“What do you think of these shoes?” he asks. I assume it’s a trick question, and I respond, “In what way?” He continues, “I love them; they’re super comfortable, but the heels need glueing.” I take a glance. They need more than glueing; requiring a complete overhaul is definitely not worth keeping.

So, it sounds harsh, but honestly, at some point, you need to get rid of those favourites, regardless of what you’ve been through together. They owe you nothing. The definition of practical is sensible and realistic in the approach to a situation or problem, OR hanging on to an old pair of shoes for too long!

For the most part, my guy is practical, and that’s not to say it’s a bad thing. Many of us are guilty of tossing out perfectly good items when all that’s required is a little spit and elbow grease. However, I love that he sees value in something well made and isn’t afraid to repair it, bringing the item back to life.

However, shoes complete the outfit, period! There’s nothing worse than seeing someone wearing a great suit or dress with tired old shoes. In comparison, wearing an inexpensive outfit and adding those blow-the-bank shoes will definitely elevate the look. I’m not suggesting you spend thousands of dollars on a new pair of shoes. However, investing in one pair (it’s a start) will make you smile when you wear them and give you the confidence to say, “I know what I’m doing.” If they’re comfortable and look great, you’ll wear them more often, making them a worthwhile investment. Once they become your go-to pair of shoes, you must consider the cost per wear. They may end up cheaper in the long run.

Did I mention I am the queen of justification?

“You only have one chance to make a first impression, shouldn’t it be your best version?”

The same principles extend to your wardrobe. I swear by the mantra “cost per wear.” Whether it’s a stylish pair of Acne Studios jeans or an investment-worthy Max Mara dress I acquired 22 years ago, I wear them both to death. When chosen wisely, timeless pieces never disappoint—they are a lasting investment. Spend the most you can afford on a quality item, and you will not be disappointed. Don’t be sticker shocked. Yes, it will be slightly more expensive, a lot goes into good design, if you love it, you will wear it, over and over. Be savvy and shop around, there are deals on past-season items. However, if you’re chasing the latest trends, be prepared to pay the full price.

***

Miranda Priestly: This “stuff”? Oh… okay. I see. You think this has nothing to do with you.

You go to your closet and you select out, oh I don’t know, that lumpy blue sweater, for instance, because you’re trying to tell the world that you take yourself too seriously to care about what you put on your back. But what you don’t know is that that sweater is not just blue, it’s not turquoise, it’s not lapis, it’s actually cerulean.

You’re also blindly unaware of the fact that in 2002, Oscar de la Renta did a collection of cerulean gowns. And then I think it was Yves St Laurent, wasn’t it, who showed cerulean military jackets? And then cerulean quickly showed up in the collections of eight different designers. Then it filtered down through the department stores and then trickled on down into some tragic “casual corner” where you, no doubt, fished it out of some clearance bin. However, that blue represents millions of dollars and countless jobs and so it’s sort of comical how you think that you’ve made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry when, in fact, you’re wearing the sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room. From a pile of “stuff.”

…Devil Wears Prada

Truthfully, I would rather have less in my closet than spend the same amount of money on cheaply made items that will eventually end up in a landfill. Don’t spend a fortune on trendy “of the moment” pieces. Thrift and vintage stores are great for those hauls and are gentle on the wallet. I love the challenge of taking classic pieces and mixing them with inexpensive, trendy items, giving you a polished, high-low look.

If you haven’t begun the process yet, now is an excellent opportunity to declutter your closets. Embrace a no-nonsense approach. Will those jeans ever fit comfortably, or is that shirt destined to only see the light of day on Halloween? If an item seems too valuable to part with, consider bringing it to a consignment shop. Not only could you earn a little extra cash, but you’ll also inch closer to acquiring that fabulous piece you’ve been eyeing online. For uncertain items, like those that are a tad too long or need some alterations but are otherwise in good condition, entrust them to a skilled seamstress. You’ll be amazed at how a few tweaks can reignite your love for them.

Whether it’s a favourite pair of shoes or an old skirt that you can’t seem to let go of, ask yourself, why? Asking yourself this question may mean you’re ready to let go. Feel fabulous in what you wear, walk confidently and smile because you know those shoes are F’N amazing!