This post will not be profound, my friends. Not particularly moving, nor insightful. Unless you count outfit insight. Ha. It’s just a post about wearing what I own. What I wore on one particular day. And why I liked it. Why I think it suits my personal style at this point in my life.
Anyway, yesterday I decided that I needed to play around with my white Theory blazer. I haven’t worn it yet this summer. I bought this blazer back in 2019, and wrote a blog post about it back then. You can read that post here if you’re interested, if only to see how I wore it then.
But that was then. And this is now.
Here’s how I styled it yesterday. With my Levi’s 511 mens’ straight-leg jeans, a loose linen muscle shirt-style tank, cream sandals, and my tan Eric Javits straw bag. I like this outfit a lot. It feels like me, and how I want to present myself to the world. Now.
I tried it in different ways before I hit on the combination that felt just right. The linen tank is just slouchy enough, the jeans perfectly casual and loose enough, the sandals just bare enough, and the overall outfit just low-contrast enough to feel right. I almost went without jewellery of any kind, but decided on a tiny pair of turquoise earrings that you can’t see well enough in the photos. They’re almost the exact shade of my vintage bracelet. Which I think adds a small pop of colour.
Just for fun, let’s analyze this outfit according to Allison Bornstein’s three word styling method. Allison says that your first word should describe your “regulars” and be about what you wear often. My first style word is “classic.” I love timeless classic pieces: blazers, loafers, low-heeled boots, turtleneck sweaters.
Allison says your second word should be aspirational, and might even be the opposite of your first word. My second word is “modern” or, to be purely aspirational, “chill or edgy.” I aspire to not be stodgy or stuffy or old-lady-like.
And the third descriptor should be an emotional word, according to Allison. It should describe how you want to feel. Or as she says, “how we want to show up.” I used to think my third word was minimal, but now I think it’s casual. Casual and comfortable in my clothes and in my own skin. I don’t want to have to fuss with my clothes. I don’t want to look as if I’m trying too hard. Perhaps “ease” is a better word. I want to feel at home, at ease in my clothes.
This outfit meets all of my three words in my opinion. I feel great in it. The jacket is, of course, classic. As is the straw bag. Timeless pieces. The jeans and the linen shirt are slouchy enough to be casual, and the combination of slouchy and classic makes the outfit look more modern or chill. The strappy sandals and the sleeves of the jacket pushed up add enough skin to make the outfit more suitable for summer. I also think that the strappy sandals with the slight heel are more ladylike than, say, my Birkenstock ones, and as such are a bit more unexpected with very casual, faded jeans. Along the lines of Allison’s “wrong shoe” theory.
In one of Allison’s Tick Tock videos recently she talks about keeping our three words balanced. Comparing the three words to volume knobs. If one is turned up too loud it can throw off our style balance. We may need to turn the volume down on a particular aspect of our style so our outfits can more accurately express who we are. I like that idea.
That’s often what happens when we’re trying to find an outfit we like, don’t you think? One pair of earrings versus another. Less jewellery or more. A different bag or shoe. All of a sudden the combination looks just right instead of okay. Not so classic as to look corporate and boring, not too casual, not too fussy, not too whatever. I know I have a sweet spot between not classic enough and too classic. And I always know it when I find it. But it sometimes takes trial and error, changing up tops, shoes, bags, or jewellery until I get it right. And I always know when I get there because the outfit feels just right.
And what feels just right for me might not be right for you, or according to you. Because we all have to wear what we feel best expresses who we are. And not how someone else wants to see us.
If you’re interested in watching Allison Bornstein do her styling thing, you might want to watch Christina Mychas’s video consultation with her. You can find it here.
I must say, my friends, that I am having fun wearing what I own this summer. The pressure to look a certain way that doesn’t work for me anymore is just not there. Hasn’t been for some time actually. And the urge to follow trends, which has been dwindling for a few years now, seems gone altogether. Can that be because I have finally resigned myself to not shopping? Except, of course, for that flurry of anxiety over what to wear to my niece’s wedding, I’m not looking for something, whatever that might be, that will solve my fashion problems? The urge to shop the sales, especially the Nordstrom Anniversary sale, seems to have dissipated. I find I am still browsing a bit in stores, still doing some window shopping, still perusing a few brand websites. But I’m just not tempted.
