Gotta agree with Lisa, and wouldn’t want to see your cool style subsumed by Insta trends. You ‘do’ texture very well, which works if you are eschewing patterns in an outfit.

Carla, it’s really smart to think of pattern and texture almost interchangeably. I like both! Today for instance, I wore no pattern, just texture. Corduroy pants, flat knit sweater, faux shearling vest, and suede boots, with a leather bag.

I do want to clarify that I’m not blindly following influencer trends — I am however, seeking out some resources that tap into a certain pull I am experiencing towards a little more simplicity and some fresh perspectives. Not a big overhaul and I certainly am not going to give up beloved prints! But refining what I already do, perhaps.

Janet, style evolution is one of the joys of enjoying fashion for me. I have a larger wardrobe and need to edit to keep things manageable. I try to let things change gradually - a Big Bang approach does not work for me. That said, often one item sort of sets the direction and tone for me. I see the Bao Bao backpack as being a key item in your wardrobe and perhaps that has helped set this style direction for you. Being aware of the changes is often key to really enjoying a style evolution and not feeling in a rut.

Bijou, you are on the money! The Bao Bao is kinda a signature item for me now. I still use my other bags, but not as frequently, and there are many times I consider one of my “busier” bags and abandon it in favor of the Bao Bao or something easier. But I’m not being quick to get rid of the old bags yet (I have a few that have been in a holding zone/possible sell bag for a year or mor, yikes).

The Maria Cornejo pants are becoming such an item too. I’m tempted to wear them all the time!

I'm glad you're enjoying turtlenecks again, Janet and yeah, I'm fussy about the fit and comfort of the collar too

Thanks, Cee — I am with you on team NO COWLNECK.

It's when they hit you over the back of the head with a frying pan and leave you tied up in the basement that patience really starts to wear thin.

I can relate! I definitely crave less fussy and more comfortable clothes. I think it does have to do with getting older and just wanting to simplify my life in general. I also love patterns, but I’ve been shifting from darker colors to brighter ones - I’m currently in love with pink, orange, and bright red.
It’s good to get your thoughts down in writing, it helps to clarify things!

Do you usually wear your scarves with toppers? If so, could your solid toppers buttoned up well act as a stopgap whilst you buy some more solid tops?

I'm also finding the need to simplify these days - drawn to texture more than colour, but that might be due to the skies finally darkening (can't say it's winter since it's still 24C outside haha...). I don't have many patterned tops or toppers, but I like the idea of patterns as accents (on bottoms, bags, shoes etc).

Fwiw I think you'd look AMAZING with an oversized button down and big jeans!