Consistency and Style

40+ sweater and skirt

Simplicity and consistency…

That’s what I want from my clothes. And multitasking, of course. And they have to be low-maintenance. And versatile… I know, I know: I’m demanding. But why shouldn’t I be? After all, I spend my hard-earned money on clothes, and I want to get my money’s worth.

So, why do I keep buying the same thing over and over again?

Really, it’s almost as if I’m wearing a uniform: I keep repeating the same colours and the same shapes…

For example, when it comes to this outfit, it really is the same old, same old. You’ve seen the coat so many times that you’ve probably lost count. And I’ve worn the skirt a few times, too: in winter (both in Finland and in the U.K.), and in spring. The only new items here are the (very basic) cotton sweater and the scarf. And even the sweater looks very familiar: I have a cashmere sweater in almost the same colour…

And that’s what simplicity is for me: I know it works. Every time. More importantly, I know I like it.

There’s nothing wrong with experimenting. Or using style to express your personality. In a way this is exactly what I do: my clothes are an outward expression of my personality. And that’s why consistency in style is so important for me: I know who I am, and I want the world to see it, too.

Of course, people change over time, and outfits should reflect that change. But people don’t change drastically: the core of my personality remains the same even though certain personality traits might be more pronounced at a given time while others are ‘dormant’. In the same way, my outfits change slightly to reflect my current circumstances, but the essence of my style remains the same.

40+ skirt style

But what about playing, having fun with fashion?

Why not have fun with fashion? I could be a hippie chick one day and a headbanger the next. Or a pirate princess and an earth mother, and… Isn’t it fun to explore the concept of identity while having fun with fashion? Of course it is, but I have neither the patience nor the permanent closet space for multiple sartorial personalities…

Sure, I used to play dress-up all the time when I was little girl. You know, wearing my mother’s clothes, tons of jewellery and a crown… Yes, I  always dressed up as a princess. Never a pirate or a farmer or a race car driver. A princess. I guess we could say that I had a very firm idea of identity even back then, but I leave it to you to analyse it further…

Anyway, as most of my life is somewhat restless (working as a freelancer, living in two countries…), I tend to crave some consistency. Or maybe it’s just a way to exert some control over my life and my circumstances. I mean, we may all be at the mercy of the economic climate, but consistency in style is entirely up to me. Thus, consistency it’s also reassuring: life may be uncertain, but some things never change (too much, anyway).

Of course, every now and then I expand my need for consistency onto other areas of my life: I may make a half-hearted attempt at home decoration, or think of getting a permanent job… And then I remember that even after 15 years I still see my flat as a temporary home, and I don’t really want to work on Mondays, or in the mornings…

sweater and skirt

I’m wearing:

skirt: Jigsaw (old, seen before HERE, HERE and HERE) / top: KappAhl / scarf: Global /

 shoes: Clarks (old) / bag: Furla / sunglasses: Coach / trench: Hobbs

Is having a signature style important for you?

Tiina

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Not Dead Yet StyleElegantly Dressed and StylishGaray TreasuresHigh Latitude StyleSydney Fashion HunterThe Pleated PoppyStyle ElixirGet Your Pretty OnHappiness at Mid-LifeA Labour of LifeDoused in PinkCurly Crafty MomFashion Should Be FunRachel the HatSincerely Jenna MarieMore Pieces of MeColor and GraceNot Dressed As Lamb 

14 Comments

  1. Doused In Pink
    15 October 2015 / 10:38 am

    Having a go to uniform is the best way to make the most of your wardrobe! You can add a few key pieces and have a whole new look. I love these bright colors on you! Your scarf is so pretty!JillDoused In Pink

    • Tiina L
      16 October 2015 / 6:50 am

      I agree. I t's also economical: no need to get a whole new wardrobe every year.

  2. Patti
    15 October 2015 / 12:08 pm

    It sounds like freedom! I like having favorite pieces, and not having to give a second thought to what-to-wear. You have a great, soft and colorful look. xo-Pattihttp://notdeadyetstyle.com

    • Tiina L
      16 October 2015 / 6:51 am

      Thanks, Patti. I heve my favourite pieces, for sure, and I think I would be perfectly happy wearing just these favourites for weeks on end. But at some point I need new favourites, of course…

  3. Rachel Lynne
    15 October 2015 / 2:47 pm

    Love the mix of patterns in this outfit! Definitely chic!Rachel's Lookbook

    • Tiina L
      16 October 2015 / 6:53 am

      Thank you, Rachel!

  4. Carrie
    16 October 2015 / 5:14 pm

    There is that gorgeous blue jacket again and I love the colors and patterns in your outfit. I did not know you lived in two countries! Have a great weekend!Carriecurlycraftymom.com

    • Tiina L
      16 October 2015 / 6:24 pm

      Thanks, Carrie! Yes, I work in Finland and hubby works in England and we still manage to spend weekends together…

  5. Nicole Mölders
    17 October 2015 / 5:59 pm

    Thanks for linking up to Top of the World Style. I love the color combination!

    • Tiina L
      20 October 2015 / 2:27 pm

      Thanks, Nicole!

  6. Alice Warren
    18 October 2015 / 6:58 am

    I am all about consistency especially when it comes to dressing for work. My work uniform is a variation of pencil skirt, a top and a a blazer. Love these pretty colors.Thank you for joining TBT Fashion link up and hope to see you next week. Alicewww.happinessatmidlife.com

    • Tiina L
      20 October 2015 / 2:29 pm

      A work uniform is a must, especially in the morning. My brain refuses to work before noon, so I need something foolproof for mornings…

  7. Petite Silver Vixen
    18 October 2015 / 8:47 pm

    Nothing wrong with consistency. I think most people gravitate towards a 'uniform' of sorts with their wardrobe. And if it fits your personality and lifestyle then it makes it even easier!

    • Tiina L
      20 October 2015 / 2:33 pm

      It also makes shopping easier: if you keep in mind what you like and what works for you, you're less likely to buy something that doesn't suit your lifestyle.

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