(via thecoveteur.com)
I’ve been meaning to complete the series of my personal wardrobe essentials, but I haven’t gotten around to writing it until now – a half-year later. Needless to say, I have admittedly been utterly remiss. Back into the bloggy swing of things, here is my belated wardrobe essentials post:
1. Isabel Marant gray herringbone coat.
This is what I literally live in except for when it is too sultry outside. It is a mere simple, understated coat with subtle, masculine details. My figure slithers naturally into it. Every time I put my coat on I feel like I am falling in love all over again, as though an infatuation is being relighted. This jacket imparts a perpetually effortless, off-the-cuff sophistication to my style. No words could possibly convey my fondness for it.
2. COS black crew-neck sweater, made of 100% lambswool.
I practically wear this sweater every day because I adore it and it keeps me warm during winter. I like the sleekness of this piece as it caters to a streamlined and polished look. At first glance, it looks like a plain black sweater, but the truly gentle and scarcely discernible details subtly elevate any outfit. Did I mention how perfect the length is?
3. A vintage white and bleu marine breton shirt.
Acquired in Paris three years ago, it is one of the rare pieces that have remained in my closet. The fit is exceptional. There are minor visible stains on this shirt, which stem from the previous owner. Yet I love the look of a shabby garment with its sort of imperceptible deformations. I have an abiding penchant for stripy shirts, boat necks and cropped sleeves that expose my wrists – this particular breton shirt epitomizes my partiality.
4. Isabel Marant taupe suede ankle boots with a small heel.
Weather permitting, these shoes are as glued to my feet and bring a breezy, nonchalant chicness to my everyday uniform. They are easy to walk in and appear to be very versatile despite the color is neither black nor navy.
5.Cheap Monday black skinny jeans.
I purchased my first pair of Cheap Monday jeans at the age of fourteen, and I have been loyal to this brand ever since. Neither high-rise nor low rise, these are a perfect fit. Like wine, these jeans get better as they grow older.
6. A handbag for everyday wear.
My love affair with the Balenciaga city purse has certainly been rekindled as of late. Nevertheless, a black hobo from Marc by Marc Jacobs is more convenient for school and work, besides it slouches sublimely against my body.
7. Barely-there lingerie made of luxurious silk.
Not only does gorgeous lingerie make me feel good and comfortable, but also the clothes fit much nicer. Never underestimate the importance of good underwear.
8. Tiny gold anchor pendant necklace.
I don’t wear much jewelry but this specific necklace has always been special to me. I never take it off. It truly enriches my simple look with its elegance, femininity and luxury.
9. Gold masculine wristwatch.
My everyday watch that adds slight masculinity to my look. I like dichotomy in style and this watch surely contradicts the rather feminine gold necklace.
10. A patterned light blue button down shirt.
It tended to belong to my grandmother and imparts an extra touch to zest my humble outfits. I love the rather loose fit of this shirt. Sometimes I like to wear it buttoned up with a navy or white t-shirt under.
I've been coveting Balenciaga black city bags for a while now. *heaven*Great post and lots to contemplate on my 10 essentials.cheers,~T
Good post :) Do you find Cheap Monday jeans lose their shape? My ex boyfriend had a couple of pairs and he ended up with saggy knees- it always put me off; which is a shame because they look stunning. I put you on my blogroll, hope you don't mind x
oh you updated this late? (If you're in the same timezone as me hehe) Absolutely lovely post. I'm really trying to reach the same goal as you.I just want a wardrobe consisting of essentials, not unnecessary trends ugh. Every little piece is instead a piece of art. I love the way you describe each of those essentiels. Those are things that matter to you, and which you're going to keep for a long time. Just perfect :)
Tamuna: Thank you :-)Asha: While the CM jeans are formed by you into a second skin, they will in all likelihood give you saggy knees eventually. I find this to be common for every jeans brand I've tried. However, I like saggy knees but it's a matter of taste.. Thank you for linking me, your blog looks interesting and I will check it out occasionally :)Muus: Yes, we're in the same timezone.. I can't sleep, I've managed to wind up in an unfortunate circadian rhythm. Why aren't you sleeping? I agree with you. The story behind each garment, the penchant for certain items – These are the things that matter! Oui! Thank you for the kind comment. It's always nice to get a comment from you!
