We love it when style is effortless. I'm always on the lookout for pieces that are easy, beautiful, AND comfortable so that no matter what I am doing, I can be at least presentable. I used to think I could get away with doing certain things in unattractive, "comfortable" clothing. But no more. I discovered the hard way that it isn't worth hanging on to those old clothes.. Let's face it: no matter how comfy they are, nobody wants to run into an old flame, or an old boss at the grocery store in their frumpiest clothes.
The last straw for me was at the grocery store where I had just run to get some juice. I had been organizing closets at home and decided to dash out wearing the sweatpants and old tee shirt I had worn all morning. I thought to myself, "it's fine, I'll be right back sipping that juice before anyone sees me" As I'm sure you can guess, I was wrong. I was so very wrong!
At the store I not only did NOT get out before anyone saw me, I ran into an old employer, my husband's friend and his wife, a teacher from my child's kindergarten and none other than Bobby Bollinger -- an old Jr. High School crush!!! And I looked like a total slob!
I finished chatting with everyone and headed out to the car, only to glance in the rear view mirror and groan. Hair: crazy looking. Clothes: dumpy and dirty. Face: this morning's mascara was actually running down my cheek! In short, I was a mess. I gathered my dignity and made a pact with myself right then and there. As long as I was organizing the closets I would simply ELIMINATE all things even remotely frumpy from my wardrobe. If it's not there, I can't wear it.
And it worked!!! Now, for even the dirtiest jobs I only have things that I actually like on hand to chose from. Pretty tees (refreshed every year or two), seveal pairs of good-fitting jeans in different washes, un-pilled cardigans, un-stretched-out hoodies, and cute comfy shoes.
Here is an example of a perfectly pretty pink ensemble to grab and go to the store in, or to run errands in, or to meet a gal pal in. Velvet's beautiful Corky V-Neck tee, Henry and Belle's beautiful skinny ankle jeans, and Mangrove's silk Sophia Scarf.
It's actually very easy to look pulled-together, no matter what you're up to, the key is simply GETTING RID OF unflattering or stained pieces. It's amazing what we'll reach for if it's in our closet. Be ruthless, toss anything you haven't worn in a year and anything that is worn, or stretched, or stained. And just think! After step number one comes the very enjoyable STEP NUMBER TWO: replace the eliminated items with fresh things that ARE flattering, versatile, comfortalbe AND cute!
This beuatiful look fits the bill. It's sexy, but appropriate, pretty, but not fussy. It's laid back and easy and so comfortable! Ahhh, effortless.
The next time I run to the store, the gas station, the movie store, or anywhere else for that matter, I'll be ready to run into anyone, including Bobby Bollinger! love, DR
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