MINIMALISM Archives - Illuminate Beauty https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/category/minimalism/ Illuminating & Elevating Women's Lives With Skincare & Makeup Thu, 04 Jun 2026 17:28:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.2 https://illuminatebeauty.co/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/cropped-illuminate-beauty-favicon-32x32.png MINIMALISM Archives - Illuminate Beauty https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/category/minimalism/ 32 32 18 Benefits of Simplifying Your Home https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/18-benefits-of-simplifying-your-home/ Mon, 04 Oct 2021 14:00:00 +0000 http://www.iamjoellen.com/?p=11893 There are so many benefits of simplifying your home. But sometimes it can be hard to feel motivated to get started. I’ve always found the best way to get and stay motivated to declutter and simplify is by reminding yourself of exactly what you stand to gain by doing the work. And that’s exactly what [...]

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There are so many benefits of simplifying your home. But sometimes it can be hard to feel motivated to get started. I’ve always found the best way to get and stay motivated to declutter and simplify is by reminding yourself of exactly what you stand to gain by doing the work.

And that’s exactly what this post will help you discover!

I’m sharing 18 of the best benefits of simplifying and decluttering your home. There’s something for everyone on this list. Something you would probably like a little more of or a little less of to make life easier, less stressful and more enjoyable!

If you’re ready to simplify your home, but are looking for a little boost of encouragement and motivation, you’ll find it here!

Benefits of Simplifying Your Home

18 Benefits of Simplifying and Decluttering Your Home

More Time

One of the greatest benefits of simplifying and decluttering your home is the time you’ll gain. Getting rid of the clutter you don’t use, need or love means you can spend less time taking care of and managing the stuff you own. And have more time for the things, people and activities you love most!

Less Time Spent Cleaning

When you simplify and get rid of the clutter, you’ll be left with less stuff. And when you own less stuff, you’ll have less to clean, clean around, pick up, organize, reorganize, etc. Making it faster and easier to clean, tidy and maintain your home.

Plus, when you own less, there’s less to make a mess with. And the messes that do happen (you’ll still live in your home, and messes are a part of life!), will be faster, easier and less overwhelming to clean up.

Less Frustration

It can be really frustrating feeling like you spend all day cleaning and tidying up, but can never keep up, let alone get ahead!

Simplifying and owning less means keeping up with your home is not only possible, but it’ll be easier than ever.

Not only that, but when you simplify and clear the clutter, it’s easier to keep track of things you own and find them when you need them. Nothing is more frustrating than not being able to find something in your home you know you have, but is lost amongst the clutter!

A Better Functioning Home

Your home should serve you, not the other way around. If you feel like a slave to your home, your home is not supporting you well.

Instead, try simplifying and clearing the clutter so your home will not only look and feel like a place you love, it’ll also function better too.

A well-functioning home is easier to maintain, take care of, keep organized, etc. A place you have time and space for the things you love doing. And a place that makes taking care of the necessities of life easier, more efficient and less stressful.

More Space

It’s easy to think your clutter problems are a result of not having enough space. If only you had a bigger closet, more storage space, more kitchen cabinets, etc., then you’d be able to keep your home tidy, organized and functioning well.

But in a lot of cases, you don’t need a bigger home, more storage space or bigger closets. You just need less stuff!

Get rid of what you don’t use, need or love. In doing so, you just might discover more room for what you do use, need and love.

Plus, simplifying and clearing the clutter gives you more space in your home for living, rather than using that space to store “stuff”.

More Financial Freedom

Decluttering can be a really eye-opening experience. It forces you to see just how much you’ve spent on clutter – things you didn’t truly use, need or love.

While that can be a difficult truth to face, the silver lining is that it’s a great way to motivate yourself to make more mindful purchases moving forward. Helping you spend less on stuff that will eventually end up as clutter, stealing your space and adding stress to your life.

And when you make more mindful and intentional purchases, you gain more financial freedom. Taking steps to spend your money on things that align most with your goals, values and priorities. Rather than spending your money on more stuff you don’t really need or love.

Plus, there’s always the bonus of not having to re-buy things you can’t find because they are lost somewhere amidst all the clutter!

Less Stress

Choosing to own less stuff means less to take care of, manage and be responsible for. Instead of always scrambling just to try and keep up with your home and the stuff in it, you can manage your home with more ease.

