GOPRIDE.COM

Tops & Bottoms: The Perfect Wardrobe Ratio

Thu. February 9, 2012

By Stephen Young

Are you a top or a bottom? Kicking off my first article for GoPride.com's new fashion column, OUT STYLED, I wanted to make a statement. So I decided to go there. Rather than placing a label on yourself, why not be verse? The ideal wardrobe should include a specific ratio of basics to bolds, colors to neutrals, and of course tops to bottoms.

When it comes to color, I'm definitely not shy. I love to pop a great basic look with color because it's unexpected and just plain fun! But really, every great look needs a touch of color. Speaking of basics and bolds, color can be a bold, but it can also be a basic. A great pair of army green cords, or maroon trousers can be worked into a variety of looks easily, without making color choice a loud statement. I suggest saving the bright colors selections for your accessories and tops. These are important pieces for any perfect wardrobe because they allow you the flexibility to edit your basics into a variety of looks without getting too receptive or boring.

Now there is no exact number I can suggest to achieve the "perfect" wardrobe, but in my closet, I would say my tops to bottoms ratio is about a 70/30 split. A variety of tops allows me to layer pieces, edit by season, and appropriately dress up or down for specific occasions. Next time you step into your closet, or out of it if you will, think about if you have the basics covered. Once you have both tops and bottoms basics, find those pops to make your wardrobe perfect for you.

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