The Alternative Press

Many years ago, I bought an orange and white striped skirt from a new place called Anthropologie. At the time, I had never heard of the store but I loved the skirt because it was long and soft and fluid. I also liked the fit and I knew that I would wear it often. Not long after I found the skirt, I bought an orange Vince t-shirt. It was a match made in heaven. This pairing has become my go to favorite.

Yet the other day when I pulled it on for what seemed like the hundredth time, there was a moment when I hesitated and wondered if it was finally, too much. NOOO … the moment passed. Actually, if you love something, why not wear it again … and again? Our American culture encourages us to buy more and have more and yes, there is a time to do so, but when it comes to looking good, buying less means having more.

I visited with a childhood friend yesterday. She has been living in Paris for the last 28 years, and of course, I asked her about French fashion. She said that French women never like to look like they are trying too hard. They wear make-up but not so that it shows. They choose simple pieces and style them impeccably without much fuss. They never wear sneakers on the street. And they would rather spend money on a few favorite pieces and wear them well.

Let’s be French together and rejoice in wearing only the things we really love.

Melissa Kaplan Guarino delights in sharing her love of fashion with you. Check out Melissa’s blog – speakingoffashion.com.