Agility Training for Your Corgi

🐾 Let's dive into the exciting world of agility training for Corgis and explore the numerous benefits it offers.

Agility Training for Corgis: Unleashing Their Inner Athlete

What Is Agility Training?

Agility training is a dynamic and engaging activity that involves guiding your Corgi through a timed obstacle course. The course typically includes jumps, tunnels, weave poles, A-frames, and other challenges. It's like a canine version of parkour!

Why Should You Consider Agility Training for Your Corgi?

Physical Fitness:

- Agility training keeps your Corgi physically fit. Those little legs were made for zooming!

- Jumping, weaving, and climbing help build muscle strength and improve overall endurance.

Mental Stimulation:

- Corgis are intelligent and curious. Agility courses provide mental challenges, keeping their minds sharp.

- Solving puzzles and navigating obstacles engage their problem-solving skills

Bonding Time:

- Agility training strengthens the bond between you and your Corgi.

- Working together as a team fosters trust and communication.

Confidence Boost:

- Successfully conquering obstacles boosts your Corgi's confidence.

- They'll strut around like the regal little fluffballs they are!

Socialization:

- Agility classes introduce your Corgi to other dogs and people.

- Socializing helps prevent behavioral issues and makes them more comfortable in various settings.

How to Get Started:

Find a Class:

- Look for local agility classes or clubs. Experienced trainers can guide you and your Corgi.

- Start with basic agility equipment and gradually progress to more complex challenges.

Positive Reinforcement:

- Use treats, praise, and toys to motivate your Corgi during training.

- Positive reinforcement encourages them to give their best effort.

Patience and Consistency:

- Agility takes time. Be patient and celebrate small victories.

- Consistent practice is key to improvement.

Safety Tips:

- Ensure your Corgi warms up before each session.

- Check the equipment for any sharp edges or loose parts.

- Monitor their energy levels and avoid overexertion.

Agility Competitions:

- Once your Corgi masters the basics, consider entering agility competitions.

- It's a thrilling experience to watch your furball dash through tunnels and leap over hurdles!

Agility training isn't just about physical prowess; it's about fostering a happy, healthy, and confident Corgi. So grab those treats, set up the course, and let your Corgi shine! 🌟

Remember, every wobbly weave and triumphant jump brings you closer to a more agile and joyful companion. Happy training! 🐶💨

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*Sources:*

1. [American Kennel Club: Corgi Puppy Training Timeline](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/train-corgi-corgi-puppy-training-timeline/)

2. [The Corgi Guru: Corgi Training Guide](https://thecorgiguru.com/corgi-training-guide/)

3. [Thinkers Vine: Jobs For Your Corgi](https://thinkersvine.com/jobs-for-your-corgi/)

4. [AKC: Preparing Your Puppy for Dog Agility](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/tricks-training-preparing-puppy-for-agility/)

5. [Daily Puppy: Corgi Agility Training](https://dogcare.dailypuppy.com/corgi-agility-training-3611.html)

Source: Conversation with Bing, 2/23/2024

(1) How to Train a Corgi: Corgi Puppy Training Timeline. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/train-corgi-corgi-puppy-training-timeline/.

(2) Corgi Training Guide: How To Train Your Corgi - The Corgi Guru. https://thecorgiguru.com/corgi-training-guide/.

(3) Jobs For Your Corgi - Elevate Your Corgi's Life. https://thinkersvine.com/jobs-for-your-corgi/.

(4) It’s All Tricks Training: Preparing Your Puppy for Dog Agility. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/tricks-training-preparing-puppy-for-agility/.

(5) Corgi Agility Training | Dog Care - Daily Puppy. https://dogcare.dailypuppy.com/corgi-agility-training-3611.html.

Why You Should Play with Your Corgi for 30 Minutes Everyday

Benefits of Playtime for you and Your Pup

Corgis are adorable, energetic, and loyal dogs that make great companions for people of all ages. They are also very smart and need mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Playing with your Corgi everyday is not only fun, but also beneficial for both of you. Here are some reasons why you should play with your Corgi everyday:

Playing with your Corgi improves your physical health

Playtime with your Corgi can help you burn calories, strengthen your muscles, and improve your cardiovascular health. Corgis love to run, chase, fetch, and tug, which can keep you (and your pup) active and fit. It can also lower your blood pressure, reduce stress, and boost your immune system. According to a study by the American Heart Association, dog owners have a lower risk of heart disease than non-owners.

