Finding the Fashionable You

Recently, I went out to dinner with a good friend of mine and we came across the topic of getting older, knowing who you are, and where you want to be in your career.  At 24, I find a large portion of my friends are either engaged or married, settled into a job that will undoubtedly lead to a long, happy, career, purchasing their first homes, and beginning to talk about possibly expanding their families.  That being said, I am the polar opposite.  Feeling as though I am still too young for a ring on my finger, constantly craving a change of my surroundings, and not even able to fathom the idea of having a child yet (sorry Mom); I am still trying to figure out what it is I want and more importantly – who I am.   Day by day, I slowly piece together the ever-growing puzzle that is life.  Still trying to finish the border, I have figured out a few things along the way.  I love change (as any Gemini does), all forms of art, adapt to new situations and surroundings quickly, and most of all, travel. 

 

Realizing in my first semester of college that a degree in communications wasn’t exciting enough for me, I began to investigate other interests.  My difficulty lay in picking just one of them to build a career upon!  Fortunately, my wonderfully observative friends pointed out my armoire doors in my dorm, covered in torn out magazine photographs of designer collections and motivating words. I viewed my doors as simply an inspiration wall, while my friends suggested it signaled a future career path. It was settled. I changed my focus of study to the ever changing and fast paced major of fashion merchandising!

After reading an article where Joy Behar said, “Do what you loved doing when you were young,” I thought about what things I remember truly enjoying as a child. Other than trying to annoy my older sister, I loved playing dress up for hours in my Mom’s old clothes and accessories.  Another, would be spinning my Grandfather’s globe around with my finger tip, eyes closed, destined to live wherever the globe stopped. It amazes me how well those memories suit my lifestyle today.

Finding your own sense of fashion comes with finding yourself.  Year by year you find another piece to fill your wardrobe puzzle. Fads of harem pants and Gaga-inspired looks will come and want to join your closet and I urge you to explore these new trends; however, never wear something you feel uncomfortable in when outside the house unless maybe at the annual Halloween bash!  Fashion has the ability to change in an instant.  Last season’s must haves are this season’s old news so don’t worry if the new trend just isn’t working for you. More than likely, the next one will be right up your alley!  Regardless of what decade is back, and where you are on your style path, here are 10 classic pieces that will never fail you and always be in style:

1. The Classic Button Down – plaid, stripe, or plain…the look remains the same.

2. The Boot Cut Jean – a great cut that works on everyone.

3. The Long Cardigan – wear it with jeans, dresses, or even your comfy pj’s.

4. The Pearl Necklace – a timeless and classy addition to any look.

5. The LBD – always a flattering go-to piece for any last minute occasion.

Jen Aniston always in her trusted lbd.

6. The Peacoat – warm, functional, and sophisticated.

7. The Leather Tote – well made and well kept, this will last you more than just a few seasons.

Classic Prada Tote

8. The Army Jacket – from John Lennon in the 1960’s to today, this makes any outfit cooler.

John Lennon modeling his famous jacket.

9. The Ballet flat – in the name of practicality, a good looking flat is always essential.

Chanel

10. The Classic Striped tee – French fashion will forever cease to fade.

Karen Walker S/S '10

It’s ok to spend a little bit more on these stylish, staple pieces for your closet.  As the late, yet ever great, designer, Yves Saint Laurent once said, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.”