Fashion is often a reflection of one’s environment, and for Kelsey Keith, her move from New York City to California marked a significant shift in her wardrobe. As the creative director of MillerKnoll and a contributor to a popular design Substack, Kelsey offers a glimpse into her week of outfits, showcasing her personal style while also sharing tips for sustainable shopping.
Having spent a decade in the fast-paced fashion scene of NYC, Kelsey acknowledges that adapting to the laid-back Californian style took time. She maintains her love for all-black ensembles, especially during school drop-offs, but has embraced practicality by incorporating items like hiking shoes into her collection. Below, we explore her outfits from one particular week, highlighting her choices and the stories behind them.
Kelsey’s weekly outfit highlights
Day 1: Embracing comfort and style
On the first day of the week, Kelsey wore a Banana Republic shirt paired with an ancient Zara skirt. While she typically opts for mall brands for her wardrobe staples, she has found Banana Republic’s recent offerings to be impressive. The shirt’s ripstop material stands out for its durability and quality, and she is particularly fond of their pull-on black pants. Kelsey emphasizes the importance of mindful shopping, often exploring resale sites to find new additions to her wardrobe.
Day 2: A personal touch with accessories
Accessories play a vital role in Kelsey’s outfits, like her cherished pendant from Greece, a Bees of Malia piece she acquired during her travels. This pendant is a replica of a historical artifact from 1650 B.C., adding a layer of storytelling to her look. Additionally, her jewelry collection features a mix of elegant rings, including an engagement ring from Lola Brooks and wedding bands from J. Hannah. Kelsey appreciates pieces that reflect her journey and personal history.
Fashion principles and sustainability
Day 3: Mixing textures and patterns
On another day, Kelsey sported a vintage Benetton shirt, which she describes as a fantastic deal, paired with DL1961 jeans. She believes that texture adds depth to an outfit and loves to play with different materials. Whether it’s a thick wool sweater or a delicately embroidered top, Kelsey enjoys the nuances that textures bring, especially when dressing monochromatically. Her Taxco silver bangle from Mexico City adds character to her look, emphasizing her love for unique pieces.
Day 4: Prioritizing comfort without sacrificing style
Comfort is non-negotiable for Kelsey, especially when she selects her footwear. On this day, she wore Clarks shoes, known for their comfort and versatility. She believes that if your feet hurt, enjoyment diminishes, regardless of the outfit. Kelsey often turns to resale platforms like eBay for classic styles, ensuring she finds high-quality pieces that suit her needs.
Living life in California
Day 5: The outdoorsy influence
Residing in California naturally influences Kelsey’s style, leading her to adopt a more casual and outdoorsy approach to fashion. On this day, she wore a cozy Hey Gang sweatshirt paired with a KasMaria skirt. Kelsey appreciates the balance between style and functionality, noting the importance of being prepared for spontaneous outdoor activities. She draws inspiration from influential fashion figures like Claire McCardell, who championed practical designs for women, including pockets and accessible zippers.
Final thoughts on curating a personal wardrobe
With her youngest child now out of diapers, Kelsey finds herself embracing a simplified lifestyle. She often carries only essentials, reflected in her minimalist approach to clothing. Kelsey’s background as a design editor informs her method of curating her wardrobe; she is selective about her pieces, ensuring each item is something she genuinely enjoys wearing. This philosophy has allowed her to cultivate a wardrobe that is both practical and expressive of her personal style.
Kelsey Keith’s journey from New York to California showcases the evolution of her fashion choices, blending chic city elements with the casual comfort of her new home. Her thoughtful approach to clothing and accessories not only reflects her unique style but also highlights the significance of sustainability and personal narrative in fashion.