Spring outfit

Blouse - Zara, Skirt - Isabel Marant Étoile, Sandals - A.P.C, Bag - Céline

Funnily, it is only when writing this I noticed that not one piece I am wearing was purchased within the past year; blouse: 2012, skirt: 2013, sandals: 2014 and Céline trio bag: 2016. 

It was in 2011-12 when I started to properly build my wardrobe. I never set out to build my wardrobe based upon set pieces, it simply occurred on its own. It sometimes irritates me to see the never-ending supply of ‘wardrobe essential’ tutorials as it differs for each person.

Initially my essentials were consistent of an a-line skirt, blouse/jumper and ballerina shoes or sandals. But as the years have gone on I have found myself expanding my wardrobe vocabulary to feature jeans and wide legged trousers which I never would have dreamt of wearing two years ago. 

I have found my wardrobe hasn’t grown significantly over the years and I very often commit the horrific ’crime’ of repeat wearing. To me that is my favourite thing to do, there is no better feeling than wearing something you feel utterly comfortable and at ease in. 

When I buy something either costing upwards of £500 or below £25 I treat them the same. I don’t think of their price (well… I do when making a costly purchase), I think of how well it will fit in my wardrobe and how much I plan on wearing it. If I am slightly uncertain I will not buy it. I can’t see the point in buying something and not being able to envision wearing it in two years time. 

It seems even high street pieces can last, it is all about taking good care of your items (I always hand wash or dry clean, the washing machine is dangerous territory for a sustainable wardrobe!) Whether it silk, cashmere or polyester mix, care is the only way to sustain quality! This blouse from Zara is the ultimate example, nearly 5 years on and it is still as fresh as day of purchase.