According to Gwyneth Paltrow’s lifestyle platform, Goop, “discovering a few reliable outfit formulas takes the stress out of deciding what to wear.” The article presents four wardrobe combinations aimed at easing your daily style dilemmas—though it features items like lip balm and T-shirts that cost more than a luxury vacation. Curious readers can check it out here.
Now, I might not run in the same circles as Gwyneth, and maybe you’re trying to figure out whether you fit into her world or mine. If you can easily justify splurging $525 on a poncho made of yarn that costs $12, you’re likely her target audience. On the other hand, if spending $525 on car repairs gives you pause, then we might be on the same page.
For those who are fashion-conscious and care about what Goop has to offer, that’s cool. My philosophy? If you have to “master” a simple look, you might be overthinking it. And honestly, every single outfit “formula” they offer costs more than my rent.
When I think of “mastering,” it simply means I’ve ended up with some go-to outfits over the years. Here’s a peek at what I’ve created:
1. Travel Ready
Goop suggests essentials like a $150 cashmere scarf, cozy knits, and an oversized tote to make air travel smoother. But you know what really simplifies airport travel? Not having to take out a pocket knife at security. Plus, I doubt the guy in seat 14B cares about your scarf unless it can extinguish a fire.
- Flannel Shirt: Three buttons missing and a pumpkin puree stain. Kohl’s, $12.99 on sale.
- Messenger Bag: Holds diapers, toys, and all the things nobody wants to carry. Secondhand store, $53.
- Cheap Sunglasses: Because I keep breaking mine. Walmart, $8.99.
- V-neck T-shirt: Comes in every color imaginable. Target, $6.99.
- Old Jeans: A rubber band helps me wear these now. Maurices, $15 with discounts.
- Flip-Flops: Old Navy, $1.50.
- Burt’s Bees Lip Balm: Found it in my bag, Free.
2. Workout Mode
For me, workout clothes are just that—clothes. On the rare occasion I actually hit the gym, I don’t stress about my outfit. My cardio-loving spouse usually opts for neon when Target has them on a buy-one-get-one sale.
- iPhone Headphones: Included with the phone but cost $200 in the store.
- Husband’s T-shirt: Walmart, $2.99.
- Deodorant: A must for social reasons. Target, $3.29 on sale.
- Fitbit: To trick myself into thinking I’m fit. Free with points.
- Neon Sports Bra: Target, $9.99.
- Old Yoga Pants: Ross, $12.99, ages ago.
- Nike Sneakers: $59.99, a decade old and still kicking.
3. Cocktail Chic
Cocktail attire can stretch from morning coffee to midnight snacks. Honestly, who cares about color when you’ve got snacks and a good drink?
- Comfy Jammies: A Mother’s Day gift from Target.
- Fuzzy Socks: A free gift from my sister-in-law.
- Mud Mask: A free sample that scares my family.
- A Book: Always a good accessory. Amazon, $12.50.
- Leftover Chocolates: From Grandma, Free.
- Favorite Wine: $8 from the local liquor store.
- Fluffy Robe: Internet purchase, $39.99 after a promo code.
4. Meeting Ready
I own no polished workwear—my home hasn’t been polished since my second child arrived. Honestly, I haven’t been to a meeting in years.
- Emergency Eyeliner: A Crayola marker, Target, $3.29 for a pack.
- Chewed Lipstick: Not my best shade. Walgreens, $4.95.
- Maternity Top: Because it’s the only thing that fits. Kohl’s, $14.99, from years ago.
- Unused Purse: Walmart, $7.99.
- One Sapphire Earring: Lost the other, JCPenny, about $7.50.
- Old Dress Slacks: Probably from Target, price unknown.
- Black Shoes: Not Chuck Taylors, maybe from Kohl’s, around $40 for both pairs.
So there you have it. I’ve “mastered” my simple looks without breaking the bank like those shopping through Goop. If you happen to have $525 lying around and no kids to feed, go ahead and indulge in a knitted poncho. Or, you could just invest in some decent clothes for yourself—or maybe even a new alternator!
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In summary, embracing personal style doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Whether you’re traveling, working out, or just lounging at home, you can create looks that suit you without sacrificing comfort or breaking the bank.