I finally have a uniform

You may not like it, but it’s mine. And here's how to find yours.

All my life I’ve wanted a fashion uniform. (And a nickname. But let’s not get greedy. I do have one friend who calls me Starsky. She’s Hutch. But I digress.)

I’ve read countless articles and digested countless images and felt countless tons of jealousy about people who have a uniform. From Steve Jobs’ forever-cited turtlenecks to Anna Wintour’s print dresses and multiple colorful necklaces. Having a uniform feels like ease and certainty and above all like knowing oneself. (All of which often feel out of reach for multifaceted me, even though I CRAVE them.)

via The Court Jeweler

And at various points in time I’ve had a uniform. Law school: Ralph Lauren blanket skirt + fitted short sleeve crew neck + pendant + booties. Single mom/copywriter at a .com: DVF dress + opaque tights + Cole Haan boots. Creative Director at a shoe brand: legging/skinny jean + boot + structured black blazer. But that was the last time and it was about a decade ago. Since then, nada. Until NOW! And I am so excited. I figure maybe you’re craving a uniform too. So I’m going to share mine and use it as an example to help you find yours.

What’s a uniform?

I’m sure many of us define it differently. Here’s my definition.

• It’s something that you can put on most days if you want to, but it doesn’t have to be every day to qualify.

• Something that represents something essential about you, and can be a formula for quickly getting back to you in situations that make you feel lost

• It might be something people come to recognize as “you.” But more importantly it’s tried and true enough that you recognize yourself.

• And you know it will work because it has time and time again.

My uniform (and I know some of you will hate it! that’s ok!)