It enhances your mental well-being

Playing with your Corgi can also improve your mood, relieve anxiety, and increase your happiness. Corgis are very expressive and affectionate, which can make you feel loved and appreciated. They can also make you laugh with their silly antics and cute faces. It can also stimulate your brain and improve your memory and concentration. A study by the University of British Columbia found that interacting with dogs can enhance cognitive functioning in older adults.

It strengthens your bond

Another reason to spend 30 minutes a day playing with your pup is that it will also deepen your relationship and create a strong bond of trust and loyalty. Corgis are very attentive and responsive to their owners, which can make you feel more connected and understood. They can also sense your emotions and provide comfort and support when you need it. It can also teach you (and your pup) valuable lessons about patience, communication, and cooperation. By spending some time with them everyday, you can show them that you care about them and enjoy their company. One of Gatsby’s favorite games is when I hid treats around the house and he has to find them. It keeps his senses sharp and is mentally stimulating and he gets a tasty reward!

Playing with your Corgi everyday is a rewarding and enjoyable experience that can benefit both of you in many ways. It can improve your physical health, enhance your mental well-being, and strengthen your bond. Corgis are wonderful dogs that deserve your attention and affection. So, grab a toy, a leash, or a ball, and have some fun with your corgi today!

Levine, G. N., Allen, K., Braun, L. T., Christian, H. E., Friedmann, E., Taubert, K. A., … & Lange, R. A. (2013). Pet ownership and cardiovascular risk: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation, 127(23), 2353-2363.

Gee, N. R., Mueller, M. K., & Curl, A. L. (2017). Human–animal interaction and older adults: An overview. Frontiers in psychology, 8, 1416.

What to Feed Your Corgi

Feeding your Corgi a well-balanced diet is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Beginning with a high-quality dog food made specifically for small breeds is a wise choice. Opt for options with a protein source as the first ingredient and a blend of essential nutrients like carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Introducing occasional treats into their diet can be a delightful way to connect with your furry friend, but it's essential to do so in moderation to prevent overindulgence. Remember to provide your Corgi with constant access to fresh water. If you have any concerns about your Corgi's diet, seeking advice from a veterinarian is recommended. Although dogs are considered omnivores, I prefer to feed Gatsby a grain-free diet. It helps get rid of a lot of the fillers that are a majority of grain dog foods anyways. My favorite food to feed him is Merrick Premium Grain Free Dry Adult Dog Food, Wholesome And Natural Kibble With Real Chicken And Sweet Potato. He has eaten the Merrick brand food since he was a puppy and is doing quite well for a 7 year old.

Understanding Corgi Dietary Needs:

Corgis are known for their energy and playful demeanor, and a well-balanced diet is crucial to support their overall health. Their nutritional needs may vary based on factors like age, weight, and activity level. Generally a Corgi’s diet should include a mix of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. I like to feed Gatsby the occasional hard-boiled egg, a little olive oil, bananas, and carrots as healthy treats. For a full list of safe fruits and veggies, check us out on Pinterest.

Key Ingredients to Look For:

1. High-Quality Protein: Opt for dog food with a protein source like chicken, lamb, or fish to support your Corgi’s muscle development.

2. Balanced Fats: Healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids contribute to a shiny coat and support cognitive function.

3. Vitamins and Minerals: Ensure the food includes essential vitamins and minerals like calcium for bone health and antioxidants for a robust immune system.

Tailoring to Life Stages:

1. Puppy Food: Young Corgis require a diet rich in nutrients for growth and development. Choose puppy-specific formulas until they reach adulthood. Around a year old is when it is generally safe to switch your young Corgi Jedi to an adult food. It takes about a year to a year and a half for a Corgi’s growth plates to fully finish growing. Feeding them a puppy food for at least a full year ensures your Corgi will grow to their full potential.

2. Adult Maintenance: As your young Corgi matures, transition to a balanced adult formula to meet their ongoing nutritional needs.

