Monday Musing: Is the Algorithm Destroying Personal Style
Today, I’m rambling about personal style and the influencer industry, which seems to be at war with individuality.
I’ve always been drawn to women whose outfits make them look like they have an interesting story to tell. Not the ones who look “put together” in the Pinterest-perfect sense… but the ones who look like they’ve lived a few chapters you’d actually want to read.
Maybe it’s a unique jacket that’s clearly been somewhere or the jewelry that looks like it came from a dusty little shop in an exotic country, rather than a department store with reward points.
The pieces on these women don’t always match, but, more importantly, they look like they belong on them. Nothing feels overly styled, and nothing looks like it came in a bundle labeled “influencer picks.” You look at her and think, She’s definitely seen some things. Possibly rolled her eyes at them. Probably laughed at the wrong moment. I want to sit next to her.
And maybe because I keep noticing those interesting women, I’m also more aware of the opposite…the ones who are technically dressed “well,” but whose outfits all blur together.
I’ll pass four in a row at the store, see them in line for coffee, or all over the internet, and they’re all wearing some version of the same thing. The same beige coat, colorful Adidas sneakers, and the same “effortless” crossbody bag that’s shown up on so many feeds that it starts to feel like a requirement. You see it enough times and you start to think, maybe I need that too.
It makes me wonder if personal expression is dead… or just wounded by the algorithm. Because when everything looks the same, the instinct is to blend in. You stop trusting your gut. You talk yourself into things you don’t even like and end up with a closet full of “perfectly fine” clothes you never reach for.
But the women who still catch my eye? They’ve stopped asking for permission. They aren’t wearing the “right” thing; they’re wearing their thing.
A Rare Find
I decided to take my own advice the other day when I found a vintage knit jacket in a secondhand shop. It had more embellishment than I usually go for because it looked ornate, and I initially talked myself out of it because it wasn’t “me.”
I chatted with the shop owner, and she pointed out that the jacket had two tags: one from her shop and one from The RealReal. Apparently, one of her consignors regularly buys pieces from The RealReal, wears them once or twice, then resells them locally…a cycle that feels both impressively efficient and mildly unhinged.
Intrigued, I went back for a second look. This wasn’t just a mass-produced garment. It had been cared for. The inner facing had been replaced by hand, and the front hooks had been resewn with extra security. It had a history. The original label had been removed, but the RealReal tag simply read “Oscar” with a string of numbers. I snapped a photo of the jacket, uploaded it to Google, and sure enough, it came back as a 2001 Oscar de la Renta original.
So, I bought it. Not just because of the name, but because the jacket itself had “seen some things.” It had been reinforced and passed through different hands, and it stood in total defiance of the “beige coat” uniform.
One of my style goals for 2026 is to have more fun and dress with more creativity. I wore the jacket out to dinner with a simple black turtleneck, jeans, and booties. While the rest of the look was understated, the jacket made it feel daring… a little “not me,” yet exactly who I want to be. I’m anxious to see what else I come up with.
How to Outsmart the Algorithm
If you feel like your own style has been “wounded” by the feed, here is how I’m learning to hit the reset button:
Stop Asking for Permission: The women who look the best are the ones who aren’t afraid to look “wrong” to the rest of the world. Trust your gut. If a piece pulls you in, but it “isn’t you”…maybe it’s actually the new you waiting to happen.
Audit the “Why”: Next time you’re about to buy the “it-bag” or those trending sneakers, ask: Do I actually love this, or have I just seen it ten times this morning? If the answer is the latter, put it back.
Look for the “Story” Piece: Start small. Find one item like a vintage scarf, a thrifted belt, or a unique piece of jewelry that didn’t come from a big-box store. Let that one “imperfect” item be the anchor of your outfit.
What about you? Do you feel the algorithm fatigue? Do you have a piece in your closet that felt a little “unlike you” when you bought it, but now you can’t imagine letting it go?
