The allure of collecting timeless pieces and building a quality wardrobe has become more appealing to me every day (especially with sustainability on the rise in the fashion industry). Instead of filling my closet up with the latest trends, I’ve been increasingly selective and intentional about what I’m adding. But is this really feasible and necessary when they’re so many emerging brands and every season a new line is released? There’s something about selecting high-quality pieces and owning ones you’ll wear consistently that make your collection that much better; meaning less clutter and no items become stale or easily forgotten. I believe over time it’s also something you become proud of, too – think of it like your own capsule collection. 

One of the things I’m working towards this year is cutting down on my shopping habits. Being a blogger and having to “shop” for a living can be amazing, but sometimes it justifies impulse purchases that I simply do not need… So where do you start? 

1. Start with a thorough scan of your closet, get rid of the items you’ve forgotten about (take it to your local consignment shop or donate), hold onto your favorite ones and build from there. Take your favorite pieces to a great seamstress to revamp, mend or refresh, but more on that later…

2. Only buy what you love and be honest with yourself when you ask this question. Does this #sparkjoy? It’s fine to let go of fast-fashion because hey, it’s OK to re-wear what you love again and again. Plus, sustainability is a real issue (something I’m working on little by little), which will help better the environment today and set the tone for the future. 

3. Aim for neutrals because they go with practically everything and add a new level of chic. For me, this means handbags. It’s a wonderful feeling when you find a high-quality, accessible luxury handbag brand that’s already made to stand the test of time. And Brahmin has simply taken the cake on this one, they believe “beautiful things take time to create and that they should last even longer.” Their integrity and eye behind each design has been something I’ve been inspired by – it’s perfect to pair with the rest of my looks (like my latest here and here) and adds a statement with a pop of class. My Brynn in Pecan Melbourne has come in handy, literally, as a solid neutral I’ve been pairing with my current and upcoming looks.

4. Be prepared to spend (in most cases) and start off slow. Why? Quality usually comes with a price tag because you’re paying for luxury material used to make an item truly last over the years (decades and more). A great way to invest in these pieces is to include it in your budget (i.e. maybe save $50 a week so that once you reach the amount of the item you’ve been eyeing, go ahead and make that intentional purchase). 

5. Know your body! Know what works for your height and frame because the pieces you select should enhance it. Being petite, I know there are certain things to keep an eye out for when I shop. I accessorize strategically, usually aiming for smaller luxury handbags so they don’t overwhelm my frame. I consider its shape and size along with where I’m going. I’ll only wear smaller bags, unless I’m traveling, because if I use an oversized tote everyday, it may look like I’m struggling and appear even shorter. On the other hand, if I use a medium to small size bag (crossbody like this one or wristlet pouchette like this one) it’ll balance out my proportion beautifully. Brahmin is a brand I’ve bookmarked for this reason, too.

Xo, Stephanie

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