3. Senior Formulas: For older Corgis, consider senior dog food with joint support and easily digestible ingredients.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls:

1. Overfeeding: Corgis are known for their insatiable appetites and have a tendency to gain weight, so monitor portion sizes and adjust based on their activity levels. Gatsby acts like he’s always absolutely starving, despite being a little on the hefty side. I promise, they are not. Usually the serving size on the food bag is too large for most dogs. Gatsby gets a half a cup in the morning and a half a cup at night. He will remind you when it is time to eat!

2. Human Food Hazards: Be aware of foods toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions, and avoid sharing your meals with your Corgi.

Every Corgi is unique, and consulting your veterinarian is essential for crafting a personalized nutrition plan. They can offer insights into your dog’s specific needs, addressing any health concerns or dietary restrictions. Choosing the best food for your Corgi is an investment in their well-being and longevity. By understanding their nutritional needs, selecting quality ingredients, and tailoring their diet to their life stage, you can ensure your Corgi thrives. After all, a healthy Corgi is a happy Corgi.

Traveling with Your Dog: The Best Tips

Traveling with your furry friend can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience with the right preparation. When embarking on a trip with Fido, be sure to pack all the essentials, including food, water, and any medications they may need. Make sure to research pet-friendly accommodations and book in advance to ensure a comfortable stay for both you and your pup. It's also important to bring along familiar items, such as their favorite toys or blanket, to help them feel at ease in new surroundings. Planning regular breaks for exercise and bathroom breaks is crucial, so be sure to map out pet-friendly rest stops along your route. Lastly, ensure Fido sports a collar with up-to-date identification tags and consider getting them micro-chipped for added security. With these tips in mind, you and your canine companion are all set for a memorable adventure together.

One of my favorite essentials for when Gatsby and I travel is a collapsible water dish. I am alway sure to keep one in my car and one in our hiking backpack. You can find a two pack on Amazon for practically nothing. It’s one of the best purchases you can make for your Corgi. Not only do they come in a variety of cute colors, but having a two pack will ensure your pup always has water for whatever shenanigans you might get into.

If possible, I recommend bringing your pup’s dog bed along on your trip. That way it still has their scent and the scent of your home to help keep them chill. You can get Gatsby’s favorite bed here. It’s super soft and has a removable cover for ease of cleaning and keeping it looking brand new! It also offers orthopedic support for your Corgi’s joints. It’s reasonably priced and is even water proof! The non-slip base will keep it from sliding all over your floors too. Gatsby prefers beds with bolsters on the side to rest his adorable little head on, so if your Corgi is picky like mine, this may be a your pup’s new favorite!

One item in particular I have been looking into for Gatsby is a doggie car seat. I’ve been in two car accidents in the last 4 months and Gatsby was with me the second time an idiot ran a yield sign (in a roundabout no less) and crashed into the driver’s side of my car. Luckily they weren’t going very fast, otherwise I’m not sure how much worse it could have been for me and Gatsby. Amazon has quite a few to choose from, but as soon as I get my car back from the shop, I plan to purchase this one by Queen’s Nose to try and keep him safe in the future. I’ve done a lot of researching and this one has pillows in the front and back to protect your precious cargo and has two leash attachments to ensure they don’t go flying around in the car (or out the windshield!). It folds up easily for traveling and could even double as your Corgi’s designated napping station while trotting around the country.

My favorite id tag for Gatsby is this cute silicone one I found on Amazon a few years ago. I noticed the phone number and address engraving was wearing off the back of his engraved aluminum one after just a short time. With the silicone id tag, I no longer have to worry about that happening anymore. They come in a variety of colors and you can even add cute designs to them. Turn around shipping was really quick and when I didn’t receive my second one in the mail, they were quick to ship another one out free of charge right away!

Another important tip is to make sure your dog is micro-chipped. I had this done for Gatsby when he was a puppy at a walk-in Clinic at a local pet store. I don’t think I paid anymore than $30 or $40 dollars and it is well worth the piece of mind in case he were to ever go missing. When he was a puppy, a utility worker left the back gate open and he took off on a little excursion around the neighborhood. Luckily I noticed he was missing right away and found him pretty quickly. Just a few calls and the turkey came running around the block right to me. Micro-chipping your furkid doesn’t have to be expensive. Check with your local pet stores and the humane society. The small fee is worth the piece of mind it brings!