When there isn’t so much stuff to manage, it can even help reduce tension, frustration and resentment you might feel towards members of your household. Especially if you feel like you always get stuck picking up all the stuff in your home!

Simplifying and decluttering helps you create order in your home and regain control over your home and the stuff in it. It helps you create a home that feels nourishing, serves you well and supports you and your priorities, rather than adding more stress to your life.

More Happiness

When your home feels supportive and like a place you enjoy spending time in, your home can start contributing to your happiness and sense of well-being. Instead of contributing to the stress you feel in your life. 

More Confidence

With less clutter and fewer distractions taking up your time, energy and attention, it’s easier to gain clarity about who you are, what matters most to you, what you value, what your goals and priorities are, how you want to spend your time, etc.

And the clearer you become about who you are and what type of life you want to live, the more confident you’ll become in your choices.

Less Mental Clutter

Clutter occupies space in your home, but it also occupies space in your mind. It steals your time and attention with its distracting presence. Leaving you feeling mentally cluttered, unfocused and frazzled.

Each piece of clutter your remove from your home is one less piece of mental clutter you need to think about, take care of, look for, keep track of, etc.

More Gratitude

When you get rid of the clutter you don’t use, need or love, you often feel more appreciation and gratitude for the things that are left. Those things are your favourite things you love and use regularly after all!

Not only that but finding what feels like “enough” for you is another great way to add more contentment and gratitude for what you have. Rather than always seeking more, newer, better, faster, etc.

And the great thing about gratitude is it’s often contagious! Feeling grateful for your simplified home can often inspire you to notice things you’re grateful for in other areas of your life as well.

More Calm

A simplified home that feels like “enough” for you, can be your haven in a world that often feels busy, chaotic and stressful. It can be a place to rest, relax, recharge and do the things you love. Not just a place with a never-ending to-do list begging for your time and attention.

Outer order in your home is a great way to promote inner calm in yourself.

Not only that, but less visual clutter and stimuli in your home allow your brain more opportunities to truly rest. Without always thinking about what needs to be done, what you should be doing, etc.

Better Sleep

Not only does a clutter-free home feel calmer and more peaceful, it can also help you sleep better!

Did you know a cluttered bedroom can make it harder for your brain to turn off, settle down and fall into deep, restorative sleep?

Simplifying your home not only helps you feel less stressed during the day, but it’ll also help you sleep better at night!

18 Benefits of Simplifying Your Home

Less Guilt

Guilt is a strong and draining emotion. And keeping stuff you don’t use, need or love can add a lot of guilt to your life.

It could be guilt about things you regret spending money on. Or gifts you don’t use or love but feel obligated to keep. Clutter can even make you feel guilty that your home constantly feels messy, chaotic, and hard to manage. Making you think you should be able to do a better job of taking care of it all.

Wherever the guilt comes from, simplifying not only helps clear the clutter from your home, it also helps you release the guilt that goes along with it.

Better Relationships

It might not be obvious at first how simplifying can help improve and nurture your relationships, but there’s definitely a connection!

When you spend less time, energy and attention on the “stuff” filling your home, you free up more time, energy and attention to be present for other things, including the people in your life who you love.

In addition, when you feel comfortable in your home, not embarrassed or worried about the mess and clutter, you might feel more comfortable inviting loved ones into your home. Again, giving you more opportunities to deepen and nurture relationships.

Simplifying can even help improve relationships with your family and members of your household as you feel less stress, frustration and resentment towards them as you try to manage your home and the stuff in it.

More Generosity

A wonderful benefit of simplifying is as you feel content with what you have and realize you don’t need more “stuff” to have a full, happy and enjoyable life, you might notice you actually have an abundance to share with others.

Whether it’s generosity with your time, money, skills, knowledge, etc., intentionally choosing a simpler life gives you opportunities and awareness to appreciate what you have and feel good about sharing it with others.

More Freedom

Spending less time, space, energy, money and attention on the “stuff” you own gives you the freedom to explore the things, activities and adventures that light you up. More freedom to go after your goals and live in alignment with your priorities.

Freedom to create a life you love, rather than working harder to buy more stuff you don’t have time to enjoy because you’re always too busy working!

