Closet Chronicles: Letting Go and Embracing Timeless Treasures 2012-2023
Closet editing has become a regular ritual for me. Every so often, I find myself meticulously sifting through my wardrobe, seeking to create a space that is both functional and inspiring. My closet, now a compact haven of organization, exclusively houses items that hold meaning and effortlessly find their way into my daily rotation. It's a sacred space where only those cherished pieces remain, standing the test of time, regardless of their age.
The key question that lingers when undertaking this ritual is: what makes an item worthy of being kept rather than being relinquished through sale or donation? In order to answer this question, let me invite you on a journey through the past decade of my closet, highlighting the choices I made to hold onto some pieces while bidding farewell to others.
Throughout the years, I have come to appreciate the essence of minimalism. Embracing a mindful approach to fashion, I have honed my discerning eye, recognizing that true worth lies not in the number of items, but in their ability to truly serve me. Every article of clothing has a purpose, and those that fail to fulfill it gracefully depart from my collection.
Nestled among the treasured items in my closet are those beloved pieces that have been a part of my life for a decade or more. These timeless gems have weathered the storms of ever-changing trends and remained steadfast companions. They are the embodiment of longevity, displaying the durability and craftsmanship that make them irreplaceable.
Each garment that remains must evoke a sense of joy and confidence when worn. Whether it be a well-worn sweater that exudes comfort or a classic dress that encapsulates elegance, these pieces possess an intangible quality that transcends time.
As I embark on the task of deciding what to keep and what to let go, I delve into the purpose each piece holds. Practicality plays a significant role in my decision-making process. The below items either serve a purpose or they are released.
In contrast, the items I choose to release from my possession are those that no longer align with my present self. If an item is unworn for an extended period and fails to ignite that spark of joy, it finds its way into the purging pile. By letting go, I create space for new experiences and opportunities, allowing someone else to find joy and purpose in the items that no longer serve me.
The process of editing my closet has become more than just a physical decluttering; it is a spiritual and emotional practice. It teaches me to appreciate the beauty in simplicity, to cherish the pieces that make me feel like my best self, and to let go of what no longer resonates with me.
2012 - Eleven years have passed since I first laid eyes on this exquisite skirt by Alexis. Over the years, I have worn it on countless occasions, always reminding me why it's an irreplaceable piece in my wardrobe. Even as fashion trends come and go, this skirt's beautiful print, impeccable fit, and versatile nature continue to make it a cherished gem.
This dress from 2013, worn to my son's graduation from elementary school, holds its ground as a great classic, patiently awaiting its next moment in the spotlight. Its potential to shine and its charm make it an invaluable asset. It has proven its worth time and time again, and I am confident it will continue to do so, reminding me of the beauty that lies in choosing pieces that truly serve us well. Who can resist the color?
2014 - Once upon a time, there was a bat sleeve top and a pair of printed jeans, united by a pair or chunky platforms. However, their fate took a different turn, and I made the conscious decision to part ways with the entire ensemble. Looking back, I can confidently say that it was the right choice. The style and color no longer resonate with my evolving fashion preferences. While it may have once held a certain appeal, I've come to realize that it no longer reflects the image I want to project.
September 2015 - Not too long ago, in the bustling streets of New York Fashion Week, I wore an outfit that made me feel like a million bucks. It was a moment of pure sartorial bliss, captured not only in my own confidence but also through the lens of Guest of a Guest, a renowned fashion blog. Their validation of my stylish outfit only reinforced my belief that this ensemble was truly worthy of a street style photo. Even to this day, the skirt from that outfit holds a special place in my heart, ready to be worn again (and most definitely with a different top and shoes!). It is a testament to the enduring power of well-designed garments, capable of transcending fleeting trends and leaving a lasting impression.
August 2016 - There was a time when I wore this outfit, particularly because it featured my first and only pair of Golden Goose sneakers. While the outfit still holds up in today's fashion landscape, my personal style has taken a different path of evolution. The lower rise jeans, which were once a staple, is no longer my preference, and I don't expect reverting back to that style. Moreover, I have outgrown my affinity for the gold sneakers. As a result, I made the decision to let go of the entire outfit, passing it along to someone who will appreciate it more. Embracing the journey of personal style means recognizing when certain elements no longer resonate, allowing space for new discoveries and my newfound style to flourish.
