5 Hacks to Revamp Your Fall Wardrobe

If you're anything like me, you have a good amount of clothes that you've never worn, clothes you've worn once then realized you hated, and clothes you have worn so much that they are literally falling apart at the seams--- leaving you approximately four decent, wearable outfits. Don't freak out! Your wardrobe conundrum doesn't have to be so depressing this fall; just tweak your list of autumn traditions - pumpkin beer and lattes, haunted walks and candy corn - and add in a wardrobe do-over. Because, let's face it, nothing beats cozy knit sweaters and dresses, patterned stockings and ankle boots. But let's take it one step at a time. Before you can buy yourself some new closet staples, you're going to need to make room by emptying out that closest. Seem like a daunting task? It doesn't have to be. Here are a few fashion solutions: 1. Turn your old frocks into DIY crafts If you're crafty and your life isn't just a series of Pinterest fails like mine, then why not do something cool with that old pair of jeans? I've seen everything from necktie lampshades to lamps decorated with patterned blouses to denim fabric baskets. For my military spouses in the midst of a deployment (you are incredible, by the way!), here's a perfect opportunity to keep busy and be productive. Just make sure you have some hot apple cider to sip on while you're crafting to get the full fall effect. 2. Take your clothes to a resale or consignment store If you can make a little extra cash off of your used clothes, you won't feel guilty about buying that expensive (but completely worth it) J.Crew cardigan. Just make sure you remember to call the stores in your area prior to bringing in bags of clothes to get the best rates for resale or trade. Some popular resale chains include Beacon's Closet, Buffalo Exchange and Thredup (online). And remember, stores are looking for clothes that will sell right now, meaning your fall clothes from past years will get bought up while you're better off holding on to that heavy winter coat or bikini. 3. Donate to a charity you care about Your best bet for a feel-good way to empty your closet is to donate. Do your research first to identify which organization your beliefs and values most closely align with. Some options are Dress for Success (clothes go to disadvantaged women going out on interviews), GreenDrop (clothes are converted into money needed to assist organizations that support veterans), thrift shops at your nearest military base, or local churches, domestic abuse shelters and homeless shelters in your area. Whatever option you chose, don't forget no one wants holes or stains on their clothes, so only donate items in good condition. 4. Have a yard sale Why not turn revamping your wardrobe into an event? Whether you have a yard sale with other household items, team up with neighbors for a joint sale, or get the family involved, you can have some fun while making a decent amount of cash. The better you present your clothes, the better they will sell; wash and iron everything before presenting it for neighbors to see. And if you want to combine making a little money with doing good, donate a portion of your sales to the charity of your choice. Doing so might even persuade more people to make purchases. 5. Host a clothing swap party In college, my roomies and I never wore our own clothes out. Why would we when we could we raid each other's closets? If your girlfriends' wardrobes make you envious - and I bet they feel the same about yours - plan a clothing swap party to trade out the items you're bored of for your pals' clothes that you've been eyeing up. Plus, there's no better excuse to catch up with your friends over a bottle of wine. Now that you're equipped with multiple options for a wardrobe revival, you can get planning and start online shopping for your new fall essentials, like those adorable knee high boots you can use to jump around in piles of leaves. Just don't get them too dirty; you might want to trade them in next year. Connect with us on Facebook!

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