Lately I’ve been really trying to pare down my closet. What I notice is that I tend to wear the same pieces over and over and some are left collecting dust…sometimes for a year or more (cue my embarrassment here). I’ve been giving away pieces I never wear to friends or donating them to charity. The items I give away actually prompt me to evaluate future purchases.
When I shop nowadays, I’m much more likely to pass on things I might have purchased in the past. If it’s “just cute” it may not make the cut anymore. I’ll even carry items around the store or put them in my cart, only to decide that I really don’t need the item, or have something like it already, or that it’s simply just not fantastic. I still make a purchase or two that I end up regretting, but I’m working on it.
The outfit I wore yesterday is literally the perfect example of closet keepers. I have worn my navy blue J.Crew sweater at least 100 times. The striped pencil skirt is my most-worn pencil skirt for the past year. The marled gray top, a newer purchase from Madewell is simple and classic. Most importantly, I love the way it fits and drapes. Sometimes it’s worth it to pay a little more for something that just works on your body.
Three [Great] Purchases
sweater- j.crew | skirt- j.crew (almost identical on sale) | top- madewell | shoes- nordstrom (true to size) | necklace- dolce ave, ℅
USE THE CODE VSTYLE15 FOR 15% OFF OF YOUR DolceAve PURCHASE
I’m so glad I invested in these three pieces— I know they’ll be long term staples that will be worn for years to come.
Do you have pieces that you’ve owned and loved for years? How does reflecting on those purchases shape your future purchases?
Tawnya Faust says
I love everything about this outfit!! Sometimes I wish I worked a job where I could dress nicely… instead I'm stuck in scrubs haha
[email protected] says
working at a hospital I see scrubs all the time! sometimes I wish I could wear scrubs to be super comfy everyday but I can see how it can get boring. The attire in my office ranges so much. From suits to practically sweatsuits!
elizabethashleyphoto says
Great outfit and staple pieces! Loving the new shoes!
[email protected] says
thank you! they're a departure for me, but I like that they're different from my typical pump
LL says
I love this outfit on you and this post! This is so true. I've been focusing lately on only buying nice investment pieces that will last a long time. A really well fit skirt, classic little black dresses, etc. Would you say this Jcrew factory skirt is the one you are wearing? https://factory.jcrew.com/womens-clothing/skirts/pencil/PRDOVR~51764/51764.jsp
I love it on you!
[email protected] says
it does look very very similar so I'd go for it—the one I posted (link to j.crew) is slightly different but I actually love the way the stripes are on it!
Angela A. says
This is a slightly different look for you and I love it!
~Angela
[email protected] says
thank you! i felt really good about this look 🙂 comfortable yet put-together.
carriekinsella says
Umm…. love that skirt, purchasing it now 🙂
Thanks for the rec!
Angela A. says
I forgot to ask what size is your top? I need to order.
[email protected] says
I thought it was a medium…but I am not 100% sure…it may be a small. I can check when I get home tonight. Email me to remind me! I am almost certain it's medium though.
Kara Corresponence says
Where is your nightstand from? I love it!
[email protected] says
It's a DIY—there is a tutorial on my blog: https://veronabrit.blogspot.com/2013/01/master-bedroom-update-new-campaign.html
amanda says
i do the same thing! if i find something i love – i will buy it in a few different colors sometimes. my husband wants me to buy more "investment" pieces now instead of cheaper clothes that fall apart fast. i have to get over the guilt, hah. of course – i find myself encouraging him to buy nice clothes constantly. his wardrobe puts mine to shame 🙂
Courtney says
A super great outfit!! I've definitely developed the same philosophy as you. I don't buy nearly as much as I used to, for the exact reasons you said. Just cute doesn't cut it anymore!
Miss Pippi says
Lovely look!
https://misspippisstyle.blogspot.hu/
Lilly Style says
I love this outfit, and those shoes are amazing!
I've been the same way lately, I always tend to reach for the same pieces over and over while other items haven't seen daylight in a long time. I've given so much away, especially while we were moving. And still have a ton to part from. I told myself that I'd rather have a lot less in my closet but be completely in love with everything than have it packed with pieces I just feel 'meh' about or don't feel completely "me" in them. It's work in progress 🙂
Carolyn says
Great staple pieces. I'm having to figure out a professional style and your post have been informative and very helpful for helping direct me.
I'll be entering a new professional school in the fall and it will require more professional clothes. I have to sort out my closet and find pieces to mix and match and make sure I have a solid foundation of staple pieces.
Carolyn | BLOG
Jessica says
Love them all, especially the shoes and the skirt. Can't wait to not be pregnant and be able to wear some cute clothes again! Summer time is my favorite for clothes!
https://www.floatonblog.com/
Erica says
I always look forward to your OOTD posts!
And SO happy there's a coupon code for DolceAve! Bought a necklace today – woo!
Julie says
Love your outfit! You are prettier every day Veronika :).
Ellie says
This is succhhhh a beautiful and interesting outfit! pencil skirt is one of my favorite bottom pieces, and that shirt is so adorable that it would go with anything. 😀