One of the Best Benefits of Simplifying- It Feels Good!

And finally, one of my favourite benefits of simplifying is that it feels good!

It feels good to take control of your home and the stuff in it. Letting your home serve you, not the other way around. It feels good to create a home you love that you enjoy spending time in. It feels good to have the freedom to build a life that aligns with your values, goals and priorities. And it feels good to feel in control of your days, rather than struggling just to keep up and make it through them.

18 Benefits of Simplifying

Simplifying and decluttering won’t solve all your problems or mean life will always be smooth sailing. But it does give you the time, space and energy to better deal with challenges when they arise.

For this and all the reasons listed above, simplifying your home and your life can be pretty awesome!

I’d love to know what your favourite benefit of simplifying your home and your life is? Or what are you most looking forward to if you’re not quite there yet?

When simplifying your life, you can also simplify your beauty routine and simplify your style!

Benefits of Simplifying Your Home

Thank you to Melissa Russell of Simple Lionheart Life for guest posting!!

Melissa is the creator of the blog Simple Lionheart Life. A place where you’ll find inspiration, encouragement and practical advice to simplify, organize and declutter your home and life.

After simplifying her home and her life almost a decade ago – and loving the results of doing so – she’s passionate about helping other women find the same freedom and joy simplifying has brought to her and her family. 

As an introvert, Melissa’s favourite place to be is at home, where you’ll usually find her reading, sewing and spending time outside with her kids. You can connect with Melissa on the blog, on Instagram and in her Facebook group.

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How to Care for Linen https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/how-to-care-for-linen/ Sun, 25 Apr 2021 16:00:00 +0000 http://www.iamjoellen.com/?p=11778 If you want a lasting closet, then invest in better fabrics and high quality clothes! Commit to buying less crummy clothes and save for better well made clothes. Linen is such a great to add to your closet! It’s timeless, high quality, and versatile! It’s one of those fabrics that gets better with age too! [...]

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If you want a lasting closet, then invest in better fabrics and high quality clothes! Commit to buying less crummy clothes and save for better well made clothes. Linen is such a great to add to your closet! It’s timeless, high quality, and versatile! It’s one of those fabrics that gets better with age too! Here is how to care for linen so you can love your linen pieces for years!

How to Care for Linen

How to Care for Linen

Linen is an ancient fabric that is so well made! When you take good care of it, it will last you a long time! Here are some simple tips on how to care for linen so you can wear your favorite pieces over and over!

Washing Linen– It’s best to treat your linen clothing carefully. If your washer has a delicate setting, then wash your linen pieces in lukewarm water with a mild detergent. Since linen is dyed, make sure to separate light from dark pieces so the colors don’t transfer onto other clothing. Wash your linen clothing in small loads to give them plenty of space to tumble.

If you want to hand wash your linen pieces, wash them in a large sink or tub with lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. Swish the fabric around and make sure not to twist and pull on the fabric because it will stretch it out. Rinse with cool water and press the water out.

Drying Linen– Linen can shrink so it’s best to hang dry your linen pieces. This will preserve the fibers and help the fabric last longer.

Storing Linen– You can hang your linen pieces or fold them away for storing. It’s best to store them in a cool dark place.

Ironing Linen– One thing people don’t like about linen is that it wrinkles easily. But that’s the beauty of linen! Those wrinkles give movement and character to your clothes. If you want to become a linen wearer, then you need to embrace the wrinkles! Be ok with your fabric not being pressed.

If you get some really crisp wrinkles after it being folded or crumpled somewhere, there are a few ways to get those really pesky wrinkles out:

  • Hang your linen piece in the bathroom and let the hot steamy shower loosen the wrinkles.
  • Hang your linen piece on a hanger and lightly spritz it with water. Let it air dry.
  • Take an ironing board and put an iron on the linen setting, spritz the linen piece with a spray bottle of water, and lightly press on the crisp wrinkles.

Where to Buy Linen

Linen is such a great fabric to have that it can be a bit pricey! But I have found the best place to buy linen! It’s an Etsy store called Not Perfect Linen that specializes in customized linen pieces. Their prices are affordable, the quality is superb, and the selection is great!

