It’s no secret that fashion (much like the world of film and pop culture) continues to be quite the hobby of mine. And with the quarantine and other big life events (like turning the big 3-0 back in January) happening in this strangest of times, I felt myself shifting my stylish eye towards a new horizon. One in which I don’t exactly stick to the elements I’ve been comfortable in, but rather rediscover my love of fashion in new, interesting (dare I say, more mature) ways. Some of this change might be related to my age, while the rest is just something that shifts like the wind, the seasons, or whichever metaphor you prefer. Regardless, let’s take a look at my new style evolution. Some of it is redefining the same, while some aspects may surprise you!
My Inspirations (left to right): Pretty in Pink behind the scenes photos, Natalie Drue in the city,
Musings of a Curvy Lady‘s Brooklyn Bridge photos, Atlantic-Pacific walking the streets, Rosey Beeme’s aesthetic shoots,
Jennifer Garner’s first outfit in 13 Going on 30, Zelie for She Lounge Wears
Ah, fashion. From the most exotic streetwear to the more casual punk elements, if it’s a style, I’ve likely dipped my toes in the pond. And now that I have tried the many flavors within the fashion ice cream shop, I think I finally found what I feel the most comfortable in. Does my style have a name? Well, no. But it does have a feeling. One that echos the things that have influenced me since I was a teenager (like my fashion icons, Duckie and Andie from Pretty in Pink) to the images that spark my noggin today (ex: the incredible individuals featured above.)
But why would I make such a change? Well, through all of these multiple decades of my life, I’ve wanted to express my interests and show to everyone what the inside of my brain looks like. What my favorite movies, bands, theme parks, and other happy things are. Yet maybe now that I’m in my 30’s, I’m looking for people to ask about those elements of my life rather than spelling it out for them. Because I’ve spent the better part of my life trying to prove to people how cool I could be. But the truth is – I’ve always been cool and I don’t need to prove that to anyone via a graphic t-shirt.
My Picks (left to right):JCrew Blazer Sweater, various rings from LoveStylize ,
Calpak Backpack, Ori Angle Pleated Skirt, Lou & Grey Cardigan,
Universal Standard Dress, ModCloth Booties
Now that isn’t to say that items like graphic tees are getting excommunicated from my wardrobe – I’m too much of a nerd to make that kind of a purge. But it’s the way I use and pair those kinds of items that is going to change. Because as much as I do adore showing off my love for all things pop culture, there’s a much more polished side to me I want to show. This includes wearing more classic, solid color pieces, along with having items I can wear while going through my fun IBS related struggles. Comfort, stylish, and me. That continues to remain my main focus.
But let there be no mistaking – the pastels will never go away. Retro vintage inspiration is still there. The swing skirts are staying. The nerdy part of me will continue to live on. But everything will have a slightly more polished, but still exciting, outer shell. And when I make my pilgrimage to places like Disney World and other exciting locations, I want to carry my new style goals there, while retaining the delightfully fun energy of the environment. It’s a challenge I started going through on my most recent trip back in October of last year, and will continue as I venture forward (whenever I get outside of my state, that is.)
At the end of the day, every individual’s fashion journey is an odd one. We all go through our awkward stages of development to eventually find our place in the world. For me, I’ve realized that a middle ground between my love of 50’s kitsch aesthetic and modern yet classic styles works best for me. But the magical girl inspired side still thrives from time to time, as does the film nerd. They all have a place inside of the fashionable bubble that is my life. It’s just that the way that I choose to portray them might be a bit different.
So what about you – have you gone through a style evolution lately? What items or elements are part of yours? Has the quarantine changed your outlook on clothes? Comment below and tell me all of your thoughts!
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