Many of you may be avoiding your “closet denial” and therefore have not accepted the fact that being your own DIY stylist oftentimes forces you back into the same old problems we all experience. It’s fair to say that fashion is, at its best, a team effort. Collaboration helps keep our fashion sense fresh and offers varying perspectives. Once you clean out your closet and are left with an honest representation of what you wear from day-to-day, it’s time to start shopping with a sense of purpose.

In order to avoid getting sucked back into the same buying habits, it’s important to have a plan.

1. Know Your Body Type: Don’t be in denial about what fits you properly. Ill-fitting clothing never flatters. If you’re unsure, take your own measurements (or ask a friend who’ll give it to you straight) and learn your body type.

2. Buy the Basics: I know we’ve heard this over and over again, but just think of the basics as your “go-to” pieces; your favorite jeans that you wear every other day; the week’s worth of clothes that you inherently fall back on. Remember, when you find something that fits into this category, don’t be afraid to buy in various colors.

3. Learn Your Style: Magazines are a great way to get a feel for your style and what types of pieces work well together. Talk to your friends and compare ideas and themes. Window shop. Go to the store just to try on different pieces and see how they work together without taking them home. Take pictures so you can dissect your picks later and take advantage of in-store stylists. They’re there for you. Don’t be afraid to talk to them.

4. Practice: Everything takes practice. Mix and match pieces you normally wouldn’t or never had the courage to put together. Clip magazine pictures and tape them to your closet. Take pictures of yourself in the store and study them. Be creative and inventive. The more effort you put into discovering and learning your style, the easier it becomes to try new things and the more confident you’ll be.

Most importantly, put all of this into action. A little work now can instantly elevate your style so just do it!