Classic Pieces You'll Have in Your Wardrobe Forever
Fashions come and go just about every two to three decades, as you may have noticed recently by the 90s revival we are seeing in both pop culture and styles of clothing the younger generations are wearing right now. Intentional personal style exceeds the limitations of what is currently trending, and exhibits a tangible expression of the human person, and our God-given dignity.
There are items of clothing that truly never go “out of style” because of their fit, versatility, and practicality; some of which I’m wearing in this outfit.
OUTFIT DETAILS
Top: Shalice Noel
Jeans: Levi’s
Moto jacket: Blank NYC
Shoes: Massimo Matteo
Bag: Mark & Graham
Sunglasses: Dezi
From top to bottom, this outfit combines timeless shapes in neutral tones. Motorcycle jackets, tortoise shell sunglasses, white peasant tops, flared jeans, and minimal strappy sandals never look dated! I prefer to fill my closet with pieces that outlast trends, but still look stylish and intentional no matter what is in.
Dressing in a way that makes you feel confident is not about following every trend coming down the runway. Intentional personal style is an expression of your story, your lived experiences, and what brings you joy! This outfit took about 3 minutes to put on, and truly made me feel a boost of confidence.
My style is a combination of a few themes, like Classic/ Preppy, Americana, New Yorker, Rock ‘N Roll, and Hollywood Glam— more on those styles in my book Worthy of Wearing. These pieces coordinate all of those themes into one outfit! The Blank NYC jacket is a nod to the New Yorker / Americana vibes with the motorcycle styling, and the Shalice Noel top reminds of a classic Lilly Pullitzer peasant top I had (and stained) years ago that leans more Classic / Preppy and a little 70s. The tortoise sunglasses and strappy sandals are a little Hollywood glam, and the high-waisted dark wash Levi’s jeans are very Americana— like something out of a Ralph Lauren campaign.
THE CLASSICS
DARK WASH JEANS
Denim will always be a classic item for most wardrobes because of how versatile and comfortable it is. This high waisted bootcut pair from Levi’s is a little dressier than the usual skinny jean, and pairs well with a heel. The dark wash gives them more of a trouser feel, and adds a nice contrast to the white with pops of red. Is there anything more fun than a matching shoe and bag combo?
WHITE BLOUSE
This top is the perfect flowy piece that can be dressed up or down, and worn all year. It’s a great investment piece if you’re looking for the perfect white blouse to wear year after year. I also just love supporting friends who start their own businesses, so I encourage you to go check out Shalice Noel’s new line that this stunning peasant top is from. She has been working in the style space for years as a blogger and influencer, and now she has entered the design space! I love how versatile and functional her pieces are, and can’t wait to add more to my collection.
MOTORCYCLE JACKET
A classic motorcycle jacket is a great addition to any wardrobe, because it works so well layered over dresses, blouses, sweaters, and simple t-shirts. It can be worn like a blazer, and instantly adds a little edge. A notched collar is a classic style on blazers, and looks more dressed up than a shawl or mandarin collar. I have a moto jacket in black, that has been a staple in my closet, and a few years ago found this all-white version on the TJ Maxx clearance rack— and it’s magically still available right now on Nordstrom. It’s surprisingly easy to keep clean, and is such an effortless statement-maker.
BIG TOTE BAG
Large totes are perfect for the stage of life I’m in as a mother of littles. I can toss just about anything inside, and the outside still looks polished and sturdy. This vegan leather option from Mark & Graham was a gift at Christmas, and the gold initials feel luxurious. It works well as a carry-all during the week, and fit so many essentials on the plane when we took our weekend trip to Miami.
RED HEELS
A pair of red heels adds a fun flash of color, and wearing color in accessories is a “safer” option when it feels too bold to wear color all over. Red is a shade that evokes love and passion, and works in every season of the year. These minimalist slingbacks are super comfortable, and pair well with dresses, skirts, and pants.
Photos by Marquel Patton of Marque Makes.