I’ve had lots of communication with the owner and she is a gem! They are a family owned business that completely hand makes each piece and pride themselves in hiring seamstresses to provide a living for. Their sustainable business is conscientious of quality and ethics. I just love their brand!

Follow those tips on how to care for linen and you will be able to love your pieces for many years!

How to Care for Linen

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How to Style an Oversized Linen Shirt https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/how-to-style-an-oversized-linen-shirt/ Sun, 18 Apr 2021 16:00:00 +0000 http://www.iamjoellen.com/?p=11260 Linen is a great fabric to have in your closet! It’s such a timeless material that can be worn all year round and that lasts for years! Here’s how to style an oversized linen shirt in multiple ways! Why You Should Put Linen in Your Closet Linen is an ancient fabric that stands the test [...]

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Linen is a great fabric to have in your closet! It’s such a timeless material that can be worn all year round and that lasts for years! Here’s how to style an oversized linen shirt in multiple ways!

Why You Should Put Linen in Your Closet

Linen is an ancient fabric that stands the test of time! It’s naturally made, high quality, timeless, and versatile! It will literally last for years! Don’t you want to have clothes like that in your closet?! I love how linen can be worn in so many different ways and throughout the entire year.

Some people are turned off by the wrinkles of linen. But linen gets better with age and wear! Just embrace the wrinkles! It’s such a great breathable fabric and so comfy to wear. If you have a really stubborn wrinkle, simply spritz the garment with water and iron it on the linen setting. You can also hang it in the bathroom while you take a steamy shower.

Where to Buy Linen

Linen is such a great fabric to have that it can be a bit pricey! But I have found the best place to buy linen! It’s an Etsy store called Not Perfect Linen that specializes in customized linen pieces. Their prices are affordable, the quality is superb, and the selection is great!

I’ve had lots of communication with the owner and she is a gem! They are a family owned business that completely hand makes each piece and pride themselves in hiring seamstresses to provide a living for. Their sustainable business is conscientious of quality and ethics. I just love their brand!

You can find the exact oversized linen shirt I’m styling HERE.

How to Style an Oversized Linen Shirt

Linen is best known for being a spring/summer fabric, but it really can be worn all year round. When you layer, it works well in fall and winter too. You can dress linen up or dress it down. You can wear it with sandals, sneakers, booties, heels, or flats. You can wear it on its own or layer it for warmth. The options are endless! Here are some ways to style an oversized linen shirt…it’s such a cool piece to have in your closet!

How to Style an Oversized Linen Shirt

And that’s how you can style an oversized linen shirt! The options are endless! Invest in pieces in your closet that are versatile, high quality, and comfortable! Linen definitely fits the bill!

How to Style an Oversized Linen Shirt

*This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase something featured in this post, I get a small portion from the sale. Thank you! However, it does not affect you at all.

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Intentional Mother’s Day Gift Ideas https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/intentional-mothers-day-gift-ideas/ Sat, 10 Apr 2021 16:00:00 +0000 http://www.iamjoellen.com/?p=11765 When it comes to celebrating the women in our lives on Mother’s Day, we want to make them feel special! But, we don’t need to waste our money or cause more clutter in their homes. Being intentional with what we give is key to helping them feel extra loved. Here are some intentional Mother’s Day [...]

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When it comes to celebrating the women in our lives on Mother’s Day, we want to make them feel special! But, we don’t need to waste our money or cause more clutter in their homes. Being intentional with what we give is key to helping them feel extra loved. Here are some intentional Mother’s Day gift ideas that she will love if she’ll actually use them, they’re high quality, and timeless!

Intentional Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

Makeup

Get her what she will use! Almost every woman wears makeup, so get her something that she’ll use daily and that will help her look and feel beautiful. A fun lip & cheek bundle will spruce up her makeup routine. Some new eyeshadows will refresh her look. A set of amazing makeup brushes will get a ton of use! And every time she uses them, she’ll think of you!  

Skincare

Skincare is one of those things that everyone needs but we feel guilty splurging on something nice. And that’s why it makes a great intentional Mother’s Day gift! She wouldn’t buy it for herself but she will love it! She will feel so pampered, her skin will feel so awesome, and she will feel loved. Yeeees!

