Polished Casual Wardrobe Tips

Introduction

• Addressing questions from viewers about creating a polished casual wardrobe.
• Common issue: Clothes look unpolished despite efforts.
• Video will cover factors: Color, Cut, Fabric, and Garment Care.

Fabric

• Sturdy Fabrics: Essential for maintaining a polished look over time.
  • Thicker Fabrics: Better shape retention (especially for knits like t-shirts).
  • Examples: Thicker jersey cotton for upscale t-shirts. Cost's thick cotton t-shirts recommended.
• Thin Fabrics: Often lose shape and look unpolished over time.
  • Expensive but Weak: Thin cashmere and similar materials can look good initially but lose polish rapidly.
  • Exceptions: Some thin natural fibers like linen can still be sturdy.
• Natural Fibers: Generally more reliable for maintaining polish.
  • Cotton, Wool, Linen: Best for longevity and sturdy appearance.
  • Avoid: Polyester blends, acrylic knits (weak, pill easily), and woven rayon/viscose.
• Synthetic Fabrics: Can be good if designed well for sturdiness (e.g., Aritzia’s nylon tops).
• Garment Care: Avoid using a dryer to prolong life of fabrics; hang shirts to dry and store on hangers.

Color

• Polish through color: Sophisticated use of color can make a garment more polished.
  • Two Options: Nuanced/muted colors or super saturated colors.
  • Avoid: Mid-toned, flat colors (e.g., watery teal, dingy yellow).
  • Examples of Good Colors: Aritzia's sculpt knit tanks in camel, brick, beige, bold magenta, cobalt blue, red.
• Bright Whites: Highly polished but need careful washing (only with other bright whites).

Cut

• Structural Integrity: Important for maintaining polish.
  • Elements: Thick hems, sturdy collars, cleanly finished hems.
  • Examples: Wide bands on hems, sturdy plackets on button-downs.
  • Avoid: Flimsy, puckered seams; look for clean inside finishes.
• Simplicity: Simple designs generally appear more polished.
  • Details: Less is more; avoid extra pockets, unnecessary details.
  • Rule of Thumb: Go for structurally sound and boldly unfussy garments.

Shopping Tips

• Whole Stores Unreliable: Many stores sell poorly made clothes, regardless of price point.
• Budget Options: Know what to look for; good pieces can be found even in fast fashion stores occasionally.
  • Best Budget Choices: Thrift shops and consignment shops for quality materials at lower prices.

Conclusion

• Choose higher quality, well-structured garments for a polished wardrobe.
• Garment care crucial for maintaining polish over time.
• Subscribe and take good care of yourself to be the best version in your endeavors.