The Style Investments That Brought Me Hope in 2020
As we embark on our second week of 2021, I am doing what so many of us do NOT want to do; (briefly) looking back on the year from hell and reflecting on the items of clothing that made it all-together bearable. Fashion can do that. I suppose that’s why I’ve dedicated my 22 years to caring so deeply about clothes. 2020 Put a lot of pressure on fashion to build us up, give us hope, and bring us some form of joy. Despite the fact that I’m sure we’d all rather go on without talking about the dreaded year, I felt the need to showcase these pieces almost as a thank you. Crazy as it may be to thank one’s clothes, my relationship with my wardrobe, these pieces especially, has become more intimate over the months. With them has come inspiration for creativity in a time boredom and longing. Hence, a thank you is in order.
Queue my attempt at a self-made studio photo shoot in my office. For a first try, I’m quite happy with the outcome. We have some jewelry from Lavender & Grace - a locally based company I’m happy to support- the puffer jacket that’s made walking my dog a possibility this winter, and the Thierry Mugler blazer you’ll be sick of by this point if you follow me on Instagram. Each of the 7 looks and their highlighted pieces makes me actually look back on this year with gratitude. They’re a reminder that I was still able to work, unlike so many, and therefore afford to buy myself these things when I was feeling dull or stuck. Each represents a point in 2020 where I craved a change, and manifested a shift in perspective (which happened copious amounts of times).
I wanted the intimacy between the clothes and I to shine more than anything. I am a fool for designer labels and luxury brands, but in my current headspace of all things sustainability, presence, and an abundance of joy, the emotions evoked from wearing each piece carries more weight for me than anything else. I won’t ramble on about how to wear each piece or perform any promotional rants about any specific brands. I want the images to speak for themselves, leaving you to take away what you need - whether it be fashion inspiration or reassurance that clothes have immense power, waiting for us to uncover.
Enjoy.
If you haven’t already, you need to check out my previous blog post! I’m currently in the first month of my No New Clothes pledge for 2021, where I’ll only be shopping second hand for the whole year. I’m challenging all of you to find your own sustainable fashion commitments you feel able to make this year. This could be to support local, wash with only cold water, or try shopping second hand for a whole month! These are just a few examples, the possibilities are truly endless. Find something fits well with your lifestyle and shopping habits, while still making impactful change, then share your pledge to your Instagram feed or story. Tag me, @emeroomckay so I can share the love. Go check out that blog post for more details!
Thanks for reading.
Em
What you see in this post
Look 1 | Vintage Thierry Mugler Blazer, Buffalo David Bitton Denim
Look 2 | Hand-me-down Aritzia Bralette, Lavender & Grace Gold Hoops - if you’re looking for great lingerie check out this Canadian Brand
Look 3 | TNA Black SuperPuff Long Jacket with certified responsibly sourced down, Buffalo David Bitton Denim, Frank & Oak Turtle Neck
Look 4 | Acne Studios Snakeskin Sock Boots, Buffalo David Bitton Denim, Frank & Oak Turtle Neck
Look 5 | Alexander McQueen Box 19 Bag, JUST Female Black Tunic Shirt
Look 6 | Veja Hightop Trainers, Buffalo David Bitton Denim, Frank & Oak Turtle Neck
Look 7 | Acne Studios Suede Rust Musubi bag, JUST Female Black Tunic Shirt
Shop these pieces and my other style picks for the season here.
