We all know that I love a great contradiction- they tend to make life and outfits a but more interesting. Yet. As much as I do, I also sometimes catch myself being a bit “rigid” in my outfit thinking. It’s not that I am not open to experiment or try things on; but that I will pigeon hole items. For example, thinking of pairing vintage with vintage, labeling things “trendy”, not believing certain cuts will go together or look good on me. And that’s going in with this huge love of contradictions and the unexpected.
This is where I could give you a long story and chat all about how to overcome that in-the-box thinking, and tips for playing around with your outfits. How to be brave in your choices. But really? The big secret is to try things on. (And yes, stay open minded and all the things) But–so often it simply comes down to trying things out. Or on. While that doesn’t seem big or revolutionary, I do have some tips on how to make trying things on a bit more comfortable. So that when you get dressed and try something “new” you get the best of both worlds.
Speaking of best of both worlds? This outfit is a vintage skirt and a cropped bikini top. I do love swimwear as streetwear, and vintage is the foundation of my closet – this combination was a bit of a reach for me. I was inspired by the 60s and Palm Springs, and yet I worried that this would be a bit much- or because of the cuts be unflattering. In getting dressed, and styling this skirt I kept coming back to this pairing, something about it making me think it would be a fun twist. Finally, I had to give in and try it out/on- and I am so glad that I did, as it really is the best of both (vintage and swim and 60s and Palm Springs!)
So, how do you get from trying things on to the best of both? (Again, besides trying it on).
-Spend some time in your closet. And spend time in media (that’s everything from movies to social media to books, etc) that inspires you. Naturally you’ll come up with ideas and pairings, be open to matching things in your closet, and find you can make your own inspirational outfits.
This is the part where you then try it on.
And then my big tip?
-Give yourself time to be in your try on. If it’s an outfit that is a big leap for you (like a crop top for example), give yourself a time limit. Run an errand- but make it short so you can change if needed.But spend some time, move around, let people see you.
For example, in the outfit above I ran to the grocery store. It may not sound exciting- but it is a good runway! I am so glad I did- as this best of both worlds outfit has become a go-to!
What are some of your best of both outfits? How do you experiment with your closet to get there? I would love to hear all about it!
While this skirt is vintage, I did find you similar and linked them below! XO RA
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