When it comes to style, it’s easy to let myself get pulled in a lot of different directions. I see something I like on someone else or in a store window, or I read something that makes me think I “should” be wearing X and not Y. But now and then an outfit or even a single item speaks to me all the way down to my bones, and gets me back to my style center of gravity. It’s my Style Sweet Spot, that “this is SO me” feeling, and the recognition is instinctive and instantaneous.
Wearing: earrings | sweater (similar look) |
necklace (c/o French Kande) | bracelet | jeans | shoes
This outfit was one of those “style clicks.” I’d been wearing the jeans and sweater (Eileen Fisher, a couple of years old now) around all day while at home and out running a few errands. I switched out the shoes (these purchased during my trip to NY), added the jewelry and BAM. It all came together. I’m sure for many people this would be too plain. Boring, even. But I feel good in it, authentic.
All this playing with style over the last few years has brought home to me the importance of feeling authentic in what I wear. I can’t be comfortable when I feel as though I’m wearing Someone Else’s Clothes, even if they are fun or flattering or my friends and family approve. I went through a period when I was younger where I enjoyed dressing up in costumes and taking on different personas; now I just want to be myself. (Each of us will have a different expression of what feels “authentic.”)
But I still enjoy experimenting, and adding something fresh periodically. The trick, I’m learning, is to venture outside of my comfort zone from time to time, while honoring those “click” experiences. Knowing what works doesn’t have to mean being stuck or getting stale. The jeans (slightly cropped flares with a split hem) are a new silhouette for me. (They are already becoming favorites.) And a couple of years ago I never would have worn shoes that are lighter than my pants.
The takeaway? Even the most well-honed style needs occasional updates to stay current. Try new things, keep an open mind, but don’t force it, and don’t settle for less than what clicks.
Is there an item of clothing or outfit that’s delivered a “click moment” for you?
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