Even the cleanest, most Philoesque outfits out there need details to be complete. For some people, details are simply a question of the color palette. Some like to pair the color of their earrings with their nail polish, others cannot stand different types of metal in one outfit, and some use them to elevate the proportions and the general feel of their look. A great belt can turn an oversized blazer into a sculptured hourglass silhouette. A white T-shirt layered under a great sweater and a lovely necklace can make it seem like you tried just a little more than you actually did. A truly fine pair of gloves can make any look feel more luxurious than it is.
And then there are details that are much more subtle, not so intentional, but purely personal. Imagine a woman who showers and sleeps in her late mom’s golden necklace. Or a husband who has never worn a piece of jewelry, not even a watch, but never takes his wedding ring off. Or a lady going to church every week and wearing that specific bracelet reserved only for Sunday mass. Details are deeply personal.
They tell a story about family ties and intergenerational tales. They can be a reflection of a long-lasting romantic relationship or a marriage that fell apart. They can tell us what somebody cares about deeply, what kind of fun they like to have, or what their hopes and dreams are. They can hint at what a person’s comfort zone looks like and what their insecurities might be. They can give away how you feel on a particular day, what you’re going through at this stage of life, or give you comfort.
When I was in college, I loved to wear a pendant with a blue background decorated with silver stars over a T-shirt with tiny red embroidery that said: ‘Dream big.’ It sounds pretty tacky today when I think about it, but the combo felt pretty empowering while I ran from class to class between two colleges on different sides of the town. It helped me make sense of it all and pushed me forward.
Sure, there are some inevitable rules when choosing details for an outfit. You’re not going to wear pearl drop earrings with a white-rimmed high-collar top because they would clash, just like you wouldn’t wear a wool hat in the summer. But for most details, there are no rules. That is their charm. That is why they are so heartening, memorable, and unique to every person. They make every personality stand out. Even if a person is wearing the most basic thing you’ve ever seen, that one little detail can give away their secrets.
I agree completely, as I never take off my grandmother’s necklace.