Jennifer,
I really appreciating you doing a gut check and going with your real and creative heart in going for your own style. Some of my favorite pieces of jewelry have been passed down to me from my mother. They have a story, they speak to me, and they are commented on by others. Not flashy- unique and special.
I also have found a few pieces of clothing at a local consignment shop, some even with the original tags. I liked them, they were a little different from the norm, and they fit and flattered. I’ve had some nice comments. Not that it’s the most important thing. It is that I like them and they have become staples. I also have a few coats and even a fabulous hooded red wool cape from Ireland that I’ve inherited from friends that are European in style, unique, great to wear for special occasions, or when I need that pop of color in the winter. Let’s keep doing our own thing that makes our heart sing. You Go Girl!
Love this message about outsmarting the algorithm, and the jacket is awesome!
Your best post ever-perfect for the new year!
Wish you lived next door!
Happy New Year!
That jacket is magnificent and looks perfect on you. I’m glad you reconsidered it, enjoy!
YES! I have colorful scarves and vintage colorful faceted pins I’d love to wear in a modern way. I’m bored by THE sneakers, THE utility jacket, THE designer denim in a particular wash.
Please expand this topic by giving ideas for modern individuality. I love what you say here.
I will!
That jacket is spectacular and looks fabulous on you!
Thanks so much
I love the fabulous jacket! It suits your size. It is obviously a stunning piece and I think it could be styled with many other pieces. The faux fur vest is lovely, but might be overwhelming your body. I prefer the closer fit of the other jacket on you. We shorter gals have to be so careful about proportion. By the way, your hair has looked very nice in the last few posts.
The Oscar jacket on you is so stunning! Your post made my thoughts feel validated. We are becoming so cookie cutter in how we dress and it lacks the personal expression aspect. Holding on to that unique piece of jewelry or clothing and wearing it always sparks a connection from someone bold enough to comment. I have pieces over 20 years old that I restyle every once in a while and love how they make me feel. But this creates another problem, need more closet space!
Great point Cheryl. Few people make comments.
That jacket is FABULOUS! Glad you went with your instinct.
Me too
Love this jacket! Looks fantastic on you!
Love the jacket.
That jacket is super. I love statement pieces. I’m all for creativity and am not trying to look like the crowd.
LOVE the jacket and the concept of including pieces in an outfit which have a story.
Hi
I like the black sweater Jacket. It’s a statement piece.
I have a pair of Barrel leg workout pants from old navy that are very soft they move well and I get tons of compliments. I don’t care for the Jean barrel leg. Fabric is to stiff. I really don’t wear jeans often I like soft denim.
I love this post, and I am curious to see what you will come up with, too. The Oscar jacket look is one of the cutest outfits I have seen you wear.
The jacket is a great find! It’s fun, original and versatile (dress up or down). I hope you enjoy wearing it.
I’ve been reading your blog for quite a while. I always appreciate your practical approach to beauty and fashion. Thank you!
Great blog today and so true. I get caught up in the influencer world of fashion cause I want ideas on how to look relevant in today’s fashion world. I’ve spent way more money than I should and still don’t always feel confident in how I dress. Sometimes I feel like a “poser”.
I always enjoy your honesty and sincerity. Loved your blog on aging too.
Thanks for being here Donna
Hi Jennifer, I absolutely LOVE that jacket! It’s great with denim, as it would also be with silk or velvet! My favorite piece of advice in this post is “stop asking for permission.” I needed the reminder that it’s more important to be myself than to strictly follow the rules. Maybe it’s time to reconnect a bit with my second-grade self – the one who proudly wore her favorite purple pants with a yellow t-shirt. Mom hated it, but it gave me joy. 😁
There aren’t a lot of interesting items that speak to personal style in my size. Now I have footwear needs that have eliminated my shoe collection, too. This leaves me with accessories and outerwear to spice things up. I’ve never been able to resist a fun coat or jacket. It won’t be designer, but game on! BTW, it helps to narrow down style blogs to a few favorites, like yours.
