One thing I love the most about getting closer to the holiday season is how elegant and sophisticated everything feels. Between sweaters, scarves (both chunky and silk twilly), and boots, everyone feels a little more dressed up!
Recently, Mitch and I were talking about how I don’t feel like myself in outfits that are too relaxed. I naturally lean towards things that are a little dressier and feel more polished over things that are relaxed (some of this comes down to my height as well— I feel like I’m drowning in slouchy/relaxed pieces). Back in 2015, The Atlantic published a piece that referenced the study The Cognitive Consequences of Formal Clothing (Slepian, Ferber, Rutchick), which discussed the psychological effects of clothing, and whether or not wearing formal clothing impacted how people processed the world around them. According to the study, putting on more formal clothes than usual— not necessarily the most formal wear we have— leads to more broad and holistic thinking, rather than getting stuck on small details.
This read was incredibly fascinating to me, because while I don’t believe it necessarily applies to everyone, I do believe it applies to me— and probably to you, if you like reading this blog! Classic style is high-quality, versatile, and simple. On this blog and in my life, I’ve tried to come back to those founding principals time and time again, even if I’m tempted by the shiny new trends that are constantly coming out.
While a lot of this comes in more neutral tones in my mind’s eye, I definitely think that you can add color however you prefer (take Charlotte York from Sex and the City, for example!). These are some pieces that I believe fit effortlessly into any classic-style girl’s wardrobe— be it different shades, colors, textures, or patterns!
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1: A timeless Barbour jacket. If it’s good enough for Queen Elizabeth, it’s good enough for me!
2: A deep red lipstick in a luxurious formula! I love all my Merit products, and don’t think I’ll ever switch back. I need a new red lipstick, and this shade is calling my name!
3: A wool beret for cold mornings. Bad hair day? Not with this chic accessory!
4: A perfume to keep you feeling, and smelling, your best. This scent might seem summery from its description, but it’s a versatile perfume that has great lasting power!
5: Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, right?! Tennis bracelets have always been in style, but they’ve definitely come back to the forefront in the last two years or so. If you aren’t as into a diamond bracelet, try a simple paperclip style like this one.
6: No outfit is complete without great accessories, and I firmly believe earrings are one of the best accessories. I love these gold hoops! They’re chunky, so they’ll stand out a bit more than your traditional hoop, but they’re also a classic gold and they’ll pair with anything!
7: A cropped cardigan. They’re so easy to layer and great for wearing with dresses or jeans! This one is selling out fast, so here’s a cashmere version to try if you prefer!
8: A comfortable pair of sneakers to wear for errands all over town! Ons were my first running shoe almost a decade ago, and I’ve gone between them and my Nike Odyssey Reacts ever since. I love Ons for walking and low-paced jogs!
9: The perfect coffee table book. Ever girl needs a (couple of) great coffee table book(s), so why not go with one that features one of the masters of classic style?
10: While I may not be able to afford Hermès, I can certainly suggest an equally chic bag for a fraction of the cost! Use this one to tote your laptop, tchotchkes, etc. around town— it’ll easily go from work to cocktails!
11: The perfect red flats. If you’re not a lipstick girl, how about red shoes? I love this take on the Mary Jane with the abstract buckle!
Happy hunting xx