Intentional Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

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High Quality Clothes

It can be tricky picking out clothes for another woman, but if you know her shirt size, you can’t go wrong with cashmere or silk! High quality clothes scream classy! Any woman would love to feel pampered with some cashmere or silk. You can save $10 off your purchase when you shop HERE. I have a ton of their pieces and love them! The quality is amazing and they’ll last for years!!

Classic Jewelry

What woman doesn’t love jewelry?! Give her some simple classic pieces that she can wear daily. Give her a piece or two that she can wear on its own or layer with some of her other favorites.

GLDN is my go-to for my daily classic jewelry pieces. They have a great selection of earrings, rings, bracelets, and necklaces in sterling silver, gold plated, and rose gold options. Get $5 off your purchase when you shop HERE.

There’s no shame in gifting yourself something special…it’s what I do! My husband gets very overwhelmed with the thought of having to shop and get creative. So, we do what works best for our marriage and I get what I want! He’s happy, I’m happy…win win! Use this gift guide for yourself or for any gal that you need to gift to help feel special. The key is giving intentional Mother’s Day gift ideas so that she’ll actually love and use them!

Shop Here
Intentional Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

*This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase an item featured in this post, I receive a small portion from the sale. Thank you! It does not affect you at all.

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How to Style a Silk Skirt Different Ways https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/how-to-style-a-silk-skirt-different-ways/ Wed, 24 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000 http://www.iamjoellen.com/?p=11270 If you want to build a better closet, then add some silk pieces! Silk is a great fabric to have in your closet!! It’s classy, timeless, and feminine! Here’s how to style a silk skirt in different ways to give you some ideas…. Where to Buy Silk I had a silk skirt on my wish [...]

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If you want to build a better closet, then add some silk pieces! Silk is a great fabric to have in your closet!! It’s classy, timeless, and feminine! Here’s how to style a silk skirt in different ways to give you some ideas….

Where to Buy Silk

I had a silk skirt on my wish list for a really long time! I knew it would be one of those timeless pieces that I could wear for years to come! But, the problem with silk is that sometimes it can be really expensive. When I found the brand Quince, I was thrilled! They make high quality clothes made from silk, cashmere, linen, and cotton for really affordable prices! I’ve collected lots of their pieces in my closet because the quality and price is just so so good!

You can use this link HERE to shop and get $10 off your purchase.

How to Style a Silk Skirt

You might think silk is too fancy to wear everyday. But that’s not so! Why save your pretty pieces for special occasions?? Why not wear them today? Wear them whenever you want! I love this quote from Jennifer Scott:

“Get into the habit of wearing your nice clothes on a regular basis. Poised people always put thought into their presentation. They do not settle for drab, old clothes because they’re saving their best for a later day. Each day is a gift. Each day could be your last day on earth! Don’t save your nice clothes for later, wear them today.”

Let’s do as Jennifer says and wear our nice clothes daily! I love that a silk skirt can be dressed up or dressed down! You can wear a silk skirt with sneakers, sandals, heels, or boots. You can wear it with a tee, sweater, button down and anything in between! Think outside the box and wear it whenever you want!

Here are some ways to style a silk skirt… (you can find the exact skirt that I’m wearing HERE.)

How to Style a Silk Skirt Different Ways

Hopefully this gave you some ideas on how to style a silk skirt! Embrace your femininity and have fun dressing up whenever you want!

You can learn how to care for silk HERE.

Shop Here
How to Style a Silk Skirt Different Ways

*This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase an item featured, I may get a small portion from the sale…thank you! It does not affect you at all.

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How to Style a Silk Blouse Different Ways https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/how-to-style-a-silk-blouse-different-ways/ Wed, 17 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000 http://www.iamjoellen.com/?p=11266 Silk is such a great timeless fabric to have in your closet! It’s classy and clean. It’s pretty and feminine. And it’s versatile! Here’s How to Style a Silk Blouse Different Ways. You’ll want to add one in your closet too! Silk Fabric Silk is a great fabric to add to your closet! It’s a [...]

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Silk is such a great timeless fabric to have in your closet! It’s classy and clean. It’s pretty and feminine. And it’s versatile! Here’s How to Style a Silk Blouse Different Ways. You’ll want to add one in your closet too!

Silk Fabric

Silk is a great fabric to add to your closet! It’s a fabric that instantly dresses up any look. It’s timeless, classy, high quality, and versatile!

