Because of the current economic climate, it is clear that all of us, in some way or another, are feeling a financial strain. In fashion, this has lead to higher demand for more classic styles that will last longer than a single season, and have a far less disposability to them. I have noticed, however, a flaw in this system: everyone is buying the same thing! For me, it’s like watching my child fall off their bike. It’s heart breaking.
I do not want anyone to throw out these new, financial/planet conscious ideals, yet I do want to alter what they mean. Everyone seems to have a “Classic Essentials” list, and most of seem to include (but are not limited to) the following: a white shirt, a blazer, a pencil skirt, a trench coat, a day dress, and a little black dress. This article is not here to debate what should or shouldn’t be an essential to your wardrobe, but rather what you should look for when purchase anything you imagine will complete your wardrobe, act as a seasonless piece, stand the test of time, and go with countless combinations of other items. In other words, when you purchase an essential.
Beyond deciding what these items are, let us discuss what they should mean to you. Instead of purchasing the same generic white shirt everyone of your girlfriends or coworkers own, you should purchase any white blouse that you are drawn to. As long as the features that make you drawn to the top (the ruffles, pleats, or embellishments) are not too trendy or season specific, that great blouse might actually carry you further and be more versatile than a standard button up would be. For example, perhaps many consider a standard button up classic, and maybe it looks “alright” with a pencil shirt, but that silk satin shawl-neck blouse with ruffled shoulder and key hole back probably looks great with a pencil skirt, as well as your black skinny jeans, or wide leg khakis. Furthermore, you probably feel more fabulous in it!
Next, redefine what the classics are for you, based on your profession, and your lifestyle. In Arizona, for example, a phenomenal bathing suit would definitely be a classic piece since we can wear ours eight months of the year. Another way to redefine the classics is to tailor them to your own liking. If you really like gray, and you know you will wear a gray chiffon blouse with almost anything else in your wardrobe, be willing to pay a little extra since you really will get a lot of wear out of it. A gray blouse could very well be your specific classic piece. Lastly, maybe grab something deemed a classic by most, such as a trench coat, but choose a sudo-neutral like forest green that’s a little more exciting than beige, yet miraculously pairs perfectly with almost everything you wear.
Just because something is a classic, does not mean it has to be generic. Classics will mean different things to different people, so make your own rules because it is your life. Anything that you feels is timeless, seasonless, and makes you feel utterly special is your classic.
