, shirt, or blouse. Neatly aligned stripes in a good material will look crisp and chic paired with anything. Just remember – the thinner the stripes, the more flattering. You don’t want to look unintentionally pregnant just because you ran out of clothes.
 

6. Denim Jacket

jacket
Imagestripes from urbanoutfitters.com

This cannot be reiterated enough – denim is timeless. Trends can come and go, but a solid denim jacket will last you forever. And Singaporean heat or not, it’s time to recognise that sometimes comfort must be compromised in the name of fashion, and fashion = layers.
 

7. Sneaks!

sneakers
Image from nike.com

Thank god for this decade’s obsession with sneakers and anything sports luxe! As if you needed reminding; but hang on to those trusty Converse Chucks or Nike kicks you were thinking of switching out for heels, because you’ll be surprised at how well they go with everything.
 
Featured image from urbanoutfitters.com and asos.com