“No offense, but you kinda dress like a mom” a friend of mine recently told me as she perused my outfit and mentally branded me with the scarlet letter “M”. No offense? Actually, I took a GREAT deal of offense to this statement. I spend quite a bit of time meticulously planning each day’s attire, from hat to hosiery. Absolutely horrified, I gave myself what fashion-conscious girls call the “once-over.” Was there something wrong with my new black toothpick cropped cords? Was my cashmere sweater too conservative? My ballet flats too common? Was my British trench that was casually draped over my shoulders in case of rain too stuffy? How in the world could people mistake this timeless ensemble for “mom” clothes? As clothing trends relentlessly recycle every sartorial idea that each past decade has to offer, certain “classic” pieces never cease to present a certain kind of woman. When donned appropriately, classic clothing can lend an air of good taste and agelessness to their wearer without being too staid.
“Hmmm,” I scratched my head in bewilderment as a teen clad in American Apparel gold lame’ leggings scurried by. This look was clearly the antithesis of the look I was trying to achieve. Filled with self-doubt, I began to question my formerly confident fashion sense. As the week progressed, I experimented with articles of clothing outside of my comfort zone. I tried a pair of lace-up combat boots. I tried wearing a cropped top. I even gave in and purchased a pair of ripped and shredded boyfriend jeans. With each day that passed I felt more uneasy and conspicuous. The following week, I came back full circle and confident enough to embrace my true fashion self: I have come to accept that traditional guidelines inform the way I dress. I like things that match. I like symmetry and classical proportions.
There are some pieces that are enduringly, classically chic. Among those; the perfect white blouse, a pair of tailored trousers, a flattering shift dress, a boat-neck striped “sailor” tee, and a v-neck cashmere cardigan. The trick is to keep those pieces from looking boring. The addition of a pop of color, either in a brightly colored handbag or a scarf will keep your timeless look up to date. Throw in one unexpected piece, whether a wide belt, an oversized pair of sunglasses or a chunky necklace to convey a modern twist to your classic ensemble. Mix it up a bit and no one will ever accuse you of looking frumpy. And most importantly, classic doesn’t have to mean you are turning into your mother. What it does mean is that you will not look back at your college yearbook and cringe at the sight of yourself in high-waisted short-shorts and pink Converse sneakers!