Thanks :) I find Nudie jeans better- they do the same "second skin" effect, but I haven't had the saggy knee problem. Cheap Monday are less expensive though, might have to give them a go :)
I love how personal all of the items are. The COS sweater sounds so wonderful!!! I am looking for one matching that description, but unfortunately COS hasn't reached the southern hemisphere yet
Not to sound toooo creepy, but I'm curious what brands and/or stores you prefer to buy your lingerie from? I completely agree about fine underthings, they make everything look and feel infinitely better.
how can you do an amazing post like this with no pictures?
I love the part about the silky lingerie! That would always make an outfit better!<3 Sarahtheantiquepearl.blogspot.com
I spend waaaay too much money on undergarments because they are so important. Nothing looks worse than a panty line and an ill fitting bra under luxurious clothing.
Great post! Our list of essentials are alarmingly similar!!I really must try out Cheap Monday as I'm looking for a new pair of skinny jeans and haven't found the perfect pair yet.http://herribbonsandherbows.blogspot.com/
Yeah, you should habe posted pictures. Great post anyway.
Jeg blir så inspirert av blogginnleggende dine! Som jeg kansje har nevnt før, så jobber jeg nå med å bygge meg opp en basisgarderobe som ikke skal bestå av alt for mange plagg. Ser for meg at det må være deilig å ha et heller litt begrenset utvalg med klær man er skikkelig glad i!
how do you find the quality of cheap monday jeans? i got a dress from them, and the quality was horrible, so since then i've never gotten any cheap monday stuff.
Oh lovely. I'm glad I'm not the only one so attached to certain items in my wardrobe, haha. I used to be worried about wearing out my favourite things from frequent laundering, but I've come to embrace the worn-out quality as well. The only thing I'm always sad to see go are shoes – you don't always find the perfect pair twice!
hei. jeg også lurer på hvor du får taki dette føotte undertøyet. bor du i norge? har cos kommet til norge?
I find it difficult to buy Cheap Monday jeans as they aren't cold in many shops in the UK and to get the fit I want (high-waisted) I have to order online. The last few pairs I tried ordering turned out to be stretchy denim, which I hate. Great post, by the way. I agree 100% on the breton stripes – I'm wearing them right now, and they're just as good at 9am in the library as they are at 9pm in a bar.
Thank you for the lovely comments!- Ringo, have a banana: I am extremely picky regarding underwear as well, as I do not have breasts and wear bralettes. COS has AMAZING lingerie in silk, and you can only imagine how simple and minimalist the lingerie is. Unfortunately, it is always sold out in my size and I only own one amazing bralette from COS :-( I also approve of Calvin Klein's lingerie, the lacy stuff is simply divine. – appletwo and Sophie: Oh, did I mention that I am utterly remiss still? Hence no photos, so you just have to use your imagination, haha.- Alexandra: I suggest you to look for Cheap Monday jeans at Noir Kennedy in Paris rue roi de sicilie). They are often discounted!- Nanne: Tusen takk, alltid hyggelig å lese kommentarene dine, Nanne! Jeg er enig. Av og til er jeg litt skeptisk til dette med å bygge en perfekt basisgarderobe, for jeg har en følelse av at jeg bare kommer til å bruke de samme plaggene hele tiden – ergo de plaggene som er nevnt her – selv om jeg har en garderobe bestående av kun plagg jeg liker.- Anonymous: Well, I have been wearing mine practically every day for almost two years now, and the color has by all means faded – but I love the worn-out quality, the current shade is beautiful (I'm not comfortable with jeans that are jet-black). Due to my constant wear, the jeans are now formed by me into a second skin, so I do not bother to get myself a new pair. But I think after 2 years of constant wear, it is time for a new replacement.- lin: I agree! I too embrace the worn-out quality but I also worry about my shoes. That's why I want to own multiple pairs of shoes so I can rotate and extend the life of my shoes. – Anonymous: Jeg bor i Norge, men jeg shopper aldri i Norge. Jeg reiser mye, spesielt til Paris fordi jeg har familie, slektninger og venner de. Undertøyet kjøper jeg i Paris fordi jeg ikke finner undertøy i Oslo. Jeg er veldig kresen når det kommer til undertøy også.. COS har ikke kommet til Norge.- Kate: Oh, too bad. Maybe I can help you because we have a Swedish store called Weekday in Oslo that is the manufacturer of Cheap Monday jeans. They carry all possible models and sizes. I used to be a skinny child, so I was really happy to discover that Cheap Monday makes W23" and L30" jeans. Cheap Monday jeans tend to be rather high-waisted, but I hope you're not referring to this kind of high-waist: link. Compared to e.g. Ksubi jeans (link), Cheap Mondays (link) are high-waisted.
