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Shop your closet

The “Shop Your Closet” Challenge

Have you ever stood before your overflowing closet and declared, “I have nothing to wear”?

If so, the Shop Your Closet Challenge is the perfect solution.


The Shop Your Closet Challenge is all about maximising the potential of the clothes you own. It encourages you to step outside your comfort zone, explore different pairing options, and experiment with your style. It’s a great way to break free from the cycle of endless shopping and find a renewed appreciation for the items you already have.

To kickstart the challenge, set aside a specific period, whether a week or a month, where you commit to only shopping your closet. This means no new purchases during this time, forcing you to get creative with what you already own.

Trust me; it can be a truly eye-opening experience.

Start by taking a thorough inventory of your closet. Pull out every item of clothing and assess its fit, condition, and versatility.

This process not only helps you understand precisely what you have but also allows you to declutter and donate or sell any items that no longer serve you.

Separate your clothes into categories like tops, bottoms, dresses, and outerwear to simplify outfit planning. Within each category, organise them by colour or style to streamline your decision-making process.


Once you have a clear picture of what you own, it’s time to get creative. Mix and match different pieces, experiment with layering, and play around with accessories to transform your outfits. Be bold and try combinations you haven’t considered or incorporate trends you’ve been eager to test.

Consider creating a mood board or Pinterest board with outfit inspiration. Explore different fashion blogs, magazines, or celebrity styles and save images that resonate with you. This visual reference can be a starting point for your styling journey and provide ideas for pairing unlikely pieces together.


Another fun aspect of the Shop Your Closet Challenge is coming up with themed outfit ideas. Choose a colour, a decade, or a specific pattern, and challenge yourself to create ensembles centred around that theme. This exercise helps you discover new ways to wear your clothes and highlights your wardrobe’s versatility.

Document your outfits by taking photos or keeping a journal throughout the challenge, which allows you to look back on your creations and serves as a source of inspiration for future styling endeavours. Seeing how a mix of different pieces can create numerous distinct looks is fascinating. You may uncover surprising combinations that you’ll want to revisit repeatedly.


The Shop Your Closet Challenge also encourages a more sustainable approach to clothing. By constantly resisting the urge to shop for new items, you reduce your environmental impact and promote a more conscious approach to fashion. You may even discover a newfound appreciation for slow fashion and the value of investing in quality pieces that stand the test of time.

As you delve deeper into the challenge, you’ll likely find hidden gems lurking in the depths of your closet. Take the time to try on forgotten items and experiment with new pairings. You may discover that clothes you once deemed unwearable or outdated are given new life when blended with other pieces.

Embrace the thrill of discovering new outfit combinations that you never thought possible. Mix and match garments with different textures, experiment with unexpected colour combinations, and play with proportions. Dress up casual pieces with accessories like belts, scarves, or statement jewellery for a whole new look.


Remember, the purpose of the Shop Your Closet Challenge is not to never shop again but to develop a healthier relationship with your wardrobe.

By incorporating shopping your closet into your routine, you’ll become more mindful of your consumption habits and make better choices when adding new pieces to your collection.

While the challenge offers opportunities for self-expression and creativity, it also has practical benefits. You may save money by not constantly buying new clothes, and you’ll likely discover a sense of satisfaction in utilising what you already own to its full potential. So, are you up for the challenge?

Prepare to be amazed by the hidden gems lurking in the depths of your closet. Embrace the thrill of discovering new outfit combinations that you never thought possible.


Happy shopping your closet!



You can have anything you want in life if you dress for it.

Edith Head