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Have you ever done a closet cleanse? I reach for the same trusty pieces almost every day, and chances are if we run into each other on the street, I’ll be wearing some version of them. Here are eight clothes I swear by (and I’d love to hear yours)…
Sweater (above): I know it’s a shocker that I gravitate toward stripes, but I love the red-and-blue all-American 1970s vibe of this sailor number. Plus, the knit is light and breathable for cooler summer evenings.
Earrings: For date nights and work meetings, earrings instantly make a shirt or sweater feel elegant and cool. These pearl earrings are beautiful in person, and I like these tiny ones, too.
Long-sleeved tee: After having two kids, I shy away from anything too clingy, and this long-sleeve tee has an incredibly flattering boxy cut. Alex saunters up to me every time I wear it, even though it’s only a tee! I have it in grey and white, but now I’m eyeing the other colors, too.
Jeans: When I found these jeans last fall, they quickly moved to the top of my rotation. They’re like vintage Levi 501s (with that wedgie vibe that looks so good) but they have a high rise and touch of stretch, which makes them really comfortable. I wear them all the time, including as I type these very words. Highly recommend.
Dress: I have two short floral dresses I’ve worn to death (from Old Navy and Madewell) over the past few years, yet they’ve both long since sold out. But! This pretty one is very, very similar — a summery print, an easy fit and a V-neck. Perfect for work, dinners, dates, brunches, picnics, trips, you name it. (This is lovely, too.)
Key ring: Do you remember how Domino Magazine used to ask people to name 10 design-y things that made them happy? If I were writing that list, this key ring would make the cut. It’s geometric and SO EASY TO FIND in my bag. A simple pleasure.
Sandals: Last summer, at a meeting for Toby’s school, I spotted a super chic mom wearing simple but expensive-looking sandals. “Excuse me, where did you get your shoes?” I asked her. “Old Navy,” she told me with a wink. Done and done. These $15 leather slides are a great knock-around summer sandal.
Sneakers: I realized the other day that I dress like Jerry Seinfeld, and a part of that is the white sneaks. For years, I switched off between cool Vejas, comfy Allbirds and classic Stan Smiths; but these days I’m returning to the mothership: Converse. They just look and feel good.
What about you? What do you swear by these days? Also, update: Shopbop is having their huge sale right now, where everything is 20% to 25% off.
P.S. I’m still wearing almost everything from last year and four years ago! And a secret trick.
138 COMMENTS
OMG! I’m a kiteboarder, and I go on vacations and sometimes don’t even bring more than two outfits–one of them being a bathing suit! I’m totally guilty of wearing the same thing over and over, but when I get done kiting all day, I just want to snuggle into something comfy! Great post! I’m right there with you!
After reading this I immediately bought these! https://www.trenery.com.au/shop/womenswear/accessories/jewellery/60239455/Kerryn-Rose-Gold-Finish-Pearl-Earrings.html So pretty and I’ve never worn pearls in my life but the simplicity of these and as you said with a simple shirt drew me to them. I also looked at your posts from the links below and I noticed that the sales haven’t dated at all. Always on trend. You’ve really helped me find my own style through this community. Thanks!
KW – that happened to me to with piercing holes :( I was very sad to discover it one day and figured out that the sleeping in the earrings was the culprit. A warning to all!
Never met a stripe I didn’t love (typing while wearing a sage green and cream stripe jumper I found in the sale). I have two uniforms, the first is for work – office wear in Autumn and Winter is black tights, short skirt, some kind of 3/4 sleeve top (usually stripes, ha!) and ankle boots, Spring and Summer I wear a lot of culottes and shirts, easy breezy for the oven that is my office! My home wardrobe is simple: jeans, Vans, and a tee of any colour, shape or size! Just wish I had a job where I could make that my only wardrobe…
In regards to the levis jeans. I never know what wash to get. Is this the wash you recommend? Neat freak?
I have the levis 721 high rise skinny jeans, I wonder what the difference is….anyone know?
I love the price point for levis and they hold up so well!
I know we’re in spring, but I love the look of Doc Marten’s Jadon boots. The thick. chunky sole gives me height and it goes well with both ripped jeans or a midi dress.
I live in the Bay Area and the weather has finally been warming up (and getting sunnier!). My almost-daily uniform is the Cali Demi-Boot jeans from Madewell, a striped top, Adidas sneakers, and medium gold hoops. Cannot recommend those jeans enough for relaxed spring days!
This is timely because I’m moving and in that stage of moving-grief where I’m like, “why do I own so much stuff?”
