There are so many trends in the fashion world that it can be hard to keep track. While it may be tempting to go out and spend money on the latest trends, it’s much more beneficial (and sustainable) to build a timeless wardrobe that you can cultivate over the years. I’ve always believed that fashion is cyclical. When I look back at pictures of my mother, I see nuances of clothing I wear today, and see direct correlation between my personal style and her fashion choices from a different era. Yes, that may be because we’re related, but it is also because modern fashion inspiration is drawn from the past.
Forget about trends and focus on what you love
When going shopping, it is important to buy items that you truly love, and that will be useful in the long-run. We all buy items that aren’t super practical but oh so worth it, and that’s fine, because if you can’t treat yourself sometimes, what’s the point? But the key here is to have bits and pieces of trend or impractical items sprinkled in as you build a timeless wardrobe. Invest in timeless pieces like a fabulous jacket, a perfectly fitted blazer, or slacks that fit you like a glove. Items that you can repeatedly wear and style into different outfits are what will keep you going and let you build your own iconic style.
Opt for items that flatter your body
The key to building a timeless wardrobe is picking items that flatter your body. For example, current trends are filled with skirts that come all the way down to mid-calf, but for someone short like me, those styles don’t work at all. They only make me look shorter. With that in mind, I tend to stay away from the “midi” trends and look for skirts that hit at knee length or go all the way to the floor. It’s all about finding a balance between fashion and personal style. Focus on what makes you feel good and what flatters your body instead of current fashion trends.
Treat your clothing as a reminder of a specific point in time
The other day I got a compliment on a leather jacket I was wearing, and as I gratefully thanked the person for the compliment, I realized that I bought the jacket over eight years ago. When I bought it I remember thinking that it was a total splurge, but I had fallen in love with the soft leather and quilting on the sleeves.
Now, as I look back on the purchase and how much I’ve worn it over the years, I realize that it was absolutely worth the money because it is a piece that I can keep and continue to wear. Additionally, it provides a memory from a different time in my life. One of the beautiful things about timeless clothing is that these items can transport you back to a different time. You may be wearing the same jacket from eight years ago, but chances are that you aren’t exactly the same. These items can help you see your growth and how far you’ve come, yet realize that you’ve always been the same person deep down.
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The next time you’re debating spending money on that neon perforated jacket, think about how often you’ll wear it, and decide if it’s a piece you could see yourself wearing a few years down the road. Piece by piece, take the time to invest in your clothing, find clothing you love, and build a timeless wardrobe that reflects your personal style. Trust me, you won’t regret it.