Stay tuned for more great travel tips for your next adventure with your best friend!

Best Pet-Friendly Hotels for Your Next Getaway

Are you tired of leaving your furry friend behind when you go on vacation? Luckily, many hotels now welcome pets with open arms, making it easier than ever to bring your four-legged companion along for the adventure. Whether you're planning a relaxing beach retreat, a mountain escape, or a bustling city break, there are pet-friendly hotels that cater to every need. I have found another great resource for finding pet friendly hotels or places to visit is bringfido.com. This website shows you everything from pet friendly restaurants to hotels to beaches. Leaving your furkid behind is now a thing of the past! I have heard that dogs go missing most often when they are under the care of someone else. So if you are like me and would prefer to bring your pet along, check out these pet-friendly hotels!
1. The Kimpton Hotel & Restaurant Group
The Kimpton chain of hotels is renowned for its pet-friendly policies. Their "Kimpton Pets" program ensures that your pets are treated like royalty, with amenities such as plush pet beds, food and water bowls, and even loaner litter boxes for feline guests. Many Kimpton hotels also offer pet-walking and pet-sitting services, allowing you to explore the local area with peace of mind. They even have this adorable robe you can purchase for your pet that is coming soon! Unlike some hotels, they allow dogs of all breeds, shapes, and size to stay at their properties for free!
2. Aloft Hotels
Aloft Hotels not only welcome pets but also actively encourage their presence by offering special perks. From pet beds, bowls, treats, and toys to a "woof-alicious" room service menu specially designed for dogs, Aloft ensures that your pet feels right at home. Some locations even organize "Yappy Hours" and other pet-friendly social events. If you are a Marriott BonVoy customer, you will be able to use your points towards a stay at one of Aloft’s great properties scattered across the globe.
3. La Quinta by Wyndham
La Quinta by Wyndham prides itself on providing a comfortable stay for both humans and pets. With no extra pet fees and a "Bright Side" pet policy, La Quinta welcomes up to two pets per room and ensures they have access to designated relief areas. Plus, with free breakfast and spacious rooms, it's a convenient and affordable option for pet owners. Not all of their hotels are pet friendly, so be sure to double check before your next stay.
4. Red Roof Inn
For budget-conscious travelers, Red Roof Inn offers a pet-friendly stay without sacrificing comfort. Pets stay for free at most of their properties, and Red Roof's "GoPetFriendly" program provides resources to help plan pet-friendly activities during your trip. With over 650 locations across the United States, it's easy to find a pet-friendly Red Roof Inn wherever your adventures take you. While they do not have breed restrictions, they do have weight restrictions, allowing one family pet not exceeding 80 pounds at most of their locations. Their Red Collection hotels policy has a weight limit of 40 pounds for no additional charges. It’s best to check the hotel’s policy before bringing your Corgi. T
5. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
If luxury is what you seek, look no further than Four Seasons. Many of their locations not only allow pets but also go above and beyond to pamper them. From gourmet pet menus and pet-sitting services to walking maps and recommendations for pet-friendly excursions, Four Seasons ensures that pets receive the same VIP treatment as their human companions. Keep in mind that Four Seasons does have weight limits, allowing up to one pet weighing no more than 25 pounds. Again, it’s best to check with the hotel before bringing Fido.

6. Even Hotels
If you are looking for another budget friendly hotel, look no further than Even Hotel. If you are an International Hotel Group member, even better, as they are apart of their awesome rewards program! They understand that furkids are an essential part of the family and welcome them with open arms. Even Hotel’s brand is all about wellness, so you will have no problem keeping up with your fitness routine in their state-of-the-art gyms and they offer fitness equipment in guest rooms too! Their beds, (and pillows), are extremely comfortable and their spa-like shower has everything you need to relax after a long day exploring. Gatsby and I ordered room service for breakfast one morning from the Even Kitchen and Bar and it did not disappoint! Upon check in, a description of your pet is required, as well as a $100 non-refundable deposit for dogs 50 pounds and under. They have special rooms that are designated for pets, (which are just as nice as a non-pet friendly room), so be sure to book early and check your furry friend in when making your reservation. They even have a cute door knocker to let housekeeping staff know that your room has a four-legged guest!

