Fashion upgrades for 2013

After the festive chaos of the holidays is over, I find myself ready to renew and reinvigorate my wardrobe and beauty regimen for a new year. Maybe it’s the winter weather in Wisconsin, or one too many holiday cookies talking, but I find that New Year’s Day brings with it the much needed reminder to break my current routine and fully embrace the change that 2013 will bring. Here are my go-to transformations that get me back on track for a fabulously fashionable new year.

Photo via www.fabulouskblog.com

My revamp starts in my closet where it’s out with the old and in with the new. Although it’s painful at times, I try my best to keep with these two rules: 1) If you haven’t worn it in eight months, it’s time to get rid of it, and 2) If it hasn’t fit in a year, it’s best to part ways.

I know, I’m not a huge fan of these rules either, but it helps me prioritize the pieces in my closet. Being choosey about my wardrobe ensures that I’m wearing every piece I own and not letting anything hide in the outskirts of my closet, never to be seen again. It also eliminates extra time in the morning where I discontentedly try on a blouse only to realize it’s two sizes to small (which doesn’t help my already irritable morning self). You’ll thank yourself later, even if you’re swearing all the way to Goodwill.

Wardrobe essentials checklist

If you’re not sure what to toss and what to keep, keep in mind that everyday basics are key to a versatile wardrobe. When it comes down to it, I will almost always choose to keep a seasonal print and toss the “boring” black tee, but it usually turns out that I regret my choice later in the year. If you’re not sure what constitutes a basic, check out some of these helpful checklists that include essential items for everyone’s wardrobe. These pieces are perfect for layering and most can be worn throughout the year (even if that does mean eight months of winter!).

Martha Stewart and Real Simple magazine lays the basics out nicely in their checklist here, which serves as a nice reference point.

Photo via clinique.com

My skin is legitimately angry with me during this time of year. Between brutal winds and freezing temperatures, my skin isn’t willing to compromise without a little TLC. After neglecting my skin for the early part of the winter, I’m going all out this January with a new skin regimen to bring some life back into my skin. My favorite skin essentials are the Clinique skin care line with a gentle cleanser, refreshing toner and perfectly hydrating moisturizer. I’m also a huge fan of Kiel’s line of skincare products, especially their Ultra Facial Lotion for the winter months. As long as you’re making sure you’re covering all your skin bases, you’ll feel much better venturing into 2013.

Photo via cosabella.com

It may sound silly, but the right pair of undergarments can make you feel like you’re ready to seize the day. Undergarments can sometimes fall under the radar — it’s not especially fun to drop money on them — but we all know how important they are. Make sure you have at least five pairs that you love (and I mean love) in varying colors. Practical colors and shades are the best, but I like to have at least one colorful pair to make my underwear drawer a little more fun. I love Cosabella and Gap Body pieces; they always last and make it through the washing machine, which is a huge must.

These fixes, although simple, can propel you into a refreshed and revitalized 2013. By reorganizing your closet, streamlining your wardrobe, and adding a few indulgences to your everyday routine, your year will be off to a bright start.

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