*Collaborative post.

Shopping no longer feels as guilt free as it used to back in the day. A lot has changed now and we consumers tend to think twice before splashing out on new pieces and accessories. Times have changed and we have all had to adjust to the new times. I no longer shop like I used to a few years ago, and I think twice before I add any new additions to my wardrobe.  But the question remains – How many garments do we really need in our wardrobes? Let’s see if I can break this down –

How many garments do we really need in our wardrobes?

Many of us think it is easier to shop for men than for women, but it is pretty much the same process most of the time. I remember being shocked back in 2017 when it was revealed that British women spend an average of £74 per month on clothes compared to British men who spend an average of £100. That same study also revealed that the average man owns about 56 pieces of clothing but only wears about 62% of these regularly. Women on the other hand own 95 but only wear 59%.

Tops and blouses

With tops, the best way to go is to have about six to ten pieces per wardrobe. Having said that, this is just an estimate. The amount of tops you would need in your wardrobe depends on your lifestyle, employment, budget and so on, but it is a guide to go by. I like to mix and match my tops with other pieces to create different looks. This works great for me and I find I get more wear out of each and every piece that way.

Pants, skirts and shorts

With pants, I like to have about six to eight of them in my wardrobe. That way I always have options but not too many that I forget about them. One denim expert recommended having about three pairs of jeans in the wardrobe and it makes perfect sense! There is no point having over ten or twenty pairs of jeans in your wardrobe. It is likely you won’t be able to wear half of the jeans most of the time.

It also makes sense to make some room for skirts and shorts especially in the summer months. I like to have a couple of these each for when the weather allows.

Outerwear is key

Having a great quality outerwear is very important. They are great wardrobe assets as they can help finish off any look. I like to have about 4 outerwear pieces. The key to getting your outwear pieces to stay with you for awhile is to invest a bit more in them. I always recommend at least two casual jackets, one waterproof jacket and one or two blazers in different designs.

Blazers are particularly important as they can take you from the office to the restaurant effortlessly. You can put on a blazer for a meeting at work underneath a stunning dress shirt, or top and skirt for example.

Shoes are made for walking

Shoes are super important. They have the power to take an outfit to a whole new level, and they can also completely ruin an outfit. I must confess, O like to have a couple of pairs in my wardrobe but you don’t really need as many pairs of shoes as you think you need. Three good pairs of shoes would work for many – One pair of smart shoes for work and events, one pair of boots for when the weather demands, and a pair of trainers for casual outings.

So how many garments do we really need in our wardrobes?

I would say between 18 – 25 garments. At the end of the day, this is just a guide. You may need more or less depending on the weather, lifestyle, budget and space. I hope this post helps you rethink every new wardrobe purchase you want to make. Have a great week.