OOTD ft. Calvin Klein

Shop this look: Calvin Klein Jeans tee (out of season; find similar here) | Kensie jeans (oos; find similar here) | ruffle cardigan (oos; find similar here) | Calvin Klein tote bag | cultured Akoya pearl earrings

This is a simple, everyday look that can be recreated with almost any t-shirt + cardigan combination. It is comfortable yet does not look shabby. Even though this outfit is basic, I still look for quality. For t-shirts, I only buy 100% cotton and look to see if the seems stretch and distort after washing. For cardigans, I prefer wearing 100% cotton or wool/cashmere blend. Or course by going with wool or cashmere there is a significant increase in price, but the quality is there and it is a garment that will last a long time. I think of these purchases as investments pieces, since initially get higher quality and only have to purchase it once or twice in my life, rather than buying a cheaper product and having to buy it over and over again. This will not only end up being more expensive, but will waste other resources such as time and effort spent shopping for the sam item. For example, the cardigan I am wearing is something my mom gave me from her own wardrobe. You would not guess how old it is… approximately 15 years old! It has been worn numerous times, yet looks brand new! By buying a quality item and taking care of it (gentle cycle wash with cold water, and hung to dry), your clothes can last a long time and look great!

I paired this particular look with my white Converse sneakers, but it can also be worn with black ankle booties. For the bag, I like to match my shoes or the general tone of the outfit. Here, it is white and black, hence why I chose my black bag rather than other colours. I like using a tote because it doubles as my “school bag”. It is spacious enough to carry around my Mac and a textbook/notebook, with other school supplies. Again, I see this as an investment piece that will kill two birds with one stone, thus why I opt for a higher quality bag. I look for leather exterior, thicker handles/straps (to support the weight), and a well-lined interior with pockets and pouches. I have found that nylon or faux-leather bags are of lesser quality, and always end up tearing or having distorted seams.