How to build a wardrobe that works for your actual life, and not just Instagram

There’s your wardrobe, and then there’s your real wardrobe. You know the clothes you actually wear on a Tuesday when you’ve spilt coffee on yourself, your Zoom meeting is in ten, and it’s 94% humidity outside.

We’ve all been there: endlessly scrolling through Pinterest boards, saving “capsule wardrobe” reels, and then panic-ordering linen blazers we never actually wear. It’s easy to build a closet for a fantasy version of yourself, the one who brunches in Copenhagen and somehow owns dry-clean-only trousers. But here’s the truth: your wardrobe should work for your actual life, not just the content you could make with it.

So, how do you build a wardrobe that’s stylish and makes sense for your real life? One that doesn’t just look good on the 'gram but actually gets you through Monday meetings, grocery runs, and impromptu night-outs? We’ve got a five-step cheat sheet, and here's everything you need to know. 

Step 1: Get real about your daily routine

Start with a wardrobe audit. What do you actually do in a week? Are you commuting, working from home, running errands, meeting friends at low-key cafés, or dancing at weddings? Lay it all out. Then ask yourself: Does your wardrobe reflect this? If not, there’s your first clue.

Here’s a tip: for two weeks, hang everything you wear on one side of your closet. The rest stays on the other. By the end, you’ll see your true go-tos. Spoiler: it’s probably that oversized tee, those lived-in jeans, and the one dress that makes you feel like a main character.

Step 3: Build a 'uniform' that works for you

Forget what Instagram says is “in.” Focus on silhouettes, fabrics, and colours that you feel confident in. It could be wide-leg pants, clean sneakers, and crop tops. Or maybe it’s flowy dresses and sandals. Find your vibe and repeat it. That’s not boring, it’s iconic.

Step 4: Fill in the gaps

Now that you’ve Marie Kondo’d the fluff, notice what you’re missing. Do you need more layering basics? A proper rain jacket? Buy those. Don’t impulse-buy a corset top just because it looks fire on TikTok.

Step 5: Style first, post later (or not at all)

You don’t need to serve a look every time you step out or log on. What matters is how you feel in your clothes when no one’s watching. If it feels like you, you’re doing it right.

At the end of the day, fashion should meet you where you are, not where your explore page wants you to be. A real wardrobe makes you feel good, not perform well. Build yours for the life you’re actually living.

Lead Image: IMDb

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