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And now for something completely different!

Runcarla

Veteran

An October closet evaluation and update usually results in a month or two of ‘no buy’ while I reflect on how I present myself and how that is reflected in outfits. Angie’s encouragement to reflect on the year past, and anticipate the coming year with style descriptions, words, colour, and other symbols is a valuable exercise, and I am doing some thought exercises around that.

Interestingly, I find I am in a good place with the clothes I have in my closet. Even though I am ‘team modest closet’ I have plenty of things to play with, and can’t imagine shopping for any ‘needs’ or ‘basics’ (other than the annual January underwear refresh). What I’m contemplating for 2020 is ‘useful signature pieces’. Maybe also known as wildcards? Elevated basics? (I’m scrabbling for a description. Can you help me?)

Keeping ‘the life I live’ firmly in mind, there will be no plain’ shoes, solid neutrals - tops or bottoms. I’m going to require the same comfort and quality from any new items as I do from those currently in my closet, but I don’t think I’m going to pull the trigger for something that is serviceable in an ordinary way. I don’t know how feasible this is, but after a very long time (and a lot of fun fashion experimentation and work) I’m in a good place and ready to evolve/change things up a bit.

I’m speculating that with my budget in mind, acquisition will be on the slower side. There is no category of clothing that needs ‘desperate’ attention. Do you think it can be done?

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25 replies

Latest reply was from cindysmith

Helena

Veteran

It can absolutely be done Carla! I think your wardrobe is in the perfect place for this sort of focus and can't wait to see where you go with it.

I wonder if this is what Angie would call "completers" - those items that are not essential for you, but that extend and expand what you own? Then they don't necessarily have to be statement pieces, but rather pieces that stretch what you have in potentially new directions.

Exciting Carla! Can't wait to follow this leg of your style journey. xx

slim cat

Veteran

I feel similar about shopping in 2020. I like things that are a bit edgier than classic pieces. Shoes are the biggest challenge but with patience and time it could be done.
I got yesterday blazer from Macy's on clearance with the right mix of classic and modern ( more boyfriend in style with thin white strips over black, rolled sleeves ). I felt like it was waiting for me . That fits my "rebuilding classic mini capsule with modern pieces" goal for 2020. Slow but possible process.
You will succeed in your search - you have patience, experience and great sense of style. Best wishes and good luck to you!

Bonnie

Veteran

Of course it can be done and if anyone can do it, it would be you. I've been thinking of doing something very much like this along with upgrading some well worn or ill fitting items. For example, I'd like to add some colorful, fun accessories like scarves, totes, and shoes. My gear and lounge capsules need some attention, too. I'm looking forward to seeing your new "Useful Signature Pieces".

rachylou

Veteran

I agree with tg, your wardrobe is in the perfect place for this and it’s exciting! Foundation is solid. You have the breadth. Now you can get into the depth, throw it all in towards just so, really fine pieces.

notsaf

Veteran

Jenn reminded me of the idea of the "statement" pieces in the "5 piece French wardrobe" -- maybe that's aking to what you're thinking about? Perhaps she can say more!

nemosmom

Veteran

You definitely have both the wardrobe, and the handle on your style, to be able to do it! I am excited to see where you go with this (Exciting Essentials? Elevated Essentials? I am horrible with monikers and descriptors...)!!

Christina F.

Veteran

Ooof, just having returned from my vacation, I find the prospect of thinking about 2020 directions for my wardrobe daunting, but this is a good reminder. I think your instincts are dead on, as you have a wonderful basis for building your wardrobe in that direction. I think you may in fact be looking for completers.

In 2019, my wardrobe evolved a lot more than I anticipated--it was organic, but I over-shopped because my silhouettes evolved more than I anticipated (after years of them not evolving). I did manage to shrink the overall size of my wardrobe anyway, so there's less chaff and more wheat. Now I have a LOT of wheat, though.

I like your idea of not settling for serviceable basics. Those BR sweaters many of us loved come to mind--elevated basics!