I have a few clothes for work that I wear on repeat:
1) high waisted cropped dress pants from Aritzia in forest green that are not super form fitting and the waist is elastic so they don’t feel constricting
2) a knee length short sleeve lined black dress from The Limited that’s the perfect work dress
3) a grey wool v-neck tunic from Anthropologie that is great for “I have nothing to wear to work!” panicked mornings
4) a chunky knit cotton cardigan from the Gap that’s a little long but not *crazy* long, that is ideal for “is this outfit dressed up enough for work, and also something I want to wear for 10 hours?”
I’m sorry, did you just say “wedgie vibe” like it’s a good thing????
haha yes, it’s a levi’s thing — here are their wedgie icon jeans and you can see that they kind of look like a wedgie in the best way haha :) http://bit.ly/2IlLSzZ
Someone probably already shared this, but I just went to Old Navy and those sandals are on sale for $9.99 in store!
thank you, sandra!
Levi’s girl here. I started wearing their 711 style, bought them in every color available, and now am onto the Wedgie style. I have a big butt and a small waist and short legs, and they fit me like they were specially made for me. I can’t recommend them enough!
I always wear sneakers like that but with colors. I have blue paisley and black with roses, super sparkly gold ones, and a new pair that are a green/brown suede with black tassels. I broke both my feet in the past and can’t wear heels. I work in offices so think this is upping my look a bit but mostly it’s cause I like them.
My son has a thing where he always loves crazy socks (bright, different designs are his favorite) and he’s so sad next year that his middle school says socks have to be one of the school colors. He literally says every day “I don’t want to go there” because of that.
If it’s a flowy shirt, I probably own it. Bonus points if it’s that crinkle material – looks like a blouse but no ironing – yes please. And then when I get home I almost always change into loose flowy almost like pajamas pants. I have a big dog and seem to attract dirt so this helps me not to care that work clothes are getting ruined.
Somewhere recently I saw an artist’s instagram who wears the navy sequined high tops with everything and they look amazing. Made me reconsider my iffy feelings about them! Also thank you for the levi’s link! I wore the same pair in super low-rise until they literally fell apart and have been looking for the right next pair – love these!
There is a company called something like odd socks that sell boxes of socks which appear to be normal black socks but the foot part under your shoe is crazily patterned. Can he have some like that? Or maybe a different uniform colour on each foot?
Hi Joanna,
I’ve never ordered from the site so I can’t speak for the quality, but these two dresses remind me of your favorite Old Navy dress. There are endless cute dress options from this company for all sizes. I wonder if anyone has any experience with this company?
https://www.laredoute.com/ppdp/prod-350152663.aspx
https://www.laredoute.com/ppdp/prod-350149701.aspx?docid=687219
these are so pretty, jeanne! thank you!
Jeanne I have just ordered from La Redoute when they had a 40% off sale and their bedding rugs and nightwear are fantastic! Also ordered some super cute kids clothes but they do run small. I’m in the Uk however so i don’t know what US shipping is like
I love your picks! I am a reformed shopaholic with a very petite closet but still fall prey to annual sales (ShopBop, Nordstrom Anniversary sale (pre-blogger, no offense Joanna!), Anthro, and powerpoints at Bloomies). I used to shop as a hobby, and I still love nothing more than a great deal on a quality piece. I don’t have time to shop as much anymore, but I love to scope out the RealReal for designers I love but cannot afford full price (Rebecca Taylor, ALC, Kate Spade, Milly, Sezane, etc). It has been great for me! I try to buy quality fabrics as much as possible (wool, cotton, silk) and stay away from the polyester of fast fashion as much as possible. I live in mostly leggings, sweats, and my trusty Hoka sneakers to go from workout to dog walks on my days I work from home, but the confidence of a well great outfit is a deal breaker for me when I leave the house. I try to determine the “how can I style this 3 ways?” rule when purchasing something, and lean toward feminine pieces that can transition to work to play. My go to looks are dresses with blazers for work (add tights and booties in winter, funky sandals in summer), jeans and a cool jacket, and lots of dresses. French-girl cool is always my goal. My favorite items this year have been white Tretorns, a Velvet leopard print coat, basics from Uniqlo and Everlane, and AGOLDE jeans. Oh, and a bright lip. Look good, feel good!!!
Thank you for this comment, Allie! I feel like a received a needed mini-tutorial of clothes shopping. Very good of you. :)
those pearl earrings are absolutely beautiful. elegant but so simple.
Ha!! Now that you mention it, I can totally see the Jerry Seinfeld aspects of your wardrobe. Love it.
This post simply makes me want to revamp my entire wardrobe! Also because I recently accepted a position at Ross Stores as a manager.
