When I look back at the outfits I wore in my 20s, there are certain looks that make me wince a little bit now that I'm a bit surer with my personal style in my 30s. Fashion changes, and while I once may have thought bubble hems were a good idea, I surely don't anymore. But a little cringe isn't a bad thing. Mostly, I look back and see someone who was experimenting and pushing boundaries, discovering her sense of style by trial and error. Maybe it didn't always work, but I'm still glad I gave myself room to test new things out.
That process has led me to where I am in my 30s—more confident in my personal style but also more thoughtful about the purchases I make. Comfort is important, as is longevity. My personal goal is that any new purchase will stick around for at least a few years. That means I'm more inclined to splurge here and there since I know the cost per wear checks out the more I find ways to wear it.
While I feel a bit more settled into what works for me, I also know that I'll continue to evolve. A fresh runway will excite me, an inspiring new brand will emerge, and my body will change as well. Clothing doesn't exist in a vacuum. It's always in conversation with the context around it, including how I feel on any given day. That being said, I'm sharing a few of the ways I've evolved of late and offering up shopping based on how I approach my personal style. Whatever age you may be at the moment, my hope is that it may resonate with your thoughts about shopping too.
Outgrowing: Overly Trendy Purchases
Instead: Trends That Fit My Style
Sometimes, it takes making the same mistake a few times over to finally figure things out. There was a time when my closet was full of trendy pieces that didn't end up getting worn as often as I'd imagined. Now, I'm more inclined to consider if a trend speaks to my personal style before I jump into it.
Modern yet classic.
My current go-to sneakers.
A simple cardigan in a modern silhouette.
A work-to-drinks top currently in my cart.
A skirt that's perfect for the Miu Miu enthusiast.
Sunglasses with attitude.
A subtle take on the double-waistband trend that actually feels wearable.
Don't underestimate a great denim jacket.
Outgrowing: Anything Hard to Wear
Instead: Comfort First
Now that I work from home, I've gotten used to spending my work days in sneakers and sweats. When it's time for me to dress up, I prioritize polished pieces that are still comfortable. No fidgeting with a tight waistband or walking with blisters.
Flats that look polished but can handle a long walk.
A tailored yet breathable linen skirt.
This ultra-soft sweater would look great with trousers or jeans.
Knit dresses are the best of both worlds: comfortable and elevated.
Trousers that won't constrict.
Loafers are my go-to shoes for work.
When I dress up, I love a lightweight, floaty dress.
When I'm home, I'm all for comfy sweatpants.
Outgrowing: Impulse Purchases
Instead: Buying With Purpose
Shopping online makes it easy to click a few buttons, and poof! A few days later, new purchases arrive at my door. Now, I'm trying not to be wooed by the ease of the internet and to make sure anything I'm buying is a piece I want to keep long-term.
My go-to brand for spring and summer dresses.
This jacket is the perfect piece for relaxed weekends.
A classic striped sweater with a twist.
A great tank is a wardrobe staple I fall back on over and over again.
A stylish everyday bag.
For days when I want to dress up a little.
A trench coat is a timeless investment.
I always have a little white lace top in my rotation.
