Textures

Focus on the simplicity & craft of the garment, rather than trends... 

Featured Items: 

Lace Sweater: H&M (similar here & here)

Pencil Skirt: Reformation (similar here & affordable one here 33% off from Missguided)
Oxford Platforms: Jeffrey Campbell (Stella McCartney version here & affordable one here)
Bag: Chanel (cute similar bags here & affordable one here by Halogen)

I wish I could define myself as a trendsetter, whatever that means, but I'm so far away from that. It's totally fine because if I'm able to style clothes to make me feel good and reflect my personality for the world to see, possibly inspire others to feel good as well... then that's alright with me. I get caught up with the trends at times scrolling through my feeds (especially during transitional seasons when all the cute stuff debut), focusing too heavily on layering & the overall aesthetics, all the while disregarding the fact that the simplicity of textures, structure, and components of the garment should be highlighted instead. This very thought has allowed me to filter through when shopping, too. Instead of buying an item because it's "in", I'd much rather buy an item that is beautifully made and crafted. It doesn't matter where you get it or how much it is, as long as it's going to look good on you. Fall in love with the garment, and not the idea of it. 

This sweater is part of H&M's conscious collection, and it is incredibly well made for a retailer less known for its quality than its rapid response to fashion's capricious ways. The dimensions of the lace cut out is so intriguing. I paired it with this patterned skirt from Reformation to add a little playfulness against the cream color.

More suggestions: 

Photos by Daniel Nguyen