How to Elevate Your Basics

“Wow, I love this! I would buy it if I had anywhere to go...”

Y’all, if I had a nickel for every time I have heard this sentiment since March, I could have lattes and Bakeshop treats everyday, twice a day! And truthfully, I feel ya. I’m not going many places either, besides work, errands, taking my child to school or dance, coffee, lunch or the occasional date night or GNO. Wait a minute- that’s a lot of places besides home! And a heck of a lot more chances to wear fun things than we had in March and April. I know this year is weird, but we have to make the best of it, and for me at least, that means getting dressed sometimes. It truly does my mood wonders to put on something that makes me feel fabulous. Considering all of that, we know comfy (flattering!) basics are the cornerstone to any good wardrobe. Building looks from a simple “blank slate” is a great way to start a killer outfit. Favorite jeans and tee, then add XYZ. This week, I am encouraging you to step it up a notch, while staying in those comfy basics you love. Here’s how with a few simple “DON’TS”…

• Don’t overthink it. Throw on a jogger set or your favorite comfy tee and lived in denim with cool sneakers for daytime, then switch up the shoes and add a sparkly earring for dinner. You’re still comfy, but your style is elevated with a simple change of accessories. You’ve heard us say this a thousand times, but how many times do you actually do it? Why do we feel like we have to get all gussied up to feel great? We just need to feel like our most authentic selves. Aren’t most of the pins on your Pinterest page a cool, effortless style? You don’t have to dress up to feel dressed.

• Don’t separate your wardrobe. When you make too many sections, you limit yourself. Instead of making your clothing separate by occasion (loungewear, work wear, weekend wear…) separate by style and color. For example, Tops, Bottoms, Dresses, Skirts, Outerwear- then lights to darks within each category to make it super easy to find a style and color when you want to quickly grab that gray tee. This way, you will be more likely to use your favorite tee for more than just grocery runs, and your floral skirt will become a staple with sneaks.

• Don’t dress for everyone else. We’re all guilty of texting before dinner, “what are you wearing?” Why do we do this? Because we all want to have on jeans and a top, or we all want to don a floral dress and headband? C’mon. Think of images of the Sex & The City cast walking down a NYC sidewalk. Isn’t it true that what we love about them is their different styles, personalities, and how they all love and respect each other for their unique individuality? Dress for you, for how you’re feeling. If jeans and a crop sweatshirt paired with loafers and gold hoops are going to make you relaxed and happy, go with that! You’ll enjoy your day/ event way more if you’re not fidgeting with your outfit or feeling self-conscious.

Little details make the difference. Investing in accessories that make you smile will take that favorite tee from zero to hero, and remember, it doesn’t take tons of time to make a thoughtful, stylish look. You’ve got 20 minutes at home between work and dinner. Switch the shoes, grab your favorite clutch, and add a couple bangles to your stack. A swipe of concealer and lipstick and you’re good to go!

What excites us most is helping you achieve your desired look, and feeling great every day! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need some help pairing things. Sometimes all you need is a few great pieces and a little push in the right direction. We're in store to help, or would love to schedule a Mini Styling Session to give you a little extra 1 on 1 time to help fine tune your look. If it doesn’t come natural, don’t worry. I can’t balance a checkbook to save my life- we all have our strengths! ;)