Yup, two kids…. I’m always looking for something with a little room in the waist, and a little sleeve, because my bare arms are no longer toned and I feel that I look slimmer with a covered shoulder than a bare one. I also love a navy striped, long sleeve, boxy top with a pair slim pants or shorts. Shorts look so good with a longer sleeve (3/4 or long). Took me a while to notice that. It’s all about proportion and balance, isn’t it? And I almost always wear a hat. I try to buy stylish brimmed ones. They elevate an outfit, protect you from the sun and are forgiving if you’ve missed your morning shower (two kids ;)
Okay I need to know if you wear socks with your Converse! I have those exact ones and I LOVE them but I feel like I need the right no show sock?!
Just yesterday I found these socks (but at Marshalls….) made to go under Converse and gave them a test run today. Perfect!
https://www.zappos.com/p/converse-made-for-chucks-6-pair-pack-multi-stripes/product/8004913/color/187617?ef_id=CjwKCAjwy7vlBRACEiwAZvdx9ggL1TJIhzRlCC6wJlm-gaHyjoobtig4Br4lbA6s9qPdzlF56jZdBhoCpVkQAvD_BwE:G:s&utm_medium=pla_g&utm_content=29406669&zap_placement=1o3&utm_campaign=1392618613&utm_term=pla-645657735249&utm_source=google
Converse makes no show socks (Zappos) that I love! Just wore them through 7 days at Disney World and didn’t slip off my heal once!
You can buy trainer socks that hide nicely. I Have these shoes and need socks ?
hi bren!
i know this question was for joanna but i decided to chip in :) i use socks with my converse, but those really really small ones, you can barely see them! i can’t go around without socks, feet tend to sweat and get sticky when they’re just in contact with shoes i think!
hope this helps :)
joana
Lol, Joanna, I’m glad I’m not the only one who thought about what your Domino 10 things would be. If they were still doing that page you would so be featuring!
Bought that madewell dress. I’m a sucker for florals and white and omg I couldn’t resist. (The guilt hasn’t set in yet, I’m still high from the purchase).
I don’t really have a set personal style per se. I buy pretty tops and mix and match with standard colored bottoms for work. I have a few pre-defined combinations for party wear but the rest is all variable.
With two dogs and a lot of impromptu park visits and a lot of unplanned walking on the weekends, I wear mostly very comfy (no jean/trouser) bottoms and a top with sneakers for weekend outings to be ready for anything. Very rarely do I get a chance to put an outfit together before a regular day. These comments are inspiring me to be a bit more involved!
I once read that “we wear 20% of our clothing 80% of the time” and for me, it’s so true. But we know what works for us and we are often in different settings with different folks, so, wear and repeat. I like versatile, classic, well-made pieces. Fall/Winter: Jeans, dressier tops, cardigans. . Spring/Summer: Jeans/Crops/Shorts, dressier tops, kimonos. I change out shoes (Converse, booties, mules, gladiator sandals depending on the season/occasion) Confidence is the most flattering thing you can wear!
I’ve recently retired so I’m trying to find my look. I’d really like to live in loose, long linen pieces and distressed jeans (yes, even at 63 I love ripped jeans!), but being plus size I’m having a tough time finding linen tops. Clogs and Birkenstock’s are my everyday shoes and I love simple feminine jewelry.
There are a lot of great linen clothing shops on Etsy- Not Perfect Linen, Linenfox, and many others. While the sizing selection appears limited most of them sew to order so if you send them a message they can arrange anything created to custom measurements. Also the linen boyfriend shirt at the Gap is great .
Try Elizabeth Suzann. Amazing quality, variety of sizing. All the linen tops you could ever want!
Jill, check out Elizabeth Suzann http://elizabethsuzann.com. The make the most sumptuous linen pieces, all in Nashville, TN and the size range is the best I have ever seen. As I type this I am wearing their Harper tunic in ivory linen over some very loved and ripped jeans : )
Jill,
Have you checked out Elizabeth Suzann? I own every linen top they make, they are beautiful and so comfortable. They focus on inclusive sizing so there’s something for (nearly) everyone!
You sound so cool! I’d also add Hackwith Design House to that list—most if not all of their pieces come in a full range of sizes, they’re ethically sourced/made, and they’re gorgeous! Definitely investment pieces, but the one piece I have from them makes me feel SO pretty whenever I wear it, and their vibe sounds like it may be right up your alley! https://hackwithdesignhouse.com/product-category/lines/plus/
You should also check out Jeska Grue! She hand-makes every piece in small-town Sackville, New Brunswick and she is METICULOUS. All her linen pieces are made from custom weaves that she’s sourced from a linen mill in Ireland. I’m a 16/18 and her XL pieces are VERY roomy on me, so they might work for you–knowing Jeska, who does custom fit changes on request for anything you order (I always get my dresses extra long!) she could probably make other sizes too. https://jeskagrue.ca/
Talbots has very nice linen stuff in the summer and has plus sizes. I’ve also found some great dresses at old navy in linen blends – the plus sizes are only available online
Thank you all so much for your advice. I’ve tried the overseas linen shops, but even with having them make the item a little larger, the neck and the arms were way too skinny. Thank you for the Elizabeth Suzanne website, looks wonderful and I’m going to try the Harper tunic.
