AS WE head into the long-awaited summer months, it’s the perfect time to embrace the seasonal shift with a full wardrobe refresh.
Lynne McKenna, who has styled high-profile celebrities including Davina McCall, Emma Willis and Rochelle Humes and works alongside Klass as their resident stylist, has revealed how to get your wardrobe summer-ready by decluttering it.
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“Think of it as a seasonal reset,” says Lynne.
“It’s not just about clearing space; it’s about rediscovering what works for you and letting go of what doesn’t serve your current style or lifestyle.”
Start with structure
Begin by taking everything out of your wardrobe and organising items into clear categories – dresses, tops, trousers, jackets, etc. Then within each category, arrange items by colour.
“This not only gives you a clear visual overview of what you own,” Lynne explains, “but helps identify duplicates, missing items, and where you can streamline.
“Consider investing in matching hangers and storage boxes to create a space that feels inspiring and functional.”
Use the one-year rule
Haven’t worn it in a year? It’s probably time to part ways. Lynne says:
“Be honest with yourself – if it hasn’t been worn in the past 12 months, ask why. If it’s not because of special occasion use or sentimental value, donate it.
You’ll feel lighter and your wardrobe will be more focused. I recommend creating three piles: Keep, Donate, and Maybe – revisit the ‘maybe’ pile after a few days with a fresh perspective.”
Be mindful about summer buys
When shopping for the new season, Lynne recommends building a capsule wardrobe made up of high-quality staples that can be mixed and matched easily rather than opting for viral or trending pieces.
“Think cotton shirts, a timeless piece that can be dressed up or down, as well as linen-blend trousers, a few flattering midi dresses, and a great lightweight jacket,” she says.
“Ask yourself: will I wear this at least three different ways? If yes – it’s a keeper,” Lynne added.
Revisit last year’s favourites
Before reintroducing spring/summer items from storage, do a mini edit.
Lynne advises checking each item with four key questions: Does it fit? Suit my current style? Is it in good condition? Does it make me feel confident? If the answer is no to any of these, it’s time to let go.
“Your wardrobe should lift you, not weigh you down,” she adds. “Keep pieces that serve you now, not who you used to be.”
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Styling tips for women 50+
Our Fabulous Fashion Editor Clemmie Fieldsend shares her top tips…
GET A BRA FIT: Underwear is the foundation to every single outfit, so make sure your bra is the correct fit.
If you’re off to a good start you’ll finish with a great outfits.
EMBRACE COLOUR: Bright colours will lift your skin tone and will give you glowing skin.
INVEST IN GOOD BASICS: You’ll need your essentials like a good pair of straight leg jeans, white shirt, white t-shirt, black blazer and well made black shoe. You can’t go wrong with rotating them when you don’t know what to wear.
AVOID SHAPELESS: Hiding your figure under shapeless silhouettes is doing to date you and make you look frumpy. Try fitted clothes that aren’t figure hugging – you need to be able to breathe.
EXPERIMENT: Try different items you wouldn’t usually go for and mix them with what you already have. The results can mean a better dressed and more confident you.