Hello there!I chose you as my choice for best blog in Bloglovin's competition… Because you really made me wakeup.. i just found out that last year i spend 872.21 euro only in H&M.. Which is way to much for my budget. but now i have changed my habbit and a lot of my inspiration comes from you.. well.. just thought i would let you know. and say thank you!!!!!btw. It would be really nice if you added photos on a post like this. i would like to see what you are writing about..xoxo
I really really like the way you write. I can see the clothes in my mind when you describe them.I'm very close to having everything I need in my closet. In time I will replace them for items made of better materials. Right now I'm pretty satisfied. I only need black sunglasses for the summer. Reffering to your previous post. I've made a list with new year resolutions and I trust now on my instinct. When I try something on and I immediatly have the feeling 'this is it', then I'll buy it. Because I know the difference between 'I like it' and 'this looks fabulous on me'. So far it worked out well. I still have 3 things on my list but nothing I need right now. It also gives me some rest because I can be a maniac shopper but i changed quite fast. I can now walk in stores and go without buying anything.Did I already mention I really like your blog? Very inspiring, refreshing and mature.
Interesting post, would have loved the accompanying pictures!
- M: Hello there and thank you for the sweet comment and nomination. You are far too kind! I am really taken aback!! Nearly 900 euros is a lot of money, I would personally spend these money on garments that aren't that fleeting. As for photos, I think I am mastering the pen rather than the camera. – Essia: I am practically beside myself, thank you for your kindness. I know the feeling you're talking about. I can truly differentiate the feeling of "I like it" and perennial penchant. – Jen: Thank you. I too would love accompanying pictures, but none of my photos ever turn out good.
This ia a incredibly well-written post, Fleurette! :)You must be the most articulate fashion blogger out there. I generally prefer style blogs that provide daily outfits, but you manage perfectly to translate your personal style into your writing. It's astonishing that English is your third language because your English is perfect. Your blog never ceases to stun me! Thank you for such a great blog ;)
With all the cheap monday comments – i too find them a little low in the quality but I still hang on to them as they tend to always fit nicely. Fleurette, you mentioned that you like that they are neither high or low rise – have you tried ksubi denim in the Spray On cut. I live in this cut and the quality of the denim (especially raw denim) is of a better quality… just a handy lil tip! .H.
I couldn't agree more about the Isabel Marant boots! I just purchased the dicker boots in the honey/taupe colour for this season and I love how effortlessly chic they can make a simple outfit.
I love your language. You write beautifully.
Hei! Helt enig med mange av kommentarene her! Du har virkelig inspirert meg til å se på mitt eget klesskap på en helt ny måte. Nå kommer jeg ikke hjem med ti poser fra shopping lenger, og det er så befriende! Jeg har gått igjennom klesskapet og renset ut masse lavkvalitetsklær fra H&M osv som nå er levert til fretex, og jeg innser at det har kostet meg utrolig mye penger uten at jeg nødvendigvis har følt meg spesielt fin i disse klærne. Det blir som et marsvin i et løpehjul: Man må ut og kjøpe nye bunker med klær hele tiden, fordi de man har ikke holder lenger enn fem min før de blir nuppete. Jeg har også gitt bort masse rimeligere vesker, og kjøpt meg to kvalitetsvesker: En Marc by marc jacobs-veske, og en fra mulberry. Mitt neste fokusområde er nå å gå igjennom genserne, og finne, slik du beskriver, noen få gode høykvalitetsgensere som sitter perfekt! Det er absolutt en utfordrende oppgave, men jeg håper og tror at det blir verdt det! Har allerede kjøpt en kashmir-genser fra Gestuz som jeg føler er en god start. Irriterende at vi ikke har Cos her i Oslo forresten.Deretter skal jeg se på skoene, og deretter kåper, kanskje i omvendt rekkefølge. Uansett: tusen takk for at du motvirker kjøpegalskapen som preger altfor mange bloggere+samfunnet generelt! Hilsen Annie
Lovely post – nothing's better than the process of wearing and enjoying something new and watching it become a wardrobe essential. I am feeling that way about my Belstaff gray distressed boots.
hello, i have enjoyed your blog a lot:)) just one thing i'm very curious about: what is your outerwear during a long and cold winter up north? i myself find it quite challenging, and i simply layer a wood blazer under a winter parka to stay warm. and how about footwear? i can't imagine wearing anything other than a solid pair of snow boots to accommodate my rather cold feet. thanks a lot and keep up your wonderful blog:))
Where did you find your anchor necklace?I find your blog very inspiring! Thank you!