Lovely post and comments. I “KonMaried” my closet a month ago or so, and I donated like EIGHT BAGS of old stuff. Now my closet and drawers are neat. My uniform is jeans, sweater, tee. I always wear that, though I would like to wear something else, I always turn back to that.
The first striped sweater is so pretty, Jo!
OMG, the ten things list from domino. I think Martha Stewart does it too in her mag. I think that would make a fantastic post….I would love to read through other peoples 10 things they need on a desert island, or cant live without, or somehow enriches their lives. For example, I LOVE my mason canning jar funnel, I use it for all sorts of things.
I would love to read this as well Mims!
Absolutely adore these pieces. Your capsule wardrobe is inspiring!
Hannah
Converse non-stop since I am 15 (and I am 42), Petit Bateau t-shirts, dresses and striped tops, Bensimon ballerines and hand-bags, Aigle boots.
I keep my closet very minimal, I always have, I started only keeping the current season’s “capsule” in view. (I pack away all of the other clothes in ikea storage that fit under the bed. It’s fun to open them when that season returns and see all my favorites I haven’t worn in almost a year!) Right now I’m obsessed with my babaa no 18 cardigan in natural, it’s so great for spring weather. It wasn’t warm enough for winter and wouldn’t fit under my coats well, so I didn’t wear it much but now I do daily and love it SO much! It’ll be great all summer evenings or indoor a/c and into fall too. My favorite sneakers this year has been tretorn, they feel like walking on clouds from day 1 and look super cool.
*adds all to bag* thank you for the list!
My uniform is eccentric clothing. Floral print jeans, red ruffled mu-mu, snakeskin boots, magenta button down tucked into red dress pants. Stinging your retinas with my outfit 7 days a week.
High five, Diana!
hahahaha, this is so great. I LOVE that it’s all punctuated with periods.
Old Navy has a new “tie-hem” style of button-up, and even recently-postpartum, I feel like a million bucks, especially with high-waisted jeans. I just checked and it’s on sale for $13!!!
https://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=393571002&cid=1076766&pcid=72087
I got a pair of red loafers from JCrew Factory months ago and FINALLY wore them to work earlier this week with a black dress. Such a fun pop of color and got a LOT of compliments around the office (my boyfriend even noticed them when we met for dinner that night).
Unfortunately, breaking them in was a little rough on my heels (what is it with shoes cutting the backs of your feet up???) but I’m going to just have to stock up on bandages because they’re so fun and cheery (and yes, I am definitely a Wizard of Oz fan, so particularly love Dorothy ruby slippers vibes).
Here to tell you that hydrocolloid bandages will change your life! The best for blisters and even little cuts or facial blemishes. They’ll make breaking in your red kicks a breeze.
Also take them to a shoe repair shop and they can do magical things that help.
Love the Jerry Seinfeld reference. I tend to dress similar and now have a name for the look! I just did a spring cleaning closet clean out after some baby weight has shed off but still feel a bit disoriented in my clothes. What I wish I could do is blend my work wardrobe with my weekend wardrobe. As a teacher I am required to have professional attire and have a variety of different peices to coordinate as things get stained or worn out pretty easy. Would be a dream to teach in jean’s, sweaters and sneakers!
This is so interesting for me to read. I teach too, but we are much more casual than what it sounds like you have to wear. So on weekends I look in my closet and can’t figure out something fun, cool, and chic to wear bc everything I have is what I wear to work! So I inevitably feel like I’m in my work clothes. Hahahaha!
What about easy dresses that can you can kick up a notch with shoes/jewelry during the work week but feel comfortable wearing on the weekends with tennis shoes or sandals? I don’t teach, but I work in a business casual office and it’s nice not needing two different kinds of outfits. Also, it’s a bonus to feel put together and cute on the weekends.
Oh I wish we were more casual! A few years ago we were much more casual but change in administration changed dress codes with higher expectations! Dresses would be fun for spring and summer but tough to wear in ND winters and now nursing a baby!
I don’t teach either but work in an office.
