At The UNDONE, we support the notion of buying less but buying well - it's about quality over quantity, so we called on our Director and Founder, Sara Crampton and two of Australia’s key tastemakers to find out how to get more wear out of your wardrobe.
Brooke Testoni, Director @rylan.studio, Founder of BrookeTestoni.com
New Season Essential: Paris Georgia Coco Singlet
As someone who is constantly exposed to new season fashion, what is your approach when purchasing for your own wardrobe?
Even though I have been in the fashion industry for nearly a decade and am used to playing with lots of trend driven items, I find I now opt for a more classic approach to dressing. Also, now that I am a mum, I like my wardrobe to be a little more concise so it is quicker to get ready in the morning. I seem to invest in more quality classics that can all be worn back with one another.
What should people should consider when buying something new?
I think people should ask themselves: How many times will I wear this piece? Can I wear it more than once or even more than a couple of times? Does it pair back with other items in my wardrobe? Does it date and will it last?
How can we get more wear out of existing wardrobes?
To get more wear out of your pieces, be sure to purchase high quality items that last, are not trend driven and could potentially be worn over both the cooler and warmer months. For example: try layering tops and dresses over jumpers, wear mini skirts with stockings/tights and boots etc. It is also key to look after your clothes, whether it is storing them or washing them correctly. This is something I need to get better at!!
Talk us through three different ways to wear this Paris Georgia Coco Cami.
- I paired the Paris Georgia Coco Cami with a turtleneck and white pants, as I like to layer my summer pieces during the cooler months so I am able to get more wear out of them. I also paired this outfit with heels for a more dressy approach however; I would also wear it with flats or flat boots for a more casual, day look.
- When heading out for a nice dinner I like to dress up a little – usually with heels and gold jewellery. For this look, I paired the cami back with a black skirt, boots and gold earrings for a classic, elegant look.
- For those who know me well, they know I am a lover of denim. I especially love straight leg jeans and would wear this particular outfit casually during the day with flats/sandals or at night with heels and accessories.
Lana Wilkinson, Stylist
New Season Essential: Michael Lo Sordo Imperial Maxi Skirt
As someone who is constantly exposed to new season fashion, what is your approach when purchasing for your own wardrobe?
It is important to invest in pieces that are simple and stylish - quality over quantity is the key. Black, white, navy and camel can never go wrong. A great statement blazer is a must; a fun pump and a good pair of well fitted jeans can take you anywhere. The staples in your wardrobe are a reflection of your personal style and will help you on those days when it’s all too hard.
What should people should consider when buying something new?
The fit is essential when looking to buy something new. Make sure you try on the piece and if not, consider whether an alteration is possible to ensure a great fit. Choose items that will work alongside existing pieces in your wardrobe ensuring you create endless outfit options
How can we get more wear out of our existing wardrobes?
Take some time out of your day to mix and match your existing wardrobe … Take pictures of yourself in front of the mirror - have fun and play! It’s amazing how creative you can get.
Adding simple touches such as accessories will keep your outfits fresh – so don’t throw anything out - as fashion is all about swings and roundabouts.
Talk us through three different ways to wear this Michael Lo Sordo Imperial Maxi Skirt
- For those winter days when denim is no longer the answer, pair together a knit & slip skirt to keep you warm, yet stylish. Western style boots will also be huge this winter and I love wearing them with skirts.
- Another huge trend this autumn is animal print. It’s everywhere! I like to introduce animal print through my accessories, but it can also be worn as a statement piece as well.
- I think this is a great evening look, showing how you can make a slip skirt ‘after work’ appropriate. A blazer is a true investment piece that will make every outfit look effortlessly chic. Throw it on with denim or team it with a statement slip skirt and wear it out for dinner.
Sara Crampton, Director and Buyer, The UNDONE
New Season Essential: Nanushka Paper Bag Waist Pant
As someone who is constantly exposed to new season fashion, what is your approach when purchasing for your own wardrobe?
Being surrounded by beautiful clothes all the time, as well as buying for The UNDONE six months ahead of time, has made me very selective of the items I add to my personal wardrobe as I know there is always something else coming that I’m willing to wait for. My home is my sanctuary, and I can’t handle an overflowing wardrobe - I find it quite stressful, so I take my time when selecting a new piece. I tend to stick with silhouettes I know work for me, that make me feel confident, will be worn on repeat and work well with the rest of my wardrobe.
What should people should consider when buying something new?
Before buying something new, it’s important to know what you already have. Are you wanting something new for newness sake or is there a real gap that you’re filling? Being in touch with why you’re shopping is also important. Are you emotionally shopping or doing so out of boredom? Try to shop consciously and with purpose.
How can we get more wear out of our existing wardrobes?
It’s easy to wear the same pieces we love again and again, so it’s important to rotate your wardrobe and wear all of your clothes. If you’re not wearing them, know why and make changes to either donate or sell them. Personally, I need to have my clothes where I can see them, so I organise my wardrobe so nothing is hiding behind or stacked on top of each other. I follow the Marie Kondo folding method for my drawers so I can see everything clearly, which has really helped.
Talk us through three different ways to wear these Nanushka High Waist Black Pants.
- I love this figure hugging ribbed tee by Kacey Devlin tucked into these pants. The contrast in both the colour and fit shows the detail of the ruffle and tie of the waistline of the pants, and I love how a detail that might be quite minimal can become the statement of the outfit when styled this way.
- The 90’s square neckline of this black Paris Georgia crop top is an ideal pairing for a weekend lunch or drinks with friends when the weather is warm.
- Comfort and style infuse with this pairing of the white Merlette wrap top over the Nanushka pants - and it’s a great look for the working week.
