What I Wear in A Week
Cover art by: Maya Risch
Hey, Off the Record readers. If you didn’t already know, my name is Dakota, and I’m on a journey—a fashion journey to be exact. Over the past few months, my style has changed significantly. I’ve never felt more confident and comfortable in the clothes I wear, and I can confidently say they’re something I’m actually proud of—I kind of think of the clothes I wear almost as an extension of who I am. I used to look at my inspiration boards, longing for the days I could dress like the girls in the photos, but instead of waiting, I just did it! So now I’m hoping I can act as some inspiration for you with my “What I Wear in A Week”.
Day One: Memphis, TN [Memphis Made Brewery]
The Details
Scarf: Urban Outfitters
Sunglasses: Target
Necklace: Forever 21
Top: Amazon
Jacket: Nasty Gal
Pants: Thrifted
Belt: Shoestring
Shoes: Nike
Purse: Amazon
Day Two: Knoxville, TN [Mimi’s Cafe and Bakery]
*On Tuesday, I was traveling to Virginia, so my outfit is based very much around comfort. Something I’ve learned is that, even with more simple outfits, you can always add pops of color and jewelry to dress it up. My favorite way to do this is through jewelry, so today I did this by adding my favorite gold necklace and a neon green beanie!
The Details
Necklace: Forever 21
Hat: Target
Top: Thrifted
Jeans: Thrifted
Shoes: Nike
Purse: Amazon
Day Three: Washington, DC [Cheerios Park]
*On Wednesday, I toured George Washington University, so was sure to dress slightly more formally than I normally would. I wanted to add more to the outfit and I thought the belt would be good for this pretty basic outfit.
The Details
Earrings: Forever 21
Necklace: Forever 21
Sweater: Thrifted
Pants: Thrifted
Belt: Target
Shoes: Converse
Day Four: Washington, DC [United States Capitol Hill]
*On Thursday, I toured another college as well as Capitol Hill, so I was a little more dressy than casual.
The Details
Glasses: Target
Top: Thrifted
Cardigan: Thrifted
Pants: Target
Belt: Target
Shoes: Converse
Purse: Amazon
Day Five: Arlington, VA [Crystal City]
*On Friday, I had a more casual look because we were exploring the city. It was also warmer than the previous days, so I didn’t have to bother with wearing long sleeves or layering.
Scarf: Urban Outfitters
Earrings: Target and Forever 21
Necklace: Forever 21
Shirt: Thrifted
Pants: H&M
Belt: Target
Shoes: High Top White Converse
Purse: Amazon
Tips I Live By
Don’t be afraid to accessorize
A wise woman once said, “Take off one piece of jewelry before you leave the house.” But I’ve come to realize that’s a load of crap and she isn’t that wise. Accessorizing can elevate even the most simple outfits, so don’t be afraid to add that extra set of earrings or that belt that you think is too much. Go! Try that scarf trend you think is cute! Be bold!
Thrift
A lot of what I’ve learned in the last few months is that if you want more original pieces, the thrift store is the place to find unique clothing for any occasion. Not to mention, it’s great if you’re sick of mainstream fast fashion pushing the same, predictable styles down your throat. I’ve met some of the nicest people in thrift stores—it also doesn’t hurt that it’s cheap! (Also, fast fashion? Not so fast!)
Don’t be afraid to express yourself in new ways
I know it’s cliché, but it’s important! A lot of what took me so long to change what I wear is me. Be careful not to be your own barrier in becoming who you want to be. Don’t let others dictate how you express yourself. Don’t push it off as something you’ll do in a year from now, or two years from now, or any other later date. The truth is, there’ll never be a perfect time to start over or change, so why not start now? I promise you’ll be happier once you do.
Make sure to check out Dakota on Instagram @dakotashelton_