CHAPTER 13: The Anti- Formula Formula

Chapter 16: The Anti-Formula Formula

I am all about the explosion of personal styling on social media right now! It is so exciting to see people leaning into self-expression. Lately, I’ve been seeing a massive uptick in "outfit formulas." And while I think those are great for some people, for others... they just don’t work.

For me, the word "formula" takes the whimsy out of styling. My brain immediately jumps to words like homework, rigid, or restrictive. I might get some beef for this! Some people 100% need a step-by-step on how to structure an outfit, and that is wonderful. I am not bashing that approach at all. But my ADHD brain sees a detailed formula and immediately halts. It feels like too much info and not enough soul.

Surely, I can’t be the only one who feels this way!

Several influencers have gone viral lately with these "how-tos," but I believe personal style should be felt. Now, I do have certain... let's call them inclinations (insert fancy word here) that I lean on when picking an outfit:

  1. The Statement Piece: I find one item that speaks to me and build everything else around it.

  2. Dichotomy and Edge: I look for that "mismatch" I’m always talking about. Edge can come in many forms—a studded boot, a raw hem, or a bold vintage earring.

  3. Comfort: If I can’t move in it, I won’t wear it.




Is this just a "formula" packaged in another way? Maybe! But this is how my brain processes style. I see these more as helpful guidelines rather than rules, because truly, in the end...
it doesn’t matter! Wearing what makes you happy is personal style.

I absolutely love the term "Dopamine Dressing." That phrase hits the nail on the head when it comes to my passion for igniting self-expression through thrifted finds. I love the pieces I find while treasure hunting, and that’s why I’m so excited to make them available to you. These unique stories should be shared. I work hard to find both solid staples and those "out of this world, can’t live without it" pieces.



Speaking of sharing treasures: I have a little announcement! I will soon be dropping my thrifted bundles as individual pieces for sale. That way, if a specific item speaks to you, you can grab it and make it yours.

So, wear the thing. Add the jewelry. Wear what makes you happy. If you truly need a formula, let me know—I can help! But always keep in mind that the only formula fashion really needs is: You + Your Joy.

Stay Chic,

G

The 2nd Story

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