Style Resolutions for 2025

Today I’m sharing style resolutions for getting dressed and shopping this year. If they resonate with you, join me!

I know, I know, we’re almost a full month into the new year.

But, I’m still excited to share my style resolutions for 2025. Better late than never, right?

These resolutions are all about being intentional with our wardrobes and using the power of getting dressed to level up in other parts of our life.

Before we dive in, let’s talk about why getting dressed even matters. Because, let’s face it, clothes often get a bad rap for being frivolous. I can’t even tell you how many times over the last 10 years of sharing outfits on the internet I’ve considered throwing in the towel altogether because “I should be doing something more meaningful.”

But what we wear can have a huge impact on how we feel and how we show up in the world.

What you wear has a bigger impact on how you feel than you might think. There’s actually a term for it—enclothed cognition. Basically, it means that what you put on affects your mood and mindset. For example, a study from Northwestern University found that people wearing lab coats performed better on tasks because they associated the coats with focus and precision. It’s the same idea when we get dressed in something we love. Throwing on an outfit that makes you feel confident or put-together can change your mood. It’s not about impressing anyone else—it’s about starting your day feeling like the best version of yourself.

And it doesn’t stop there. When you feel put-together, it’s like flipping a mental switch that says, “I’m ready for this.” Research from Temple University shows that people who dress in clothes they consider “professional” report feeling more confident and focused at work. And let’s be honest—when you’re wearing something that makes you feel good, you naturally carry yourself differently. That confidence spills over into everything you do, whether it’s getting through your to-do list, showing up to a meeting, or just feeling like you have your life together (even if you totally don’t).

So welcome to the part of the internet where clothes aren’t frivolous. They’re a tool—a way to boost your confidence, productivity, and even your happiness. With that in mind, here’s what I’m focusing on this year:

Style Rules + Resolutions for 2025

1. No Spend January

Every January, we hit reset by pushing pause on purchasing non-consumables (anything outside of food and toiletries). This gives us a moment to evaluate what we truly need and appreciate what we already have.

I have not been perfect with this one. Our family has a January birthday, and there was that last-minute invitation to the inauguration in D.C. last weekend. My kids also went back to school and I used the same theory above to justify buying my daughter a new outfit for the first day. Overall, we did a great job besides the back-to-school outfits and black-tie gowns.

2. Pay Attention to Fabrics

This is the year I’m committing to natural fibers. No more polyester if I can help it! From cotton and linen to wool and silk, I’m trying to to prioritize fabrics that feel good, breathe well, and stand the test of time. I’m shooting for 100% natural fibers for the whole family but saying a firm no to anything that is more than 50% polyester.

My one exception to this is I find a Chiara Boni gown in my size that I love. I tried on this designer for the inaugural ball and the gown was stunning (but too big). The fabric of these dresses is a thick polyester that is spandex-like and very flattering.

3. The 5-Year Rule

Before I bring anything new into my wardrobe, I’m asking myself: “Will I still want to wear this in five years?” This doesn’t mean I’m avoiding trends altogether – I’ll still pick up trendy pieces, but only if I love them enough to envision them as staples. For example, the Audrey bow huggies from Hey June are very trendy but I would have worn them 5 years ago and plan to wear them for many years yet.

4. One Piece, Best Piece

In 2025, I want to focus on quality over quantity. Instead of having multiple versions of something (like sunglasses, coats, or bags) that I kind of like, I’d love to pare down to just one version that I absolutely adore. This approach isn’t just about simplifying my wardrobe; it’s about reducing the mental and physical clutter in our home. My big goal is to have FEWER clothing items in our home at the end of 2025 than right now.

5. Repeat Outfits with Confidence

Re-wearing outfits is not only practical but also sustainable. This year, I’m normalizing repeating my favorite looks and finding joy in styling them with new accessories or for different occasions. If I love an outfit, why not wear it on repeat?

Also, who is really paying that close attention?

My grandpa always said, “You would care less about what people thought of you if you realized how seldom they did.” Amen.

6. Create Outfit Formulas

This is the year of outfit formulas – simple combinations that work every time. Is it overkill for me to print these out and put them in my closet?

I’m still working on narrowing down my favorite – but here are some ideas I’m starting with:

  • Blazer + White Tee + High-Waisted Jeans + Loafers
  • Midi Dress + Oversized Sweater + Ankle Boots
  • Knit Top + Slip Skirt + Sneakers
  • Cardigan + White Tee + Trousers + Mules
  • Button-Up Shirt + Straight-Leg Jeans + Ballet Flats

7. Shop Secondhand First

In 2025, I want to explore secondhand options before buying new. Bonus points for sustainability, but it also allows you to add higher quality pieces to your wardrobe at lower price points. The Real Real was easily my most shopped store of 2024 and I don’t see that changing in 2025.

If you want all my tips for finding great secondhand designer pieces on The Real Real, I have a full article on those.

8. Invest in Tailoring

Fit is everything, and tailoring can take an ordinary piece and make it extraordinary. This year, I’m committing to tailoring the pieces I love to ensure they fit perfectly. I have a few things I bought and loved but just don’t wear very often because they don’t fit the way I envisioned.

9. Lean Into Quiet Luxury vs Trendy Pieces

Timeless, understated pieces that feel elegant and high-quality are at the top of my list. I’m prioritizing staples that exude a sense of effortlessness and refinement. I’m skipping micro trends (bow everything) unless I LOVE them and want to wear them later.

This also goes hand-in-hand with my “5 year” rule. If something is classic, I’ll still wear it 5 years from now.

10. Have Fun: Mix Textures and Proportions

Whether it is mixing textures and proportions (pairing silk with chunky knits to experimenting with oversized blazers and sleek trousers), I want to have a little more fun with my clothes this year.

11. Find Go-Tos

I want to make sure I am prepared with a few go-to outfits for last-minute things. These are outfits I have tried on, I know work, and feel like a 10/10 in.

Date night, black-tie, girl’s lunch, business meeting – having reliable outfits ready will take the stress out of saying yes to something last minute.

12. Prioritize Comfort

Maybe it is because I’m typing this while my toes are still recuperating from a weekend of high heels in dc, but I am all about finding things that look and feel fantastic. Life is too short for uncomfortable footwear (unless the event is also short ;).

13. Stop Saving Outfits

Wear the dang outfit. I remember when I bought my first Jenni Kayne cashmere and I wanted to wear her all the time. But she was too nice for school pickup! I couldn’t possibly wear her to church when I was carrying a messy toddler. There was always an excuse.

Last year I made the mental switch to trying to “get as much wear possible” out of my favorite pieces. Yes, it means some of my favorite sweaters are a little pilled. It means my white coat has a small speck of dirt. But we’re here for living in our fabulous clothes, not just owning them.

Do you have any style resolutions for the year ahead? I’d love to hear them!

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