As we welcome 2024, it’s the perfect moment to rethink how we build wardrobes that truly reflect our unique style. While some might view this as a tired topic, the passage of time continues to reshape our cultural and aesthetic sensibilities in ways that are often surprising. Thus, the conversation around personal style remains as vital as ever.
Take Hedi Slimane and Saint Laurent, for example. They dominated the scene with skin-tight jeans for years, but the tides changed with the emergence of looser fits, influenced by designers like Raf Simons.
A decade or two ago, fashion advice was straightforward: invest in timeless pieces that have stood the test of time. Fast forward to 2012, and the older generations' styles began to feel rigid and outdated, prompting a shift towards a more relaxed and adventurous aesthetic.
In today’s landscape, durability in clothing must accompany emotional durability. We’re not merely talking about sustainable fashion but a sustainable style ethos that combats the fear of obsolescence. No designer can claim absolute superiority in aesthetics anymore; everyone curates their community. For those new to the world of fashion, the abundance of options can be overwhelming, making it hard to discern timeless pieces from fleeting trends.
However, don’t fret; the age-old wisdom of prioritizing quality over quantity still holds. In this evolving era, it’s about building a wardrobe filled with pieces you genuinely love and wear frequently, tying your emotions to each item.
For instance, my go-to essentials include a classic gray sweater from Asket, raw denim from A.P.C., and my well-loved Common Projects sneakers. They may not be brand new, but my experiences with them create an emotional connection that elevates their value.
Embrace Emotion
While selecting high-quality items is crucial for a sustainable wardrobe, fostering emotional connections with each piece enhances your commitment to them. Invest in brands that resonate with your style and have stories to tell.
An item that proves versatile, consistently aiding in daily outfit coordination will outlast many others by far.
Whether it’s preppy staples like Oxford shirts or a sporty aesthetic with comfortable sweatshirts, curate your wardrobe based on personal significance. My eclectic style leans towards basics, minimalism, workwear, and tailored pieces, including Breton tees, classic white shirts, raw denim, and versatile sneakers.
Choose Items That Age Well
Steering clear of bargain-bin buys can save you from disappointment. Fast fashion often results in items that pill and lose shape quickly. In contrast, investing in high-quality materials - like soft calfskin jackets or full-grain leather shoes - allows your pieces to develop a beautiful patina over time. This transformation is a testament to their quality and your journey with them.
Find Joy in Your Clothes
Shopping shouldn’t just be about practicality; it should evoke joy. A well-fitted piece made from quality materials becomes invaluable when paired with emotional resonance. Following the wisdom of tidying expert Marie Kondo, aim to keep only those items that truly “spark joy” in your life.
Borrowing the words of Marie Kondo, the expert in decluttering, you wouldn't want to bring home an item that doesn’t spark joy.
Take Your Time
Building a wardrobe is a journey that unfolds over several years. Expect to make mistakes along the way, but each misstep contributes to a deeper appreciation of your style. Focus on what excites you and boosts your confidence - these insights are crucial for future purchases.
Building a wardrobe isn't something you can complete overnight; it takes 5-7 years of experience, mistakes, and bumps along the way before you can truly appreciate what you have.
Forge Connections
The best way to bond with your clothes is to wear them, creating memorable experiences. Whether it's a jacket accompanying you on travels or a pair of sneakers that supported you through your first job, these connections foster loyalty to your wardrobe.
When people share a personal connection with objects, they tend to stay attached to them for much longer.
Be Confident in Your Unique Style
The greatest advantage of personal style is the opportunity to invest in yourself rather than mimicking others. New clothes may initially bring excitement, but cultivating joy in your existing pieces is essential. If you feel great in a leather jacket, for instance, others will notice your confidence, not the age of your clothing. Over time, that jacket might even become a signature item for you.
If you feel good and confident in a leather jacket, the next time you wear it, no one will think, "This guy is wearing old clothes!"
Men’s fashion has dramatically evolved since the early 2000s, allowing for diverse aesthetic expressions. Gone are the days of rigid guidelines; today, we can build wardrobes with an open mindset, exploring various styles to find what resonates with us.
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