By: Alex Damiano
So there was a time when I refused to be caught in anything remotely… “basic.” I know what a horribly cringey term. It’s a terrible term when being used negatively in fashion because let’s be real, any pieces of clothing have the potential to be anything but basic.
I once wore the most obscure outfit to my retail job. I’m talking full-on peplum top that was one deep breath away from bursting off my body.
Spiritually, this is how I felt.
And what did it do for me? Physically, it gave me a panic attack. Emotionally, it taught me the valuable lesson of trying that hard can be exhausting. So if you, or a loved one, have also suffered from fashion-induced impostor syndrome, thinking you have to do the most in order to be the best, then keep reading. This one’s for you.
Now let’s talk the pandemic, there weren’t any positives to come out of the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, but it did affect the fashion industry. During the storm of loungewear and lockdowns, people somehow got smarter with their style along the way. With the rise of remote work and staying home, fashion started its shift from runway absurdity to practical chic. According to a 2022 article in the journal, Cleaner and Responsible Consumption, consumers began to prioritize minimalism and comfort in their wardrobes. There was even a rise in the trend labeled “slob chic” which is the art of mixing your favorite sweatpants with your most professional blazer for a “business casual” from home look.
And the best part? People started shopping in their own closets. Turns out, when fashion isn’t seen as a ‘necessity,’ creativity rears its glorious head. And I mean, can we just take a quick moment to applaud the sustainability?
But prioritizing comfort doesn’t mean anyone took the easy way out. If anything, it proved just how adaptable fashion is. This new wave of dressing down didn’t make people any less of individuals, it just changed how we show it. But there are always ways to elevate a look. And the easiest way to do it? Accessorize. Accessorize. Accessorize.
Because let’s be honest, an outfit isn’t really an outfit without the finishing touches. Accessories are the simplest way to elevate any look, especially when your clothes read as “laid-back luxe.” So, throw on your comfortably stylish fit and then ask yourself the most important question of the day: What kind of vibe am I going for?
For When You’re Feeling Bold
Fashion is a confidence boost, it’s a way of communicating something deeply personal with the world: who you are. And, yes, I get it, that can be very difficult. But on the days that you are ready to let the world in, these accessories will help you speak volumes without having to utter a word.
Think: oversized shades, bold color blocking, chunky jewelry, stacks of bangles, a brisk morning stroll listening to your ‘main character’ playlist.
For When You’re Feeling Grounded
In a world constantly trying to pull your attention from every direction, finding your personal style can feel like chasing smoke. Sometimes you need to just pause and feel rooted. These are for the low-key days when you’re one with the universe.
Think: earthy tones, minimalist jewelry, woven totes, hints of linen, delicate hair pieces, sipping a matcha in a park on a sunny weekday.
For When You’re Feeling Powerful
Whether it be work, a meeting, or stepping into the shoes of power until you realize just how capable you are of it, these accessories aren’t just additions, they’re declarations. These items don’t just make you look good, they remind everyone that you didn’t just walk into the room, but that you own it. She is beauty, she is brains, and can make the show hers.
Think: silk scarves, structured leather bags, blue-light glasses, leather watch, pointed-toe shoes, the echo of your heels walking down a hallway.
For When You’re Feeling Playful
I hate the word boring, because there is no such thing with clothes. But this section? Not for toned-down moods. This is for the days when you want to be seen. When you want to prove how playfulness does not just come with the hands of avant-garde pieces, it can be all in the accessories.
Think: Y2K hair clips, charm bracelets, jelly shoes, costume jewelry, thick eyeliner, a dance party by yourself in front of the mirror – come play, if you dare.
So, whether you’re dressing for some good old fun, to ground yourself, or to conquer any mission, keep in mind: your style cannot be put into any type of box and surely isn’t ever going to be ‘basic.’ Trends come and they go, but owning accessories that can grow with you and your vibe? That’s special. That’s how you own your closet. Now go accessorize like your life depends on it, because your outfit sure does.