If you are a woman who follows the blogger, Instagram, and Twitter fashionistas of the world, you have probably gained the impression that you need to wear something new and different every single day. Wrong!

There are a variety of reasons this will not work for you, or most people you know. Not the least being lack of space, lack of time, and lack of money!

I worked out my own personal style many years ago. I continue to wear what suits me and what works for me, although it may not be fashionable. But it is stylish; which, for me, is more important than fashion. What’s stylish for you?

My body has changed shape with the onset of the years. But I use the same formula and vary it to suit my new body type. I’m sometimes challenged to decide if I’m an Apple or a Rectangle as I’m most definitely not an Hourglass any more.

Why Have a Fashion Formula?

Do you have a formula and stick to it? Or do you play swings and roundabouts? You know, having a fashion formula to use for dressing yourself works for most people. It alleviates the pain and suffering of the “I haven’t got a thing to wear” syndrome. It has other benefits too:

Save Money

You will no longer be overspending on clothes that aren’t right for you just for the sake of buying something new. Buy what is right for you. Invest in clothes that co-ordinate with the rest of your wardrobe. I’m, a great fan of mix and match.

Buy items that are expensive enough not to break the bank but are a high enough quality that they will provide you with plenty of wear. Make sure you like what you buy!

Avoid Waste

When you buy clothes that never really work for you, they either go to the local charity shop (which is good) or to a landfill (which is bad). If your wardrobe is bulging at the seams, how many of the clothes in there do you really wear? That is a waste of time, space, and money! Do the Wardrobe Workout.

Find Extra Time

You probably don’t have the time, or maybe even the inclination, to spend hours on shopping, and putting different outfits together. Time is precious and you need a simple and convenient way to get dressed.

Be Comfortable, Stylish, and Happy

Do more of what works rather than trying something new all the time. If you’re not being fashionable or especially creative, you will feel good about yourself. But of course, trying something new can be very exciting!

A Fashion Formula Should Be Simple

It may seem very basic; it’s supposed to be. Depending on your body shape, you will need only the 10 following items:

• A white t-shirt – with elbow length sleeves
• A pair of boot-cut jeans – high-rise is usually better and more comfortable
• A plain white shirt – with button down collar
• A black jacket – single breasted with a little shape works best
• Black pumps – lengthen those legs
• Crew neck sweater
• A wrap dress – for everybody but an apple body shape
• A skirt – pencil or otherwise
• A trench coat or leather jacket
• A pair of sneakers, ankle boots, or both

Yes, with these items, you can dress stylishly and in great comfort every day, especially when you choose the right accessories. If you’re not sure whether a pencil skirt is for you or not, you can always get your own style booklet.

What makes up your list of basic wardrobe items? Is there something missing from the list? Personally, I doubt if I could live with one pair of shoes and one pair of boots. How about you? If you’d like to know what goes with what, let me know and I shall see if I can help. Please join the conversation.