My daily uniform is a skirt and blouse. So that I don’t have 2 completely different wardrobes I generally try to buy blouses that I think are appropriate for work but can also tuck into jeans for movie dates or brunch.
What’s your sock sitch for the Converse? I love them, too, but I don’t like wearing them with bare feet in warmer months and have not found a comfortable “invisible” sock.
i wear them without socks in the summer. i wish we had a good rec for invisible socks! caroline and i are both stumped. anyone else have one?
I love Madewell’s “invisible” socks. They’re pretty comfy and always have cute patterns.
Highly recommend!!!! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009AMQXCI/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Vans has great “invisible” socks that I wear with my Converse. Link here: https://www.amazon.com/Vans-Super-No-Show-Socks/dp/B00HSY1XYI/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?crid=E1WDJYP7DZ9C&keywords=vans+invisible+socks+women&qid=1555009607&s=gateway&sprefix=vans+invi%2Caps%2C189&sr=8-1-fkmr0
Smartwool has really cute and comfortable invisible socks too!
https://www.smartwool.com/socks/no-show-socks.html
I like them because the wool breathes and my feet/shoes don’t get stinky
Smartwools all the way. They actually stay on (which is the most annoying thing) and even though they’re wool, they’re breathable. Also bombas.
I love fatface’s footies, because they are really soft and sturdy but don’t show at all: https://us.fatface.com/women/clothing/underwear-socks/two-pack-star-footsies/944661.html?dwvar_944661_color=blue&cgid=us-women-clothing-underwear-and-socks#start=14
I grabbed these at Target a couple years ago and wear them all the time with my Converse. They stay put and keep my feet dry. Definitely recommend :)
Oops! Here’s the link…
https://www.target.com/p/peds-women-s-sport-cut-liner-4pk-m/-/A-50656084?preselect=50594142#lnk=sametab
Smartwool hide and seek socks! Expensive, but I bought six pairs four years ago that I wear daily to work and they are still in great shape. They have a little strip of rubber on the inside of the heel to keep them from slipping off.
I have this issue and hate the traditional tiny ‘no show’ socks because they always slip off my feet and are just the worst. A few years ago I found these terry cloth insoles that are washable from Amazon (called Pedag, worst name). I love them! Slide them in, they’re comfy, absorb sweat etc, and then throw them in the wash like normal socks. : )
https://amzn.to/2X5JvEx
I’ve tried a bunch and, surprisingly, Gap are my favorite by far! They have the rubber grip at the back of the heel so the sock doesn’t slip, and they just seem to perform better than other brands. I do prefer the athletic/thicker cotton ones to the thin nylon style. also, they’re having a 40% off promotion right now. :D
https://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=440217002&rrec=true&mlink=5050,12413545,PDP_gapproduct1_rr_1&clink=12413545
I have worn and loved these ones from MUJI. All other no-show socks have made my feet feel and look so weird without shoes; these are just straight-up cute.
https://www.muji.us/store/women-organic-cotton-heel-with-grips-thin-foot-cover-23-25cm-f9sa028.html
Jack Purcells have been my go to white sneaker since college. I’ve tried several different no-show or liner socks over the years, and my favorites have been a pack of Puma socks I grabbed for super cheap at a Ross store once. They have enough padding for me and I like the little rubber bit on the inside of the heel of the sock that helps them stay on in the back. Mine are a bit older, but these look like the same style: https://us.puma.com/en/us/pd/womens-liner-socks-%5B3-pack%5D/927072.html?dwvar_927072_color=WHITE%20%2F%20BLACK
I also have a friend who swears by the liner socks from Gap, but haven’t tried them myself yet: https://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=270059002&cid=97728&pcid=97728&cpos=26&cid=CategoryIDs%7C97728&ctype=Listing
I like the no show socks from Sperry. They have that silicone patch at the back so they don’t fall down. They’re the only brand I’ve used that I like!
https://www.sperry.com/en/no-show-3-pack-liner-sock/29392W.html?dwvar_29392W_color=STS31492
I love my lululemon secret socks!
https://shop.lululemon.com/p/women-socks/Secret-Sock-3-Pack/_/prod8450610?color=0002
I use Nike no-show ones, in black and white. They never fail me! Plus they’re a little thicker so they’re more comfortable.
These are the best no-show socks… they have the silicone heel grip and come in a variety of colors! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07B93TRV9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Another vote for Smartwool. Best I’ve found.
STANCE “no show” socks are by far the best I’ve tried (and I’ve tried a lot) https://www.stance.com/womens-no-show-socks/
Vans can also be good but they’re not quite as snug as the Stance so they lose points.
