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The 3 Items You Need in Your Closet

Sometimes you just wake up and already feel a case of decision fatigue – the last thing you want to do is spend longer than 10 minutes throwing together a comfortable that’s both chic and comfortable. I feel you, and I’ve found that having these three items in your closet can solve this dilemma. Here are items that can be used as a complete outfit together, or as a trusty starting point to pair with other pieces.

1. A quality basic top

I’m sure we’ve all read countless fashion magazine articles that suggest you need a plain, white t-shirt. However, I believe that because everybody’s stye is different, their basics can be too. If a plain, white t-shirt is something you feel comfortable in and find yourself gravitating towards, you should absolutely still consider this classic a style staple for you.

With that being said, it’s important to remember that there are so many different colors, cuts and fits to choose from when it comes to basic tops. Maybe you feel best in v-necks, or you prefer a three quarter length sleeve over a cap-sleeve. I don’t own a basic white tee, because I don’t feel good in white tee’s. Instead, I own one black, form-fitting v-neck that’s more flattering on me, and it never lets me down when I need a good foundational piece for any kind of outfit.

So, even if you consider mustard yellow a neutral color, or if you prefer to only own basic tanks because sleeves bunch up under that blazer you wear every other day – there’s a solid, basic top that makes the most sense for you and your wardrobe out there, and that is the one you need!

2. A pair of dark-wash jeans that fit you like a glove

I’m definitely a  jeans girl. I have way too many pairs of jeans, but justify it by telling myself that they’re all different: there are different washes, different hems, different waists, some have holes, some don’t, etc. However, if there’s anything I learned from being a jean hoarder, its that everyone needs one certain kind of pair: A high quality, dark-wash jean, with no holes that fits your body perfectly.

This pair of jeans shouldn’t just look good, it should feel good. You should be able to sit in it comfortably after eating that huge Chipotle burrito without feeling like the button is gonna pop open. You should also feel just as good in this pair of jeans on a weekend run to the grocery store as you do while wearing them to the office.

Why dark wash, you ask? Well, it’s more versatile. Jeans are widely considered casual, simply by being denim. However, dark-washed jeans can often be dressed up, because the wash is so dark that t they can almost pass as a solid, polished pair of pants.

I’ve worn my favorite dark-wash jeans with a tee on the weekend, and then with a button-up dress-shirt for an interview. Find that pair that makes you feel comfortable and confident and the possibilities are endless.

3. A comfy pair of flats

Flats are awesome because they are what I like to call, “The In-Between Shoe”. Not quite as casual as athletic shoes, but not quite as formal as heels, flats are the perfect staple piece of footwear because like our other two staple pieces, they are versatile.

I can’t tell you how convenient it is to have a stylish pair of flats that I can slip into no matter what I’m wearing. If I want to wear a t-shirt and jeans, flats make my outfit a little more chic. If I’m planning on going to dinner and then walking around downtown, I’ll opt for a frilly dress and ballet flats so that I can still still look put together without having to worry about my feet tiring out.

So, there you have it! 3 easy-to-find and easy-to-wear pieces that can save you when you’re in a rush, or just in a fashion rut.

What are some clothing or accessory stables you swear by?  Leave a comment below!

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3 Reasons Buying Used Clothing is Better

It’s no secret that in the last few years, shopping secondhand has become the cool thing to do among young women, but in case you’re still not sold on the idea, here are 3 reasons why shopping used clothing is the next trend you should follow:

1. It saves you money

Anyone who’s ever found that perfect pair of Levi’s at their local Goodwill for five bucks knows that you can get the deal of the century when buying used clothing; and what happens when you only have to spend five dollars on jeans that would’ve originally costed you over sixty dollars? You get to use the remaining money to buy more awesome pieces for your wardrobe (or you could put that money into your savings like the aspiring responsible adult you are).

2. It’s good for the environment

While you can also get a good bank for your buck at Forever21 or H&M, buying fast-fashion often results in expensive damage to the environment – because clothes designed to only last a season usually end up in the trash, and then, the land-fill.

While many thrift stores and online re-sale shops carry the same brands that you may be tempted to buy from when you visit the mall,  they also carry high quality clothing that will last longer. When you can find a handful of quality, staple items, you don’t have to repeatedly buy several low-quality pieces of clothing.

Deciding to shop secondhand extends a garment’s life span, because not only do you save it from ending up in the trash right away, you can also donate it back to a thrift store for someone else to get use out of when it no longer serves you and your style.

3. It helps you find unique pieces

Sure, it’s fun to walk into a huge retail store and find exactly what you’re looking for in the size and color you need. However, it’s even more fun to stumble upon something nobody else in your circle has, and it just so happens to fit you like a glove.  If you’re someone who likes to stand out from the crowd, visiting small shops where each item is one-of-a-kind may be just what you need to update your wardrobe.