The idea of a clean slate (an entirely new year!) is so appealing. You reflect on the year that has passed, sit down to consider the things that you want to happen in the upcoming year. All great things. Not to be a Debbie Downer, but on the flip side, this also can lead to setting goals that are just too big and too vague.

For example, cutting out all sweets, for me, is a guaranteed flop. Sure Monday and Tuesday might look good, but it’s not a sustainable thing for a sweet tooth like myself and I’d only end up throwing it to the wind as another resolution lost until the next fresh new year.

So while you’re probably not all that concerned with how much cake I’m eating, I’m going to give you some fashion resolution ideas that are specific, simple, and easy to execute.

Shop Local – Next time you have to buy a gift, don’t go to the department stores. Local stores carry a unique inventory. Their gifts make for better conversation and just seem downright more thoughtful. Make a pact with your friends that all gifts must come from boutiques and local stores.

Dress to be the person you want – Seriously, step out of your comfort zone. You want to be the editor of Vogue some day? You think that Anna Wintour got there in sweatpants? Half of the battle of getting what you want is convincing yourself that you can do it. If you believe it yourself, others will too. We’ve all heard this, yet a week into the new year, you’re back in those faded leggings. Throw them away. Keep in mind that dream every time you add something new to your closet.

Quality over quantity – Set a budget and evaluate what it is that you really want. Cheap tickets are tempting, but probably don’t fall in line with those key pieces you’ve been looking to add and their excitement will wear off after one wear. You’ll have the quality pieces forever. Pick a classic and think of all the ways you can use it.

Find inspiration – If you’re on this blog, you know how to use the internet. And if you’re on the internet, you should have no shortage of inspiration to rework everything in your closet, to get organized, or to find the style that you’ve never really mastered. Make a moodboard (Google it. It’s a fancy collage). See what styles you gravitate toward and figure out if how you see yourself really lines up with how you look. Find new blogs and emulate someone’s style that you admire. What are his/her staple pieces? Buy your own. Inspire others.

Happy 2013 everyone. Let’s kick this off in style.