Thanks, MJ!
Love the vintage jacket. You look great in wearing it.
By the way -I would have bought that jacket in a heartbeat! Love it and your fur vest! I have 5!!
My style is jeans, I buy different jackets at the thrift store-anything different that I like-embellished, moto whatever. I don’t want to look like everyone else. I’ve found jeans boots and a jacket will take me almost anywhere.
I often buy a unique item/outfit on vacation and it makes me smile when I put it on.
Yes, I have the algorithm fatigue. I have always loved to grab pieces at a boutique, but all of the boutiques near me that I used to frequent have closed!
I tend to “fall in line” with the catalog looks and the sales during the Christmas season, but then I have too much of the same thing come January! Same thing happened this year. Creature of habit!
I did buy a satin skirt in December (QVC), not really being certain that it was my style. It fit so perfectly and I love it so much (wore it on NYE), that I ordered another one! It’s worth it to take a chance on something different, just like your jacket, which is fabulous and looks fantastic on you! Great find!
Love the jacket- looks great on you. Showing you have a great interesting character- and very classy taste.
Way more fun too!😉
I love your thought process, Jennifer. To “be unique” in a good way is a dream – hard to construct in real life. I’m quite senior and happy when I’ve achieved the “shes well put together” look. Mostly it’s the uni-look, the column of color. But, scarf around my neck, long sweater, or chic short jacket, or snappy necklace . . .? You do give me courage to try, and I appreciate your honesty. Have a lovely week,
I think trying something new is a fabulous goal.
Oh my gosh that jacket it amazing ! I’m so glad you bought it. It looks wonderful on you. I’m sure every time you wear it you will have a wonderful memory and a great story if you choose to tell it ! What a lucky find.
I love to resale shop and I have found some pieces that I just love. They are not new or trendy but they are me.
I loved this post and I hope you have many more adventures to tell us about in the future.
A while back I realised that my unidentifiable home style was “the collected look” (as described by a blogger) brought together cohesively over many years. Why oh why couldn’t I have managed that with my wardrobe, instead of which there was a constant outbound trip to the thrift shops. In some defence, weight management played a large role as well as retirement. But still, very much older and wiser, I’m resolving to now find the collected look for my wardrobe. Great piece, thank you.
You really lucked out with that beautiful jacket – and I think it looks amazing on you and the simple way you styled it.
I love the faux fur vest.
It looks very stylish on you.
The black jacket is great; unique and does not look its age.
What your look for in re-loved items.
I love that vintage Oscar jacket and the personality it gives to your outfit!!
Hello Jennifer love this thank you! I’ve been feeling a little trapped lately trying to keep up faishon wise….and now I am heading into my own independent land and moving away from following advice from fashion guru’s. “I like what I like” is now my motto. Texture and color and fabric is always “my jam” and lately I have reached for a knitted sleeveless sweater I made from a Kasse Fasset book(incredible knitter) in blues and greys about thirty years ago!! Looks great with a denim shirt. And makes me happy:)
Have a beuatiful week.
Kasse Fasset patterns are amazing!! You must be a very talented knitter Francesca.
I love this jacket, so glad you purchased it. It has enough flair without being overdone. Love black,navy, cream or white together. I must say that I do not write to you, maybe once or twice but I definetly look forward to reading all your information and where items can be purchased and I like that you give alternatives especially since not everyone can spend alot on clothing. I’m very short, I shrunk 4.9 feet now, weigh around 129, a little to much weight for my size but I’m working on it. Petite is the only way to go or my sleeves hit the floor, hahaha. I am much more conscience of what I’m buying so I do not have to return items. You have helped me very much and I so appreciate it. J Jill is my store, they carry just about everything in petite. The stores do not carry alot of petite merchandise but I use their on line buying even with the shipping charge. I also visit the store to look at the styles and fabrics in the regular sizes. They also have great sales, if you wait you can get the item and if not I feel it wasn’t meant to be. If you order in the store the shipping is free. Hope this helps the petite ladies.
