It's About Time Ruth Wong

---

Simplifying closet saves time, money

According to Olivia Goldsmith and Amy Fine Collins, authors of "Simple Isn't Easy," dressing well isn't easy. If it were, they write, 90 out of 100 women would look good.

They go on to write that a natural gift for fashion is as rare as a special talent for painting.

French women are known for dressing simply yet chic.

In the book a French woman comments, "American closets shock me. No one can dress well with so many clothes."

The book states that shopping (the actual act of looking and purchasing) has become the American woman's personal obsession.

Can it be, I wondered, that in our quest to be well dressed, we've been wasting time and money filling our closets? And that a closet full of clothes is counterproductive to ease in dressing well?

BECAUSE time management is one of my specialties, and because I am a proponent for simplicity, I'd like to share with you more nuggets from "Simple Isn't Easy."

» The authors observed that all the stylish people in the fashion business had a "uniform." Each had stopped following fashion and selected what worked best for them and stuck with it. This gave them a sense of personal style and ease in dressing.

» It is impossible to keep a style if you are constantly tempted by random bargains and impulse buys.

» When there is a lack in your wardrobe, define that need and shop with a specific goal in mind.

» Beware of sales. If you pay full price, because you are buying less, the sales savings might be immaterial.

» Nothing replaces quality. As a retired fashion editor recommends: Buy less but buy the best (that you can afford).

» Standardized sizes fit nobody. Alter clothes to fit you. One outfit that fits well is better than three that fit badly.

» Arrange the clothes into the best possible combination. Then hang your clothes by outfits. You lose some flexibility, but what you gain is your ultimate, most polished looks.

» Don't be a secret hoarder who saves items "for good." This life is not a dress rehearsal; wear things out and move on.

Unfortunately, this small dynamo of a book is out of print, but it might be found in the library, used-book stores or online.

I encourage you to define your style and refine your wardrobe. You'll look your best and save time and money in the process!

Happy dressing well!

See you in two weeks!