No matter where your travels take you, there's a pet-friendly hotel ready to welcome your furry family member with open arms. With these options in mind, you can plan your next vacation knowing that both you and your pet will have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

How to Train your Dragon…Er Corgi

Photo Credit: Bing AI Image Creator

Cute Dragon Corgi in his Jedi Robe, reporting for duty!

Repetition Repetition Repetition!  And lots of treats!  I’ll admit that Gatsby still jumps a little when someone comes over.  So I’m not yet a Master Jedi of Corgis.  But for teaching basic commands and tricks, giving constant praise and treats helps them pick it up faster.  Just like us humans respond and learn quicker with positive reinforcement, so does your fur kid!  Corgis are known for their insatiable appetites, and Gatsby definitely lives up to the hype.  He is very food motivated.  I started out with high five as his first trick.  He learned it very quickly but we went through a ton of treats!  All I did was give him a treat every time he got close to doing a high-five.  I’m pretty sure he picked it up within 5 minutes or so.  Corgis are very intelligent dogs.  Teaching your dog tricks is not only fun to do but also helps strengthen the bond you share. Because Corgis tend to get on the hefty side pretty easily I knew I had to find some low cal treats for him.  I like to give him healthy food, (he shares a banana with me every morning), so I found some training treats.  

I came across Bocce’s Bakery treats several years ago when searching for healthy treats that didn’t smell terrible or use fillers and a ton of preservatives.  They started out as a small business in New York and I just love these kinds of brands and their stories.  They have cute names for their treats and adorable packaging.  But most importantly they use high-quality, fresh ingredients in all their treats and they are made right here in the USA.  Bocce’s treats smell so good I almost could eat them.  Especially the Pumpk’n Spice!  Gatsby takes after his mom and loves all things pumpkin spice too!  When researching for this article I noticed they now offer a treat subscription box on their website as well.  Gatsby loves getting his BarkBox’s in the mail every month, so this subscription service is sure to be a hit in our home!  Anytime we get a package, he immediately has to check it out to and thinks it’s another special delivery for him.  If we add this subscription service, I’m sure I’ll end up having to tear all of the packages away from him even more often! 

This might sound crazy but I have also found that talking to Gatsby as if he were a human works best.  I think he has learned far more words than if I had spoken to him as if he were just a dog or in a high pitched I just saw a cute baby voice. I figured if I speak to him like an intelligent being or just as my closest confidant, he would think and act accordingly. For the most part, I’d say it has worked out perfectly. However, he is still just a crazy Corgi pup, and he still goes a little nuts sometimes. Especially every time he meets a new human. Corgis are very social creatures and they love attention. Gatsby certainly lives up to the hype. He is definitely a ham for attention and takes it personal whenever someone refuses to pet him. He doesn’t trust them either and I most certainly trust his opinions when it comes to the character of other humans! I went on a date at the park awhile back with a guy and Gatsby completely ignored him as if he wasn’t there. Normally he is jumping with joy whenever he meets someone new. Let’s just say that was my first and last date with duct tape couch boy. If my dog doesn’t like you, you don’t stand a chance!

Another fan favorite in our house are Greenies dental treats.  A few weeks ago, Gatsby and I went into Petco to get a brushing (Corgis shed and shed and shed some more) and nail grind.  I was shocked when he grabbed a back of Greenies while we were in the checkout lane.  Sometimes he just likes to help himself to a treat every now and then when something catches his eye in the store lol.  I don’t feed him a lot of soft foods and we are all about being healthy around here, so his teeth are in really good shape for a 7 year old.  You can purchase them on Amazon from here insert hyper link).  They help keep his breath fresh and his teeth cleaner.  This saves on dental bills later down the road, so your pup and your wallet will thank you later! I receive commissions from Amazon each time you purchase from my links or my shop above. Every purchase helps feed and fund Gatsby, the insatiable Corgi, and his retail addiction!

