Slow Sartorialism

My typical uniform of late: Black on black with one or two colorful details. From the vintage Lucite bracelets to the orange heels, everything is thrifted!

A few months ago, after a friend published an article on greenwashing and the detrimental effects of mass-produced clothing, I began making an effort to wean myself off of the once-a-month trips to H & M and Zara, and to focus more on curating a wardrobe reflecting quality rather than quantity, and style rather than fast fashion. 

For a while there, I was doing pretty well, but this week, I fell off the wagon, nipping into Forever 21 because, well, it was right there and I couldn't help myself. In the past, I’d actually scored some jeans I really like there, and even a pair or two of non-leather shoes.

Stepping into the loud, crowded store, I could hardly believe my eyes: So much stuff! Hundreds of different designs for sale, from short-shorts and flouncy dresses to cheap jewelry and  gladiator sandals. I was overwhelmed by the variety and scope of choice—and completely underwhelmed by everything on offer at the same time. I didn’t see a single thing I wanted to own, and left feeling better about my choice to shop with a more discerning, less-impulsive eye. 

I love fashion, but more so, I love style, because style is something we can cultivate, something that’s living and grows as we grow, and it knows no bounds in terms of variety, creativity, and affordability. 

My latest style obsession is the video series/website, StyleLikeU. It features short, eye-opening, revealing, personal, and—I really mean this--deep profiles of interesting people talking about what style means to them and what their journey toward fashional self-discovery was like. It’s spellbinding, and so much more than a superficial fashion show.  Tune in and try not to get hooked! And then tell me: Who or what is your style inspiration? What does style mean to you, and why? Post photos if you dare!