When I think of silk, I think of the book Polish Your Poise with Madame Chic by Jennifer Scott….have you read it?? It’s so good! You can find it HERE. It’s all about learning the art of poise. I think silk is a fabric that a poised woman would wear. You may think that silk is a dressy fabric that should only be worn for those dressy occasions. But Madame Chic would disagree! She believes you should wear something nice everyday. I love what she says:

“Get into the habit of wearing your nice clothes on a regular basis. Poised people always put thought into their presentation. They do not settle for drab, old clothes because they’re saving their best for a later day. Each day is a gift. Each day could be your last day on earth! Don’t save your nice clothes for later, wear them today.” (Jennifer Scott)

When you take time to look and feel beautiful, you show up better. You show up for yourself, for others, and for the tasks you need to do. And silk is a great way to look your best!

How to Style a Silk Blouse

How to Style a Silk Blouse

A silk blouse can be dressed up or dressed down! You can wear it with sneakers, sandals, or boots. You can pair it will jeans, culottes, or a skirt. The options are endless! Invest in pieces in your closet that can worn in multiple ways with multiple things. Put those versatile pieces in your closet so your closet works hard for you! You want to consider quality over quantity so you don’t add clutter to your closet.

Here are some ways you can style a silk blouse…think outside the box!

How to Style a Silk Blouse Different Ways

Affordable Silk

Silk usually seems like a really expensive fabric to invest in…and it can be! But I’ve found a really great brand that makes and sells simple and beautiful silk pieces that any woman can afford! They take out the middle man in their production and marketing process so they can provide high quality pieces at affordable prices. When you shop their great products HERE and get $10 off your first purchase!

You can shop the exact shirt I’m styling HERE. I also have their silk skirt that I love. You can find the silk skirt HERE.

Learn how to build an intentional closet on a budget HERE.

Shop Here
How to Style a Silk Blouse Different Ways

*This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase an item from a link featured in this post, then I get a small portion from the sale. Thank you! It does not affect you at all.

The post How to Style a Silk Blouse Different Ways appeared first on Illuminate Beauty.

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How to Care for Silk https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/how-to-care-for-silk/ Sun, 14 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000 http://www.iamjoellen.com/?p=11690 Silk is a well-made fabric that needs some extra TLC. It’s a great fabric that is classy, timeless, and high quality! Here are some tips on how to care for silk so it lasts a long time in your closet! Why Silk is a Good Fabric to Have in Your Closet Silk is such a [...]

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Silk is a well-made fabric that needs some extra TLC. It’s a great fabric that is classy, timeless, and high quality! Here are some tips on how to care for silk so it lasts a long time in your closet!

How to Care for Silk

Why Silk is a Good Fabric to Have in Your Closet

Silk is such a great fabric! It’s timeless, classy, high quality, and versatile! You can dress it up or dress it down. You can wear it with sandals, sneakers, boots, or heels. It’s a fabric that instantly helps you feel fancy! Because it is well made, you will have it for years!

How to Care for Silk

How to Wash Silk: It’s best to hand wash your silk pieces. Simply fill a sink with cold water, add a gentle detergent (one you would use for your cashmere or wool pieces), and let your silk piece sit in the sink for a few minutes. You can swirl the fabric around a bit but the dirt will release easily so there’s no need to give it a tough scrub. After you let it sit for a few minutes, drain the water and then rinse out the fabric with fresh water. Wash each silk piece individually so you avoid it from getting dyed.

Other washing options are to wash it in your washing machine on a delicate cycle. You can also have it dry cleaned.

How to Dry Silk: The best way to dry your silk pieces is to lay it on a towel and gentle dab the excess water out. Once most of the water is absorbed, you can hang it on a padded hanger and let it continue to drip dry. To avoid having a messy puddle, hang it over a shower, bath, or sink to collect the water.

How to Iron Silk: The best way to get rid of wrinkles in your silk pieces is to use a steamer. It’s the gentlest way to care for it. If you don’t have a steamer, you can use an iron on the lowest heat setting and iron your garment inside out. Another easy way to rid those wrinkles is to hang it on a hanger in a steamy bathroom and let the wrinkles naturally release.