July 2017 - A great caftan is a perennially great choice, and this particular gem has graced my closet since 2017, maintaining its pristine condition throughout the years. Its enduring allure and versatility make it a cherished piece that I consistently turn to as a great cover-up by the pool or having lunch at a beautiful resort, St.Barths perhaps? I may not wear this piece often but am certain the right occasion will once again present itself. The caftan's timeless charm and undeniable appeal have solidified its place as a treasured keeper, continuing to evoke a sense of elegance and relaxation whenever it accompanies me on my vacations.
September 2018 - In the realm of fashion, few things compare to the allure of a trusty "go-to" cocktail dress, a timeless treasure that resides in your closet, ready to grace those moments when a new purchase feels unnecessary. This particular Little Black Dress holds an extra special place in my heart, as I have worn it on countless occasions, becoming a steadfast companion in my style journey. Its impeccable fit and supreme comfort make it a pleasure to wear, ensuring that every time it graces my silhouette, I feel both confident and at ease. As the epitome of timeless sophistication, this dress has rightfully earned its status as a cherished keeper, always poised to elevate my look.
May 2019 - I eagerly embraced the arrival of higher waist jeans, loving their flattering fit. However, as my personal style has evolved, I have found myself moving away from skinny jeans and the distressed look. While the memories of these jeans hold a special place in my fashion journey, it is time to bid them farewell, making room for new silhouettes that align more authentically with my current look. Yet, amidst this transition, the off-the-shoulder top and the shoes stand out as undeniable keepers. They are timeless and make them easy to wear again and again. As I embrace change, I find comfort in the fact that some pieces, like these simple items, can effortlessly bridge the gap between then and now, reminding me of the beauty in preserving what truly speaks to my style.
May 2021 - Two years ago, I purchased this great two-piece outfit to commemorate my son's graduation, and since then, it has become a cherished ensemble that has graced my wardrobe on multiple occasions. The beauty of this outfit lies not only in its significance but also in its timeless versatility. I have happily worn the pieces together, creating a perfectly paired look, as well as separately, allowing them to effortlessly blend into various ensembles. The color and fit will no doubt serve me well for years to come. As I reflect on the enduring appeal of this two-piece outfit, I am reminded of the remarkable power of fashion to preserve cherished memories while elevating our everyday style.
September 2022 - When I first bought this vest, I couldn't wait to wear it. On the other hand, the trousers had patiently awaited their moment in the spotlight for about a year, but the opportunity finally came while attending a New York Fashion Week runway show. As for the shoes, I've had since 2018, their timeless leopard print effortlessly proves that some patterns never fade from fashion's spotlight. This ensemble embodies the magic of combining new and timeless pieces, reminding us that sartorial choices have the power to elevate our style and make a lasting impression.
2023 - I recently wore this skirt to a local fashion show. In the whirlwind of a sample sale, I stumbled upon this extraordinary piece from Brock Collection, and it became one of those serendipitous purchases that don't happen very often. Though I've only worn this magnificent piece a handful of times since acquiring it in 2019, its significance is unparalleled. This skirt holds a special place in my heart, carrying the promise of being a cherished garment for years to come, transcending fleeting trends with its timeless appeal. With its captivating presence, it has the power to captivate and leave onlookers in awe. Its show-stopping quality solidifies its place as an unquestionable keeper in my wardrobe, symbolizing the beauty of finding treasures that stand the test of time. And how perfect is it paired with the platforms that I've had in my closet since 2018?!
My journey of refining my closet has taught me the art of mindful curation. It is a dance between longevity, love, and sentimentality, weaving together the threads of my personal style. By embracing this practice, my closet has transformed into a curated sanctuary, housing only those pieces that bring me joy, serve a purpose, and embody the essence of who I am.
For a personal styling appointment please email me at maria@styledbymaria.com
Best,
Maria
xoxo