It seems that making up my mind to not buy anything else until the fall is paying dividends. And I look forward to rummaging in my closet and wearing what I own. Don’t get me wrong. I’ve always loved a good closet rummage. I’ve always had fun styling old pieces in new ways. It’s just that these days I look forward to rummaging in my closet without the urge to add to it in some yet to be determined way.
I am in a period of closet contentment, you might say.
And speaking of contentment. That’s the state Hubby and I were in last weekend. After the cake. My oh my… that thing was so chocolatey. I’m experimenting with gluten-free baking, and I made a flourless chocolate, emphasis on the chocolate, cake. It was very rich and delicious. And we had to go lie down after we ate it. Ha.
So now it’s your turn, friends. What have you been up to as we approach the halfway mark of the summer?
Did you ever try the three word method? It’s fun, you know. I made a video of the process I used to identify my three words a year or so back. You can watch it here if you’re interested.
P.S. There are no affiliate links in this post. But if you want to support the blog you can always buy me a coffee. All proceeds go towards blog costs. If you run into trouble with the ap can you let me know, please? We have had a couple of glitches.
62 thoughts on “Wearing What I Own: White Blazer Edition”
I’m 74. Retired from teaching History & Teacher Librarian 6 yrs ago.
Since then worked casually in well known (Australian) clothing boutique.
The pressure to buy something every 6 weeks When new “drop” came out was huge. I did buy and in truth and in a few months they were donated. Boy would I like that money back.
I’m writing this to thank you for grounding me. For making me be sensible, satisfied and more connected with who I am. Thank you also for that reference to Allison.
Thankyou for reminding me for what’s really important in life.
Yes I love a scroll through Pinterest, magazines and a spot of window shopping. However these activities are just that a scroll.
You are most welcome, Krystyna. Glad to be of help. Hope you enjoy Allison’s content. I think she is really good.
I use five words to describe what I want my style to be… classy, casual, comfortable, confident, and authentic. I hadn’t heard the concept of keeping these words in balance before, but it makes sense to me.
I liked the idea. I’ve looked at balancing proportions in an outfit before, but not how one might have too much of one aspect of my style. It’s kind of fun to analyze why some outfits don’t work and others do.
Love the jeans and as I have to buy new jeans am going to give those Levis a try. I like the angular look.
And your sandals are pure classic elegance – to me, they are the things that have lifted that whole ensemble to perfect. A great look. You’re quite the inspiration.
I went through my whole wardrobe today and tried on, folded things and placed them in a bag for charity. Comfort was my number 1 as I’m 9 weeks into recovery after a bowel resection. But I’m 72, so my other two words are classic and colour. By colour, I mean shades that suit my skin and hair.
My wardrobe is now very spare – not sure if that’s good or bad. Time will tell…
Thanks. I liked the more elegant sandals with the really casual jeans. They seem to balance each other. Good luck with your continued recovery, Prue.
As always, I enjoy seeing what you are up to, how your clothes journey is going, and also reading the comments here. I agree with many of the words you and others used to describe your clothing philosophy, but truthfully, we are just home from a month hiking and roaming around Greece, and yesterday was the first day I felt at home.
On brief reflection, in addition to many of the other terms used — classic,, authentic, comfort all fit, but more and more I am also looking for “surprise”! A little extra to add to my outfit that, without being fussy, says “here I am, and I’m a bit diffeent!”
Thanks, as always. Oh, and I will be needing jeans and perhaps the Levis will be the oone. It will call for a long try-on session and it’s too hot right now here in St. Petersburg (Florida.)
Hope the trip went well, Eva. I am liking Levis jeans again for the first time since high school.