I like Muji’s invisible socks to wear with sneaker. I get the men’s version for my size 11 feet but I think they have a similar one for women’s.
https://www.muji.us/store/men-heel-with-grips-high-gauge-foot-cover-25-27cm-f8aa056.html
Nike no-show are my fave (in black, white, or nude) – as an earlier commenter noted, they’re super comfortable. Smartwool is my backup.
I like Bombas “invisibles”. They stay on!
Smartwool 100%!!
i always wear them with socks, i can’t wear shoes without socks, i feel like my feet get sticky! i wear really small ones. they’re not invisible, but almost! it works for me. and i just bought them at a normal store, i don’t even remember where :)
Totally not a sock recommendation, but for folks who are fine with the feel of no socks but don’t want to deal with the stink of sweaty feet, I have 2 suggestions! Thai Crystal Deodorant Mist on your feet before (let your tootsies air dry a minute before putting on your shoes). And Pacifica Deodorant Wipes for after if you neglected to use the mist before hand! They are deodorants and NOT antiperspirants, but they are both heavy hitters in the fight against the funk and I am glad to have them in my corner!
Darn Tough’s No Show socks are incredible! So comfortable and made of merino wool which naturally keeps your feet dry and odor-free. Plus they’re guaranteed for life so you can always return them for a fresh new pair! I became obsessed while working at REI and basically exclusively wear Darn Tough socks these days.
https://darntough.com/collections/womens-lifestyle/products/womens-stripe-topless-no-show-hidden-light?variant=854119940115
I work in a hospital and wear scrubs for all my shifts. While I love the simplicity of a work uniform (solid t-shirt under hospital scrubs with a pair of allbirds), on my off days it makes me long to wear clothes with a distinct voice. So I’m working on acquiring and making clothes that really speak to who I am… which right now means COLOR and shapes that define a waist with a relaxed fit elsewhere. Surprisingly, as one who’s never much cared about fashion, I’m finding real joy in crafting a wardrobe that says something about me.
As a former chef, I hear you…everyone around me dressed down when relaxing, I wanted to dress UP!
I LOVE that floral dress, but I’m cringing at the price task. Anyone have a more affordable option? I’m team Old Navy so spending more than $20 on a dress feels like too much!
i wish the old navy one i have was still in stock! i love it so much. here are a few options:
target: http://bit.ly/2UTb0Uc
another target: http://bit.ly/2KuONYN
gap: http://bit.ly/2KvzwXR
H&M: http://bit.ly/2KuncHi
xoxo
I have my eye on this one, but I am waiting for a sale. I like the ivory or the red star print.
http://www.bodenusa.com/en-us/womens-dresses/day-dresses/j0334-ivo/womens-ivory-floral-spray-penelope-jersey-dress
At 39 I’ve finally found a uniform that works for me: a cool fitted t-shirt, a cardigan, and relaxed jeans/pants with a high-yet-comfy waist, with Doc Martens or slip-on sneaks. Done. The hard part, of course, is finding the perfect tees and jeans, but once that’s done I don’t need to think about it in my daily routine.
Holly,
This is similar to me. I’m a pediatric therapist, so I always have to be ready to be on the floor covered in goop. That said, I’m also the owner and a professor. On those days, I keep the exact same items, minus the pants, add a pencil skirt with tons of stretch, a cool belt and DONE. I love our uniform.
I saw you in the converse the other day :) Always a good look
awww, thank you :)
So helpful! I’m coming off baby weight from baby no.3 and I feel like I need a whole new wardrobe! I’ll fitting jeans and threadbare shirts will not do. Getting myself some classic pieces!
Old Navy high rise jeans! They’re a little skinnier than I’d like but they’re super comfortable and frequently on sale for $20 — great for concealing mom chub!!!
I’m currently wearing 505s from about 10 years ago. They’re paint-splattered (from my actually having painted in them), but so comfortable and pretty flattering. I’ve been eyeing the 501s, but went cheap and bought some Old Navy original straights. Surprisingly good, but no pocket design, which I generally find more flattering to my rear. I’m over a super-skinny jean. I love the Banana Republic linen t-s (v-neck or scoop neck is most flattering for me). A Boden Breton. And I have an Old Navy linen cocoon shirt on right now that they don’t make anymore. It’s getting too worn, but I can’t give it up.
