Wow, you guys. Thank you so much for the tweets and comments regarding last week's outfit post; it's nice to know I'm not the only one with newfound appreciation for great basics as I've gotten older. In the last couple weeks of editing my wardrobe down to what I actually wear, I've discovered that my closet is split between my fantasy self, my past self, and my current self.
My fantasy self traipses about in eccentric statement pieces and vertiginous heels. My past self adores bows, polka dots, bright colours, and prim, fitted cardigans. Neither of these is my current self: a girl who prefers to pair her statement/colourful pieces with an otherwise streamlined look, reaches for flats instead of heels most days, and acknowledges that her taste needs to grow up a bit.
Current Self revels in being able to throw together an outfit for work or the weekend within 2 minutes—no "Does this top go with that skirt?" hesitation required. Current Self understands that, given a choice between heels and flats, flats will always win, so the closet may as well be filled with interesting ones like minimalist black tassel slippers. (In fact, Current Self only rotates between the same half dozen or so pairs of heels for every dressy occasion, so she might as well stop buying them.) Current Self also adores the simplicity of Breton stripes and skinnies, but knows the power of a great piece of outerwear and luxe bag in elevating both.
Is Current Self the result of normcore and minimalism? Perhaps. But I think this desire for a simplified, basics-heavy wardrobe that makes getting dressed easier transcends trend cycles and represents a more lasting change.
our fantasy selves are the exact same person! I always tell myself I'll wear statement pieces, but most days I just can't be bothered with anything besides basics.
ReplyDeleteIn my head, fantasy self dresses a bit like Mindy Lahiri from The Mindy Project: a closetful of colours and patterns, high heels everyday, and always a designer bag.
DeleteGorgeous classic coat. I'm rather jealous .. it is still in the 80's here in So Cal .. so not coat weather.
ReplyDeleteMonica, www.pear-shaped-gal.com
Coat weather will come eventually! It's actually been hit-and-miss here too; some days are warmer than others. Yesterday was positively balmy.
DeleteI'm right there with you. I will always love fashion and probably always get distracted by trends, but overall I have such a strong urge to simplify, simplify, simplify. I love blacks and grays, and classic stripes and when I buy something that does not fit in that category, I rarely wear it. For the past few years, every season I try to give away more than I buy so I can really start streamlining my closet. I can't wait to see more examples of your current self's style!
ReplyDeleteLet's hold each other accountable in streamlining our closet!
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