I feel like for everyone in the world there is that one brand of jeans that almost always works. You have yours, my mom has Gap, mine is Levi's. They just feel right somehow, and even when they're brand new I can be pretty sure as I wear/wash/wear/wash them they'll become more and more my own. Is that how the Cheap Mondays are for you?I also have a man's watch (mine is stainless steel, though) that I wear every day. I really does add a nice bit of polish to pretty much any outfit. Sarah M
Hello,I am enjoying your blog a lot.Can you comment on you black scarf, what size, material etc.Thank you!
Really love this post. Am on the hunt for some perfect black skinny jeans so I'll have to try Cheap Monday although I do really like the fit of the Topshop uber skinny Jamie jean. I'm curious to know if you could count the amount fo clothes in your wardrobe. I imagine that it is so streamlined, organsied and minimalist that I bet you could!xhttp://millyfellintothewardrobe.blogspot.com/
I absolutely agree with choice of the Calvin Klein lingerie. The material they use feels like silk (Modal, I believe) and the lace never feels itchy. CK is also easy on the pocketbook.Ringo: In my experience, you can find an affordable assortment of Clavin Klein lingerie at Macy's. The selection at the New York store is substantial and Macy's will have a sale on lingerie at least once per season. Enjoy!-B
I like your list. I've been thinking a lot of the 10-ish essentials as of late too becuase I am off for a long weekend of walking on a beach but that also includes one day at my worksite for a meeting, so I've been trying to get creative with the right combination of items for casual and work wear, all to fit into my little carryon. Tricky, but a fun project.Glad you are posting again.
Meget perfekt liste! Det er synd så mange undervurderer verdien av kvalitetsundertøy. I tillegg til at klærne ser mye bedre ut, så fører det også til at man føler seg mye bedre. Noe som egentlig er mye viktigere. Om man føler seg meget bra, så ser man ser man som regel bra ut.
de la musique pour toiVilla nah : Time for tea (musique du défilé Chanel )washed outneon indianphoenix : love like sunset iibonne soirée !
I'm definitely in the same boat regarding chest size, I've never had any need for an underwire and find them excruciatingly uncomfortable (seriously, I don't know how real ladies put up with that shit!) I have friends with large chests who always complain about how hard it is to find really nice, tasteful lingerie for large chests–but the same is true for very small chests! At least in terms of affordability. Stella McCartney makes such beautiful bralettes, though I've never actually tried them on, and they're way out of my price range. Phillip Lim makes gorgeous ones as well, but I'm in between his XS and S so I can't wear them. Definitely agree about Calvin Klein, his are the best, more moderately priced ones I've found. Still waiting for COS to come to the US, it's about damn time!
Yours blog is always so inspiring and I really look forward to your posts. I gave you my vote in the competition, I hope you do well.I have tried to make my list but it is surprisingly difficult to get, possibly because only now I have started to figure out what I like and what I feel comfortable in. Inspired by you, I got rid of a lot of clothes a while ago, well I still have them but they have been put away in a box. I thought if I wont miss them in six months I can donate them away. I've also changed my shopping habits, even though I have bought quite a few pieces recently but I absolutely love all of them. I should learn how to spend more money on better quality underwear, I know how important good underwear is but I hate spending money on it.
