Beyond Trends: My Style Manifesto for 2024
From Experimentation to Elevation: My Wardrobe's Transformation Journey
No time to read? Listen to the post audio!
As the seasons change, so too does our spirit of reinvention, it’s a perfect catalyst for molding not just our environment but the very essence of our personal style. As I embrace this transformative journey, I find myself stepping into the new year armed with not just new aspirations but a refined blueprint for how to move forward in my wardrobe evolution.
But before I take another step forward let’s go back to 2020. After I cleaned out my closet I felt free. Whatever tickled my fancy I bought and because of that I considered that time a truly experimental phase. I purchased clothes and shoes promoted by my favorite fashion influencers. I tried different styles, cuts, silhouettes & colors I wouldn’t normally buy. And the lessons gleaned from those past purchases serve as invaluable foundation upon which I aim to build a more intentional and stylish wardrobe.
If building a wardrobe one piece at a time is the philosophy; my fashion manifesto for 2024 is serving as the guardrails. It's a declaration of my commitment to not only refine my aesthetic but to cultivate a wardrobe that truly reflects who I am and aspire to be. These are my priorities for this year.
Fabrics and Construction: Many of those 2020 pieces had buttons that easily popped off, stitching that came apart causing hems to fall, fabrics that pilled and colors quickly. So, in response I’m delving deeper into the world of textiles and garment construction. My new focus is to elevate my wardrobe with pieces that not only look good but are built to last. This priority was inspired by linen. I love linen but linen loves wrinkles and I hate ironing. So I want to understand natural and synthetic fabrics and fabric blends and know which one’s will work for me and my lifestyle.
Garment Care: I have a newfound respect for the clothes I own and because of that I will be investing time in their care. Proper maintenance, from adhering to washing instructions to seeking professional repairs and alterations, will ensure my clothes remain in pristine condition for longer. I have found a shoe repair shop and I will be adding an alterations shop to my arsenal.
Mindful Online Shopping: Transforming my online shopping habits, I now prioritize detailed descriptions over mere aesthetics. This shift not only aids in making more informed purchases but helps in visualizing how each piece might complement my unique body type. How clothes look on a model may make me click on the listing but the information in the description and details will confirm if I put it in my cart.
In-store Diligence: By slowing down and embracing the try-on process, I ensure that each piece not only fits but flatters. This mindful approach to shopping in physical stores enhances the personal connection to my selections.
Color Consciousness: Adopting a color palette that resonates with my personal style will streamline my wardrobe, making it both cohesive and versatile. This strategy simplifies mixing and matching, allowing for endless outfit possibilities. I learned that colors that create contrast with my skin and hair look the best on me so I’m prioritizing pieces that fit that criteria.
Accentuating with Accessories: Recognizing the transformative power of accessories, I plan to infuse my wardrobe with pieces that can effortlessly alter the vibe of an outfit. This year, I vow to give accessories the attention they deserve, elevating even the simplest ensembles to new heights.
Proportion and Fit: Embracing my unique silhouette, I aim to select garments that flatter my proportions right off the rack, minimizing the need for alterations. This conscious approach not only ensures a better fit but celebrates my individuality. I want alterations to be the edge case not the rule. I’m doing that by paying more attention to measurements. I’ll give you an example due to my height I fit in the petite category for most brands but I usually buy clothes that fit into the regular category. Not anymore.
Honest Purchasing: With a clearer understanding of my personal style and lifestyle needs, my shopping habits will reflect a realistic rather than idealistic vision of myself. This commitment to authenticity ensures that each addition to my wardrobe serves a purpose and resonates with my true self. In the past I purchased pieces on a whim, but deep down inside know they were not me and I have no idea where I was going to wear it. If I had been honest with myself I would have been able to talk myself out of the emotions make that made me feel like I had to have it.
A manifesto is a powerful declaration of one's intentions, beliefs, or motives, guiding actions and decisions towards a cohesive goal. In the context of building a wardrobe, a fashion manifesto acts as a north star, keeping one focused on cultivating a collection that not only reflects personal style but also supports a sustainable and intentional approach to fashion. It is a reminder of the values and aspirations that underpin our choices, ensuring that each addition to our wardrobe brings us closer to the ideal version of ourselves.
What’s your vision for your personal style this year, and how do you plan to manifest it? Share your thoughts, dreams, or even your own style manifesto with us. Let's inspire each other towards a year of intentional fashion and self-expression.