perfect 10 (for now)

Miss Sophie suggested I share what my 10 wardrobe essentials were. I don't think my essentials are going to be terribly exciting - they're basically what you'd expect to see on any "essentials" list.

So I decided to just share the 10 things in my wardrobe I'm constantly reaching for at the moment. I have a cyclical way of wearing things where I rotate between wearing certain things to death and then moving on and then back again. These items fall into the general categories of essentials I like to see in my closet, even though the items change according to whatever I'm "feeling".

1 + 2) Massimo Dutti casual button-down shirts



It's so easy, putting on a casual button-down for everyday. I always thought of shirts as being a bit of a bother, requiring really good ironing, but my shirt in casual cotton is as easy as a T-shirt and the blue and white check just cheers me up. The navy silk I bought last year is just perfect- it doesn't need ironing and it feel so good on the skin, and the colour is rich and beautiful.

3 + 4) T-shirts



I'm really relishing wearing these to work again. I always feel completely myself in one. I don't buy them from any particular brand, I just stock up whenever I think one has reached "pajama" status. Right now, these from Zara and Massimo Dutti feel just right in terms of neckline, the way they fall, the weight of the material.

5 + 6 + 7) Jeans



I have one pair of dark skinnys that are useful because they're more work appropriate but I much preferred my distressed, broken-in pairs, made of proper, hefty denim (not just stretchy cotton). I think I'm just feeling the faded, worn-in feel a lot more than chic dark washes. These are from Diesel and G-Star and I've been wearing some of them for almost 6 years now. They're in the straight/skinny fit I feel most comfortable in.

8) YSL Tribute tote



Except for days where I need to lug around workout clothes, I've pretty much settled into this as my regular bag (bag for work-out days is my Longchamp messenger tote). I'm so happy with this that I've pretty much stopped crushing carry-alls.

9) Zara ballet flats



My sister gave these to me because she decided they didn't suit her. Her loss, my gain. They are spectacularly comfortable, made of a very soft sturdy leather, and super cushy pebbled soles á la Tod's. I'll be pretty sad when these get worn out.

10) Cartier Tank Solo



I go crazy if I don't know the time and I don't see how taking your phone out of the bag or pocket to check the time is more efficient than glancing at your watch. I'm loving my Cartier Tank, which I bought myself, because you know, I'm worth it. Someday, I may even buy a watch with exceptional, collector-level workmanship because I really love the craftsmanship of watch-making, but that's a fantasy for another day.

There are other essentials in my closet (stripes, a grey jacket, a linen dress) but right now, it seems like I don't wear anything else...