How to Store Silk: Simply hang your silk pieces on fabric hangers in your closet. When you want to store them when they’re not in use, make sure to use a moth repellant because those critters love the taste of silk!

How to Prevent Static: Silk likes to stick to your body sometimes! Here are 4 ways you can prevent static cling:

  • Simply spritz your silk pieces with a spray bottle of water and let it air dry. Or you can get the body part that the silk will be touching moist. Static thrives on dryness!
  • Take a wire hanger and lightly glide the hanger along your silk piece.
  • Take a dryer sheet and rub it along the inside of your silk piece and also along the body part that it will be touching.
  • If you’re wearing a dress or skirt, wear a cotton slip underneath to prevent cling.

Other Silk Tips: Keep your silk pieces out of the sun to prevent sun damage or discoloration. When you are traveling, roll your silk pieces to avoid deep creases.

How to Care for Silk

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Where to Buy Silk

Silk usually seems like a really expensive fabric to invest in…and it can be! But I’ve found a really great brand that makes and sells simple and beautiful silk pieces that any woman can afford! They take out the middleman in their production and marketing process so they can provide high quality pieces at affordable prices. When you shop their great products HERE and get $10 off your first purchase!

I have a beautiful silk blouse that I love found HERE. I also have their silk skirt that I love. You can find the silk skirt HERE.

Hopefully those tips will help you learn how to care for silk a bit better! Invest in high quality fabrics so they will last a long time and give you a closet that you love!

You can learn how to care for cashmere HERE and how to care for wool HERE.

Shop Here
How to Care for Silk

*This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase something featured in it, I get small portion from the sale. Thank you! It does not affect you at all.

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How to Style a Long Sleeve Tee Different Ways https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/how-to-style-a-long-sleeve-tee-different-ways/ Wed, 10 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000 http://www.iamjoellen.com/?p=11263 Stop buying clothes that are cheap and fall apart easily, clothes that can only be worn in one way, and that aren’t comfortable. Start buying clothes that are well made, versatile, and that are comfortable! Build your closet around basics that can be worn over and over. A white tee shirt is one of those [...]

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Stop buying clothes that are cheap and fall apart easily, clothes that can only be worn in one way, and that aren’t comfortable. Start buying clothes that are well made, versatile, and that are comfortable! Build your closet around basics that can be worn over and over. A white tee shirt is one of those great closet basics! Here’s how to style a long sleeve tee different ways….think outside the box and make you closet work hard for you!

Closet Basics

Why is it important to build a closet with basics?? Isn’t that boring?? Every closet needs a strong foundation of basics! Your closet basics are pieces that are simple and versatile. They’re pieces that can be worn on their own or that can be layered. They’re pieces that can be dressed up or dressed down. Do you see the potential and the importance of these pieces?? They will work hard for you!

That’s why it’s important to invest in high quality basics. You’re going to wear them a lot so you want them to last! A few of my favorite places to buy closet basics are: Everlane, Quince, and The Classic T-Shirt Company.

Long Sleeve Tee

A long sleeve tee is a great closet basic to have. You can layer it, wear it on its own, wear it throughout the seasons, dress it up or down…the options are endless!

But, it’s important to invest in a good one. When putting those basic pieces in your closet, you may have to pay a little more than you’re used to. You need to say goodbye to shopping the sale rack at Target or Walmart or grabbing a steal on Amazon. Most of those pieces will fall apart quickly or pill after a few wears. And in the long run, you actually waste more money! Commit to saving your money and investing in higher quality pieces that will last you longer.

See below the different ways to style a long sleeve tee. The options are endless! Think outside the box when getting dresses. Think about how you want to feel and the activity you’ll be doing. When you have a closet full of basics, you can create so many great looks for your lifestyle!

You can find the exact shirt I’m wearing HERE. It’s one of my favorite pieces in my closet because it’s comfortable, it’s high quality, and it’s versatile!

How to Style a Long Sleeve Tee Different Ways

Stop making those inexpensive and poor quality clothes purchases. And start putting a little more intention about what goes in your closet. Build a closet you love! You can read more about how to find your signature style HERE.

