A Note About How I Shop…
When the idea first came to me to devote my time and attention to a fashion website, I felt a lot of trepidation. As much as I love shopping and adore clothes, it wasn’t lost on me that it’s a strange time to be telling people what to buy given what’s happening on a bigger scale around the world. Could I really help publicise fast fashion brands when the focus is on the negative environmental impact of clothing? Did people care about what to wear when we’re amid a pandemic that has affected every aspect of our lives? And do people really have money to buy designer handbags and shoes when the cost of living is creeping up to insane proportions?
It would be remiss of me to not have these factors at the forefront of my mind when I put together my edits. I can assure you, they are. While I’m all for a good shopping haul at the best of times, I do put a lot of consideration into how I shop, and how I interpret trends, and I’m conscious of passing on realistic advice when it comes to spending money - big or small. With this in mind, I thought I’d share a bit about how I shop and what my intentions are when it comes to helping you navigate the virtual shopping aisles. As a fashion editor with over 20 years of experience putting together outfits for magazines, celebrities and websites, I want you to know that my thought process involves more than just, well, spending money all the time! That’s not who I am or what I want to pass on, as you will hopefully discover…
That’s me trying on my 450th pair of jeans in Zara.
Firstly, I’m a high-low girl through and through and I would never encourage head-to-toe chain store or high-end dressing no matter what your budget is. I believe mixing brands is the most clever way to achieve individual style and it’s how I’ve dressed for many years. The way I approach this is by keeping my eye on sales when it comes to sites like Matchesfashion and Net-A-Porter, as well as keeping a regular eye on new arrivals from the likes of Zara, Mango and H&M. Yes, it means you’re consistently looking online, but when you browse more regularly you end up saving time in the long-run! My pro tip here is to save items to your Wish List so you get alerted to them going on sale or becoming low in stock. I very rarely make big purchases without some sort of sale incentive so keeping on top of deals is a must.
Secondly, when I do make fast-fashion purchases I try to be as considered as possible. I always, always check the materials section/tag as I avoid polyester and prefer natural fibres such as cotton and wool, and try to opt for classic over trend-driven pieces that I’ll love longer than a season. It’s not uncommon for me to buy white T-shirts, jeans, shirts and coats (all wardrobe staples) from affordable brands if they tick the quality box.
I also shop off-season when an opportunity presents itself, namely a good sale. At the moment I’m dreaming of crochet dresses for Summer (even though we haven’t even commenced Winter!) so being one step ahead of your shopping game will mean less panic buying when you actually need something. If you have the means to jump on a sale and put something away for the season ahead, do it. You won’t regret being prepared and it means you always have something to look forward to wearing already hanging in your closet.
My main goal with this site, as well as my own wardrobe, is to get to a place where I choose quality over quantity, but still have fun with clothes. I’m someone who isn’t entirely on board with uniform dressing, but I do see the value in having basics that help set the tone for a more streamlined wardrobe. I love a classic outfit, but being modern and interpreting trends will always be a part of who I am. I can’t afford head-to-toe designer looks, but I also don’t want to. Choosing a special handbag or great shoes and styling them with more affordable options means my look is more authentic to myself. I love discovering new brands, and I love feeling good in the clothes I wear, even if that means chic tracksuit pants and leggings feature heavily in my weekly rotation of outfits.
I’m aware the fashion space is filled with people who shop a lot and seemingly have no restrictions on budget. I’m also familiar with how the content available across social media can make personal style seem completely impersonal and formulaic. I don’t want to add to that. I hope my edits influence, inspire and maybe even surprise you when it comes to your own fashion choices, because ultimately I just want women like me (you!) to look good, feel good and gain confidence when shopping.
I love hearing from you! If you have any feedback, questions or just want to say hello, please do! I’m at marisa@marisaremond.com or Instagram via @marisa_remond