To the Beach! - For the Guys

{Beaufort, NC}

In my hunt for beachwear, I found some great pieces for the guys as well! Here are some of my favorites:

Harding Lane Baseball Cap

Gant Swim Trunks (Similar here.)

Linen Shirt from Boden

Classic Wayfarer Sunglasses

Original Deck Shoes

Monogrammed Beach Towel

Wardrobe Philosophy

As my roommate will tell you, I have a system for just about everything. Just about. I've resigned myself to the fact that some things in life go much more smoothly without a system, so I've let go of some of my failed frameworks. But anyway, my wardrobe system is this: invest in quality pieces that work well together. My style tends to gravitate toward what I would call "Classic-Preppy," but whatever your style may be, here is my list of key wardrobe pieces that would be well worth a little splurge. Typically, clothes that are made well last a good long while and tend to fit better than comparable pieces that are cheaper (in more ways than one). 

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1. Denim - First, decide whether you are a straight-leg or boot-cut jean kind of gal (or both!). Then, spend some time trying on lots of different brands to find the cut and size that work best for you. Trying on denim takes a lot of patience, but jeans that fit well are well worth the time and effort. (Note: I hate buying jeans because it took me forever to find a brand that fit me well, and as soon as I did, the company went out of business. I wanted to cry.)

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2. Classic Oxford - Whether you go with white or light blue, a classic button-up can instantly make a casual outfit look a little bit sharper. I had to search around to find one that that was a good length for me and that fit well through the shoulders and torso. Take your time finding a shirt that works for you, and then take care of it once you find it.

{Black Pumps - Leather Flats - Nude Pumps}

3. Classic Shoe - Whether you go with a wedge or pump, a nice pair of black or nude heels will go with almost every dress or pair of pants you buy. Nude heels are great because they make your legs appear longer - who wouldn't want that! If you're more of a flats kind of girl, I would recommend finding a pair of well made brown leather flats; they work with just about everything.

{Dress 1 - Dress 2 - Dress 3}

4. Little Black Dress (LBD) - I know the "Little Black Dress" may seem slightly cliché, but there is a reason for that: it works. Having a classic black dress will come in far handier than you think. Weddings, funerals, parties, engagement showers, concerts, interviews, first dates - the LBD works for all of these. In the winter, throw on some tights and a sweater or blazer, and in the summer break out the sandals and big earrings.

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5. Coat - whether you go with a classic trench, a wool pea coat, or a more functional down jacket, choose a color and fit that works for you, and be willing to splurge on something that will last more than a few winters.

6. Leather Belt - A nice leather belt works with a pair of jeans or over a shirt dress. Quality belts are actually pretty easy to find and often not all that expensive. I have two that I wear interchangeably almost everyday. Check out these options here, here, and here.

{Brown bags: Left - Center - Right}

 {Black bags: Left - Center - Right}

7. Leather Handbag - A good leather purse is the kind of piece that, if you take care of it, will last forever (almost). Invest in a classic style that will work with every outfit in your wardrobe, and then have a few fun clutches on hand for a fancy evening. And well made handbags in classic styles are often easy to resell if you ever decide you're ready for something different.

{Skirt - Blouse} 

Pop of Color - Find a color that works well with your complexion and run with it. From tops, to scarves, to shoes, look for things to stand out against the other classic pieces that you have used to build your wardrobe. My personal favorites are coral and blue.

{Striped Shirt & Leopard Flats}

9. Patterns - I always gravitate toward stripes, particularly blue and white stripes (remember my obsession with blue and white?!). But I also have a soft spot for a little splash of leopard - nothing too outrageous, but I do love my calf-hair leopard print flats! Even if stripes and animal prints are not your thing, find something you love (florals, plaid, etc.) and just go with it!

{Pearl Studs}

10. Simple Studs - Seriously. Get some. They go with everything, from your striped tee, to the Little Black Dress, to the oxford button-up. I find myself wearing my pearl post earrings almost everyday!

There you have it: my top ten "splurge worthy" wardrobe essentials, and my general philosophy about building a closet around pieces that will last. I know there are other ways to go about creating a wardrobe and a style for yourself, any thoughts about what has worked best for you?