My mom had a classic saying growing up, "make do". This was her favorite remedy for just about everything especially when I wanted new clothes. This little saying made me quite the creative when it came to my wardrobe and has always steered me toward practical purchases. While making do can be very good on one's budget it doesn't always offer the most fun outfit options.
So over the years I've tried an 80/20 approach, 80% basics and 20% statement pieces I buy on occasion to enhance an outfit. These are my recommendations on how not to look basic in well, basics.
80% Basics
Black Jeans: I love these Reformation cigarette jeans.
Denim: At the risk of sounding like that ass hole who only wears vintage jeans found in crazy secret thrift shops I will say that I've been fortunate to discover my holy grail of thrifting in Echo Park, Los Angeles called, Sunday's Best. However, in the event that you don't live close by or have the luxury of scouting out the elusive secondhand Sisterhood of The Traveling Pants I really like these classic Levi's that are pretty great for any occasion.
Cashmere Sweater: Cashmere is seasonally versatile and Everlane has some very affordable, quality options. Really loving this one for winter.
Tee Shirts: I'm a sucker for a white tee and these James Perse ones are the best I've found. Expensive, yes, but totally worth it. I highly recommend finding an outlet or stocking up at a sample sale.
Long-Sleeve Shirts: I'll preface by saying Brandy Melville is like that guilty pleasure pop song I really want to hate but love.
That being said, this Brandy Melville thermal is one of my favs...and I bought it in grey, navy and olive green.
Oversized Sweater: When I find something I love I wear it to death. These ReNew fleeces from Everlane are made from recycled water bottles and are on very heavy rotation in my closet atm.
Shoes: These Italian leather boots have been an incredible investment. Also pretty obsessed with Soludos and wear their smoking slippers (get the platform styles bc they have a better sole) and these leather mules with everything.
20% Statement Pieces
Tops: These silk tops go with just about anything - try the red or animal print . I'm also loving this amazing linen crop by Mila in gold.
Jewelry: These fun GBY earrings as an easy way to dress up an outfit.
Jackets: I realized what an investment piece was after sporting a cheap leather jacket for far too long. While there is NOTHING wrong with faux, you can find great options like this one or this one, but when you wear something 364 days out of 365 it's safe to say it's proven it's wearability. So, rather than wear something ragged and repurchase it year after year only to realize you could have bought something that could be passed on (like an amazing leather varsity jacket I found of my dad's from college) maybe just bite the bullet. This could also just be my way of justifying my most outrageous purchase of all time, this BLK DNM leather jacket. I've also had great luck with The Outnet for great deals like this Muubaa leather jacket. This is not to say something needs to be expensive to be great. Last year I bought a version of this Target shearling coat and it is the absolute BEST.
Dresses: I love Reformation. Their dresses are pricey but beautiful and sure to be worn for more than just a wedding. I'm in love with this style I bought for a summer wedding (try Poshmark for half the price) and this one for a dressier winter wedding. Hate dresses but still want something special? This Yumi Kim romper is an awesome alternative for summer date nights and beach vacas.
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