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When the calendar says one season but the weather is stuck in another, which one should you dress for? The answer: dress for both. Yes, it can be a challenge, particularly when the weather changes as often as it does in many climates. But, since the weather hasn't committed to a season, neither should you. Instead, you need to strive for pieces and combinations that fit either extreme without getting stuck in one or the other.

Sound complicated? It's not. Just try these easy tips:

—Start With Year 'Round Fabrics
While fabrics like linen and heavy wool look great at certain times of the year, they tend to be season-specific and are therefore limited in their use. Buy them in small quantities and strive instead to build your wardrobe around fabrics that can span the seasons easily, like cotton, jersey, silk and denim.
—Buy Year 'Round Colors
Once you find fabrics that span the seasons, build your wardrobe with year 'round colors like black, white, navy, brown, cream, taupe and camel. Use your accessories to add seasonal color and splash.
—Keep Neutrals Handy
Rely heavily on your neutrals during the seasonal transition as they can get you a lot of mileage. Team light-colored neutrals with dark-colored separates on cooler days, or with same-colored neutrals or lighter-colored separates on warm days.
—Layer, Layer, Layer
Regardless of the temperature outside, self-regulate your temperature by adding or subtracting layers as the weather changes. Blazers, vests, cardigans and sweater sets all work well this time of year.
—Let Your Accessories Do The Work
How can the same apparel be made to look season-specific? By changing the accessories! Opt for dark leather in cold weather, light leather, fabric or plastic in warm weather. Change the scarf, jewelry, purse or shoes to match the season. It doesn't take a lot of money - just a little imagination. 
—Mix Pieces From Both Seasons
Can't wait to wear the new season top, skirt or shoes? No problem! Just don't wear them all at once when the weather's still undecided. Instead, pair one or two of them with more weather-appropriate pieces. For example, wear a sleeveless top beneath a shrug or cardigan, pair a floral dress with a solid blazer that matches. In short, bring on the new season without abandoning the old—until the weather makes up its mind.

—AND... remember my motto...  'Accessories are Necessities'! Accessories are what makes your outfit 'uniquely you'! They're an extension of your personality so have some fun with them!

► Make a set of task cards and let your child pick one and do what is on the card.
► Additional chores could include: cleaning or organizing their closet or toys. Organizing their book bag or backpack. Sorting through old toys and deciding which ones can be recycled by selling them at a resale/consignment store or donating them to a thrift shop.
► Set a reasonable time limit for each chore and print it on the card... it will help keep them from getting distracted.
► If your children finish the chores on the card – within the designated time limit – award them with a prize.
► Prizes could include items you purchase from your local resale/consignment/thrift shops... OR take the children with you to a favorite resale shop to pick out their own prizes.
► Show your children the benefits of recycling by letting them keep the proceeds from selling toys and clothing they selected to repurpose during their organizational chores.  

Remember... always look for the NARTS decal when selling/consigning/donating or shopping resale. It is Your Assurance of Professionalism.

Resale Details... News for the Smart Shopper is a publication of NARTS - Your Assurance of Professionalism
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