First, I love your outfit and yes I have tried the three word method. I got so confused I stopped trying. In all this style analyzing my style seems to have gotten worse rather than better. What I have learned is when you put clothes together you just know when it’s you. I’ve also learned it’s as important to focus on what I don’t want to wear as it is on what I do. For example, I dislike dropped shoulder clothes on me so I don’t wear or buy dropped shoulder things. A style uniform really helps too. I even have a farmer’s market uniform. Boring maybe but these days I don’t need to be entertained by my clothes. When out and about my main objective is to be as put together as possible with the least amount of effort possible. Oh, and I left a comment on YouTube asking if you could go into what is and isn’t included in the 5 rule clothing buy. It would be very helpful.
Great post as always.
I’m still not sure of my three words either, Robyn. I’d like to have five. Besides “classic,” I’d like two aspirational and two emotional words. Or maybe we could just divide our ideas into three categories, and write a description for each which might include several words. I do know that I have to balance classic or elegant pieces with pieces that are more playful or casual. That’s a start.
The outfit you but together would definitely be something I’d copy! It has a slight tension to it. The structured blazer, slightly slouchy tee, just right jeans and the sandals. I asked my daughter, close friend, and husband to describe my style. At times, I can be myopic when it comes to close personal things such as clothes and decor. My daughter said crisp, my friend said fresh, my husband said classic. Those are true but I need balance and a slight edge. Minimal with a slight edge is the best I can come up with. Really, I think the three words can be restrictive. In saying that, it is helpful to have a direction when putting outfits together. All I know is when I wear something that’s works for me I just kind of know it and when I don’t, I feel uncomfortable, and I can let it affect whether I’m having a good time or not. Maybe this is why a uniform is so helpful because I’m guaranteed a good time.😂
I think that friends and family can help somewhat in identifying our three words. But not with the “aspirational” word. I think my friends would NOT realize that I aspire to be a little edgy or chill. But I need to keep the word in mind so I don’t fall back into worrying about being perfectly pressed. A uniform can be so restful, though, can’t it? In university I worked at Shoppers Drug Mart, and the blue uniform pants and top suited me so well, fit me perfectly, and the colour was good. I loved not having to think about what to wear to work. Not sure how I’d have felt about a baggy ill-fitting one, though.
Your post on pulling back on purchases and using what you have has really struck a cord with me. It has me looking at clothes and purchases with an eagle eye. I’m still looking for the “words” but I can be very specific as to people who reflect and influence how I dress now and in the future. They are CBK, Valerie Leberichel-I think you would love her Instagram account, and Emmanuel Alt. CBK has the minimal classic that I love and the other two have a classic but slightly undone quality about them.
I have loved Carolyn Bessett Kennedy’s style for years. I still remember where I was when I heard on the radio that their plane had crashed. Many thanks for the follow recommendations. I think I already follow Ammanuel Alt on IG, but the other name is new to me. I like to see how women dress who do not wear exactly what I wear, but put things together in their own unique way.
Lovely outfit,these pieces always looks good! Especially love your sandals,summer-y ,classic….beautiful heels
I don’t buy anything this summer…..heatwave after heatwave after heatwave,not a pause…..difficult to think
Dottoressa
It’s been too darned hot here as well. Not for extended periods though. After three or four days the heat dissipates and it feels so good.
I haven’t settled on three words to describe my style choices. Maybe relaxed classic and approachable come close. I use minimal accessories and will take a necklace off at the last minute. Since I wear glasses, I don’t feel comfortable wearing earrings. You landed on a look today that allows your personality to shine. I’ve never wanted my clothes to be the first impression entering a room. It’s kinda fun to shop your closet and create an entirely new outfit. That’s much easier to do if you have a more basic, less trendy, wardrobe.
Your chocolate birthday cake looks so yummy!
I went through a period when I wore glasses and I always felt funny wearing big earrings. I had to set aside my big hoops which I’ve always loved.
P.S. We just finished that cake last night. It was sooo rich.
As always, your blog post hits the spot for me….the spot meaning just what I need now. I wish our paths had crossed back when I retired 21 years ago. I got rid of some items that I could still be wearing now and kept others that eventually also made their ways out of my closet. I’m living and learning. I’m also on a “no new purchases” journey. I appreciate you and thank you
Ah, well, Jan, the thing is twenty-one years ago I was fully into shopaholic mode. 🙂
I’ve tried but haven’t come upon three words that describe my style. Definitely classic ( for the most part) and casual. But a third descriptive word…perhaps modern…
Off to explore Allison’s website to see if it gives me more insight.