How to Style a Long Sleeve Tee Different Ways

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How to Style a Wool Turtleneck Different Ways https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/how-to-style-a-wool-turtleneck-different-ways/ Thu, 04 Mar 2021 16:00:00 +0000 http://www.iamjoellen.com/?p=11285 Winter is not my favorite season! I like the sun and warmth of spring and summer. So in those cold rainy winter months, I like to stay bundled and warm! Wool is a great way to stay warm in the winter. Here’s how to style a wool turtleneck different ways so you can be warm [...]

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Winter is not my favorite season! I like the sun and warmth of spring and summer. So in those cold rainy winter months, I like to stay bundled and warm! Wool is a great way to stay warm in the winter. Here’s how to style a wool turtleneck different ways so you can be warm and stylish!

Wool is Great for Layering

Wool is such a great fabric for layering and staying warm! It’s well made, it’s warm, and it can be stylish. When you want that added warmth, layer wool base layers so you can be toasty! I love to wear wool leggings under my jeans and a wool shirt base layer under any top.

Wool can be worn as it’s own or under any piece of clothing. Try wearing wool as a layer and you’ll love the difference it makes in your comfort on a cold day!

Where to Buy Wool Pieces

One of my very favorite places to find great wool pieces is Wool X. They have the best high quality, affordable, and stylish wool pieces! I wear the pieces I have of theirs daily! They work well as active wear, layering pieces, or on their own as an everyday look.

How to Style a Wool Turtleneck

A wool turtleneck is a great staple piece to have in your winter wardrobe. It will keep you warm and stylish! When you want to style a wool turtleneck, think outside the box! Layer it under a cardigan or jacket or sweater or button-down shirt. Wear it on its own with jeans or wide leg pants or a skirt. The options are endless!

How to Style a Wool Turtleneck Different Ways

Add a wool turtleneck to your winter wardrobe! You will love how warm it keeps you and you will love its versatility!

Wool is a special fabric that needs some extra TLC. Learn how to care for your wool pieces HERE.

How to Style a Wool Turtleneck Different Ways

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How to Style a Black Cardigan Different Ways https://illuminatebeauty.co/blog/how-to-style-a-black-cardigan-different-ways/ Thu, 25 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000 http://www.iamjoellen.com/?p=11282 If you’re tired of wasting money on clothes that fall apart and go out of style quickly, then it’s time to build a better and more intentional closet! It’s time to start investing in pieces that are high quality and versatile so your clothes will work hard for you! One of my favorite versatile pieces [...]

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If you’re tired of wasting money on clothes that fall apart and go out of style quickly, then it’s time to build a better and more intentional closet! It’s time to start investing in pieces that are high quality and versatile so your clothes will work hard for you! One of my favorite versatile pieces is a cardigan. Here’s how to style a black cardigan different ways…

A Versatile Piece

What does versatile mean in style? Something that is versatile can be worn in multiple ways. You can pair it with different tops or different bottoms to get different looks. You don’t want to have pieces in your closet that can only be worn in one way because then you will have a closet full of clutter! 

An intentional closet takes thought and self-control. You need to stop buying all the pretty things and stay focused on buying things that can be worn with your other clothes in your closet. Before you buy something, stop and ask yourself if you can wear that item with other pieces in your closet. Does it have a similar color scheme or style to be worn with other things you own? My rule is that in order for something to earn a spot in my closet, I must be able to wear it in at least 3-5 different ways! This way I can make sure I’m not adding clutter to my closet. 

Different Ways to Wear a Cardigan

A cardi can be dressed up with heels or dressed down with sneakers. It can be worn in the summer on a cool night or layered with other pieces in the fall or winter. When you add a piece in your closet, make sure you can wear it in different ways. You want that flexibility and possibilities! You want a smart and intentional closet!

How to Style a Cardigan

Here’s how to style a black cardigan different ways…the options are endless!

How to Style a Black Cardigan Different Ways

The next time you go shopping in a store or online, stop and think before you purchase! Invest in pieces that you love, that are versatile, that are high quality, and that can be worn in multiple ways. You will have a closet that you love and that will work hard for you!

You can read tips on how to shop strategically HERE.

One of my very favorite places to shop for high quality & versatile pieces is Quince! Check them out HERE.

How to Style a Black Cardigan Different Ways

*This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase an item featured, I get a small portion from the sale but it does not affect you at all. Thank you!

The post How to Style a Black Cardigan Different Ways appeared first on Illuminate Beauty.

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