The word "uniform" can elicit images of school uniforms or uniforms at fast food restaurants or grocery stores... that's what I used to think anyway. However, I have molded my definition of uniform to mean a standardized style of dressing. This week has shaped up to be a week where I'm thankful that I've somewhat created one.
My uniform is my wardrobe. It's my standardized style of dressing.
A couple of months ago, I did a huge wardrobe purge. Not so much huge, but really
hugemongous. This is not a new concept for me; in the past I had done several of these, only to get lured back by trendy or seasonal items. This time, it's for keeps.
Now, this is not to say that I haven't purchased anything - there were some "holes" in what was left after the purge. I am making a personal commitment of mindfulness when it comes to adding items to my wardrobe.
If you'd like to view my currently wardrobe (not the "minimalist" version of it), scroll through the below slideshow. It does change from time to time.
I built this wardrobe around what I like, what I feel flatters me (subjective!), and what I can really move in. I don't feel comfortable in v-neck tops, short skirts, super high heels, most blazers and tight clothing. I have also purged anything that I can't make at least 5 outfits with. I'm a big fan of neutrals and *gasp* black (so many people think that black is depressing or universally makes you look slim, but used responsibly, it's super chic), so that's what I've got. If I want to incorporate a trending color, I try to do that with a silhouette I often wear (like a long-sleeved tee - it goes with anything!)
What you'll see, generally, is slim cut bottoms, pencil skirts, button-downs/long sleeve tees and my third piece (jacket/vest), a few dresses, and tasteful, simple bits of jewelry. Some weeks I have "sub-uniforms" of all dresses or button-downs + skirts or long-sleeve tees + pants (all rounded out with flats and a third piece).
If I had some advice to give, it's just what you've always heard. Wear what you like, what feels good and what you feel looks good. If you find a good button down that fits you perfectly buy a couple (but not 8). And we all know how time consuming jeans shopping is, so if you find your "it" pair, buy a couple; one in a dark rinse and one in black or white or maybe a trending color if you're brave.
This week in the office, it's been bananas. Half of our office has had "life" happen to them, so we're all hustling to make our ship sail smoothly. Some people would get stressed about that, but it's really a chance for the rest of us to bring our skills and leadership to the table to truly shine. And to do that, hard work is called for. I have felt like a train wreck the past few days, so having a condensed wardrobe helps me keep me on track by not having to spend time concocting and outfit and keeps my focus on work-related issues and not what I'm wearing.
All this from a girl who likes clothes.
Sometimes, yeah, I get restless with my wardrobe, but then I reflect on all the positives and then it inspires me to try new combos of what I already have.
