It’s only the middle of January, but already many of my big dreams for the New Year have been softened by reality. I’m not one for making resolutions, but can’t resist thinking about all the possibilities the months ahead might hold. When the first day of the New Year dawns anything seems possible, but it isn’t long before the luster is off those bright and shiny new goals. The daily busyness and complexity of our lives seems to tarnish the edges of the most heartfelt plans. But taking stock and considering what we can do to make our lives more rewarding and enjoyable is worthwhile any time of year. If improving your relationship to your reflection or enhancing your wardrobe is on your list of priorities, I have some simple suggestions to help you continue to move forward.

Simplicity is the key here. You can’t tackle your entire wardrobe, but you can spend a short amount of time and still see noticeable results. Focus on what would have the most impact.  We all tend to get bogged down when projects are too big or demand too much of our time.

Where do you start?  Quick problem solving means identifying the key issues.

I bet if you asked yourself what is bothering you the most something specific pops into your head. So, what is your burning issue? Consider what you most want and the best path to get to it.

Below are some of the problems and concerns bugging my clients and some simple strategies to help set them – and you – on the road toward solutions.

There is no color in my closet – Sometimes you just need to affirm that the next thing you buy won’t be black, grey, brown or denim. The calendar says winter but spring has already arrived here in fashion land and fresh, cheerful colors are showing up now. If the darks of fall and holiday now seem depressing, take heart.

My athletic shoes are the only comfortable pair I own – The basis of a workable wardrobe is correct footwear. If you are lacking that, no wonder you are discouraged.  I often start with shoes or boots before we even look at clothes.  When the shoe challenge is met the rest of the wardrobe comes together much more easily. Make a list of what shoes are needed to complete your outfits and shop for a pair that covers the most bases.  Keep an open mind as an unexpected option might surprise you with its versatility.

I have lots of clothes but too few outfits – You are probably missing the key piece needed to complete the ensemble. Everyone has a style category they avoid due to fit or price. For many it is the tops or underpinnings, others are daunted by the bigger ticket item like jackets. Or pants don’t seem to be fitting right. See if you can identify what this is missing and do what you can to fill the gaps.

I wear the same thing over and over – None of us make the most of what we have. Spend some time when you are not rushed to try on new combinations and experiment with accessories. Take digital photos of finished outfits so you won’t forget. If you need inspiration do a collage

I feel drab – Is your make-up the culprit? If so, go warmer. Or cooler! If you always wear blue around your eyes, try gold and brown.  If your foundation looks too yellow, try a more ivory formulation. Foundation primer or a sheer tint illuminator both help with skin that has the winter blahs. Does your hair color seem wrong? Getting your color palette updated can help you find a hue that is pleasing with your skin tone.

I can’t find jeans that fit – Skinny jeans are a nightmare for many body types, and that is mostly what you find in stores right now. If there is a denim manufacturer that usually fits you, look online for additional styles. Last fall I ordered exactly the high rise dark wash boot cut I wanted from the JBrand website and it saved me from a long and frustrating search in the stores.

I’m disorganized – Who isn’t? The inside of your closet doesn’t need to be a showcase. A little bit of clearing or buying some new hangers and organizing by color will make an immediate difference.

My burning desire at the moment isn’t to acquire anything new but instead to make better use of what I have (which admittedly is a lot!). Small snatches of 15 minute increments to organize, strategize and try on new combinations are helping me feel more playful, creative and abundant. Keeping my focus on what I want and being realistic about how much time I can spend is keeping me from getting discouraged. It’s a great way to kickoff 2012!

Let’s do it!

If you would like inspiration on a wide range of beauty topics I think you will enjoy this unique interview from Conversations From the Quantum Age with Marlene Caldes. Click here to listen to the interview!