Get into the right mindset. Anytime I read fashion magazines or watch a TV show with great styling, I feel inspired to refresh my looks. It gives me ideas for wearing items I already have in new ways. What makes you inspired to shop? Harness that feeling and apply it to going through your current wardrobe.

Put everything you have in plain view. Even if it means dumping out your dresser drawers, get everything you have out in front of you. It makes it easier to visualize new outfits.

Think outside your comfort zone. Do you always wear your gray suit with a blue, black, or white top? Pick a bright pumpkin orange instead. Do you trend towards silver jewelry? Throw on a few delicate gold necklaces with your dress this time. Picking the opposite of what you normally wear can help an old item feel new.

Try everything on. Treat your new looks just like when you go into a fitting room and twirl around to see every angle of an outfit before purchasing. Try on each look as you put it together to make sure it’s worth investing in. “Purchase” the outfits you like by setting them aside. Put away anything you don’t feel comfortable in.

Maybe do just a little shopping… If you have a few stand-by looks that always seem to work for you, think about what little tweek you could make to change them a bit. Buy a pair of royal blue tights to go with a basic black dress you love to wear.  I know I said DON’T shop, but if you really think a $10 purchase could save you from spending $100s, then I say go for it. It’s amazing how something as small as new earrings or a headband can make a look feel fresh.

If you try the 5 steps, let me know how it went!