Perhaps your list of New Year’s Resolutions looks something like this.  Do more for your body, be kind to those who are less fortunate, and give your personal style (*and in turn your confidence*) an extra boost. While I completely support and applaud your efforts to embrace each of these goals, I can probably only help you accomplish your fashion-related resolutions.

We all feel that nagging guilt when something hangs in our closets, tags still attached, for months, or (*gasp*) even years, unworn. As we usher in the New Year and our chance for a fresh start, I urge you to find that once-coveted, yet never flaunted article of clothing and as Tim Gunn would say, simply “make it work!” As long as it still fits, and doesn’t scream Michael Jackson, you can most likely find a way to make a challenging yet fun style look great on you. In tough economic times, shopping your own closet is a resourceful and wallet-friendly way to feel like you’re splurging on something new!

Perhaps you have an article of clothing you don’t think coordinates with anything you already own. If so, I encourage you to think outside the box and put whatever is hiding in your closet to good use.  Unusual (read: not mismatched) color combinations can be a really fun way to enliven your look (i.e. olive with fuchsia, navy with teal, red with chocolate, etc.).

Perhaps you own a top or dress that is a bit more boxy than foxy. Add an interesting belt to the waistline and see how easily the shape can be transformed into a flattering silhouette.

Perhaps you have an embellished blouse that you can never find the right occasion to wear.  Throw on some dark denim and add a cardigan or fitted jacket to dress it down instantly and wear it day or night.

Perhaps you have a pair of shoes that you’ve been saving for a special night out. Stop waiting and start wearing them with anything and everything – cute shoes were meant to be seen!

Here’s to a happy, healthy, and *stylish* New Year!

Ally