Monday Musings on Versatile Clothing
The more versatile your wardrobe pieces, the easier they are to mix and match, and the less you need to own. When I looked up what it means to wear an item in lots of ways, it mentioned capsule wardrobes, multi-way clothing, and convertible clothing. The last two sound a bit cumbersome, so I prefer to call them versatile clothing. These are the essentials in your wardrobe that can be adapted to many different functions or activities.
How Do You Choose Versatile Clothing
- It’s often suggested that you stick to neutral colors, which is helpful for many women. But if your tastes run to vibrant shades or you have some signature colors…your most versatile items should work within your favorite palette.
- Classic styles may be the most versatile for many women, but if you love Boho styles or thrive on looking unique…basics that ring your style bell will be the most useful for you.
- Quality fabrics are a must for versatile clothing because they need to stand up to multiple wearings, no matter your style.
- Your lifestyle is of paramount importance when choosing what will be the most adaptable for you. Be honest about what you need on a daily basis…not for special occasions.
4 Ways to Wear Red Shoes
With the 4th of July right around the corner, I’ve been thinking about red, white, and blue. Most of us think of a neutral color palette when we think about items that are easy to mix and match. A fun pair of red sandals proves to be very versatile with these 4 outfits featuring the same sandals.
No matter where you’re heading for the holiday weekend, one of these looks would look great and feel festive. Click the images below for the details of each look.
Red sandals are prolific this summer, but if thongs are not comfy, here are some other great options.
Bleusalt
I discovered a new brand called Bleusalt several years ago and was delighted when they reached out to work with me on an Instagram campaign. Since many of you are not on IG, I’m sharing them here with you. Bleusalt creates pieces that are perfect for a capsule wardrobe because they can be styled in so many ways which makes them versatile.
They’re made in the USA of a breathable Tencel blend that has plenty of stretch and is machine washable. I’m wearing them above for a day of errands and a trip to the most incredible faux flower shop.
Here are the same two pieces styled for an evening out with their 2-Yard Wrap. They make these wraps in tons of colors in 1, 2, and 3-yard lengths. It’s made from the same sustainable fabric and would be super cozy on a long flight. They call this one the Goldilocks of their collection because “everyone is looking for something in the middle”.
Bleusalt is proudly size-inclusive and runs from 00-3X. They encourage capsule dressing as they work toward zero waste with their sustainable practices. Everything comes in lots of great neutrals and would be perfect for travel.
This navy tee and skirt would work as a versatile base to be dressed up or down for any and all occasions.
BTW- I have some fun news for my Canadian readers. Nordstrom has resumed shipping to Canada…right on time for the N-sale:)
“Free shipping to Canada is valid only for standard shipping on any qualifying purchase of $135 CAD or more, pretax. Express shipping is available for $25 CAD on any qualifying purchase of $135 CAD or more, pre-tax.
What is the most versatile piece in your wardrobe?
Happy Canada Day Jennifer. (Am heading out shortly to enjoy some fireworks as its a beautiful evening for them.) As to artificial flowers, that is about my speed as if I were a farmer I would starve to death as cannot grow anything … ☺. Re my most versatile garment this summer was the purchase of a semi sheer, long sleeved contemporay floral printed shirt originally purchased to wear with a pair of bright yellow ankle grazer pants which background is white but contains numerous other colors. i.e.: The yellow to goldens, various shades of blue as well as green and some deep burgundy. Needless to say, it works beautifully with the other colors I mentioned plus many type of fabrics due to its draping quality plus is cool to wear and launders like a dream. Oh before I forget, I just noticed too that Nordstrom is now delivering to Canada so am really delighted as hopefully the stock/selection will be the same as due to import restrictions, it did slightly differ (both in stores and online) before when they were here in Canada.
-Brenda-
Your shirt sounds like such a cheery piece! I can see why it’s the most versatile. Happy Canada Day Brenda
When I was working, I had red, kitten-heeled strappy sandals that I wore out. Maybe it’s time for a replacement pair? As a member of the brown-thumb community, I love my (few) faux flowers. I am getting better with houseplants. Your store looks great: I’ve purchased some from Pottery Barn. They’re pricey in my view but quite lovely.
The faux ones can’t die either, which I love!
I love these color choices Jennifer thank you! Have a beautiful 4th !!🎊🎉🥂
You too!
I have to say my most versatile piece is the Bermuda shorts in navy that I’m wearing right now. My tee is white background with an ikat type of print on it in navy. I have linen pants and top in navy from Quince. I also have several linen pants in white, off white and flax colors. My tops are usually in shades of blue from pale to navy. My sneakers are white Brooks Ghost max which I recommend for any of you that have peripheral neuropathy and arthritis in your feet. I also recommend Easy Spirit Denise Austin sneakers. My sandals are neutral and are Cushionaire from Amazon. Very comfortable. It is hot here in the high desert of Colorado. I love, love love your blog Jennifer and I hope your health has stabilized. Enjoy your faux plant and flowers. I’m thinking of going that route as well. I’m a serial plant killer as well.
