Edward Russell
You know those days when you’re struggling to find anything to wear? Well we’ve all been there. How nice would it be being able to go to bed early with an idea of what to wear the next day to a special event, interview, breakfast or general occasion? This is possible. By purchasing staple items, you can co-ordinate outfits with ease, and mix and match without the hassle of emptying out every drawer and closet in the room, ultimately creating a floordrobe – you know you’re guilty of this.
I think it’s extremely important when buying clothes, to think about ways in which you can wear them. I know we get excited and carried away when the sales arrive, but do you really think you’re going to wear half those things on a regular basis? I assume not. It’s easy for us to get drawn to visually appealing pieces, and I am guilty of this. Sometimes I just buy things because they look so great in the moment, but when trying to match it with existing pieces in my wardrobe, I’m lost and pretty annoyed; the “I don’t have anything to wear” cry begins. So after years of experience throwing tantrums in my room about not having any clothes, to saying I feel fat in said clothes, I have now realised that when buying clothes I should think about the look or outfit as a whole. By envisaging your outfit or event, you can minimise unnecessary spending and free up some space in your closet. I’ve compiled a list of pieces that can be worn numerous times, and can be re-invented with diverse tops, or shoes. Mixing and matching is my thing and I’m always looking for ways to re-style items I have either worn before or have had for a while. Being an outfit repeater doesn’t mean sh*t. There is nothing wrong with having trusted pieces of clothing that you can rely on when you’re stretched for time and money!
High- Waisted Skinny Jeans
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Say what you want about the high-waisted jean, mock it if you like; I would never ditch this piece of clothing. My high-waisted skinny jeans have definitely saved me from a wardrobe crisis. Not only do they suck everything in and make you look taller; they also suit any occasion. Dress them up with some strappy heels and a cute cardi, or for those colder and more casual days, dress them down with boots or even a pair of Nikes. They are so versatile! You can also wear a tucked in shirt or blouse, or throw on a baggy jumper. I also love that you can find awesome skinny leg ankle jeans online; especially for smaller girls, like me (I’m really short). One thing I hate – skinny jeans that are just made for taller girls. They don’t sit right and the length is ridiculous; they gather at the ankles like a scrunched up ball of denim. Very frustrating!
Baggy/Oversized Knits & Jumpers
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Continuing from my previous post about high-waisted jeans matched with an oversized jumper; I’d like to point out how much I love these things. The particular type I want to focus on are knitted jumpers. I just love them. They are super warm and stylish, but also versatile enough to wear with sneakers or flats. You can honestly wear a knit in any way and that is why they are so dear to me. There are a range of styles to choose from, and diverse brands and designers that suit any budget. You can find a great knit for a mere $20. It will be the best $20 you’d spend. I know they aren’t practical in summer, but you will be grateful during those colder days that you can pull out your trusty knitted jumper. Best of all they hide everything and are super comfy so you don’t have to worry about your tummy or anything like that. I particularly like wearing oversized knits to outings like dinners or catchups, because I don’t have to worry about eating too much and then worrying about my bloated stomach. I know you think this too!
Casual or Loose Fitted Dress
I don’t know how to explain these dresses, but they are a mix between a loose-fitted dress but not loose enough to look daggy, and still slightly fitted to the body. They are amazing and I own a couple of these dresses; they are literally a must –have staple item. I have worn one of these dresses to a job interview with heel booties, and even to church with black flats for a more casual and conventional approach. I rely on these pieces in times when I am super stressed about putting together an outfit for an event, because I know I don’t have to find a top or anything to wear with it; all I have to do is throw on the dress with a pair of stockings, and a matching shoe. In saying that, it is so easy to find an accompanying shoe, you’re outfit will be ready in less than 10 minutes. That is a record for me.
Dressy Jacket or Coat
I cannot stress enough how crucial it is to own a dressy jacket, cardi or coat. You may have a really important interview, meeting, wedding or church event. A dressy jacket will save you in troubling outfit times. Imagine you have an amazing outfit planned; everything laid out on the bed in front of you and you think you’re ready to rumble. You wake up in the morning and it’s raining and suddenly there’s a cool change and you realise you don’t own a dressy jacket. What to do? You definitely cannot wear that denim jacket from the op-shop or that leather jacket you bought recently. Yeah, it’s super stylish and cost you a mint but you know it’s definitely not appropriate for said event. Yep, you’re in a pickle. You know the outfit will look strange in this weather without a jacket, and you really don’t have time to go through your wardrobe and find something different to wear. This is why a dressy jacket, cardi or coat is an extremely important addition to your closet. Even if you are on a budget, you can definitely find something that is affordable and classy. Get on it girls.
Black Shoe
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Ok, this is major. They say a black shoe goes with anything, well that is correct. I have to admit I always avoided the boring black heel; I just felt that it wasn’t me and that I would get no wear from it. Well, I was wrong. After purchasing my first black pointed heel, I was amazed by the endless outfit opportunities. You can wear them with skinny jeans, wet look pants, culottes, or even at work with a skirt. The only downfall to these shoes is the comfort aspect. I have to admit that although they are a great shoe, they are very uncomfortable. I’m not sure why, but I believe it’s because of the point and the pressure that the heel places on the foot. I’ve never had any problems with wearing heels, even the highest platforms, but these are another story. However, I am extremely satisfied with my choice in purchasing these shoes, as they’ll never date and can be matched with any outfit.
