If there is one thing that moving cities makes you realize (three months ago I took the leap and moved to New York from London for a new job—and yes it’s this one!) it’s the sheer volume of things you own that you don’t actually need. I have always prided myself on having a capsule wardrobe, but the number of suitcases I moved with suggested otherwise. As I packed my 10 blazers into 1 of those cases (50 percent of which were black) I was faced with the reality that my capsule wardrobe wasn’t so capsule. Why so many? I love the way a blazer makes me feel: confident. Strong shoulders, sharp lapel, good buttons—it’s all in the details—and it requires little thought. Pair a blazer with a white t-shirt and you’re done. While this formula is a good one, I worry it’s landed me in a style rut.
Getting dressed has arguably become too easy, so this year I’m challenging myself to think outside the box(y) blazer, subbing it for something more feminine. This isn’t just about mixing up my style, it’s also about wearing things that flatter my shape. Maybe this comes with age, but I am finally thinking about what suits my body. I have a trusty Toteme oversized blazer that I adore but it swallows me. It might be comfortable, and an easy item to throw on, but I don’t know that it makes me feel confident or strong like I suggested.
Slim-fit collarless jackets, leather shirts, and cropped ladylike jackets feel like they’ll fit perfectly in my wardrobe and provide the same comfort, strength, and sharpness that I love about blazers—while offering some variety and added femininity. I love the idea of using the leather shirt as a layering piece, styling it over a turtleneck and second shirt, or belting it to bring in the shape at the waist. I’m going to pair the collarless jacket with denim, so it doesn’t feel so formal, and I like the idea of pairing the ladylike jacket from Khaite with matching pants so it feels like a ‘suit’. I’d be kidding myself if I thought I could forgo the jacket all together (not least because of the New York weather) but this feels like a step in the right direction.
