In light of recent awareness of sustainability, we often hear about how to organise our wardrobes more consciously, which I welcome very much.
The most popular concept is ‘buy well, buy less.’. In order to do this, we need to look at quality of the garments we buy so we can wear them for a long time without too much damage or only with repairable damage and we need to know how to repair them or who can repair them for us. Also, it’s often said that we should pick ‘staple pieces’ such as cashmere cardigan, crisp white shirt and chanel quilted shoulder bags.
Maybe that’s a good idea.
I do have a cashmere V neck jumper which my grandmother bought for me 30 years ago and I still wear it because the quality of it is so good and the simplicity of the piece makes it versatile in daily styling. However, as far as the styles go, does it really need to be ‘the classic’ or does it have to be from an eternally popular brands (the items from such brands are called 'investment pieces' which I tend to dislike)? What if you are not the most ‘classic’ kind of person? Or what about your sentimental value which you build as you keep something for a long time? What about 'true value' of a garment for you? If you look at your wardrobe, I’m sure you can identify your own style (regardless of seasonal or even weekly fashion trend) which suits your taste for aesthetic and body shape/complexions which are very unique to yourself. Also you will have good old memories with certain items. And I strongly believe that you must not ignore your own style and values when choosing something which you hope to wear for a long time. Trend may change ever so often but the eyes for beauty you have nurtured over the years and your personal feeling towards the piece (ie. saving up for ages to buy this special piece ) must be something you should never ignore. You are worth it and your opinions and feeling also matter. Once you identify what you really like and go for it, I’m sure you will feel even more comfortable wearing it and would not feel urged to ‘catch up with fashion’ or to wear certain brands to feel more secure. Remember, one of the reasons why trend switches so often is to keep you insecure and keep buying. Meanwhile, in order to establish your taste and eyes for quality and style, some people may need more quality information. And, like for anything else these days, finding impartial useful information to build authentic views of your own is a big challenge.
Since I started working in fashion industry, I have realised that the best styled people often draw inspiration from many other things than fashion items. Some love arts, some love music and some are good observers of human being in general. They are also interested in how things are made and pay attention to details rather than labels as they know such details make so much difference in the looks.. They are in principle very perceptive people who see and appreciate many things in life. These guys always come up with the most creative ideas for clothing which make them look beautiful and show freedom of expression and celebration of themselves. This way, they are secure with their own ideas and allow no one to interrupt with the style. You will then realise that it is important to give more credit to your own liking (which is a reflection of your character and interest ) rather than listening to ‘Insta-Famous opinions leaders’ and others in similar positions. Then who needs to buy new things every time you go out or needs to stick to 'classic piece' to stay safe?