Anonymous

Wildcards and elevated basics to me are different things. An elevated basic could be just something simple like a slit hem on jeans or a velvet blazer instead of a regular one. Same function, just a replacement for a simple piece. 1 degree difference. A wildcard to me is something that's a few degrees different than the usual, like a special artisan piece or something.
I've been thinking along those lines for 2020 as well, and upgrades for functionality (higher pupy value).

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Carla, your closet is in great shape and you're in a prime position to add depth/ resonance to your wardrobe. I think I understand what you are getting at (because I think I'm at a similar place with my wardrobe evolution).

First off, anything you buy is going to be useful, because that is the core of your style personality! You don't build your closet on whim or impulse. You are pretty much incapable of buying stuff you know you won't use! (Except for the rare mistake, which happens to everyone.)

Still...I get it. I'm practical by nature, too. What I think you're saying is that you want to try adding in some special items, pieces that stand out a bit (maybe) either for their quality or for the interest they add to your closet and for the way they feel especially "you" -- AND, because you're a practical type, those pieces also have to be practical.

Or am I completely befuddled?

Anyway, if that's what you are saying...yes, trying out the odd wild card might be the way to go. That's a risk -- it might fall flat. On the other hand, it might become the kind of workhorse you will glory in. Consignment might be a good source for this type of item. In a way, your red pleated skirt falls into that category. It's not terribly "wild" I guess (I mean it wasn't such a style stretch for you) -- but it feels like something just slightly out of your usual wheelhouse that moved your style forward and has already become something of a signature.

On that note -- red is one of your signatures. As you know. So anything red will hit that note.

Elevated essentials -- also a good bet. For me, that might mean a higher-than-my-usual quality navy blazer. It can also mean (for me) trendy jeans -- because they are an essential, and keeping my denim very current is one thing (along with current footwear) that helps me feel stylish and "me." It could also mean a better quality Breton (for you) or a really great cashmere tee....stuff like that.

I also think in terms of really great signature accessories. Bags that are high quality and really speak to me. (I know I'll have them for years.) A great watch in my signature silver. (I don't actually own a fancy one -- but I like the look of the one I have). Earrings (for me). Specs (for you?). Could also be higher quality belts.

Do I have the right idea?

Sal

Veteran

I think it is a great idea given your lifestyle and defined style (but one that you want to keep evolving).

Of course the detail is the challenge sometimes. What makes something more interesting or better than another item - does the detail make it less versatile etc.. I do think footwear is a great place - boots or sneakers that have an edge or interesting aspect.

I am using this time to make some goals for next year too - which are around upgrading my cold weather wardrobe, thrifting a bit more, and updating essentials.... I think thrifting and essentials can be the conflict for me.

UmmLila (Lisa)

Veteran

I'm looking forward to see the new, signature pieces you choose.

RobinF

Veteran

Interesting thoughts. I think since your wardrobe is in a good place you can definitely add slowly because there are no immediate needs. And I love the idea of useful pieces that are special - might be hard to find though, at least I know that's true for me. That being said, it seems like most of your pieces already fit that description.

Jenn

(website)

Veteran

I love this idea, and I get it, as those types of things are what I found my closet missing this year (I had ones that worked for Colorado, but not as much for California). I'd caution you, though, that with your small closet, things are going to wear out, so even if you feel like you're in a great place now, allow for some churn and unexpected essential replacements in your plan.

Runcarla

Veteran

Thanks for the endorsement @ RobinF, UmmLila, Sal, Christina, Nemosmom, and Slimcat and for being a part of this fashion adventure!

@Suz - I appreciate the time and thought you put into your response. Your words are very complementary and morale boosting! I think you are very close to the mark with understanding what I’m aiming for. I do believe consignment and thrift is going to factor in, as is keeping my finger on the pulse of fashion trends. One-of-a kind shops and travel (!!!) shopping should figure in as well.

