Refreshing Your Wardrobe with Paige Walker
It’s the new year, and you’re ready for a change. You’ve cleaned out your closets and donated the clothes your family no longer wears. Now you’d like to refresh your wardrobe as part of your overall self-renewal plan. To this end, Madeworthy talked with Paige Walker, a Fort Worth-based photographer, content creator, and founder of Ivy Society, an online shop dedicated to sorority, fraternity, and team swag.

Madeworthy: January often feels like a natural reset. Why is the start of a new year such a powerful time to refresh your wardrobe instead of completely reinventing it?
Paige Walker: That January energy really does hit differently. Last year, in an attempt to become the queen of positive affirmations, I taped a note to my mirror that said, “I am Paige, and only good things happen for me.”
When it comes to your wardrobe, the new year is the perfect time for a simple refresh – no need to reinvent yourself. Just start by removing those jeans that hurt your feelings and take inventory of the pieces you wear on repeat that actually fit your real life.
MW: What key silhouettes, colors, or fabrics feel “new” and fresh for this year without feeling trendy or overdone?
PW: We are seeing a throwback to 1980s office wear, but in a less traumatic way. Strong, padded shoulders with cinched waists are back. You may be winging it, but this powerful silhouette says, “I know what I’m doing.” Elongated lines are everywhere – wide-leg trousers, longer coats, and anything that makes you feel tall and put together.
Lingerie as outerwear is back. Go for satin slip skirts, lace-trimmed camis, and corset-style tops for that feminine, flirty feeling.
The preppy look continues into 2026 with v-neck sweaters, rugby shirts, blazers, and loafers. And I’m talking actual preppy, not the new age, rebranded preppy that the tweens have taken over.
Add some beaded jewelry, polka dots, fringe, wedge sneakers, and brut denim for easy wardrobe updates. Color-wise, anything goes! I’m seeing bold colors, pastels, and neutrals so stick to what makes you feel good.
MW: What are some go-to pieces that work beautifully for church but can also transition to brunch or errands afterward?
PW: Blend modest and trendy with flowy midi dresses, wide leg trousers, tailored blazer-and-shorts sets, and skirts with sweaters. Layer with a camel trench coat, cardigan, or leather jacket.

Spring 2026 Looks courtesy of Paige Walker
MW: What are your favorite chic-but-functional outfit ideas for moms on the sidelines?
PW: Sideline outfits need to survive weather, snacks, folding chairs, and emotional highs and lows. I stick to comfortable pants like baggy jeans, wide-leg sweatpants, or flare leggings, layers, and sneakers. A simple tee with a loose hoodie always works.
MW: What are three date-night essentials every woman should keep in her closet in 2026?
PW: On a date, I want to feel hot, but also like I can eat and not have to hold my breath all night. A great top is a must. Something that flirts a little, you know the type. A great pair of jeans that will never betray you, and a little black dress you can dress up or down is essential for everyone.
MW: What’s your formula for looking polished on long travel days without sacrificing comfort?
PW: If I can’t sit crisscross applesauce, eat snacks, and take a nap in an outfit, it’s an immediate no. Soft activewear, layers, comfy shoes, and your everyday jewelry are best.
MW: As a photographer, what common mistakes do people make when choosing outfits for family photos?
PW: Try to coordinate instead of match. When everyone shows up in the same color, the result can feel like a staff photo. Start with Mom’s outfit and work off that to pick the rest of the family’s clothes. I also do not like toddlers in puffer vests. The corners of the collar will inevitably move to cover the kid’s face at the cutest moment. Try on the clothes first and make sure they fit. I’ve had so many clients get to the shoot saying they just tried on the clothes right before, only to find that Mom’s dress won’t zip and the little boy’s pants are enormous.
MW: If you could give women one simple “style reset” rule to follow in 2026, what would it be?
PW: Nothing looks better than confidence, so wear what makes you feel your best.

Paige’s Favorites
- Favorite local boutique: Esther Penn
- Go-to tote bag for schlepping: I’ve been loyal to my Louis Vuitton Neverfull for a decade
- Charcuterie supplies for a last-minute gathering: Trader Joe’s
- Cosmetic must-have: Saie Glowy Super Gel™ in Sunglow
- Local jewelry designer nailing 2026 vibes: Glitter & Gold
- Next book I’m reading: Building a Story Brand
- Next trip I’m planning: New York City with my high school senior daughter
- Running around shoes: Birkenstock clogs and Jordan 1 Highs
- On my splurge wish list: Silver Gucci shoulder bag and a neck lift


