Start your New Year right

It’s easy to be sceptical of New Year’s resolutions seeing how many are broken over the years. Yet I still find it empowering to sit down and think about things that I want to change and — more importantly — can change.

Two areas of life that are actually easy to change are fashion and beauty. Nevertheless, we all get into ruts now and then, and some people stay in them for decades. That’s why it’s great that New Year’s comes once a year as a gentle reminder to embrace change.

Here are some of my fashion and beauty resolutions — along with some ideas to help you make this coming year even more fabulous than the last.

Get picky

Here’s an easy resolution that will save you some money, too: don’t buy stuff that isn’t fabulous. Get picky about what you buy. This year, I’m promising myself that I won’t buy clothes that don’t fit — especially tops.

Don’t buy more of the same old, same old either. Since I have a weakness for cheap lip gloss, I know that I don’t need to buy any more lip glosses unless I use them up or they go bad. I’m also doing pretty well on shoes, though I reserve the right to buy shoes in interesting colors or neutrals if they’re super comfy.

Expand your style palette

Looking to change your style? Now is a great time to plan ahead for the Spring shopping season.

First off, identify your wardrobe needs. I’m looking for comfy, casual dresses that don’t look too girlie or too granny.

And don’t forget to adjust your style as you change over the years.

Expand your color palette

Sure, we all have colors that suit us best, but that doesn’t mean we can’t incorporate other colors into our wardrobe — especially as pops of color in our accessories.

I’m still looking for the perfect pair of fuchsia shoes. I also want to add some yellow and orange to my wardrobe, though I have to be careful about how I do it so as not to bring out too much yellow or orange in my complexion. And as I look through my closet, I’m surprised by how little I have in green since it’s a great color on me in the right shade. I’ll definitely have to address that!

Invest in your image

Being the cost-conscious shopper that I am, it’s always been hard for me to treat myself to pricier clothes. Recently though, I’ve learned that it’s worth paying more for quality pieces that will last longer or more expensive shoes if they’re comfy enough to actually wear.

Yes, I love cheap clothes, but it’s important to know when something is really a bargain and not a waste of money.

That’s why I plan to buy more quality pieces this year, especially in terms of shoes.

Fortunately I learned the value of good skincare products last year — not necessarily expensive skincare, but rather quality products made for my type of skin.

Organize your life

One of the top things on my list this very week is to get more organized. I’m normally pretty organized, but what with the holiday craziness, a new roommate, and some house renovations… well, I’ve got a lot of work to do.

Get a head start on your Spring cleaning with the “Organizing your wardrobe” series:

• How to weed your closet,
• How to create extra closet space,
• and How to find extra storage solutions

Plus, donate your clothes and other items before the 1st, and you may be able to deduct them from this year’s taxes (make sure to get a receipt for your records).

Here’s to your health

Clothes and accessories aren’t nearly as important as the person wearing them, so take care of yourself. As Benjamin Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” So use your sunblock religiously, moisturize, wash your makeup off every night, eat healthy, exercise, cut down on the bad habits, floss, and most importantly, relax.

Sure, it seems like a lot, but even small changes make a difference. Just saving time shopping can give you more time to take care of yourself. And when it comes to stress-relief, don’t underestimate the power of smiling!

With that, here’s wishing you a very healthy and happy New Year with many more to come!