@Torontogirl and notsaf - completers and statement pieces - yes, I think so

@bonnie - I’m feeling the draw of interesting shoes, thrifted vintage silk scarves, and toppers that are warm, but not the usual thing and maybe actually a little ‘busy’! Funnily enough - not purses or bags! I’m just so darn happy with my thrifted Coach bag, and my red cross body!

@Jenn - noted! I DID replace jeans and black trousers, as well as mariner T’s this year as I retired the same, and if I DON’T keep an eye on those items - 2021 will be about building up basics again!

Gaylene

Veteran

The light dawned for me when I read Passage’s post on “Safe or Smokin...”

https://passagedesperles.blogs.....ssics.html

In the past, all too often I’ve veered towards Safe for an “elevated” essential. One of things I’ve realized is that, for me, a “modern” classic essential now needs more Smokin’ to make it interesting and give it longevity in my closet. Small shifts instead of safe and dependable has become my new mantra.

LaPed

Veteran

I really like the term "useful signature" -- or maybe "practical statement" items? I'm in a similar position, where I feel I don't really *need* much and want to purchase items that provide some oomph and feel special in some way, that I will keep and enjoy for a long time. I really like Suz's suggestions for upgraded essentials and accessories.

A year ago, I bought a burgundy leather bucket bag, very clean/minimalist styling, from a producer with pretty good ethical credentials. My goal was to have an "everyday" bag just a bit more lux than my other options, but not so precious that I wouldn't use it. It fills the bill perfectly and it receives many compliments! My mustard corduroy wide-legs (purchased this fall) are another addition that seem to fall into this category. A little bit statement-y, but very versatile for me. I've known for a while that I wanted a pair of big, bold pants in a butterscotch shade, but it took some trial and error to find the right ones.

Not needing anything desperately is such a nice feeling; "Milk it!" as Angie would say!

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The Corduroy Wide Leg Pant

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notsaf

Veteran

I for one like “practical statement” a lot, thanks La Ped!

slim cat

Veteran

I've just read "Safe or Smoking" - so true! Thank you @Gaylene for the link - that's exactly my focus for 2020 shopping.

Style Fan

Veteran

I also like 'practical statement'. I might use that term. Thanks, La Ped.
Carla, I agree with others that your wardrobe is in a great place and is working well. You obviously know what works for you. Looking for some completers and statement pieces in consignment shops and while traveling makes a lot of sense.

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

Everything everyone already said and this: focus on things that get worn a lot and visibly - a bag, a scarf, a piece of jewelry, glasses, sunglasses. These things can add a signature pop to your look. And of course second hand, in person and on-line as you dial in.

Suz

(website)

Veteran

Don't give up on bags just yet. Okay, maybe not a priority this year. But...

Runcarla

Veteran

@Gaylene - BINGO! (Thanks for the link to ‘PdeP’)

Jenni NZ

Veteran

I thought maybe “interesting update”, which is kind of a boring term in itself, but perhaps akin in meaning to La Ped’s “practical statement”. I often try to do this. For an example, I wear flat sandals to work all the time in the summer, and also like to wear them out in the evening, for shopping, etc. And I do wear them out over time. It’s helpful if they can look good with several outfits. So my last 2 pairs were these:
Pic 1 silver $ 16 December 2018, already mended by DH and worn 34 times so far- looking a bit worn by now.
Pic 2 gold embroidered thread $62 April 2019, worn once so far ( only hot enough past 2 weeks and I didn’t take them to Vietnam as they were new).
I think both count as either interesting updates or practical statements!

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Liesbeth

Veteran

So much useful stuff had already been said, I do agree with shevia that focusing on items you wear on a regular basis (which I'd call essentials) will have the most impact on your signature style. I myself have come to think of 'interesting essentials' to remind myself to look for just that little bit extra in everyday essentials. It does take more patience, but imo you're already very good at that.

cindysmith

Veteran

I believe it can be done. I'm kind of there with you. I'm content with my fall/winter wardrobe, and have been getting my shopping fix with Christmas shopping and my real live dress-up doll