Nightwear as Daywear (and other exercises in rethinking your clothes)
Imagine a world where you could wear what you wanted, whenever you wanted. Boots on a summer day, minis in winter, jeans to bed, and pajamas during the day. Wait a minute: that world is the one you live in!
I know you're thinking, "What? Are you crazy?" (Well, maybe I am, a little) But actually, there are perfectly reasonable ways to wear your pajamas during the day. Other pieces of clothing can see the light off-season and out of time.
Nightwear works as daywear in a few ways. Think lingerie tops, camisoles and lace, peeking out from under blazers and draping over slacks. A satin pajama jacket over a graphic tshirt and frayed jeans. A long robe as a coat. It's actually not as crazy as it sounds.
The trick is to balance. When you're wearing something that looks like it belongs in the bedroom, wear it with something that clearly doesn't. Jeans, blazers, pants, shorts, skirts. Don't wear pjs with flowy things or sweats that could pass for nightwear.
You can also rethink other parts of your wardrobe. Why must you toss all your warm-weather clothes inside come fall? Instead, dredge out those sleeveless tops and wear them, perhaps with a full sleeve tee underneath. Wear your summery dresses with a sparkly festive belt or a shawl. You can wear a minidress over a longer skirt or with pants. Tank tops look great under sheer shirts, and even bathing suits can peek out under businesslike button down shirts. You can even wear shorts with tights.
And when the weather is warm, why do you stash your winter clothes? Sure, you may not be able to wear wool to the beach, but do consider wearing boots. Try out a pair of dark pants with a bright tank top. Pair a winter blazer with a miniskirt. Wear your scarf as a belt, and your legwarmers on your arms. Top a pleated woolen skirt with a tshirt and wear a long light coat as a dress.
You can also rethink other items around the home. Is a raincoat only for rainy days? Wear it as a bright shiny coat. Must you wear a suit together? Break it apart and use each part separately. Will you ever wear your prom dress? Take it out for a party, or dress it down with a hoodie or jean jacket (if it still fits!). What about that bathrobe? It can pass for a stylish duster, and the belt will come in handy elsewhere. Even your slip could be a skirt or dress (with another for lining) and your old ties belts.
Consider all the different ways you can wear your clothes and the things you don't even realize you own that are wonderfully useful clothing. Try wearing them at times and to places you wouldn't otherwise imagine. See what works. If it's a dud, don't wear it again that way, but when it does work, people will admire you ingenuity!
And by the way, it's perfectly acceptable to wear white after Labor Day.