New Year’s Eve Outfit

I was recently re-energized by a few new accessories I added to my wardrobe.  Insert hot new cropped Moto jacket and a high neck lace top from The Drop.  The Moto jacket has the softest faux leather I have ever felt!  The high neck lace top has the prettiest lace detail.  My only gripe is that it isn’t a bodysuit.  I think it’s safe to say The Drop is one of my new favorite, affordable fashion lines that I’ve discovered on Amazon.  Their 7 day try out period is what sparked my purchase.  I am super picky about my clothes and fabrics and how they feel on my skin.  The off-white Moto jacket has excellent detailing as well.  The zippers came lined with tissue paper to protect them from damage during shipping.  That right there made me feel better about the brand and their clothing.  They take great care to protect their items.  The zippers look and feel amazing too! 

As soon as I saw the jacket, I knew I had to buy it right then. It is on sale for 35% off right now too! I figured I would just send it back to Amazon, hassle free, if I didn’t like it in person.  Online shopping for clothing is so hit or miss!  I was pleasantly surprised at how much I love it!  The lining on the inside of the jacket is super soft as well, so it feels great on your skin.  I paired it with some ballet flats from Target and my favorite Spanx Moto pants and a bodysuit for New Years Eve.  It looked hot!  Especially with the pants! I always thought crop tops/jackets weren’t for me, but I have since been converted.  They just look great and help break up the proportions of your body.  Pairing the jacket with the high waisted Spanx Moto leggings was a win!

Theses high waisted Spanx Moto leggings are my favorite pair of leggings/pants that I have ever owned.  As I mentioned earlier, I am picky about fabrics and prefer my clothes to look fitted.  These Moto leggings do not disappoint!  As an animal lover, I tend to go for options that are cruelty-free and vegan (I don’t care enough to give up bacon though).  The material feels soft to the touch.  The pipping detailing on the leggings gives them an edgy look and feel.  I was a bit turned off by the price at first, (they were about $150 when I purchased them from Amazon), but they were worth every penny!  They are now on sale for $110 and are available for Amazon Prime’s try before you buy program. So get yourself these pants asap! I could honestly wear them everyday and if they had them in other colors, I’d have to hair every pair!  This was my first pair of Spanx ever, (and the most I had ever spent on a pair of pants), so I was super excited to give the brand a try.  My only gripe is they tend to roll down, which may indicate a sizing issue.  I still love, love, love these pants!

Moving on to the lace top, it’s just as awesome as the jacket.  I love shirts with a high neckline, so this one is perfect.  I needed something to wear to an interview in a pinch and my plan was to just send it back afterwards.  This shirt will not be going back!  The high neck looks amazing on me, (I’m not the biggest fan of my neck), so it covers it just enough.  The sleeves have a slight puff to it as well, (maybe I just needed a smaller size?), but I think it adds to the styling of the shirt.  The lace detailing is beautiful and it is not scratchy on my sensitive skin.  I will say the smocked neckline was a little itchy at first, but I have since adjusted to it.  So keep that in mind if you have sensitive skin.  I didn’t want to show too much skin for my interview, (it was for a VP of HR position), so I opted to wear it underneath a LBD.  It looked amazing!  It gave me a the confidence boost I needed to rock the interview.  I didn’t want to wear something that looked plain and boring, I wanted something a little more edgy.  It totally changed the look of my dress and brought a little more edge to the look.  Even though it was freezing, I didn’t want to take it off!  Instead of wearing a blazer, I paired it with the Moto jacket. 

The next time I wore it, I paired it with a camisole underneath and it looked amazing.  I think it would look great with something a little more risqué like a crop top or triangle bathing suit top underneath as well.  Or even just a cute bra.  As I mentioned earlier, the only thing I would change about it is offering it in a bodysuit.  The shirt kind of rides up a bit and I like my clothing to stay put and look tailored.  Having it as a bodysuit would fix this minor issue.  The plastic packaging on the shirt wasn’t my favorite.  It was kind of hard to open and would easily tear the if something were to happen during shipping.  Besides that minor packaging complaint, I would give this shirt a 11/10!

I do earn commissions from my Amazon links for any purchases made, however, I would not promote a product I don’t absolutely love.  A girls gotta eat!  And her Corgi too! You can shop by clicking the links above or purchasing it directly through my shop. These staples are sure to spice up your wardrobe in the New Year!