Where is the white blouse in the earring picture from? I haven’t been able to find a blouse that isn’t either voluminous or gape at the chest, and in white they are always see-through!
omg that should be my 9th piece i swear by! i have this white shirt from cloth & stone and i love it so much. it falls really beautifully: http://bit.ly/2UQeHKz
I think I tend to vary with clothes a little more (and I have over 100 pair of earrings!), but I’ve recently embraced the fact that I am just NOT a shoe girl. While some women I know use shoes as the *personality* in their outfits, I stick to a few faves: Birkenstock Mayari and a pair of comfortable slides for warm weather, Born clogs and a pair of riding boots for colder weather, black flats for anything professional (I work from home so these days that’s a rare occasion!), sneakers for working out. I DO own a few other pairs – a wedge and a heel for weddings, etc. and the glittery Steve Madden flats I wore to my wedding – but they’re in VERY low rotation. I love that I’ve found what WORKS for me, even if it’s not very exciting :)
I am the same way! Nice to see I’m not the only one. Fancier shoes don’t get worn much by me and I like to rotate just a few pairs.
I have a photo of myself sleeping on our attic stairs in broad daylight at the age of 5 (for context, I’m 61 now)…thumb in mouth…Little Red Riding Hood paperback as my pillow.
I’m wearing a pair of gray cords and a white t-shirt, with a little barrette in my bob.
Fast-forward 56 years later. Uhhhh…wearing same thing. But not sleeping at desk, happy to say. Nor is my thumb in my mouth.
Such a great look, why change right?
I love the image of you as a little girl ❤️
I’m still wearing same things too. Overalls, t-shirts, comfy sweaters, cowgirl boots. Also pretty much the same hair. Ha, sounds like a signature look ?
I’m 54, gasp, and at a point in my life I absolutely have to feel great in every piece of clothing I own. And what’s weird is I find Old Navy and Marshall’s clothes work best for me! Some of my absolute favorite pieces are Old Navy finds that have held up very well. I always thought it was too young for someone my age but wandered in a few years ago and have been a die hard ever since! And recently bought some mustard colored tennis shoes that I’m wearing ALL the time. And Marshall’s has GREAT deals, just have to take some time to look and go frequently! And it’s all about truly feeling good in everything you own! I don’t care if it means just a few things, I WANT to feel good in what I’m wearing. Every. Day!
Agree. You shop like me. :)
Love your classic Domino reference! It’s still enjoyable, but the old version was really special.
Joanna, whenever I see the converse I think of that photo I took of you and the Beesley kiddos twinning in stripes and chucks on the playground! xo
hahahaha yes! https://cupofjo.com/2012/03/accidental-twins/
I used to read her blog too. Would love to hear how her studies turned out!
I love a sparkly pair of gold hoops or statement earrings, pendants with solid-color dresses, and shirtdresses in pretty florals for work. My black booties get worked to DEATH in the winter, poor shoes.
Joanna, with super wide feet how do you manage converse?? I, too, have wide feet and bought superga on your recommendation and they’re great. Would need to amputate a toe to fit converse — theyre such a slim fit!
oh that’s so interesting! i find converse to fit my wide feet. i get the low-tops — maybe other styles are different? curious to hear what others say!
Maybe it depends on where your foot is wide? I have fairly wide feet and can wear converse with no problem, but found supergas to be super tight and uncomfortable in the toe box!
I have petite but wide feet. I can wear Converse shoes and love mine, but can’t wear them if I’m going to do a lot of extensive walking. I find the unisex styles to be a better fit for me.
I am a big fan of the uniform concept! Go to pieces for everyday style and beauty. My must haves.
1. A signature scent – Fresh Cream with Cashmere by Philosophy (Men and Women say I always smell inviting haha)
2. The tiniest studs I can find in gold
3. Teint Idole Ultra Liquid 24H Longwear foundation and a killer foundation brush from IT cosmetics (PLEASE DON’T USE YOUR FINGERS!)
4. This amazing $3 lip flush from Esse called Kiss the Frog
5. Black ballet flats from Rothey’s or Nike Cortez Casual Shoes (I have two pairs!)
6. Long lashes and white teeth – Crest white strips no slip and Rodan and Fields Lash Boost
7. Flush nails – The Dior Glow was not pink enough for me so I took a jar of Essie triple way glaze and added a few drops of red polish to get that gel pink flush. Like I dipped my nails in cherry Popsicle.
8. A white tee
9. High wasted black pants and jeans. Big fan of the Rockstar Old Navy high wasted jeans. Love your hips and thighs! Show them off!
10. A fun Graphic Tee. The one piece of clothing I have gotten the most compliments on ever is a Selena mens graphic tee from Target. People stop me on the street to ask me where I got it.
Love this list! Off to treat myself to that cheap lip stain. Also- my sister always has the best jeans when I see her and they are always the Rockstar from Old Navy ?
Just an FYI, the Stan Smiths link goes to Vejas. :)
Thank you, will fix!
