My fiancé’s the optimistic one; I’m the realist. He finds the good in bad outcomes, including #2020 where he famously says, “at least you’ve discovered what matters most to you this year.” And he’s right. Never in my wildest dreams would fashion feel…at times…irrelevant to me? Ok, maybe “irrelevant” is a strong word. Perhaps the right choice is “practical” or maybe “honesty.” 

I’ll admit, unlike most of the country (fiancé included) spending 8 hours a day on Zoom calls, I’m (fortunately!) still styling, steaming, shooting content (sometimes at home) and writing until the wee hours of the night. The biggest difference between now and 2019 being relevance. A lot of, “can I wear red lipstick with a face mask?” or “is this too over-the-top?” to “should I retire this exuberant dress and opt for sweatpants?” 

In last month’s Life As I Know It, I talked about moving and how throughout this transition I’ve longed for honest clothing because “change is scary” and comfy sweaters and billowy dresses (frankly speaking) feel safe while I adjust to my new surroundings. The kind of pieces I can jump into at home and wear walking around the neighborhood – underrated, covetable classics (fitting for all seasons) that act as a continuation of my recent “toned down style.” 

Clothing today, I’ve learned, needs to be easy. There’s a time and place for something “a bit more fun” like bouncy ruffles and fantasy prints (hello, #2021). For now, I’m all about clean styling, practicality and lots of neutral tones. Striking a balance between “basics” with “classics you can restyle a million ways,” like this tan blazer from Nordstrom to everyday gold earrings (love this design too).  

And then there’s fall. Scratch that – fall in Florida, which complicates things because it’s still hot. Though a pant suit is nice, it doesn’t make sense here. At least right now. Despite the continued humidity, I’m all about light layering with silk blouses (like this or this) because they effortlessly transition into fall…winter…spring…and summer. The same could be said about my lightweight blazer (also eyeing this color), matching it with tan shorts, and a vintage inspired double-ring belt to cinch in my waistline. I call this “layerable investments,” a recurring theme in my shopping cart this season as I scroll Nordstrom Made Brands, the perfect destination to refresh your fall style and update your closet staples. 

Pieces like these make it so much easier to integrate into a future wardrobe and pair nicely with pieces I already own. The opportunity to restyle them is truly endless. Besides, fashion doesn’t always need to be so complicated; it can be easy too…while we reconnect…readjust…reassess what matters most. 

Xo, Stephanie 

PS: If you aren’t already part of The Nordy Club, don’t forget to sign up before shopping. Being a member allows you to earn points toward Nordstrom Notes to spend on future purchases, complimentary shipping and returns, Curbside Pick-up, and so much more.  

*UPDATE: Since publishing this story, I wore red lipstick and (sigh) did it feel good.