I have actually enjoyed my ever experimental and open-minded fashion sense. I don't get hung up on designer trends or tags, but I can appreciate the investment in good pieces to own. I fluctuate from Target, (Forever 21), and TJ Maxx, to the occassional J.Crew, Express, or Banana Republic purchases.
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| Outfits you would find in my closet as staples to my current wardrobe: little black dress, sunnies, gold accessories, skinny jeans, ballet flats, & blazers. |
I would define my preferred fashion choices as athletic or urban and bo-ho. I have spent much of the past two years in 'teacher outfits' (cardis, leggings and dresses, skinny jeans with high boots and sweaters, and the occasional professional pencil skirt and top), and then in my free time Lululemon Athletica clothes. I prefer my yoga/adventure clothes for on the go workouts and comfort. My leisure clothes have also been exclusive to Lululemon on a relatively large snobbery for quality, comfort, and brand. I've found them to be fashionable, trendy, and easy to wear. Unfortunately, wearing athletic clothes on a daily basis isn't a balanced wardrobe.
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| Photo taken from Lululemon Athletica Vancouver page. |
So now that I'm living in Ireland and learning about fashion, trends, and even more appropriate wardrobe pieces for the different weather here, I'm updating my closet. Before I moved, I left behind a great deal of...everything. When I set out to move this far, I tried to pack 'light', but have enough with me to not have to spend a whole lot of money fast on clothes. I did pretty well packing and selecting certain things, but I have still had a lot to look for. I realize I am quite blessed to be thinking about fashion in a new way, when there are so many others struggling to find water, so please don't misunderstand my perspective or priorities.
I actually think the next time I am at home, I will be able to donate a lot more than I was willing or thinking I would before I moved. At least I know little P is getting good use out of anything she wants to borrow. And anything I don't start wearing here soon, I know I have gotten good use out of prior to moving, and now would be a good time to donate. There are some great charity shops all throughout the city and I love looking through, as well as know the money is going to help adults with special needs, the Down Syndrome foundation, or people being treated for cancer.
I have a new rule for keeping, buying, and donating (I think throwing away anything is best for what is just absolutely destroyed): Keep if you would still buy it and want to wear it when you see it in your closet; buy it if it's a fair price/good quality/and something you will use often; Donate when you've not fallen through with using it or have loved it and gotten good value for it, but it's not 'too-loved' and can be used by someone else. I have done well wearing everything I have brought thus far and also buying some new go to pieces: black leather boots for hiking or trekking through the rain, black heels for interviews and special occasions, layer worthy long sleeve tops at Penney's, Gortex rain jacket, jeans, button up blouses, suit vests that aren't black, and wool socks.
I've been educated recently from some local friends about what not to wear or be weary of buying, and how different trends are at home in comparison to here. I was a little disappointed that my leisure look is not popular here. I actually only ever see people in workout clothes at the park literally working out or walking home from the gym. This may make you laugh, seeing as how I am sure this is a rule for many everywhere, but I think I see many more people in The States in workout clothes everywhere and it's not socially awkward. I have been pushed to be more conscientious about not wearing workout clothes out and about unless I am in fact working out. I will continue to wear my token sorority girl outfits (leggings, uggs, and long t-shirts or sweatshirts) at home and happily wear my lemon wear to stay cozy when I'm just hanging out in my space.
I've also seen A LOT of different fashion statements from people around town and I am making some progress as to what I want to wear. It's safe territory to wear skinny and straight leg jeans, leather shoes, and layers (scarves, jumpers, jackets).
I like the men who wear straight leg jeans, button up shirts, v-neck sweaters, and casual trendy shoes. I also like the t-shirt with open flannel tops and aviators on guys. I see alot of guys in adidas, nike, rugby jerseys, and runners. The latter isn't bad, but it's not everyday wear. I like to see guys trying a casual to dressy lifestyle look. D has been working on this himself, because we both prefer athletic clothes, but appreciate a good polished up look.
Women's fashion is different- so many different looks. It is going to be a new hobby or goal of mine in this next phase of my twenties to stay true to my principles on travel and living simply, but to start picking up more quality and smart pieces for my look. I'll start posting more pictures as I can.
Cheers,
M
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