The Real Reason Your Closet Feels Off
One day, after a styling session, a client told me something that stuck with me:
“I just wish I could see the end of the process before the beginning.”
She explained that she had been returning anything that didn’t feel instantly stunning. She wanted her closet to be filled only with standout, “wow” pieces. However, during our final session, when we began putting the looks together, she realized something: she had missed the basics she had sent back. The simple tops. The foundational pieces. The ones that would have made all the other items work harder.
That moment was so honest and so common.
I reminded her of something I truly believe: Leonardo da Vinci only made one Mona Lisa.
Trying to create a Mona Lisa every time you get dressed is frustrating. Shopping like every piece needs to be museum-worthy is even worse. Not everything in your wardrobe should be a masterpiece.
If everything is a statement, nothing stands out.
Your closet ends up full of “almosts.”
Here’s what I want you to remember: great style is a balance. It’s not just about collecting beautiful items. It’s about building a system that supports you. Pieces that work together, express your personality, and fit your lifestyle.
Let me show you what that looks like with my Wardrobe Pyramid:
Base (50%)
Core basics in your best neutral or basic colors. These are the everyday heroes. Think great jeans, layering tees, trousers, knits. They mix, match, and carry the weight of your closet.
Middle (30%)
Functional pieces that add flavor and personality. A printed blouse, a favorite statement color, a unique jacket. These show off your style and elevate the basics.
Top (20%)
Special occasion and extra-specific items. A tuxedo. A Red Sox jersey you only wear to the game, and you know it doesn’t match your color analysis. The plaid shirt for your annual Fall photos. A sparkly fanny pack you bought for that one party. These pieces have meaning, but they don’t need to take up space every day.
And please remember this too:
It’s like cooking meatballs and pasta and trying to make coleslaw fit in the recipe. Things can be good on their own and still not go together. Just because something is cute doesn’t mean it belongs in your closet.
We re-ordered those simple tops. She came back in the Summer after her Winter style refresh, and now her closet is something we’re both proud of. It reflects who she is, supports her lifestyle, and makes getting dressed easier and more joyful.
I hope this post helps you make better decisions and gives you a fresh perspective on your wardrobe.
If you're feeling inspired to start shaping a closet that works for you, I offer a simple and supportive guide called Ingredients of Style. It’s a small package designed to help you learn how to build your wardrobe with more intention on your own, but with me by your side.
Ana Harris - Personal Stylist
Color Analysis - Wardrobe Styling
Studio in Fall River, MA - Serving clients from Rhode Island, Boston, and beyond.