Thanks Mary Ann. You are quite petite so I apreciate it must be a real challenge to find the proper fit.
Absolutely love this ….exactly what I think. That Oscar piece is a keeper. I dress 95% from thrift and I have some exquisite pieces. A pair of leather booties from Spain I paid 5$ for 20 years ago that are classic and I get comments every time! Adding a piece to a chain is brilliant too. As is adding brooches to neck pieces.
I’m going to try more things with my brooches too.
I love that jacket. But I will point out that I recently saw a navy cardigan/boxy jacket trimmed with white blanket stitch both at Chicos and Talbots. I love navy and would have purchased it if it wasn’t boxy. My point here is that maybe some of it means to follow the algorithim a little bit? Your jacket is nicely fitted and elaborately trimmed with white, but it does remind me a little of this trend…
Styles do always come back around so I’m not surprised at all. That’s not following the algorythm, thats smart shopping by recognizing what you really love!
This really resonated with me!! Thank you for this inspiration to wear what you love and not what everyone else “should” be wearing!😊
I love love love that jacket and the thought behind your purchase of it! Definitely going to lean into this idea!!
I love this post and the jacket! I had a similar experience last spring when I found a brightly coloured Harvé Benard jacket in our local thrift store. I had never heard of the brand until I looked it up online and I initially passed the jacket by because I don’t usually wear anything that bright. It kept calling out to me though and when I found a sleeveless top that coordinated perfectly with it, both pieces came home with me. I feel like a million dollars wearing them and have had many compliments.
What a wondr ful find! And to think that it actually fits you, even better! The rare finds I’ve made in consignments shops have always been too too big or too long for my frame. I do have a furry vest similar to yours that I bought 13 years ago on a bike tour in Italy. I have NEVER worn it. It’s gray with a bit of burgundy, perfect colors for me. You have inspired me to take it out and get some wear out of it during our unusually mild winter. I can make it work!
Yay! I’m happy you’ll wear it. What a great souvenir.
I learned a lot about style with an outfit a friend wore. I did not like any piece she had on. Wrong colour, style etc for me. But she looked fantastic. I learned I want to ‘look great’ rather than ‘I love your top’, which I think means they are thinking if it would work for them.
I agree that we start to see things and then end up buying them. I love 2 piece matching loungewear and the idea of ponte knit pants. They look good on me when I put an outfit together but I am not always comfortable as I feel like I am in pjs! I guess I have also learned looking good doesn’t always mean it is my style!
Great observation Barb, thanks for sharing it with us.
Bravo to you for this blog today! I follow several fashion blogs and you are the only one who consistently is true to your style. The rest are all over the board to what sells and what is trending. It is never consistent and true. Thank you for today’s post and reminding us to be true to our style not what others think we should be.
Jennifer in Port Angeles, WA.
At age 68, this is where I’m finally at. Just wear what I want whether it’s in style or not. It’s usually not. I’m working on not buying the “in” thing just to get rid of it a year later. I love your jacket and your push to buy it and wear it. Thanks!
I don’t have a great consignment shop near me but I do have a jeweler who repurposes your past and inherited treasures. I now have several pieces that are uniquely me, along with found treasures, mainly rings, that are now resized and in my jewelry box. Don’t forget your jewelry when you reshop your closets!
Yes! I have some pieces from my Granny that I’m thinking of “tweaking”
Love that jacket on you. It really adds a zip to a simple dinner outing of jeans and amplifies personality!
I love your idea to consult with your inner style…. To take a chance on things you love. Your black and white jacket is gorgeous!
Love that black jacket with the white detail. Looks so nice on you.
Great post. I agree we need to be ourselves with clothing that tells others who we are not the road map made by others. The best always
Jennifer,
Thank you for this post!! I have several older Chico pieces that I love but felt out of place wearing. Guess what? I am going to put them on and wear them proudly!!!
I agree the “algorithm” can cause impulse buys that end up not feeling authentic. I am going with what I love for 2026 and see if I can find my retired over 60 style.
