These days, I am caring less about what people think and more about my comfort and self esteem. I want to present myself in a way that is relaxed yet chic. I want to roll out of bed but not look like I rolled out of bed... I want to embrace sophistication, sexiness, but at the same time, cool and casual. Effortless, like Carrie Bradshaw effortless. If this is you too, I might have the formula you are looking for.

First things first, mixing vintage and contemporary clothing for an effortless-chic look is a skill rewarded over time. The ‘ole trial and error. My style in my early twenties was all over the place. I think we can all relate to that. But after some time, getting to know myself better, growing into my body and accepting it, and learning what aspects of fashion I appreciate, I’ve never felt more confident in my ability to throw together an outfit. 

Stop caring what others think

When you stop caring how others perceive you, especially your fashion taste, it will completely change your buying habits. Having this mindset will allow you to step into an authentic version of yourself. Wear what inspires you. Color, patterns, textures, funky silhouettes–it’s time to tap into your inner child. When you wear pieces that you love, you are loving yourself, which then boosts your self-esteem. Anyone can pull off anything if they wear it with confidence. 

Don’t be afraid to lean into trends

There is nothing wrong with liking trends and wanting to follow them. There is something wrong with leaning into every micro trend and buying fast fashion to get your fix. Not only are you contributing to the global environmental crisis, you are wasting your money. Instead of buying fast fashion pieces that will last you maybe a year, try to mimic the trends in other ways like colors, silhouettes or fabrics. For example, if 90’s fashion is trending, peruse your local thrift store to see if you can find something with a 90’s silhouette, or colors that were popular in the 90’s. Do you research! If a micro trend appears, let’s say the color red is booming all of a sudden, instead of going to a big name department store and buying a red top that will most likely be out of style in less than a year, try buying red accessories. Find second-hand pieces that are timeless and incorporate them along with your contemporary pieces. 

If you're going to spend your money on contemporary pieces, spend it on well made shoes and wardrobe essentials

Shoes are the foundation of every outfit. I believe you only need 5 shoes in your wardrobe at a time. 

• Casual sandal or clog

• Neutral sneaker 

• Boot

• Low heel

• Loafer

Of course there can be different versions based on your style. Spend your money here, so when you want to wear thrifted clothing, the shoe balances the outfit. Now for the essentials. We’re talking classic, timeless pieces in neutral colors. I put together a list:

• Crisp white poplin button up

• Go-to blue denim

• Sleek trousers

• Soft leather jacket

• Structured blazer

• Layering knit long sleeve

• Warm sweater

These items can be layered, worn interchangeably, or even worn on their own. That’s why they're essentials. Mix in your favorite vintage thrifted pieces, a nice shoe, and you’ve got it – the cool, casual, put-together, effortless look. 

That’s my two cents. Start here if you haven’t already. Be prepared to strike out a time or two. It's a game of balance - be vulnerable, be daring, stick to the classics and choose wisely. 

xx

Sidney