Sometimes I go through phases where I just don’t want to dress like anybody else. I want to be unique, set apart. I am not sure if that desire is rooted in the fear of being ‘normal’ or ‘basic’ or maybe something deeper, like fear of seeming ‘old.’ My friend Jaana put it so well on Instagram yesterday when she said (in reference to her own styling) “The proportions of this are so wrong, that it makes it feel right. I think.”
These are the days I am thankful for interesting and off-the-beaten-path shapes in my closet. They give me the ability to still feel like myself, expressing my emotions, and pushing the boundaries a bit on putting myself together. For example, conventional advice would suggest pairing a smaller proportioned item with a larger proportioned item. But, sometimes, when I feel a bit rebellious, it’s fun to break the mold with an outfit that goes against said advice.
[ Circle Top, c/o IMBY | black turtleneck, thrifted (similar) | boots, old, (love these!) | cropped flares, DIY | bag, Baggu | earrings, Fail Jewelry ]
As I’m distilling down the hallmarks of my personal style, I’ve learned three concrete things about what I like: simplicity, tonal color palettes and interesting shapes. I utilized the third technique here to make a totally new look using items already in my closet. I’m telling you guys, it pays to study your style! Bonus: I’m also working on my fall layering here. I have a tank layered over this awesome merino wool turtleneck that I thrifted from Goodwill last year.
Do you ever feel rebellious in your style? How do you like to break the mold?
xo,
Andrea
Love this look! It’s getting me to want to buy a turtle neck to wear under things!
Thanks Elaine! I think I’m going to try one of the new pima ones from Everlane.
Your circle top layering almost makes it look like this sweater I’ve been admiring. https://www.everlane.com/collections/womens-sweaters/products/womens-luxe-wool-square-ttlnk-black
I like things a little swingy. Very cute!
Thanks Lo! That Everlane turtleneck is very cute!
Totally! When I start to feel too conventional or like I am going to the same items too often, I enjoy pairing new shapes or color/pattern combinations. I like your “new” outfit!
Thank you Addie! I suppose it’s a fun version of ‘adult dress up!’ ;)
I love this look on you. It’s funny because written on paper there would be reasons why this outfit shouldn’t work. However on your body it works like a charm. Congratulations because I think this is the mark of true personal style, when you can break the rules and make it work, like Impressionism did for painting. Love it. Love it. Love it.
Thanks Brenda!
I agree, I think people who have a true sense of style do not adhere to the ‘rules’ and trends, but rather their own inner compass. When executed well it is always so inspiring! I love how you compared it to Impressionism!