Lessons on shopping in your closet

I love getting e-mails from Kate Leser, the owner of the Raleigh image consulting company A Distinctive Image, because I know I'm always going to learn something.

And her reminder today was if you're feeling the economic pinch or simply time starved (who isn't?), try looking in your closet. You likely have plenty of good stuff in there if you take the time to hunt and search a bit.

Here's what she thinks you can find ...

* A simple, clean-lined sheath dress (appropriate weight and fabric for the season)

* An LBD (little black dress)

* A simple pencil skirt

* Chiffon blouse or skirt

* Blouse or T-shirt in evening fabric that shines or sparkles

* A blouse, top or sweater in a bright color

* Accessories that seem a little loud for the office or for running errands

* A pair of vampy shoes that you bought on sale but never had the guts to wear

Now that you've found them, here are a few of her tips for bringing them back to life. Take those simple dresses and spice them up with accessories. Better still, belt them with a brightly colored belt, either skinny or wide. Use the vibrant blouse to spice up a solid-colored suit. Wear those fun shoes instead your usual black pumps for nights out.

Get all of her tips, plus some ideas on spicing up your beauty routine, here.