A Personal Stylist’s Closet Edit Report

Apr 23

What I See is Outdated in Most Women’s Closets
(And What to Swap In Instead)

I’ve worked with SO women in their closets. Different ages, different lifestyles, different sizes — but certain patterns always show up.

There are a few key categories that tend to be… well, stuck. Pieces that used to work, but now feel a little off. Styles that were staples a decade ago but haven’t evolved with you. Items that make getting dressed harder, not easier.

I’m highlighting the top categories I find outdated most often.

If any of this sounds familiar, don’t worry — you’re not alone. And the good news? You don’t need a whole new wardrobe. You just need to make a few intentional swaps.

1. JEANS: Rethink Your Blues

If you’re still hanging on to a stack of skinny jeans in various washes, it’s time to branch out.

Jeans have become the modern woman’s power pant. You can wear them with sneakers, heels, blazers, or boots — and the new silhouettes are infinitely more flattering and current.

Try:

Straight-leg or stovepipe styles
Relaxed flares or wide-leg cuts
Barrel-leg or utility styles for a trend-forward feel
Medium and light washes for casual polish

2. TOPS: Bring on the Knits (But Make Them Elevated)

If your closet still has a few polyester blouses or shell tops you used to wear under blazers (untucked, over low-rise pants), it’s time for a refresh.

These styles had their moment in the office wear of the early 2000s, but today they tend to feel boxy, dated, and disconnected from how women actually dress now.

Instead, look for updated tops with structure, shape, and softness. Styles that are polished enough for meetings, but comfortable and flattering enough for real life.

Try:

Lightweight knits with interesting necklines or sleeve details
Cotton poplin button-ups or soft gauze blouses that look great tucked or half-tucked
Sleeveless sweaters or elevated tees that layer easily but hold their shape

These kinds of pieces strike the perfect balance between relaxed and refined — and they work beautifully whether you’re heading to work or just grabbing lunch with a friend.

3. FOOTWEAR: Step Up Your Shoe Game

Shoes are often the giveaway that a wardrobe needs a refresh.

Rounded-toe flats, clunky loafers, and dated ankle boots can unintentionally age your look. But a quick swap makes all the difference.

Try:

Pointy-toe or almond-toe flats
Block heel mules or square-toed sandals
Fashion sneakers — sleek, minimal, and versatile (not gym shoes!)

Comfort and style can coexist. Promise.

4. BELTING: Cinch It Up

Many women I work with own zero belts. And I get it — we went through a long phase of tunics and flowy tops. But belts are back, and they’re essential for adding shape and intention to your look.

Use them to define your waist, create balance, and polish off an otherwise simple outfit.

Start with:

A black and brown reversible belt
A natural or camel tone that pairs with anything
A statement buckle for when your outfit needs just a little something extra

5. BLAZERS + JACKETS: Power Up Your Look

If you’ve still got full matching suit sets from the early 2000s, it’s time to break them up and re-style them.

Blazers are still having a moment — but now, it’s all about pairing them with casual pieces like jeans, elevated tees, or knit dresses. And there are so many other jacket options that give structure and personality.

Try mixing in:

Moto jackets
Elevated denim or utility jackets
Lady jackets (think polished Chanel vibes)
Bomber jackets for a casual twist

6. DRESSES: Shift from Corporate to Casual Chic

Classic sheath dresses and conservative office styles often feel a little too stiff for today’s lifestyle — especially if you're no longer working in a corporate environment full-time.

You don’t have to toss them all — some can be reimagined with a great belt and modern shoes. But you’ll want to make room for updated options, too.

Great dress styles to try:

Shirt dresses (belted or worn open like a duster)
Structured knits that skim without clinging
Wrap dresses — universally flattering and great for movement
Denim, linen, or faux leather dresses for weekend polish

✨ Final Thoughts

If you’ve felt like your wardrobe is stuck — this is your sign that it might be time to evolve with it.

Your lifestyle has shifted. Your body may have changed. Your personal style has definitely grown. Your closet should support who you are now, not who you were five or ten years ago.

This isn’t about tossing everything and starting from scratch. It’s about strategic updates that make getting dressed easier, more modern, and a lot more fun.

With love and style,