“Help, I haven’t updated my wardrobe since before the pandemic!” This is something many clients have said to me over the last year.

Sound familiar? If you haven’t updated your style since 2019, it’s now 2024 and you’ll have a hard time knowing what to wear.

More office time coupled with real-life parties and events increases the demands on your attire. On top of that, you may be dealing with changes in body shape, new workplace dress codes and lifestyle changes. That’s a lot to deal with!

If you haven’t updated your style in a while, you may be getting tired of your clothes, wearing the same ones over and over, and leaving the house in clothes that feel “boring.”

A quick way to freshen up your style is to ditch the outdated style and replace it with a modern one. I’m not one to follow trends for the sake of trends, but fashion does evolve, so you need to update your look from time to time to make sure you’re keeping up or “on trend,” as my mom likes to say.

To help you avoid falling into a rut, here are my top five wardrobe pieces from 2019 to 2024:

I chose these styles because they suit all body types, are the right choice for business casual for work, and are versatile enough to dress up socially.

1. Ditch the skinny jeans

It is not surprising that these are mentioned. I understand why it’s hard to get rid of them because they’re so easy to wear, but the shape of jeans has changed a lot in the past five years. You might opt ​​for slim-fitting skinny jeans, but super-tight ripped styles should definitely be ditched.

Switch to straight-leg or wide-leg jeans

In 2024, it seems like any jeans (except skinny jeans) are going to change, from baggy jeans to bootcut jeans. I chose this wide-leg style because it flatters most body shapes and goes well with spring colors.

& Other Stories Jeans

2. Ditch the loungewear

We’re all tired of loungewear, aren’t we? Sure, it has a place in our casual wardrobe, but it should be ditched for any occasion other than, well, lounging.

Change to tailoring

Tailoring is the perfect antidote to those shapeless loungewear pieces. It always makes you look put together and stylish. It’s also suitable for all body types because it contours to your body rather than hugging it. Key styles include wide-leg pants (pictured below), blazers and vests.

ME&EM custom wide leg pants

3. Ditch the stilettos

Many of my clients tell me that the formal look of heels and shift dresses seems out of place in the office right now. Even in the most conservative industries, this look has been replaced by more relaxed ways of dressing. We now know that we can be stylish and comfortable at the same time, which is a good thing for women. I hope the makers of The Apprentice will pay attention!

Switch to flats and low heels

You don’t need me to extol the virtues of flats. There are many options for flats, but this season’s color is silver. If you prefer to wear heels, choose low and/or block heels. These Ganni slingbacks are ideal because they are stylish, modern and have the added bonus that you can walk in them.

Ganni slingback pumps

4. Ditch – Floral Midi Dress

As far as I know, this is a controversial issue. By all means, keep whatever style you like, but I wouldn’t recommend investing in another floral midi. As with many megatrends, the market reaches a saturation point and the fashion continues to evolve. Even John Lewis called for an end to the trend.

Replace with separate

As dresses become more popular, separates become more and more popular. Pair the custom styles I mentioned above with shirts, knits and blouses. Knitted dresses are popular in the fashion press, but they are not suitable for everyone as they can be tight and hot. However, these knitted cardigans will suit most everyone and always look chic.

B&SH knitted jacket

5. Ditch Crocs

Do you still need a reason? Well, if you do, here are some reasons why Crocs aren’t right for you. Apparently, a lack of arch support can lead to plantar fascia, which can make your feet stink (duh!), and I didn’t even mention the crime against fashion!

Wear colorful sneakers

These will add a pop of color and coolness to any outfit. I mentioned in a recent fashion course* how wearing color can instantly put you in a better mood, and these definitely do the trick. It’s a great way to embrace color, and it’s a style you can wear now and later in spring.

*If you missed my “5 Ways to Make Your Style More Colorful and Eye-catching” webinar. Please leave me a message here and I will send you the recording.

Red Gola sneakers

Need help refreshing your style?

If you need help updating your wardrobe for 2024, I’d be happy to help. I offer a range of styling services designed to help you look better and feel better.

Contact us to book a styling session or schedule a free consultation call.