According to Gwyneth Paltrow’s lifestyle platform, Goop, “discovering a few reliable outfit combinations eliminates the stress of deciding what to wear.” The article highlights four stylish outfit solutions for everyday fashion dilemmas, featuring luxurious items like lip balm and T-shirts with price tags that could rival a small vacation. You can check it out here.
Now, I realize Gwyneth and I don’t share the same social scene. If you find yourself justifying a $525 expense on a poncho made from yarn that costs less than a fancy coffee, you might be in her circle. But if you’re someone who hesitates at the thought of spending that much on a new car battery, then you’re with me.
For those who appreciate fashion and what Goop offers, kudos to you! My belief is that if you have to “perfect” a simple look, you might be overthinking it. Besides, every one of those outfit “formulas” is pricier than my monthly mortgage. To me, “perfecting” is just a fancy way of saying “this is what I ended up with.” Out of curiosity, I rummaged through my closet to uncover a few looks I’ve “perfected” over time:
1. Travel Ready
Goop suggests that a $150 cashmere scarf, comfy knits, and a tote bag are travel essentials. I believe the key to a stress-free airport experience is not carrying a pocket knife. And really, the person in seat 14B probably couldn’t care less about your scarf unless it’s saving lives during a mid-air crisis. Here’s my version of travel chic:
- Flannel shirt with a couple of buttons missing, plus a pumpkin stain: Kohl’s, $12.99
- A messenger bag loaded with everything from diapers to toys: Thrift store, $53
- Inexpensive sunglasses—because I keep breaking them: Walmart, $8.99
- Classic V-neck T-shirt (also available in white and every color imaginable): Target, $6.99
- Jeans from eight years ago that were once oversized: Maurices, $15 after a gift card
- Flip-flops: Old Navy, $1.50
- Burt’s Bees lip balm: Found in my bag, Free
2. Workout Gear
When it comes to workout clothes, it’s never been about style for me. I wear them as everyday attire. If I do work out, I usually grab whatever I can find, often from Target’s sales on neon colors—because let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good bargain?
- iPhone headphones that came with my phone: Apple, $200
- My husband’s old T-shirt: Walmart, $2.99
- Deodorant—because, you know, social norms: Target, $3.29
- Fitbit—just to pretend I’m a fitness expert: Cabela’s, Free with points
- Neon sports bra—my “freak flag”: Target, $9.99
- Worn-out yoga pants: Ross, $12.99
3. Cocktail Attire
When it comes to cocktails, who cares about the color scheme when you’ve got snacks and drinks to enjoy? Some comfy jammies and fuzzy socks will get you through the night just fine!
- Cozy pajamas: Target, Mother’s Day gift
- Fuzzy socks from my sister-in-law: Cabela’s, Free
- A mud mask to scare the family: Free sample
- An engaging book: Amazon, $12.50
- Leftover Valentine’s chocolates: Russell Stover, Free
- My favorite wine: Local store, $8 a bottle
- The fluffiest robe you can find: Online, $39.99 after a discount
4. Meeting Attire
I don’t own any polished separates—my house hasn’t seen polish since my second child was born. In fact, I haven’t stepped into a formal meeting in over seven years. I have no clue what a satchel even is! Here’s what I’d pull together for a meeting now:
- A Crayola marker as emergency eyeliner: Target, $3.29 for a pack
- Chewed lipstick (that color was never great anyway): Walgreens, $4.95
- An old maternity top: Kohl’s, $14.99
- A purse that matches nothing: Walmart, $7.99
- One sapphire earring (lost the other): JCPenney, $7.50
- Dress slacks that are ancient: Probably Target, but I can’t recall
- Non-Chuck Taylor black shoes: Probably Kohl’s, around $40
So, there you have it! I’ve perfected my simple looks for a fraction of what someone shopping on Goop would pay. If you find yourself with an extra $525 and no kids to feed, go ahead and splurge on that knitted poncho. Or you might consider checking out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re looking for at-home insemination kits, Make a Mom has some great options.
In the end, your wardrobe should be about what makes you comfortable, not what looks cool.
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