Oh my, just read through the comments and I am truly taken aback. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the kindest words!- luka: Although it is -20 C in Norway, I wear my Isabel Marant coat with a rather thin wool sweater underneath (the one from COS). Yes, it is freezing, but only when I have to wait for the bus or train. As for footwear, I wear a pair of Doc Martens boots. They are not pretty but they keep me safe in winter, especially now that the ground is covered in ice. Next winter, I am going to purchase a pair of Chelsea boots from Doc Martens. They are more classic, yet solid and not too edgy.- Anonymous: The anchor pendant was a baptism present.- Sarah M: Yes! And even though you're loyal to your jeans brand, I highly recommend the Cheap Monday jeans as they will fit you perfectly, regardless of your height/weight/shape. There's something magical about Cheap Mondays + they are very cheap.- Penny: As a matter of fact, the scarf I am wearing is from H&M. I bought it three years ago and the quality is terrible. The entire scarf is damaged, nubbly and full of holes. I haven't gotten around to finding a new scarf, but I do love the scarves from Faliero Sarti. Though, they're not wallet-friendly at all.- Milly: Haha, I think you are mistaken. I haven't organized my wardrobe since August or so.. I will count my clothes someday, I just need to get rid of even more so I don't cheat when I count my clothes. Should I count the clothes I wear at home too (I have many of them!)? I always slide into leggings and joggings pants when at home. But who doesn't?- TJP: Interesting! I would love to hear what you'll end up packing! – Jules Winnfield: Enig! Livet mitt ble pratisk talt forvandlet da jeg begynte å investere i undertøy. Jeg kommer dog aldri til å kjøpe noe fra La Perla.- Paula: Ah, merci! je connais déjà Washed Out, Neon Indian et Phoenix, mais je n'ai jamais écouté la musique de Villa Nah.- Ringo: I agree with you! It seems as though only the expensive designers make gorgeous lingerie for small-chested women. It is truly unfair! I love the bralettes from Philip Lim. Alas, they are way out of my budget. – Meri: Thank you, I really appreciate it! I too have put away the clothes in storage boxes. Have you missed your clothes? I've totally forgotten that I have clothes in boxes under my bed until I read your comment, lol.
Haha, no I actually haven't missed any of the clothes yet but it has only been about 1.5 months. I think I will check them out at some point if I want to take anything back but at the moment I can't even remember what I put there so I must have not really cared for the clothes there anyway.
Hey, did you see this? This is also IMhttp://i52.tinypic.com/11lpgg4.jpgurkk so bad.
great post! love your blog. :)
Perfect! Just perfect!
Fleur, what perfect wardrobe essentials you have! Despite my commitment to finding the perfect foundation pieces, i'm still hunting for many of mine (your Marant boots and the perfect coat, for example).Miss B xx
- Meri: If you don't remember what you have put in the box, it must be some sort of sign!- Leenhilde: I saw it on tumblr the other day… I'm echoing your comment!- La.Mademoiselle.X and Debbie: Thank you- Miss B: Thank you! I am very happy with my selection! As long as you're patient, you will find your perfect foundation pieces, I believe!
Great post. I've been meaning to also write a list of my staple items, but never got around to it. Your post has motivated me once again to think about it.www.deuxarmoires.com
deuxarmoires: Thank you! You're far too kind. Can't wait to read yours :)
I absolutely love this post! When I think of my top 10 basics they are definitely key pieces which have enjoyed staying power in my wardrobe. Thanks for being so inspiring xo
really inspiring. i was looking for something like that. now i'm doing a wardrobe rehab so it helped me a lot.
Høyres ut som ein fantastisk samling. Må være deiligt å føle at garderoben er "komplett". Herligt å lese korleis du setter pris på klærne dine. Eg driver å skaper den perfekte garderobe og det er utrulig fint å sjå den ta form.
Hello Fleurette, I discovered your blog a few days ago, and I must say that I was somehow surprised to find a blogger who doesn't praise consumerism! Thank you for that! I had myself some issues with compulsive shopping and I'm trying to get over that, and to stop buying whatever comes in my hand when I feel sad or bad about myself… I'm trying right now to create the perfect timeless wardrobe! Thank you for inspiring me so much
I love your blog and your style, it's a true inspiration to me. I'm about your age and my style is still developing and I hope to have the perfect wardrobe one day… the sooner the better.I also love your attitude when it comes to quality > quantity. That's what my mother always taught. There were times when I definitely had too many bad quality H&M t shirts, but everybody has those youth sins.Your 10 essentials are beautiful. I threw out a bunch of my clothes a couple of months ago, so that I really love every single piece in my wardrobe and together they create a great collection. Everything is combinable.I especially love it that you mention underwear – I feel like it's always left out in fashion blogs but it's so important. It's hideous if you wear a great outfit but crappy lingerie underneath! And I feel the best when I wear my beautiful Calvin Klein underwear, although no one ever sees it. It just makes my more comfortable in my body :)Thank you for your blog… Please update it more often (but not too often, b/c quality > quantity ;))