Want to Simplify Your Life? Try a Uniform

Yes, I do want to simplify my life! Most people I meet say yes to that idea. But I don't really want to wear a proper uniform, as in a UPS person (not that there's anything wrong with that, UPS people).

No offense, UPS guy, you're looking good.

I like to play with clothes and try new things. But simplicity, yeah, it's becoming more and more appealing as the years roll by.



I found a well-done article about dressing in a "uniform" over at the Life, Edited site. It's a terrific site all-round, with articles about housing, travel, personal economy, and psychology. The article about uniform dressing takes a broad, gentle view of the subject.



It starts by pointing to one of the most famous uniform-wearers of the modern age:

Rather than boring and imposed fashion, a uniform can be a great way to simplify your life and even express your style – there’s a reason Steve Jobs, one of the foremost design gurus of the last 100 years, wore the same outfit day in, day out.

The author recommends simply starting with the clothing you already like the best, and wear the most. Let those pieces be the basis of your "uniform". For me, that would be pencil and full skirts for work, jeans for off-hours, and soft knit tops for all occasions. Shoes/booties with personality, a pretty scarf, my "G" ring and some bangles, and I have about 85% of my outfits covered.

Evidence!

Another recommendation: "When you find something you like, buy multiples. Get a few colors of the same item if you’re worried about looking the same all the time (but remember no one cares)." I do this with my favorite GAP soft tees and camisoles. Why buy a whole variety of tees when I've identified the one that fits, feels good and wears well?

And for those not ready to commit to a uniform of any kind, there's some sound wardrobe advice:

Even if you don’t wear the exact same thing every day, choose high quality clothing staples like a particular skirt, pant or shirt. Choose classic cuts in muted and complementary colors that you’ll be less likely to tire of and that work well together.

None of this rules out my joy of thrifting new pieces, trying "big pants" or a new color or silhouette. It just allows a path for easy dressing when that's what suits me (heh, pun!).



Have a fabulous Tuesday,