Hello my dears! It's been a while. I've had so many new ideas percolating, and yet it's been just that: percolating. Brewing. Thinking. Journaling. I'm hard at work on pulling the best of Mindful Clutter Clearing into a brand-new format, with some juicy new additions (and a new website!) but there's nothing to reveal just yet. It's a slower process than I ever imagined. In the meantime, I thought it would be fun to share a few of my favorite recent wardrobe updates.
As those of you who have a) taken one of my courses, or b) know me in person, probably already know, my personal style is simple. I like unfussy, casual, throw-it-on-and-go clothes. Think blue jeans, striped tops, flat (read: comfy) shoes, easy dresses, and minimal jewelry. I used to waste money buying clothes that I thought I "should" like, but no more! Accepting my simple style has been a relief. If you're a more-is-more type when it comes to getting dressed, this is probably not the post for you ... but if simple style is your jam, read on for 5 of my favorite recent acquisitions.
I rarely shop, so when I do my standards are high. New items need to: work for everyday wear, be comfortable and built to last, and go with other pieces I already own. On my list for this spring was an updated version of my basic jeans-and-striped-top combo; here's what I found:
1. I'm loving the cuffed boyfriend jeans from Kut from the Kloth. Just spotted they're on super sale right now at Nordstrom Rack ... I may have to order a backup pair!
2. I adore my Garnet Hill striped top; sadly, it appears to be no longer available. It's nice and thick, similar to the classic Saint James striped tops.
3. I've been living in my Birkenstock Gizeh sandals (this pair is in 'Graceful Antique Lace') since last summer, and they are still holding up well.
4. After much searching for a new everyday leather bag, I settled on the leather Baggu tote in stone (white). It's super soft and slouchy, which I love. I have been fairly careful with where I set it down since it's so light, but the few marks it's gotten have been easy to clean off.
5. Last but not least, I have to mention my french market basket! This is a true summertime essential for me: I use it for everything from grocery shopping to toting books, playground balls, and picnic gear. The one I have is truly gigantic. It fits a ton, and has double handles so you can sling it over your shoulder or carry it in hand. (When not in use, this puppy still pulls its weight around the house as a storage container for towels and other household linens.)
Summers here in the Bay Area are so much more mellow than back in Rhode Island, I don't need to change as much in terms of what I wear. That said, I am still on the lookout for a few new items, including: shorts that don't make me feel like a total dork, and an easy dress or two with some upper arm coverage. Hah!
What about you? Have you learned (or accepted) anything about your own style preferences (or body type) that have made building your wardrobe easier? What's on your shopping list right now? I'd love to hear!
xo Laura
