This week in the Indyx style workshop they walked us through”editing up” and “editing down.” This was the first time I look at my style inspiration boards and thought more deeply about similarities. Typically I would look at individual pieces I liked and could add to my wardrobe to complete a look. But this week I looked at it through the lens of what is it essence of the image that I liked, and what were the through lines and patterns between the group of images. It was interesting what I discovered.

Editing Down

A few things stood out in my inspiration board and most of them were unsurprising. I pinned a lot of denim looks and that makes so much sense considering what I reach for in my closet 90% of the time. I also noticed a lot of button ups, layers with jackets, knits on the top, and simple crossbody or basket bags. Somethings that surprised me were the number of skirts that I pinned. I don’t wear a lot of skirts, I think I only own 3 of them actually, and when I do story them out they feel a bit fussy. But a long, gathered cotton skirt is something I’d like to try this spring and summer to give my denim a rest now and then.

Another pattern I identified is a lot of white bottoms for spring and summer. Unfortunately for this phase of my life with a young toddler I don’t think that’s practical at all. There are just way too many sticky fingers and spill happening these days and I think light bottoms would just stress me out. I also noticed a lot of the inspo images are a little oversize and slightly disheveled in its styling. To get that casual effortless look I’ll need to be very intentional and polished in my styling. I love the slicked back buns and minimal jewelry. I also noticed that the open oversized button downs were almost always paired with a fitted tank or tee underneath. A lot of my tees are also relaxed so maybe this year I try out a couple of more fitted ones.

I’m starting to realize that ideal style is a bit of California coastal with a touch of minimalist city girl, and a splash of French countryside. If I infuse an element of that in every outfit I think I’ll find enough interest in each outfit and still feel like myself.

Editing Up

It was unsurprising that this exercise revealed my love of neutrals pretty blatantly. One thing I did not expect was to crave primary pops of color. In some images there was a deep cherry red, or a cobalt blue and I realized that’s severely lacking in my wardrobe. A fun scarf, shoe, or bag could easily inject more personality and give a somewhat basic outfit a lot more personality. A bit of pattern out side of my beloved mariner’s stripe could do the same.

The last part of the exercise was fun for me. I made a list of designers and brands that align with the style aesthetic I am cultivating. I won’t lie, I already have a list of brand I love lingering on my notes app. I use it to search for items preloved so I know which search terms to use. After this exercise I think the list has become more refined. They range from classic Americana heritage brands, to relaxed and organic Cali vibes, and timeless French and French inspired brands.

• Vintage J Crew, Ralph Lauren & Esprit

• Buck Mason

• Balzac Paris

• Apiece Apart

• Ozma California

• Sezane

• DISSH

• AYR

• Modern Citizen

• TIBI

• COS

Week 3 was fun, while it wasn’t a lot of action, there was tons of insight. I’ll see you back here for week 4!

If you want to join the Indyx app (it’s free!) use my referral code GINASTOVALL and we’ll both get $10 credit for styling services.