Raise your hand if you adore sporting ~a lewwwwk~ while ballin' on a budget.
Are you raising your hand?
I am, but it makes this whole typing thing a little more complicated, so I'm going to stop now.
I am 50% Dutch, and therefore genetically programmed to love a good deal. Growing up, my Dutch family members (I'm looking at you, mom) would only buy something if it was on sale; they weren't cheap, they just saw it like a fun game - waiting to hear the Target Lady say how much money we saved at the end of the trip.
So I grew up sporting an assortment of fabulous deals - every clearance item like a girl scout badge boasting my mom's impressive frugality (Suz is the GOAT) - a staple to the Dutch moral code.
However, now that I'm an #adult, I don't need to find clothing to get me through my next growth spurt (at least I hope not, because I'm 5 ft 10 and I don't want to deal with more flooded jeans and freezing ankles), so I want to invest in pieces of clothing that I can cherish.
But there's a catch - staple pieces cost more than your average clearance item. This means my Dutch side fights me to find ways to be resourceful with my clothing (also shout out to my BFFs Leanna and Bethany for being earth-conscious goddesses who inspire me to consider the ramifications of fast fashion).
When I buy a staple piece, I try to get as creative as possible, finding fresh ways to pair the pieces, and give each item some new life with every combination. I love to re-wear my clothing, but I don't like to plagiarize my own past outfits.
Today, I want to show you how I've been wearing this plaid blazer.
I'd been eyeing it for months, and my mother-in-law came through and surprised me on my birthday like the magical fairy godmother she is (Liz is also the GOAT).
Now, let me show you why this blazer is giving me liiiiife.
Style: Tomboy
Setting: Meeting friends at a casual restaurant, going to the movies
Pairing: Graphic Tee, distressed jeans, converse
Vibe: Casual, cool
This is something I'd wear if I were going to hang out with my friends (Because if you're hanging out with your friends, you clearly have to wear your "Friends" T-shirt).
Okay, let me revise that - this is what I'd wear if I were going to hangout with my friends but I knew we were going to take pictures. Let's be real, if I were just going over to my friends' houses, I'd text them and see if they were wearing sweatshirts and yoga pants, and if so, I'd wear the same thing, because that's what friends do.
Style: Girl Boss
Setting: Work, meeting your partner's family for dinner
Pairing: Collared button-up tank, statement necklace, skinny jeans, booties
Vibe: Professional, trendy
I would wear this if I wanted to look professional and approachable--it's polished without being too dressy.
This is a great combination because it's simple, but the accessories show a little bit of effort without going over the top.
This look is kind of a happy-medium I aim for when I'm getting ready for work.
Style: Secret Agent/Mrs. Smith
Setting: Date night, drinks with friends, a wedding
Pairing: Little black dress, heels
Vibe: Dressy, classy, fashion-forward
This look blends two pieces that take me out of my comfort zone (heels and a "sexyish" dress) with something in my comfort zone (the blazer, obviously;).
I generally steer clear from form-fitting clothing, and I don't feel very comfortable showing a lot of skin, so this blazer lends the perfect balance! The loose fit and coverage place me right in my comfort zone, where I can feel confident without feeling exposed.
Plus, the plaid adds a touch of visual interest to an otherwise plain dress!
Style: Athleisure with a twist
Setting: Casual walk with a friend, dwelling in a coffee shop
Pairing: Hoodie, yoga leggings, sneakers
Vibe: Sporty
I don't know about you, but I'm usually just about as productive as my outfit makes me feel.
I love my athleisure, but my brain almost immediately associates it with watching Netflix.
Adding the blazer gives this laid back look a slightly more polished vibe. I like to throw it on for an unexpected twist to an otherwise very casual look. It keeps me comfortable, but it makes me feel productive (hey, fake it till you make it, right? Even if it means faking yourself out to crush some of your goals over the weekend:)
B O N U S
L O O K :
I'm not edgy enough to wear this out and about (also, it is February in North Dakota, and I do not have a death/frostbite wish), but this is what I wore on a weekend while I was doing some writing.
It doesn't make a ton of sense, but I LIKED THE WAY IT LOOKED, OKAY? Don't @ me.
Well, that's our first staple piece spotlight! I hope this leaves you either inspired or entertained!
Do you have a favorite staple piece you like to wear? How would you style this blazer? I'd love to know! If you try any of these looks, shoot me a message on Instagram (@kellydoles)!
As the famous Veronica Corningstone would say, "Thanks for stopping by!"
Sincerely,
Kelly
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