Love the jacket! Very unique and a “stand out” wardrobe piece. Also love the fur vest and your black hat. What brand of hat is that?
P.S. I found the leather fur vest you wore with the black skirt on Poshmark. I love it!
It’s one of my favorite. Good find. The hat is an oldie from Renée NYC. I’m not sure the brand is still making hats.
Love, love, love your new jacket!!
Your jacket was a great timeless find! I like to cleanout my closet every change of season and take my things to our local consignment shop. I let my sales accumulate and at the end of the year use it to buy ONE Fabulous item. This year it was a beautiful vintage fox fur coat that fit me perfectly. l will keep it and pass on to my grand daughters one day. My husband pokes fun at me for my “buy high, sell low” wardrobe but my reply is “everyone needs a hobby”!
What a marvelous hobby 🙂
I couldn’t agree with you more! Style and aesthetics are an individual thing and should be celebrated. The best way to do that is to mix it up and go for it with confidence.
P.S. The jacket is stunning on you! LOVE IT!
Fabulous jacket! It looks custom made for you. I thrifted a Ralph Lauren jacket a few years ago from a charity thrift that I wear constantly. You never know what you might add to your wardrobe until it jumps out and grabs you. No regrets.
Love the jacket! And I really enjoy deconstructing great outfits – this would be fun to do
I love decontructing outfits too so I will share some here. Thanks Anne!
Bravo! Thank you for pointing out the fact that the algorithm is driving fashion choices and everyone seems to be dressing alike! At this age, we should all be wearing whatever makes us happy. I love that jacket, and you look fantastic. All the best to you!
Bethanne
Thanks!
That new jacket looks like it was made for you! A great start for you on finding some new ways to express yourself.
As for influencers/algorithms and everyone looking alike…….before this hit “personal style” I saw it in home interiors. I first noticed what I called it the “Pottery Barn” effect in the late 1990s. All woods were brown, with simple lines, and all upholstery was beige. That was before algorithms, and I thought it was because furniture is expensive, but no one is afraid of beige. People were ordering furniture from catalogs and didn’t want any negative surprises. And now 30 years later, most interiors look pretty similar to each other.
Are we afraid of individuality?
Interesting! I know exactly what you mean by the Pottery Barn effect. Finding alternatives seems harder and harder these days.
Jennifer, In the sea of beige interiors, I call our home decor “world tour” because it is colorful, traditional, eclectic and many items did come from travels. Maybe I need to adopt that thinking to personal style?
Yes, it can be fun!
Excellent advice! Thank you.
I really like what you are saying here. Too much trending is going on. I feel like at my age I can’t keep up and I really don’t care to. I have a lot of unique jewelry that I’ve been thinking of wearing more often and not saving it for good. Thanks for reminding us to be ourselves.
This is so refreshing! I am so tired of seeing the same looks shared by “influencers” and stores. People seem to be afraid to stand out in any way. I was at a coffee shop on Saturday, and nearly every woman there was wearing a version of the same outfit.
Yes! That’s what I’m seeing and it’s so boring. It reminds me of high school when every girl wanted to look the same.
I am so in love with that jacket! Good job, you look fabulous! And thank you for saying what I’ve been feeling a lot lately – everyone looks the same. I’ve been on the hunt to add more color to my wardrobe, so now I’ll also be eyeing clothes that feel more “me”. Thank you for a great article!
This post hit me hard! I’m so timid with unusual items and never buy anything that isn’t in my usual string of uniform items. I love what you did with the jacket, which is gorgeous, and it nudged me to take a step into the “wild”. I may start with a smaller item but I will take that step when I find that unique item!!
I’ve been in a rut with my things as well. My closet clean out really drove that point home.
I adore your “find.” What a lucky girl. Your post today speaks to me. Thank you.
