Top five fashion resolutions: Embrace color, look for sales, clean out yourcloset & more

While everyone else is busy wallowing in their post-holiday calorie-fest guilt, I'm busy making some resolutions. I’ve got a whole list of resolutions related to my health, lifestyle and overall life goals, but the list I’m most excited to share is my top five fashion and beauty resolutions. Last week I listed my beauty goals; here are my top fashion resolutions.

Embrace Color

Brights will be huge this spring and summer so get on board and start adding pops of color to your outfits. Whether it’s a bold, brightly colored statement necklace, a cheery-colored handbag or spring’s colored denim, don’t be afraid to get noticed! To gradually add color to your wardrobe, pair brights with neutrals like black, cream, navy and camel.

Best Dress

Houston's steamy summers are the perfect time to explore feminine dresses and skirts, especially if you favor pants. Not only will you keep cool in the sweltering heat, but you’ll feel so feminine and pretty that you may just develop a preference for dresses and skirts. Just keep hemlines appropriate for the workplace and choose breathable fabrics for comfort.

Ticket Price

You know what’s better than paying $50 for a top you love? Paying $25 for it. Some things are worth the investment, but in this economy, it’s also worth your time to investigate sales and coupons to get the best deal.

From Nordstroms’ Anniversary sale to regularly occurring 40-50% off sales at popular retailers like Ann Taylor and Banana Republic, it’s worthwhile to plan your retail therapy sessions during these major sales. Sign up for your favorite retailer’s email blasts and watch out for coupons in the mail (they often have an expiration date). Make a commitment this year to grow your closet — and your savings too!

Master Cleanse

No, I’m not talking about a fad diet. 2012’s master cleanse is all about your closet. If it doesn’t fit, it’s not flattering or you haven’t worn it in a year or more (or even forgot you had it) it’s time to let go.

Donate, sell or toss items depending on their conditions. Plenty of places like Goodwill or the Salvation Army appreciate the donation of gently worn items and organizations like Dress for Success provide underserved women with new and gently used suits for job interviews.

Think of your closet as valuable real estate. You want to make sure every bit of space is used to store items you love and wear. If you’re looking to give and receive, plan a clothing swap party for your girlfriends — everyone brings items they no longer want or that don’t fit and you have a clothing exchange over wine and cheese — what could be better!?

Investment Pieces

I’ve never been one to splurge on trendy items, especially when they’ll likely be the victim of a closet purge one day. The best fashion investments are for items that are used frequently — think jewelry, watches, handbags, shoes and sunglasses. Give some thought to the items you wear and use daily and allot a larger part of your budget for those staples.

We all know accessories make the outfit and it’s worth it to have quality pieces that will stand the test of time. Commit to investing in a few classic staples this year to build your closet for the long-term.

Veronika Javor Romeis writes a style and beauty blog, VeronikasBlushing.com