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Why You Should Stop Following Trends: A Guide to a Classic, Timeless Wardrobe

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Fairfield chapter.

In this day and age, trends can change before you even get a chance to try them out. It’s simply impossible to keep up with every trend. Your new (and expensive) suede skirt might be in today, but who knows its fate come spring. The concept of “fast fashion” encapsulates the idea of trends quickly and constantly moving from runway to retailer. It highlights short-term trends, as opposed to classic style. Despite what you may have thought, trendy doesn’t always mean stylish. To create a classic and timeless wardrobe, there are some key things you need to consider when shopping and developing your own personal style.

Less is MoreYou may have heard it before, but it’s true, quality over quantity. Choosing a few quality pieces, rather than a lot of lower quality ones will contribute to a collection that will last you for years. For items such as jeans, choose great quality material that won’t fade after a few washes, and that fit your body perfectly. Same thing for well-made leather booties that you can transition from fall to winter for years to come. Don’t be afraid to invest in things that you will have for years down the line and wear a million different ways. Quick tip: don’t be tempted by sales. Sometimes that shirt that you would never even consider buying at its full price somehow lures you in when it’s 50% off. Don’t fall victim to the hard to resist “last chance, lowest prices of the season” sale.

Classic Doesn’t Mean BoringMost times when people think classic, they think jeans and a plain t-shirt, but that definitely is not the case. Classic can come in the form of distressed boyfriend jeans, or an oversized fur vest. If it is something you know you will want to wear for a while, and be able to wear it various ways, it’s classic. Mix and match staple pieces with more funky statement pieces to keep it interesting.

Aim for ComfortA timeless wardrobe is comprised of clothes that you feel comfortable in. Clothes that you want to keep around for a while should be ones you feel most confident in. After all, the key to any good outfit is confidence. Those flared pants won’t look, as great if you’re not comfortable in them, but neither will your simple jeans. Moral of the story, comfort is key.

You Do YouIn the end, no other trend or style fits you better than your own. Find your own style and what you like first, and then base your wardrobe off of that. If something is “you” it never goes out of style; personal style is timeless.

Now all of this isn’t to say to stop buying anything that’s trendy. Just keep these tips in mind when on the look out for new clothes. When you’re temped by the trendy displays of Zara, Topshop and H&M, don’t let your urges takeover. Trends come and go, and no one wants that “what was I thinking?!” moment, nor a messy closet clean out after every season. 

Megan is a Fairfield University freshman majoring in international business.  She has a love for all things fashion. Born on Long Island, but a NYC wannabe. 
Pamela is currently in her senior year at Fairfield Univerity where she is majoring in management. In her free time she enjoys working out, spending time with friends and family and binge watching reality television. *guilty*.... Follow her on instagram! @pamelagrant