Hope Allison’s website helps. It’s not easy to narrow the choices down to three. .
Susan you look better every month. You’re timeless!
Thanks so much, Karen. 🙂
You started by saying ” will not be profound, my friends. Not particularly moving, nor insightful”. For me you were all of those. Your outfit was timeless, ageless, modern and oh so cool!.
I often get distracted by the new shinny thing and you reminded me how simple it could be if I stayed focus and true to my style.
Good Blog!!
Thanks, Paula. I too get distracted and have to give myself a good shake. Right now I’m trying to save my last purchase for something fab to wear to my 50th high school reunion.
You look lovely in this outfit. I like the shoes, especially. I have a marathon runner’s feet so sandals are out and I admire pretty toes! The white blazer and top are very fresh. I’m surprised you have found it cool enough to wear jeans, but I recently got back from being overseas so maybe I missed a cooler day.
I’m going through a bit of a renewal process right now with my own style, having not bought much of anything since perhaps 2018. I think some aspects of my personality are working to resurface and I find myself suddenly wanting to change things up a bit. Watching Alison’s video had me pulling out fifteen year-old silver ballet flats that I have on my feet as I write.
I can’t help but instinctively feel guilty for caring so much about clothes, as it seems like such a trivial thing in this crazy world, but I am reminded that how we dress is an expression of how we feel or how we want to feel and so it’s important (no matter what my guilt complexes tell me!).
I find that if my arms are bare and I’m wearing sandals the heat is bearable. And he jacket comes in handy for air conditioning. You have an old pair of silver ballet flats? You are right on trend, girl. 🙂
I know! It’s funny that I have those silver flats. They were one of the first things I bought in Florence when I started traveling there more regularly in 2008. Sadly, the wonderful shoe store where I bought them is now long gone, like many of the beautiful things that once were. The flats are slightly scuffed in front and metallic shoes are something you can’t really polish, but putting them on today made me remember the (closer to) young woman I was then. I remember tripping along the streets of Florence and getting compliments from my art classmates.
There are certain items of clothing from my past that I wish I still had if only to remind me of a particular time in my life.
It’s not fair to leave us drooling over the cake and not share the recipe – please do!!!
It’s from a website called “Delish”, Gail. And it’s called “Flourless Chocolate Cake.”
Classic, fresh and vibrant are my three style words. All apply to my current closet which I’m rethinking thanks to your recent blogs. I’ve always been classic. Fresh is my aspirational take on modern – especially taking an updated eye to what I already have. I tend to reach for the same combinations, saving my best for ‘special’ occasions. Every day is special now. Vibrant applies to color and spirit. I’m intentionally selecting my most flattering colors and have received compliments. Vibrant keeps me excited about this stage of life, which is often challenging on many levels.
P.S. I took a complete pass on the Nordstrom anniversary sale, too. A big step in shopping my closet!
Whatever we can do to stay excited about life is good for me. Especially when it gets challenging. 🙂
The Levi outfit looks perfect. Love the shoes and bag too.
Thanks, Linda. 🙂
Your outfit is perfect. Loving this shopping from your closet series.
Thanks, Frances. 🙂
Wow Sue! This is YOUR outfit, yes to everything you’re wearing! Those sandals are perfect, honestly you could go anywhere and wear this!
As for what we’re doing half way through summer….we both have Covid. Absolutely the sickest we’ve been in years. We’ve never had it and this varient is really unpleasant. I am at day 7 and only mild abatement of symptoms which are: no taste, no smell, headaches from hell, the worst congestion,burning mouth(!) aches & pains, fever and to top it off..stomach upset aka nausea and diarrhea!
Stay safe all during your travels this year, it’s still out there waiting and mutating…word on the street is that this number is highly contagious. I will be masking in crowded places as soon as I’m out and about.
Oh no…that’s too bad. And in all this darned heat. I hope you turn a corner soon, my friend.
Your outfit definitely hits the sweet spot of your style descriptors. Casual but classic.