I love what you did with new black jacket……I think you did you and let the jacket stand on it’s own and be the focal point (no competing pieces). I love your faux fur vest with the hood…….I’ve been wanting something like that but not that color. I think if you played around with your styling you’ll get what you’re aiming for.
Good luck……
My daughter loves to “thrift” shop and has found some items that really reflect her 20-something style. Your jacket reminds of that and looks amazing on you!
I agree on the barrel-legged jeans; I’ve yet to see someone that didn’t look silly in them, even the tall, thin models. There are some ideas that should just stay as ideas…
You look great in your new/old jacket! Enjoy it. You and Pamela Lutrell are the only blogs I read. You do “influence” me. I enjoy your humor but also your style Jennifer. I guess I have lived long enough to know my style from what is trending and just wear what I feel comfortable in and enjoy. You seem to do so as well. I think we change our style over time. Sometimes it is as simple as body changes. As we age, our waist thickens even if our weight stays the same. So because that is my problem, I no longer tuck. Because I lived my entire work life in scrubs and sneakers, my style is simple, comfortable and casual without being sloppy. I love neutrals like pale grey, oyster white especially in linen for the summer. But I tend to live in tee shirts, plaid flannel shirts over the top or a sweater, love Quince, and jeans. I live in rural mountains of Colorado and make my own fashion statement. Where we live has a lot to do with what we wear. I just love reading your blog Jennifer.
I totally agree about our location being important. I often dress differently in Vancouver than California.
What a nice looking jacket! I would like to be a little more daring, too, but worry I’ll buy something that I’ll regret (which has certainly happened in the past). I’ll try your advice!
Love your posts!
Jennifer, I love this so much. My mother was a Thrifter and she often made alterations to things to make them more unique for her. She was often told how stylish she was. I totally agree with your thoughts, and I’m going to try to be more intentional in finding the “unique “ and not buy unless I love something. Not because someone influenced me.
Thank you for this post – it really woke me up. I’ve been dissatisfied and bored with my wardrobe – pants sweater necklace accompanied by a boring bag – and I can’t find anything I want to purchase. I’m going shopping today and I plan to look for the unexpected items that feel and look good on me. Thank you for the boost!
I’ve been terribly bored with my wardrobe too. I hope you find some unique things.
Love this article. I am not sure if I am listening to the algorithm or I just go to the same retailers, but I would like to change it up a bit as well. I am retired so my wardrobe has changed. I have too many casual pants that are practical and I can take to travel with but then when I go out to dinner, my outfits seem blah.
I love the jacket on you. That is a simple outfit but you added a statement piece.
Appreciate the comment on the sameness. I noticed when attending grandson’s flag football games a few years ago most of the moms were wearing the same outfits including hat. It was a Instagram moment. Now attending my granddaughter’s high school dance competitions that draw teams from the whole state I see pockets of whatever the outfit of the day is. I remember reading my magazines over and over as a teenager. I struggle these days putting new outfit together due to cost and having lost some weight seems to fit.
What a find! That jacket is beautiful and it flatters you. Yesterday I saw a woman who looked to be in her middle 70’s (hard to tell) wearing an emerald green fur coat. It hit at mid hip on her and looked so beautiful and unique. I complemented her on it. She told me she got it at a second hand store. She is a perfect example of the type of woman you described above who does not ask permission. Good advice. I’m going to have to hit some second hand stores.
Jennifer, Love your vintage knit jacket—it looks great! I’m trying to move beyond my perception of a “basic” style, and your example inspires me to start with a vintage piece. Pairing a basic black anchor with unique trim and simple accessories creates a look that feels both accessible and stylish. I admire well-dressed women who break the basic rule and want to focus on becoming one myself. Thank you for sharing!
I want to become one too! So much more fun than following the pack.
This post was so spot on. In the past few years, I have been buying only what I can say to myself ” do you love this ?” Many times the answer is no. I feel that some of my older pieces are far superior in quality than some of the new items out there. To be honest I usually receive more compliments on my older items that I do love.
That jacket you bought is beautiful on you. Along with the pearl necklace.