A few years ago I was going through my closet and realized how many things I was donating that I found hideous or just didn’t do anything for me. Also, when I really investigated, I realized I wore the same very limited things on repeat. I felt like, what the hell am I doing wasting all this money? It changed shopping for me. I also bought a bunch of clothes at one time after grad school for my new job and made sure it was basically a capsule wardrobe, which was GREAT. Last, I read something once that said the subject of the article one buys things that she LOVES – think sparking joy a la Marie Kondo.
Now, I use these few tips with nearly everything I buy. Versatile, on sale, lots of potential places/ways to wear it, timeless. I never shop as a hobby or pastime any longer.
That said, I do feel like I could have endless sundresses for summer just because I love them.
years ago, i read a thing saying that you should only buy a piece of clothing if it makes you want to “do a little dance.” isn’t that great? i’ve tried to stick by that :)
I had a similar transformation after a friend gave me a copy of the Curated Closet! It has you pull your most loved pieces that you wear all the time and the pieces that you think you like (or don’t like at all) that you never wear and describe the fit/material/brand to figure out the common themes. I used to shop as a hobby (hello clearance rack!) and I’ve become much more selective. Getting dressed in the morning isn’t a chore and I’m investing in pieces I wear much more frequently.
Yep. I realized a few years ago that when I go to work (as a teacher), I only really ever wore solid A-line skirts with striped tops or retro-patterned dresses (shirt dresses or A-line), though I had lots of other stuff in my closet. And on the weekend, I only ever wore leggings with t-shirts or overalls. Never anything else, even though there were tons of other clothes stuffed in my closets and dresser.
So I just got rid of all that other stuff. It’s so freeing, and I don’t feel tempted to buy other clothes because I know I won’t wear them. Bonus: I never need to try on jeans again.
Hither & Tither wrote about the 501s today, too. I think it’s a sign that I should join the club since all the cool, fashionable ladies are doing it. And they’re relatively affordable!
Came here to see Joanna’s picks and then got my day made when I read “cool and fashionable.” Thanks, Kim!!!
i actually never change my accessories. i have 2 earrings on one side and 3 on the other, those little silver stubs, the simplest possible. i also wear 7 rings and 2 necklaces (very thin and discrete silver ones with a pendant – a pyramid and the little prince) and 2 bracelets (1 on one side and 3 on the other).
i only take 2 of the bracelets and the rings off when i sleep and shower, the rest is always with me.
apart from the earrings and 2 of the rings, all of these are special either because of where i got them or because someone got them for me.
i actually don’t think i know anyone else who is like me in this aspect :) i’ super low maintenance, and clothes are no exception. i repeat things all the time, i don’t have a loooot of clothes (i’m kind of cheap too!) and i’m clearly a creature of habit… :)
(sorry for the long comment! i don’t suppose this interests anyone but me :D)
same – i have three rings that absolutely never ever come off. my hands are always the same. one of my rings i’ve worn every day since i was 14… 20 YEARS GOING STRONG. they each have a sentimental meaning to me and i like how even as my life scenery/circumstances change and the people in my life come and go, i always have these core things that are “me”. idk, something about the constancy brings me comfort.
No way, I wondered if anyone else also left their jewelry on all the time.
Even more random question: Do your studs bother you at all when you sleep? My earrings started bothering me behind my ears at night, so I switched to the silver fishhook open hoops from Of a Kind(sold out, but Mejuri has some similar ones). I end up taking them out more often now because I worry they will fall out when I’m exercising etc. I miss my studs!
Same here! At least with jewelery. I have two small pairs of hoops that I’ll rotate but then leave in for weeks. 2 thin necklaces and that’s it and a ring. I have a wider array of clothes, but not too adventurous. Jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, sneakers. Dresses in the summmer with Birkenstocks or Converse, at least when I’m not at work.
Word of warning on keeping your earrings in at night — if you are a side sleeper like me, wearing earrings at night can result in stretched out piercing holes (or one stretched out piercing holes, in my case)! I slept in earrings for years before realizing what was going on and now deeply regret it.
wow, so happy i’m not the only one here! :)
LW, it’s exactly the consistency that i love too!
katie, they don’t bother me at all but because they’re piercings, so they don’t have that tip that stings you at the end, they’re the same front and back. and they have the same width as normal earrings!
marianne, we’re the same :D and i’m also lucky that at work i don’t need to change a thing!
KW, really?? wow, that’s never happened to me, and it’s been YEARS since i’ve done this… maybe it depends on the earrings??
I have three solid-gold bangle bracelets that are soldered on my wrist. I’ve had two on since I was 13 (coming up on 20 years together!) and got the third when I was 25. I can’t imagine life without them!