Hello, everyone! I’m so happy to be on What the Frock to guest blog! My name is Mandy and I blog over at Married Up With Wine, where I discuss my adventures, travels and everyday experiences as my husband and I prepare to move to Coruña, Spain in October!
Among the many, many things that are involved with an international move, I’ve had to start thinking about all of the clothes I want to take with me, since closet space is usually at a premium in any European household. Currently, I take up half of our master walk-in closet and use our guest bedroom closet to rotate my seasonal items.
So in an effort to see just how much I can get out of one outfit, I paired a simple black maxi dress with a number of different items! Here are some tips to maximize your wardrobe when you have to consolidate.
Here I am in my $16.99 dress from TJ Maxx. Ignore the squinting, it’s just bright. I’m not mad at you, for realz 
1. What will the climate be like in your destination? In Coruña, the temps stay pretty consistent at 50-70 degrees F all year round. What does that mean for me? Sweaters!! Cardigans! Layering items!
One of my fave green jackets paired with the dress makes it an easy day outfit.
2. Stick with the basics. If you’re going to be limiting your closet, definitely pack a few fun items, but bring your staples with you. If you only wear it a few times a season and it only goes with one or two other items, leave it at home.
A basic white shirt gets plenty of use. I raised the hemline of my skirt by tucking in the very end of the skirt into some spandex shorts I have on underneath. No chafing, you get a cute bubble hem, and your $16.99 dress can get that much more use.
3. Shoes and handbags: Remember the basics rule. Versatile items that will go with most of your wardrobe will help free up more space. Since I will be walking and biking most places in our new city (I won’t have a car) comfort items will be key for me. I’ll still bring my favorite pumps, but I probably don’t need every pair I own.
4. Accessorize. Where your wardrobe will lack in the quantity of items you’re used to, don’t skimp on the accessories. They usually take up less space in your luggage and can transform an outfit that you might have worn a thousand times. Add a belt, add a scarf, add some glitz or shine in your jewelry.
A belt and vest change the dress once again.
5. Remember, you’ll probably pick up some items while on vacation or while you’re living abroad. Unless you’re going to Antarctica, you can probably find a store that sells clothes. Your wardrobe might look a little bare bones for awhile, but when you start to pick up local accessories and clothes, it’ll add some fun flair to your consolidated wardrobe.
A t-shirt and belt make this super easy and super casual.
A shrug with a bow-tie neck covers up the rather revealing and low-cut neckline
An ombre scarf makes a great accessory for chilly nightsOf course, since we don’t search for a house until late September, I could be pleasantly surprised to have a plethora of closets that could accommodate my entire wardrobe and then some! Who knows what awaits us on our journey, but if you want to follow along, be sure to check out my blog, Married Up With Wine!