Things I pull from my “wardrobe archives” are much more interesting. Sadly, that means I also can’t link them for readers.
I love love love the jacket!!!!! So glad you are having fun being back little more daring with your clothes. Not sure how daring i am but I have always loved colors, plaids and prints thanks to my parents. Glad you are seeing interesting women. It is cold here in Michigan so only seeing coats and boots right now. Not very exciting. Lol! Enjoy your jacket!!!
Love your comments, and the jacket! I find that I am happiest with my outfit when I have a statement piece, something that is just different. In the 80″s it was wearing a dramatic pin/brooch with my conservative suits, it was a conversation starter. Thanks for the reminder. Have a blessed week.
I loooove the jacket. I would have bought it in a flash too. Would look amazing with a leather skirt, or jeans, or whatever. I once bought a 700 dollar St John knit sweater on consignment for 70 dollars. Still have it, it’s a classic navy blue that will never be out of style, like a sweater blazer. These things are what makes consignment shopping worth while!
I refuse to look like everyone else. I want to stand out in a classic, modern way. But barrel curls, big lips, overly made up skin and eyes, those sneakers, that purse-nope, not doing it. I’ve lived long enough to earn the right to be different in thought and action.
Your last sentence says it! We’ve all earned that right.
AMEN!!!!
I have 2 pieces of jewelry that always provoke conversation. Both have a story and that’s why I love them. One is my mom’s baby ring, small, simple beautiful. The other is my Nursing Pin. I know it sounds weird. It is solid gold, round, has beautiful detail and been in my jewelry box for 45 yrs. One day I had a crazy idea to turn it into a pendant and I love it!
Brilliant idea!
Wow Jennifer, such wise words, beatifully written. You have inspired me!
So glad you bought the Oscar jacket. It looks great with the jeans, but I can also see it for dress up with a long skirt for a special night out. Also like the faux fur vest. Both items are my style 😊, Would wear both.
Love this post and the jacket. We all have that special story to tell in something we love to wear.
This is the post I needed to read! I have felt my style has been in a rut especially since I retired as a teacher a year ago. No longer wanting to wear the “teacher look.” Read a suggestion to create a board on Pinterest of style that “spoke” to me. Everything looks the same just as you described in your post. Forget Pinterest, I’m just going to start wandering into stores I haven’t been to in a while and search the wonderful links you share.
That’s why I love thrift/consignment shopping! It’s a treasure hunt! The only risk for me is that I know if I want it, I need to purchase now, because it likely won’t be there when I go back. I also do this with household decorations. For Mardi Gras, I bought several large ceramic serving pieces at our excellent charity shop, used them for the party and donated them the next week for the next treasurer shopper!! And the charity wins!
Oh Mudra, how clever of you! Great idea.
Jennifer, I looked at the photo and said- Now THAT is a beautiful jacket! Then I read who designed it. Always beautiful quality pieces no matter the year/season. Lucky you. My daughter posts on IG and her most original outfits often include a “ vintage “ piece from my sister. Everyone’s capsule wardrobe of cream & navy is getting a little boring. Here’s to an exciting new year!
I love that jacket- what a great find. I can see it worn with a long flared black skirt and boots. That looks like something I’d hang on to forever.
And I have a long black skirt from my travels last year! Yes, it’ll be perfect.
That jacket is gorgeous! And I bet it will draw other women to you to chat about how great it looks on you. That’s another potential benefit of wearing a piece that has a history or a story behind it–other women with stories want to hear about yours. Some of my favorite pieces are from thrift stores. I have a Dolce & Gabbana sweater that is easily twenty years old, looks newer than most of my newer cashmere sweaters, and has cost me pennies per wear. And I have interesting conversations with women every time I wear it!
I absolutely do have a couple of those things that just called to me. One is a tie dyed skirt that I got at a roadside pop up, another a scarf that was a gift from many years ago. Fun!
