One of the nicest things about having a blog for over 10 years is being able to look way back into what my style has been over the years. I get to see in actual words and pictures what I looked like, what I liked, and what I didn't. After taking a look at my history I know two things with certainty.
1. Keep. It. Simple. Stupid.
One: I can tell you that I've simplified my style enormously. This fact pleases me. My style habits have simplified too. For example, I used to be so concerned about trends, what was "in," and who was cool. Now I don't think I really have a clue, and this is by choice. I like some things, but mostly don't care too much about who is wearing what or what the hell any publication talks about. This is because I worked in advertising since forever and worked at Condé Nast, so that insider knowledge of what marketers and editors deem important is what gives me confidence that my personal opinions about what I choose is cool is just as credible as what any editorial, ad, or otherwise says so. Another way I've simplified is that I have also unfollowed mostly everyone that I don't consider a source of positive inspiration. That means my Instagram (my only means of social media these days, and even that's on it's way out) hovers just under following 99 people. No offense! I feel confident that the combination of these two things help keep my style feeling like me.
I like to keep things pretty simple, basic even, but with one unconventional, quirky, or masculine touch. Take the skirt above for example. It's one of my favorite items from Louis Vuitton S/S 2015. When I saw it on the runway I knew that instant while scrolling the slideshow that I wished I could have one of the skirts from the collection. I also know that A-line skirts are very flattering for my body type because I have big hips and a butt. So I was tickled when I found a skirt from the collection on TheRealReal in my size and in excellent condition for a good price. Ever since then it's a quick outfit for me — I pop a sweater over it, a men's basic t-shirt, wear it with tights, flats, pretty much whatever — and I know I'll feel pretty great. This skirt is quirky enough for me to keep the rest of the look simple. It also has a nice resale value for when I feel like I'm over it enough to banish it from my (now) pretty small closet.
2. Give less fucks.
The second thing I know for sure is that I've physically changed. My weight has fluctuated — think of a line chart crawling slowly upwards as a line for my metabolism goes the other way. Also, my skin is getting older, wrinklier, with more acne (ughh). And, to top it off, my hair is going gray, and the texture is going wiry. In short, I'm getting older.
I used to worry so much about losing weight. I'd constantly spend my days wanting to shed a "couple more pounds" because I'd tell myself that I'd be happy and have it all after that. I can see now how that was such a waste of time.
My skin hasn't exactly turned on me either. I've taken care of it since I was younger with sunscreen and proper care routines so I guess the wrinkles appearing around my face are unavoidable. The acne was a real curve ball though — more on that one another time. In general, I throw my skin conditions in the same bucket as my weight — I just don't want to be too concerned about the natural course and physical consequences of me living my life. I have a good life. I worked hard for it. No, it's not perfect, but I choose to be happy.
Finally, my hair. I've never really had beautiful hair. I know this with confidence. I just don't think I've ever come to terms that it was never going to be long and healthy at the same time. I can't seem to grow it past my shoulders and when I cut it to that length it seems to split despite my best efforts. My hair is dark ash brown, dense, Mexican, and coarse, with flyaways and baby hairs galore. If I'm stressed, my hair shows it because it begins to thin. Sigh. These three things plus my style have occupied plenty of mental space and time on this blog, and being able to read about it recap-style all and see it over the years makes me see that what I thought was a big deal at the time is not really a deal at all.
Here's to more simplified living in 2018 and beyond.
What I'm wearing
Hanes Men's black t-shirt, $20. Medium.
Purchased at Target in a pack of 2.
Louis Vuitton S/S 2015 skirt, $450. Size 40 FR.
Found in excellent condition on The RealReal last year, normally $2,000.
Repossi silver ring, $700.
Via Barneys as an engagement ring alternative for casual days (no longer available as Repossi doesn't make silver jewelry anymore)
Kathleen Whitaker Gold Foil Studs. $60
KathleenWhitaker.com, my go to earrings.
Repossi ear silver cuff, $900.
Via TheRealReal. Purchased as a gift from me to me when I turned 30 because Repossi no longer makes silver jewelry and I'm not about to spend $10,000 on their gold/diamond pieces.