How to top up the wardrobe sensibly

Short answer: Buy what you actually need rather than what looks new. A list of what is worn out or missing makes shopping quicker and cheaper, and what you buy gets worn.

Write down what is missing

Note what has run out when you put the laundry away. If you are short of socks or have a t-shirt with holes, add it to a list on your phone. You then have it with you when you shop, and you buy by need rather than by impulse. Read more in how to spot that you are short of something.

Buy the same again

If you know a style fits, you save time and the bother of returns. You know how it sits after many washes, and it goes with what you already have. If you were happy with it, there is rarely a reason to try something new just for the sake of it. See bamboo underwear for men.

Buy several of the same

Buying several matching items at once means the whole stack is the same age and can be replaced together when worn. It also keeps things simple, because everything matches. This applies above all to underwear and socks, which are worn every day.

Neutral colours

Colours that go with the rest of your wardrobe get worn. Black, white, grey and navy combine with almost anything, and a single muted colour adds variety. A top in a colour that goes with nothing is rarely put on. Read more in how to build a capsule wardrobe in bamboo.

Avoid impulse buys

An item in a colour or cut you do not wear stays in the drawer, whatever it cost. A good offer is only good if you would have bought the item anyway. Ask yourself what you would wear it with, and when. If you cannot answer, leave it and stick to the list.

For women

The same applies to women's clothing. Underwear is worn daily and wears out first, so it is often what is missing when you go through the drawer. Buy the style you know fits, and get enough for a week plus a couple extra. See bamboo underwear for women.

Washing

Washing correctly delays the next purchase. Wash at 40 degrees inside out, skip fabric softener and let clothes air dry. Elastic and fabric then last longer, and you do not need to top up as often. Read more in the washing guide.

Buy for the season in good time

March and September are two natural times to go through your wardrobe. You then have what you need before the season changes, and you are not without a long sleeve top on the first cold morning. Look at what was worn most last season and add to that. See bamboo clothing for women.

Frequently asked questions

How do I remember what I am missing?

Note it when you put the laundry away. A simple list on your phone is enough, so you have it with you when shopping and buy by need rather than impulse.