Like I said yesterday, I'm exploring a few of my favorite styles as I think through how I want to show up these days (especially at work). My days look a bit different lately, and this exercise is helping me process this shift in a visual way.  :) 

I'm calling this style dreamy romantic. My version is kinda dreamy on top + grounded on the bottom, since I still need it to perform some physical tasks. Doen is the brand that most inspires me in this direction. They are making some exciting changes by offering more pieces made with GOTS certified organic cotton, looking into regenerative cotton sourcing + offering onsite resale. 

What I'm focusing on with this style is the way a few beautiful tops can elevate blue, black or natural jeans while still giving an air of casual effortlessness. In terms of footwear, I'd add birks, blundstones, clogs or flats to these pairings. The only issue I have with this is style is that it might require the addition of just-the-right cardigan these days...not impossible...just something to consider (bunching sleeves + all). 

While Doen pieces are not inexpensive, it is possible to find them secondhand. They are also good inspiration for sewing tops like Roscoe or a vintage 70's sewing pattern. 

Top + jeans + footwear = simple (+ pretty). Nice.

All lovely photos via Doen.

Love,
Jane

Most of our childhood is stored not in photos,
but in certain biscuits,
lights of day,
smells,
textures of carpet.
~School of Life

I've been thinking through how I want to show up in my life...for people...and at work lately. There is so much to sort out in my mind, but one of the most enjoyable places to explore some of this is with clothing. Silly as that sounds, I feel that it's part of feeling settled in how I show up + the ease with which I can do so.

I've been able to focus in on my personal basics over the years...and with those pieces in place, it is relatively simple to make subtle shifts that feel significant. They might be shifts that no one but me notices...and maybe I like it that way.  :)

The shift from wearing a lightweight button down under a pullover rather than a tee...or wearing mary janes instead of boots with my jeans can change the whole feel of an outfit. It can change my outlook, my posture + my gait. It might provide a more polished option when I take off the sweater, because I'm heating up too.

I'm attracted to a few different styles that can come from some of the same basics. This first one I'm exploring is what I'm calling artistic minimalism. Some of my favorite inspiration in this style comes from Bon. They create the most artistic images...always with a touch of whimsy...out of the most basic shapes.

I think one of the secrets of this style is keeping it very simple. It's not really about layering or accessorizing. Solid colors sing + prints shine because of their rare appearances. An exquisitely cut white button up pairs beautifully with straight jeans and a pair of leather oxfords.  A shapely dress needs nothing more than a pair of simple flats or a red beret. Rennes also does this style particularly well.

The pieces on offer are artistically + fairly made, and the prices are not inexpensive. Often we have similar basics already in our wardrobes + it's more about wearing them with renewed vision + appreciation. Maybe we get the idea that one or two additions might elevate everything + search for a secondhand button up or a new pair of mary janes. (I think that idea is sticking with me.)  :) The lovely shapes can be great inspiration for sewing pieces like Bob pants, Heroine jeans or an Olya shirt too.

Simple always works for me! (It's fair too!)

​All beautiful images via Bon.

Love,
Jane