You Don’t Need Any More Basics
PC: Pinterest
I pitched a story to my editor earlier this week titled “Everything But The Capsule Wardrobe,” which, excitingly, got picked up and is currently in production. The more I thought about it, though, I realized it was the brand-safe version of what I really wanted to say, which is: F The Basics.
F another white T-shirt and a straight-leg jean. F the beige trench coat and the bland loafer. I know we were all sold this idea that with the perfect capsule wardrobe we’ll always have something to wear, but everyone is starting to look the same. Not just the same, but uninspired, and I don’t have the slightest clue what their personalities are like beneath these uniforms.
Don’t get me wrong, I understand the need for these wardrobe staples. It’s not like I don’t own white tanks and button-downs. But let’s not let the basics dominate our wardrobes. They should occupy a small corner of your closet while the rest is filled with vibrant personality pieces.
Instead of a straight-leg jean, why not oversized pleated trousers? Go one step further and have them tailored! Instead of a tank top, a backless halter top will actually get you amped to go out for dinner.
If your wardrobe has been feeling uninspiring, I promise it’s because you own too many basics that don’t reveal anything about your essence. You’re not equipped with the right tools to express yourself.
Lately I’ve been tuning out the internet trends, halting my online shopping habits, and ignoring what stylish influencers are showing off. I even stopped accepting freebies from brands.
Instead, I’ve been going back to in-person shopping. And rather than scurrying into my comfort stores and silhouettes, I’ve been trying on feathered skirts from Jill Sander and puff-sleeved ruched dresses from Ganni. I’m finding pieces that feel like they were custom-made for me. Ones that dial up my confidence every time I slip into them.
It hit me how important it is to own whimsical pieces that excite. I never felt any thrill pulling on a pair of blue jeans, but those pleated gray Bermuda shorts? At least three people stopped to ask me where they’re from.
If you want your clothes to reflect something deep within you, then you have to let go of the basics. A generic T won’t bring out your most creative self. You won’t feel any different from the commuter next to you, and the one next to them, and so on.
This doesn’t mean you have to forgo your minimalist lifestyle and go all-in on maximalist prints. There are plenty of pieces that feel quiet, but not boring; simple, but not generic.
You should be investing in conversation starters, eye-catching silhouettes, and unusual prints. That’s at least what I’ll be doing. I hope that you, too, find the joy in hunting for pieces that excite.