I’ve bought very little this season other than replacements for a couple of items which have been relegated to the rag bag. To be honest not much has appealed when I have gone for a browse around the shops. Perhaps I am just being more selective.
A big Antarctic polar blast due this week so I think it might be an indoors week with books, crossword puzzles, knitting and watching some of the Olympic games accompanied by hot tea or soup. Think my style word for the week might have to be cosy.
I long for cosy. It’s been very hot here. But I’ll be saying the opposite in February, so I mustn’t grumble. 🙂
Thanks for your lovely stories. Like your husband mine was raised by a father in RCAF . He too travelled around living in Ottawa and France with many school changes. He was 18 years older than me( I am your age). We too travelled extensively. After almost 24 years of marriage he passed away last week. His name was Ed Gillespie. Cherish all the moments you have with your husband as you never know when it will end. I only added my husbands name as your husband may have known him.
I’m sorry for your loss Bonita . Welcome to Sue’s group of friends here
Wendy
Thanks Wendy I love all of the emails and all of the comments. I look forward to the meet week.
I’m so sorry to hear about your husband, Bonita. I think about that possibility often…of losing my husband suddenly. Hope you are doing okay.
P.S. I asked Stu about your husband but he said his name didn’t sound familiar. Stu’s dad was stationed in Marville, France from 1958-62. It’s hard for the families of military personnel. Sure, they get to travel the world if they’re lucky. But sometimes at the expense of making lifelong friends.
Hi Sue
Ed’s father John(Jack)Gillespie was stationed in Metz France. Probably a few years before Stu’s dad.
Keep up the great work with all of your posts I live in Alberta and I am always happy to hear from other Canadians.
Perfect outfit , forgettable in a good way . I agree about adjusting the volume for balance . Once you’ve got the balance you can forget what you are wearing & relax , & confidence is very attractive . It’s an ageless outfit too , could be worn by a seventeen year old but just as good on you . I’d have to dip out of the sandals though as toe posts have always crippled me for some reason .
PS Must say , after checking your latest Instagram post , life on the river looks very interesting 😲
Toe posts are the only way I can actually keep a pair of sandals on my feet. Otherwise my skinny foot just slides right on through and out onto the pavement. Ha.
P.S. With respect to the “action” on the river. The next morning we were having our morning tea on the deck. I was still in my nightie. We were laughing about my encounter the previous day and Stu said if I wanted to give it a try, I could take off my nightie and he’d go get the canoe in the water. The visual image of me topless trying to gyrate and keep my balance in a canoe was so hilarious I almost choked on my tea. It’s good to laugh first thing in the morning, I always find. Ha.
Max says all you need are some outriggers & you’re all set ( I now know what they are ) 😁
Ha. Yeah, right. 🙂
My 3 words are:-
1. Natural
2.Comfortable
3. Dramatic
Treasure your husband💖 – mine died suddenly, unexpectedly, after a bike ride….. aged…50.
You look very pretty in your outfit.
Cherry 🍒
I will, Cherry. I’m sorry to hear about your husband. And at age 50. That’s so young. 🙁
This is the only blog I read for the comments as well as the content. Such an interesting, engaged community!
Thanks, Lisa. The comments are great, aren’t they. 🙂
I like the 3 words method. I have always been a shopper but now more of a window shopper, aka Pinterest and blogs 😊
Yes, a challenge to recreate an outfit with clothes I have already paid for! Occasionally I update or add but small items.
Thanks, love visiting with you
Thanks, Jes. I do most of my “window shopping” on my exercise bike. 🙂
Have you seen the outfit Nicole Kidman wore in Paris? It is almost just like the one you purchased for the wedding? You are cutting edge! Maybe you should add that as a style descriptor? 😉
I did see that. Wish I could still rock the midriff-baring look. Ha. She looked wonderful. Edgy and still very classy.
Would you mind sharing a link to your linen top?
Lovely outfit!!!
It’s called a muscle shirt. But it’s very old and Vince doesn’t make it anymore. There’s a similar one at Everlane here. https://www.everlane.com/products/womens-air-muscle-tee-white?collection=womens-tees
Thank you! I’ll keep an eye out at Vince too.
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