Unstructured Structure
For me, simple is the new black. Something about simplicity and betting on black just sounds like a winning recipe. It’s the structure it provides for a non complex wardrobe and the clean curation. Lets dig a little deeper though…shall we?
Signature Whitney, in Soho, NY.
Recently, I’ve been adding more structure into my daily routines and even more with how I approach my looks for the day. I like to build looks, add, subract, and divide all the moving parts to create a balanced serving.
With this thought process I allow my mind to stick to the basics. You could actually apply the Four Types of Structure as a template to your outfit formula like so:
Frame - 2. Shell - 3. Solid - 4. fluid
“Structure is the way the subject is organized. Style is the manner in which an author presents information and ideas. ”
Frame is to select separates that can be put together. A shell encloses or contains its contents. A solid is made entirely of mass. And to be fluid is to break even.
To me, structure is about two main things. First, it is about revealing the details of your physical structure, like your waist or shape. I went with a fitted woven turtle neck dress as my shell and solid. Second, it is about accentuating those details. Example would by a sharp shoulder, or panels on a jacket that draw attention to your shape.
Structured items are normally tailored and detailed. My staple DKNY cape blazer provided the perfect framing and instantly leveled up the entite look. Adding an unexpected flair with baseball cap gave it some “umph”.
Leopard Family Reunion: Kurt Gieger handbag x June Ambrose felt leopard boots.
here are 5 ways to Get Whit It adding structure to an outfit: (Can be used in combination or on their own)
Add a structured jacket to an unstructured top, bottom, or dress: I’m in love with how an outer tailored topper reins in the volume of the bottom layers underneath.
Add a structured dress or separate under an OPEN unstructued toppers: This method does the opposite creating visual structure on the inside of the volume as opposed to excess fabric from outside.
Scruch the sleeves: I didn’t have sleeves in this look but I naturally do this alot with my blazer looks. A bare forearm can instantly add a tailored element to both a casual or dressy ensemble because showcasing skin creates some structure.
Wear a belt: A belt can provide volume in a dramatic way when worn on the natural waist. My current favorite are thin leather belts. It’s like the perfect attention to the waist but subtle by being worn on the lower hip with a loose blouse/top tucked in.
Wear tailored footwear: Meaning sleek styles that fit closely on the foot and leg. My lepard boots offered a more refined look with a kick. A simple strapped sandal, loafer, pump, or bootie can be inserted here.
Are you doing wardrobe planning for Spring? Use these 5 tips and the 4 Types of Structure as a go to formula and find the bones of your inventory. Create a clear sense of your current wardrobe. If you need another eye involved, you know where to find me darling.
Before I leave you, you know I have to bring it all back to a “life+style” POV.
3 ways I’ve been challenging myself recently and adding more strucure to my life are by way of Consistency - mainly showing up even when I don’t feel like it.
Predictability - expecting what the outcome will be by what vibration I put in.
Lastly, Follow Through - enforcing the consequence. Saying what I mean, and meaning what I say - as I always have but more of a Me vs Me era if you’re picking up what I’m putting down. ;-)
Unitl we chat here again, be well presented.
Xo,
Whitney
Photo Credits: Katie Nunez Rodriguez of Phe Studios