The other day as I was looking through Gwyneth Paltrow’s blog GOOP, I found an amazingly clever post about her “daily uniform.” GOOP is always chock full of great information, and this post was no different. I loved not only the way Gwyneth went about explaining her concept of the daily uniform and how she got started wearing one, but also what goes into putting her daily uniform together. I have to admit though, that as a lover of fashion from an early age (at five I started bawling my eyes out, not because I had to stay in the hospital, but because I had to wear a hospital gown) the idea of a uniform threw me off at first. Doesn’t it seem a bit restricting, especially when there are so many options out there?
Maybe, but then I started thinking about what my uniform would be if I had one and I actually had a lot of fun putting one together. It made me think about the pieces in my wardrobe that I love, that are comfortable, and that I could build off of. It was a great creative exercise and I think by having done this, it will be easier on those “I don’t have anything to wear!” days. Now I can just throw on my uniform. I also think that having a uniform will make it easier to pack lightly when I travel. I know to start with those key pieces, and then build off of them with fun accessories. Also, if I ever need to clean out my closet, I know which things to hold on to and which pieces I can live without.
After putting together my own uniform, my thoughts about them have changed completely. I now find having a uniform can actually be quite liberating. Obviously, you’re not restricted to it every day, but having it to pull out whenever you need it is a huge help. Here’s the fall uniform that I came up with. I’m sure it will change some from season to season, but this seems to be a great starting place!
1) My uniform starts with a great pair of “matchstick” jeans in a dark wash that can be dressed up or down (JCrew $98).
2) Next is a basic blouse in a neutral with a little bit of fun detailing (Both tops are from Anthropologie, Left: Chambray Tunic $88; Right: Dewpoint Blouse $68).
3) Shoes can change with my mood or for the occasion so I stuck with three pairs that could work for any situation. Flats are great for everyday and I love that these add a pop of color (Repetto Ballet Flats $252). Motorcycle boots make me feel tough (Frye Motorcycle Boots $300 – mine are of the $30 flea market variety) and black suede ankle boots give off a sophisticated vibe (JCrew $250).
4) I added a basic bag in a light neutral that helps to brighten up the outfit, and is big enough to tote everything I need (Kate Spade $395).
5) This wool wrap in “sweet papaya” adds some much needed color (and a bit of warmth!) to an otherwise neutral outfit (JCrew $50).
6) Delicate accessories add a bit of sparkle, but are still suitable for everyday wear (Filigree Necklace: Forever21 $5; Teardrop Earrings: Nordstrom $350).
Collage made with Polyvore
Collage made with Polyvore
3 comments:
This is such a great post. It’s funny, I’ve heard that most women wear 20% of their wardrobe 80% of the time. It seems like many women have a uniform and may not even know it. If we take this "uniform" that we all have (for me: jeans, white T-shirt and cardigan...) and consciously come up with a daily uniform like you did here, we can take our go-to pieces from “just out of the closet” to right off the runway. Thanks for sharing!
I love your blog it is great
I think my "uniform" these days might need a little revamping... I like yours though!
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