LOL, I’m glad I’m not alone on the plants. Thanks for being a subscriber xo
I’m right up there on plants. I keep saying I’m going to learn more caring for them and then I just don’t. I guess I’m not that into it. I love red, white and blue. I especially love red shoes and sandals. These are all so cute. Happy 4th 🇱🇷
Red, white and blue is such a fun combo
Happy Canada 🇨🇦 Day!
I love the navy T and skirt, it looks so comfy and classy.
I read somewhere that if you can’t grow plants Rey fake ferns,pots & pots of them!
Happy Canada Day Dianne!
There are many things I love about your blog….your sense of humor is right up there. Read the intro to todays post and laughed/snorted! Thx, needed that!
Question…love the red sweater from JJill but looks like it skews a bit orange red. Can you give any info about the color? Maybe you’ve seen actual garment?
Thx, Jennifer.
Thanks for being a subscriber :). I haven’t seen that top in person but agree, it does look on the warm side. Reds can be tricky. Have a great day Linda
I see so many items in linen, but how do you keep from being a wrinkled mess? I even iron mine. For this reason I rarely buy linen.
Linen looks better if you steam it rather than ironing. It will always wrinkle so you just have to accept that it’s part of the beauty of the fabric. Cotton gauze may be a better option for you if those wrinkle bother you.
Always enjoy reading your posts.
Good morning!
I too have been known to have a black thumb. Currently my vegetable garden is giving me fits. Awhile ago you featured a very light weight white cardigan that could be loosely tied at the waist. It looked like a great piece to wear with a sleeveless dress for arm coverage but still keeping cool. I thought it was Eileen Fischer but have not been able to find it. Can you point me in the right direction?
Good morning, Christi. It’s by Nic+Zoe and you can find it Here. I have worn these little sweaters for years! They’re perfect for arm coverage.
I read (actually listened to) Fifth Avenue Glamour Girl. For me the book was just OK. Then I read The Company I Keep—My Life in Beauty by Estee’s son Leonard. It was fascinating. It goes deep into the behind the scenes business. On one hand it’s a little unsettling to know how consumers are targeted. On the other hand it was interesting to see how the business was built. Leonard is a very likable man and the philanthropy of the family cannot be denied.
His book sounds fascinating
Those are versatile, taking you from day to night. It would be great for traveling.
Is the faux flower shop in Vancouver, and if so, will you share the name please? I’ve given up on houseplants because we travel often and I don’t want to bother someone to come in and attend. A few realistic faux would be nice. I do buy real flowers while I’m home because they make me happy.
I wonder how much returns to Nordstrom would cost?
It’s a woman and family owned business in Edgemont Village, called Trims. The store and ladies who own it are fabulous. If you go, please tell them I sent you.
Next time I’m on the mainland, I’ll stop in. I’ll make sure to tell them you sent me.
They are wonderful, I think you’ll love it
Love the Bleusalt pieces! Flattering, perfect for travel. Could you let us know the sizes you are wearing, and how the sizing compares to Chico’s sizing? Thanks!
I’m wearing a 3 in the tops and a 1 in the bottoms. I could have used a 2 in the bottoms, but these are very stretchy. I wouold say these run smaller than Chico’s sizing.
Hi, Love the Bleusalt skirt, but couldn’t find the length – I am 5’1″ – most skirts are too long for me – can it be easily hemmed? or will it have to be shortened in the waist? Thanks,
I couldn’t find the length on the website either. I’m measured mine and it’s 35″ long so I simply folled the waistband over twice to get the length I wanted. It could easily be hemmed too.
Thank you for the introduction to Bleusalt. I am always looking for versatile clothing made with sustainable fabric. It’s very hard to avoid all the poly and poly blends on the market. I also like the fact that it’s made in the USA. Less of a chance of a sweatshop product. As a bonus, it looks like this brand would really fit my lifestyle. Will definitely give it a try.
BYW, props for featuring a Cuyana bag- another favorite. I just ordered their red bucket bag- it’s adorable!
I LOVE Cuyana bags. Which size? The Lipstick color looks fabulous Susan!
I ordered the larger version. Want to make sure my phone, keys, wallet all fit.
Thanks Susan. I really love their bags and small leather goods. Such beautiful quality.
Your special florist sounds like a great way to go! Instead of watering, all you’ll need to do is an occasional dusting!
Exactly!
I live in Arizona — hot!! — and tried for years to grow plants during the summer without any success. As soon as the 110+ weather arrives they wilt and die even if they are well watered and in the shade. SO … in frustration I decided to use metal flowers in my large flower pots on my patio and am pleased I no longer have to water or dead head anything and they look good all the time. Just spray them down occasionally to remove the desert dust.
What a clever idea! Metal!
Happy Canada day Jennifer. That red & white outfit would be perfect today.
Happy Canada Day Yvonne!xo
My most versatile item for summer is an ivory slightly flared slacks.
Great post today, I will also have to check out red shoes Great idea