I have a bit of a confession to make: when I first started blogging (and for a good while after, actually), I would quite often buy things largely “for the blog”. What I mean by that is that it was customary for me to strongly consider how standout of a piece it would be and how it would photograph, and that would be at the forefront of many purchasing decisions. That obviously wasn’t a very good way to shop, and as a result I ended up with a closet full of things that I truthfully didn’t really like all that much.

I think that’s a lot of what began to subconsciously drive my “Buy Less, Choose Well” mentality, and the desire to get back to the essence of why I wanted to blog in the first place. I’m happy to report that I now know better (for the most part), and at the risk of coming across as “boring”, now consider wardrobe longevity and classic appeal much more than the former criteria. The thought of building a uniform, of sorts, with classics and some unique pieces that are truly appreciated is more important to me now, and that includes pieces like the basics in this outfit.


Wearing: Joe Fresh top, Club Monaco skirt, Aritzia vest, Saint Laurent clutch, Zara pumps, House of Harlow 1960 sunglasses

Photos by Paul Milaire and Roderick Fung

The next item on the Closet Essentials list can be a bit of tricky one: it’s a simple piece, but – if my personal experience is of any indication – finding a good one can require a lot of searching. The “perfect” white shirt is completely individual, based on your body type, style, and needs. And although the process is long, the end result is completely worth it: the right piece will be a complete classic in your wardrobe, giving off the most easy, chic vibe. Paired with black cigarette pants, ballet flats and a swipe of red lipstick, it’s the perfect, effortless Audrey Hepburn-esque look for those days when you just don’t want to think about what to wear.

SHOP 1 | 2 | 3

See more “Buy Less, Choose Well” posts here.
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