Good Morning Jennifer and Happy Monday! Once again, love your Monday thoughts and love that jacket on you. Great find, its amazing. And I can’t wait to see what else you come up with. I think one can find some unique pieces at Anthropologie.
You’re right! Anthropologie always feels like a treasure hunt for me.
I LOVE that Oscar jacket!!! It’s pieces like that that tell such an amazing story and get compliments when worn! I have. a few pieces like that, including a beautiful knit dress with native american embellishments that my MOM wore in high school! I love these interesting pieces of my wardrobe and I love how different they make me feel! I will never be “supermodel” thin or polished (never by a long shot), but I appreciate my own style, size, and look and the confidence it gives me!!!! 😊
It’s all about the confidence. How fortunate you are to have your mom’s special dress.
The Oscar jacket looks great! What a find.
Jennifer,
Your post is just what I needed to hear this morning! I have been one of your followers for quite some time. I have to say that I love the “Oscar” jacket…not only the way it looks on you, but the confidence you exude while wearing it. Thanks for encouraging all of us to be our authentic selves and wear what we love.
Ginger R.
Jennifer, your jacket is divine. I love to shop at consignment shops to find that one unique piece or accessory that makes me feel special. I once bought a hand embroidered Cape from a woman in Mexico and every time I wear it ( it really elevates a turtleneck and pants!,) I feel so great.
What a wonderful and well-timed post. January is such a good month for reflecting on what’s in our closet and making the most of what we have, adding a little fun here and there. I feel a trip to my favorite consignment shop coming on!
Have fun!
The Oscar sweater is stunning. Over a winter white column would work as well. I have been thrifting for a few years now and find many unique and well made items in my treasure hunts. In an attempt to be more ecologically friendly I started looking at Poshmark, The Real Real etc. now it is just fun to shop! Perhaps this will be a new venue for you?
I love the jacket and would definitely wear it. Have fun with it.
The jacket is absolutely stunning, and you look amazing in it. Not only do I love that you took a chance on it, I love this post. Creativity does seem to have gotten lost in the algorithm. Great observations and I can’t wait to see what’s next. Happy Monday!
Happy Monday
The jacket is amazing and you look wonderful wearing it@
I LOVE that jacket and so glad you went back and bought it! It’s gorgeous and really adds to an outfit. You’re right, I keep seeing the same things over and over again and it gets boring. I love something that pops and might just have a story.
I have a bright yellwool coat. Bought because a loved it never seen anyone with it.
The compliments keep coming and it’s me!
Yay!
Thanks for this inspiring post! I’m shopping the back of my closet in 2026 and rediscovering pieces I pushed aside and taking another look at why I purchased and does it still feel like me.
That jacket is fabulous; yes, be the, “When I am an old woman I shall wear purple and things that don’t go.” Be your authentic self, add a little zip. I tell my high school granddaughters to be hall stoppers, to be themselves so they stand out. Never get rid of that jacket; it is timeless and can be worn a million ways.
What shows on the outside reflects what is inside. I think we live in a world where there is a desire to not only blend in but to excel in “sameness”. From eating at the current trendy restaurant / and what is better than being the one to tell others about it / to finding the best get away …. We feel safe and in our comfort zone. A sort of Stepford wives world. No thinking. Just follow the yellow brick road .
So true Susan. I’m feeling so bored by the sameness I want to shake things up.
I always love your posts and your classy taste. This one was a wonderful surprise and perfect to start the New Year! Now you’ve got me thinking 😀
Yay!
That was a fabulous find and looks amazing on you!
What an amazing jacket. It suits you so well.
Two other items of special clothing came to my attention this week. A newspaper photo of Dyan Cannon in LA, now 88 years old, wearing a simple black top and pants over which she had thrown a version of that LA Anderson Harry Styles cardigan. She looked amazing.
The other was my daughter’s purchase in an outlet shop of a Ralph Lauren weather coat for a fraction of the original cost. Unlike cheaper versions, this was feather weight.
Special clothes are just that, special, and to be treasured.