6 Ways to Step Out of Your Style Rut

Find yourself walking into your closet every morning and reaching for the same outfit again, again...and again? We're with you. It's that time of year-when the season changes and our outfit fatigue reaches an all-time high. But with these six tips from Shape fashion director Brooke Danielson, you'll find yourself getting out of that style rut and back on the trendy train in no time. And we're all on board.

1. Make a list.

"Shopping should be fun, but should also be approached logically," Danielson says. In other words, spontaneously splurging on those trendy, embroidered mules might not be the smartest move. "Write down a list of the top 10 items you most need. This way you can prioritize the items you actually need vs. those you just want for trend factor," Danielson suggests. Focus your shopping budget on those items before splurging on products you'll only wear during that season.

2. Use a personal styling service.

Can't afford a personal stylist to come in and redo your entire wardrobe? Same. That's where a free online personal styling service, like Everywear, comes in. Everywear is an e-commerce service that recommends outfits and accessories based on what you already own. After you take a short style quiz and choose from a list of basics that are already taking up space in your closet, they'll curate a list of ensembles that can be worn to work, for a weekend of lounging, or for a night out with the girls.

3. Build on core items.

If you find yourself in a style rut, you may actually need to start building up your wardrobe with more basics, which can be worn with many different pieces and in a variety of ways. "Every great closet is built on 'core' items," Danielson says. "Be sure you have a great pant, skirt, dress, t-shirt, and pair of jeans." Another must-have investment item, according to Danielson? A trench coat, since it will never go out of style and is the perfect jacket to wear while the seasons are changing. As for shoes, Danielson recommends a great flat shoe, ankle boot, sexy stiletto, and fun sandal. Adding essentials like these will make it feel like your closet has doubled.

4. Denim on denim.

It's time to channel your inner Britney Spears and JT because denim is a solid go-to on days when you have no idea what to wear. According to Danielson, the Canadian tuxedo trend is a major "do" that will up your style average season after season, so you don't need to question yourself before leaving the house in jeans and a denim jacket. (Maybe skip the denim cowboy hat and purse, though.)

5. Invest in your undergarments.

Most people overlook the importance of undergarments because even though it's expensive, that supportive nude bra isn't exactly the most exciting thing in the world. But "our undergarments are just as important as the outfit itself," Danielson says. Investing in your first layer with good-quality bras and underwear can actually up your confidence in your entire outfit. See it as the foundation of your wardrobe, which will make that new top you just splurged on fit exactly how it should.

6. Buy one, toss one.

Let's face it: It's depressing to throw away clothes that still have the tags on or ones that haven't fit in a while, but it's necessary. In addition to an initial Marie Kondo session, follow these words of advice from Danielson: "For every item you buy, throw one existing piece in your closet away." That way you'll keep your closet up-to-date and curated only with pieces you wear and love. There's no denying that parting with that shirt you've had for years may increase your heart rate, but you'll thank us later when your style game is at an all-time high and your closet is clutter-free.