(repost from September 2019)
I did a massive clean-out of my closet this summer. I wanted to streamline my wardrobe down to basics I wear all the time and special pieces that reflect my personal style. I re-evaluated everything I had from jeans and tee-shirts to handbags and shoes and only kept things that fit well and made me feel good. The newly sparse filled closet gave me the opportunity to rethink how my uniform could be improved and see what voids need to be filled.
blazer, sandal, sweater, jeans, black jeans, bag
Once I determined what I needed to add or replace, I turned to Mytheresa as my shopping source. They carry all the designers I love plus their edits give me loads of inspiration. I don’t have to browse a million pieces to find the ones I love. Orders come 2 days later beautifully wrapped in their signature bright yellow box. Very chic! The shopping process from beginning to end is as pleasant as can be and I’ve never been disappointed.
Khaite jeans, Bottega Veneta bag, turtleneck
I focused on the goal of creating a fall uniform of elevated basics popped with of the moment pieces to add a modern note. The list was quickly narrowed down to jeans, sweaters, a blazer, handbag, and shoes.
Khaite jeans, Nanushka sweater
At the core of my day to day outfits are jeans so I’m updating my inventory with a pair in both black and faded blue. Simple, straight and high-waisted are the details most important to me now.
The Danielle cut from Khaite is high on my list of favorites. The pared-back silhouette combined with a faded black wash feels the most forward to me right now. They sit very high on the waist and fall straight from the hip with an unbroken stovepipe leg. They’ll be in heavy rotation. I like them with a bit of a heel – boot or sandal – to further elongate the leg. Similar styles from the J.Brand x Elsa Hosk collaboration and Goldsign are also good.
For a tried and true classic jean, I like RE/DONE. Their denim has that desirable authentic 100% cotton look but with the addition of stretch making them incredibly comfortable. The wash on their signature “high-rise ankle crop” has a vintage, worn and loved vibe that’s at the core of my uniform year-round.
The Judy and the Droit from Golden Goose deliver a similar result.
While editing my sweaters, a void in variety was immediately apparent. My tendency to buy the same thing over and over was clear with shelves stacked with similar silhouettes, mostly turtlenecks. Moving forward, I’m focusing on cardigans as a fresh knitwear option. I’ve always loved cardigans but they often come off as dowdy if the fit and cut aren’t right. A cropped and boxy shape, like the above from Vince is flattering and the shape I’m embracing this season. I’ll layer over tees, tanks and dresses or wear solo in place of a jacket.
I’m also welcoming ’80s power dressing by adding an oversized black blazer to my shopping list. I like a style that’s generous in proportions but not in a ridiculous way. Staying power is always at the core of any purchase so I’ll avoid the exaggerated silhouettes. The tailored cut in Acne Studios double-breasted jacket above is absolutely perfect. It drops beautifully from the shoulder and hangs with just enough volume and movement. The weight of the fabric is fantastic for California’s mild temps too.
Acne Studios blazer, The Row boots, Joseph leggings
I love the silhouette of an oversized blazer paired with a slim legging and heavy-soled lace-up boots. This ankle boot by Woolrich in black, brown and taupe is not only well priced but super chic.
I’m adding a few season-defining accessories and already picked up a few items on my fall wishlist from Mytheresa including this Bottega Veneta pouch.
As you know, I’m all over Bottega Veneta’s line up of bags and shoes this season. Creative Director Daniel Lee has injected new life into a collection that has always been chic but lacked an update. With the covetable pouch and must-have squared toed shoes, these are pieces to snap up now.
Other handbag styles on my radar include a thin chain handle “lunch bag” from The Row, Jil Sander’s simple patent leather tote and a wear with everything top handle “snakeskin” bag.
RE/DONE jeans, Valentino x Brikenstock sandals
I’d be remiss in not mentioning the Valentino X Birkenstock slides I obsessed over. I was desperately on the hunt for them in black leather and snapped up a pair the minute Mytheresa had them in stock. They’ve been the perfect transitional fall shoe and are getting serious wear during my travels.
With a steady flow of covetable arrivals five days a week, Mytheresa is my go-to online shopping destination. Duty and taxes are already included in the price which can add up to a decent savings when shopping for a luxe item. It’s a nice perk and simply another reason I like to shop Mytheresa.
Thank you Mytheresa for supporting this post.
Neri
Another fabulous post! I have been searching everywhere for the perfect jeans and you found them! I just ordered the RE/DONE jeans:)
KSL
Such a great post. Went to the snakeskin bag link, and bought a green croc stamped bag by that brand which is new, fabulous and reasonably priced. Thanks, you do always find great and unusual things.
Lisa
Nailed it Karima! I pinned every photo for inspiration!
Lisa F
Wonderful post – thank you. Thank you for sharing your process and results. I love the pieces you picked and the reasoning behind them. I hope you will consider continuing the topic of basic-structure wardrobe building in the spring as we move into spring/summer items. But, for now, I am greatly appreciative. Thanks again and enjoy your new pieces!
Jen B
I am trying to edit down my closet like you did this past summer but struggle with what to do with my high end or luxury designer pieces that I no longer wear or do not like the fit anymore or just don’t suit my lifestyle anymore.
Do you re-sell pieces at luxury consignment stores/ websites?
Like the Real Real?
You really need to purge before you buy!
Karima
I give my high end luxury items to The Real Real and donate everything else to Working Wardrobes. It feels great to have open space in my closet!
Julia
Beautiful! What / where is the art in the first picture?
Karima
Thank you! They’re Ellsworth Kelly line drawings in my home.
paula c.
Great post on editing your wardrobe with some good quality basics. I do need a pair of combat boots. Love The Row ones which is a good inspiration going forward.
Ella
Hi, what shoes do you wear with the Carmela BB pouch?
Thank you!
Karima
In the photo I’m wearing Prada boots…