My Favourite Outfits in 2017
I thought I’d take a look at some of my favourite outfits in 2017, to see where my style is going. Because style, like most things in life, is not static; it evolves over time, as our lifestyles and priorities change.
Of course, trends influence personal style, as do all the stylish people we see in the media (or social media). And yes, age influences personal style, too.
No, I’m not advocating ‘age-appropriate’ dressing. I’m simply pointing out that now, in my 50s, I would not wear most of the clothes I used to wear in my 20s. Well, I was a fashion student back then, so I used to wear pretty crazy stuff…
The way age changes personal style, at least in my case, is that I look for clothes that are more sophisticated, chic and better quality. I wear less fast fashion and spend more money on my clothes, but I also expect them to last longer and look classier. However, age has not changed the core elements of my style. I’ve just found new ways of interpreting these core elements.
So, what are the core elements of my style?
That’s what listing these ‘favourite outfits’ can tell me. And looking at these pictures now, it is very clear that there are, indeed, certain elements that I’m drawn to.
1. Understated chic and relaxed shapes
Minimalism is my game: clean lines and simple shapes have always appealed to me. And no, minimalism does not mean sack-like clothes in ugly colours. Instead, it means clothes that are functional and comfortable.
I definitely seem to gravitate towards more comfortable cuts and casual styles recently. Maybe it’s the whole Scandi Cool thing, going back to my ‘roots’, so to speak. Maybe it’s the mid-life body that doesn’t like to be pinched and constricted. I don’t know, but it’s clear that I feel most at ease in clothes that not only feel comfortable but also look both understated and sophisticated at the same time.
2. Simpler, muted colour schemes
No, I won’t be switching to neutrals: I’m well aware of what colours do and do not suit me. But I seem to be experimenting with darker, less in-your-face colours these days. Softer, more muted colours may well be my version of neutrals: they don’t scream for attention but they ooze class and sophistication. And let’s not forget that – unlike real neutrals – they compliment my skin tone.
3. High-impact Accessories
Less is more, that’s my motto. But I also want to make the ‘less‘ as high-impact as possible. In other words, I may limit the number of accessories, but the accessories I do wear must be something special. And by special I mean that they make their presence known. You know, shout ‘notice me‘. The whole point of having a very understated outfit is to use it as a backdrop for a little detail that becomes the centre of attention.
Right, looking at these photos, it’s clear that I have not only a favourite striped top but also a favourite pair of earrings…
Original posts, from the top:
Brown Leather with Burgundy Stripes, Utility and Stripes, Cool and Chic,
Spring ‘Uniform’, Dressing Like a Fashionista, Punk Rock Accessories
What are the core elements of your style?
Tiina
Linking up with:
Not Dead Yet Style, Elegantly Dressed and Stylish, Garay Treasures, High Latitude Style, The Pleated Poppy, Style Elixir, A Labour of Life, Doused in Pink, Curly Crafty Mom, Fashion Should Be Fun, Rachel the Hat, Sincerely Jenna Marie, More Pieces of Me, Color and Grace, The Wardrobe Stylist, Not Dressed As Lamb, Style Nudge, Coco et La Vie en Rose, Living on Cloud Nine, A Well Styled Life, Elegance and Mommyhood. Posh Classy Mom, Nancy’s Fashion Style, Shelbee on the Edge Over 50 Feeling 40 A Pocketful of Polka Dots Style Splash, The Fashionista Momma, Tina’s Pink Friday, Fake Fabulous. Lazy daisy Jones, Vanity and Me, Sheela Writes, Jodie’s Touch of Style, Glass of Glam
what a great recap!, I've liked to read your post and ideas about how style evolves. As a huge fan of comfort, I do admire your minimalistic style, and love how you accessorize it with a personal touch. And you rock those magenta and purple shades!besos
Thanks, Monica. I find I'm getting even more of a minimalist the older I get. Or maybe I'm just getting lazier…
You have discovered a style that works for you and it's both distinctive and attractive. Lucky you! I'm years away from figuring out mine. Happy holiday.
Thanks, Ally. Yes, I guess these photos describe my style ( at the moment) quite well. But, style is always changing. And experimenting with style is always good.
I think there were all great. If I had to pick one it's the first with the stripes and the leather skirt. I'm probably biased. I love leather! Thanks for linking up to Top of the World Style. I wish you and your loved ones happy holidays and a happy New Year.
I like a dress and that leather jacket the best on you!
Thanks, Nancy!
What a great idea to showcase your 2017 fav outfits. I kind of did same thing with new blog post on winter style guide for florida. :). manisha. https://www.modlotus.com/winter-travel-style-guide-florida/
Thanks, Manisha. Yes, a recap of favourites is always a good idea, and very instructive, too, as it shows where you're going, style-wise.
I love this post and feel like I'm walking away with prompts to think about my own personal style. I especially love your take on the accessories. You're working that perfectly because before I came to that point in your post, I noticed your earrings over and over again – and loved them! Thank you for sharing this great post with the Thursday Moda.
Thank you so much for your kind words.
Tiina, I adore your style and the fact that you remain true to yourself and your roots and what makes you comfortable and authentically you! That black and white striped dress is magnificent on you! By the way, you are featured on my recent link up post as one of the Most Featured Bloggers this year! Thanks so much for all of your support and for always joining my link parties! Shelbeewww.shelbeeontheedge.com
Thank you so much! It's an honour to be featured, and I really appreciate it.