Happy Thursday, ladies. I’ve got a fun one for you today: a fun take on a retrospective post. I’m calling it, How I Wore The “Same” Outfit Now vs. Then.
The idea is simple: I went back through the archives and pulled 1 outfit from 2017-2021. (This is the “then”.) I then paired it with a “similar” outfit I’ve featured this Summer. (This is the “now”.)
I aim to show you that while everything in fashion “changes”, in some sense, things always stay the same. Trends definitely come, and they definitely go. Item details shift dramatically; and some colors are in this year and out the next.
But if you’re striving for a core, classic aesthetic, you’ll always be in style. And what’s even better: it means you can shop your closet more than you even might think!
So, let’s get right down to the outfit side-by-sides and see how things have changed over the years, and how they’ve stayed the same.
The Summary
Today I’m showing you how I’ve worn the “same” outfit over the past 5 years
I’ve picked 5 different items and done fashion side-by-sides, showing you how I wore that item in the past and how I wore it this year
For all of this year’s items, I’ve reshared text links. Some of those items are still available; some unfortunately are not
For all previous year’s outfits, I’ve constructed similar ones, shoppable via text- and image-widgets
How I Wore The “Same” Outfit Now vs. Then
1. Denim Dress
I feature denim dresses every year, multiple times a year. Whether it’s Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter, they always work wherever and whenever.
This year, I went with white denim. But if you don’t have a denim dress, I would invest first in a classic dark wash before venturing out into lighter or color ones.
2022
White denim dress (J.Crew) | Handbag (J.Crew) | Sandals (old, similar here and here) | Necklace (similar here, here, and here) | Bracelet (similar here and here) | Earrings (similar here and here)
2017
Similar outfit
Board: Lawrence Dress in Denim Dot (J.McLaughlin) | Sancia The Venus Belt (Madewell) | Weekender Montauk Tote (J.Crew) |
Shop the Board
2. Blazer
I talk a lot about blazers on the blog. But today, I wanted to focus specifically on the linen blazer. They’re perfect for Spring and Summer and provide a great branch out from traditional neutral blazers (blacks, blues, browns, etc.)
Some people aren’t fans of the inevitable linen wrinkles. But I say embrace them. The fabric is just so darn perfect for warm(er) days.
2022
Blazer (J.Crew) | Camisole (Halogen) | Denim (Paige) | Sandals (Schutz) | Similar Bracelet (Banana Republic) | Earrings (Neiman Marcus) | Watchband (Lagos) | Bangle (Lagos)
2018
Similar Outfit
Board: The Relaxed Double Breasted Long Blazer (Ann Taylor) | The Paperbag Pant (Banana Republic) | Gidgena Sandal (Vince Camuto) | Tracey Wicker Clutch (J.McLaughlin)
Shop the outfit
3. Denim Jacket
During the summer months, there’s nothing I like more than pairing a denim jacket with a fun graphic tee. A classic medium wash works perfectly for that put-together casual look. But don’t be afraid to even go lighter!
2022
Denim Jacket (Ralph Lauren) | Graphic tee (J.Crew) | Denim (Frame) | Sandals (Veronica Beard, similar here and here) | Belt (Frances Valentine, similar here and here) | Handbag (Bembien)
2019
Similar Outfit
Board: Denim Drakefield Shirt-Jacket (Madewell) | Vintage Cotton Floral T-Shirt (J.Crew) | Patchwork Ankle Boyfriend Jeans (Ralph Lauren) | Miller Cloud Sandal (Tory Burch)
Shop the outfit
4. Jumpsuit
Jumpsuits can be an extremely controversial subject for whatever reason. But we don’t shy away from fashion controversy over here on the blog!
I love jumpsuits and rompers and where them every year during Summer and Fall. Dress them up with a pair of heeled, strappy sandals; or dress them down with a pair of your favorite white sneakers.
2022
Jumpsuit (Banana Republic) | Belt (Banana Republic) | Sandals (Mia Beccar) | Handbag (Brahmin) | Similar charm bracelet | Earrings
2020
Similar Outfit
Board: Clinched Waist Denim Jumpsuit (J.Crew) | Yaro Ankle Strap Sandal (Sam Edelman) | Nappa Satchel Bag (Talbots)
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5. Cargo Pants
I feel like every year I read one fashion obituary or another for cargo pants; and yet, the very next year, they’re alive and thriving.
It’s no secret that I love cargo pants. This year, I found silk ones from Banana Republic that I absolutely adore. Of course, you can go a more traditional route like the ones I wore last year.
2022
Silk cargo pants (Banana Republic) | Dolman sweater (Banana Republic) | Sandals (old, similar here and here) | Handbag (Neiman Marcus)
shop more Banana Republic pants
2021
Board: Mya Cargo Joggers (C&C California) | Shaker Stitch Funnel Shell (Talbots) | Mckenna Handbag (J.McLaughlin) | Embossed Strappy Heeled Sandals (Ann Taylor)
Shop the outfit
In Case You Missed It
Every Thursday morning, Kelly, our 40s contributor, posts her outfit-of-the-week. Click the title or image below to read the article.
The Linen Skirt That’s On Point
About The Author
All the outfits, then and now, look great! I have embraced linen dresses and shirts, but not ready for the jacket or pants yet. Maybe next summer.
I absolutely love the pink blazer on you. It really complements your skin and hair color. The outfit with the silk cargo pants is wonderful as well! You certainly have good taste.
You look lovely in whatever you wear but these photos remind me how much I loved your hair short. You look so young and spunky and ready for anything. Do you think the time will come when you cut it again?
The best haircut was actually the longest one in denim jumpsuit. Feminine and elegant
great post. Please do it on a regular basis.
These posts really illustrate your flair for accessories Beth. I always learn from your thoughtful and stylish pairings. I tend to neglect this area so I view your posts as a challenge to up my game.