Life With Lottie

My mother always told me: you just need a few basics in your closet and you’re set. Naturally, I rolled my eyes. Basics? Boring. At least, that’s what I thought—until now.

At 23, broke, and living in a one bedroom apartment, I’ve never appreciated my basics more. When I lived at home post-grad, I had three closets. Yes, three. My own, my brother’s, and two in my dad’s office. That luxury vanished when I downsized—and honestly, it was time to part ways with those Shein shirts that reek of bar gunk and bad decisions.

When I started my “debut” as a journalist (okay, maybe that’s a stretch, but let a girl dream), I decided fashion would be my edge in the newsroom. I’m not a morning person—you can ask anyone—but the idea of putting together an outfit actually got me out of bed instead of doom scrolling.

That’s when I realized: the wardrobe my mom and I had carefully built for the “real world” was full of basics. And not in a boring way. Shopping, I always reached for statement pieces, the ones people would remember. But the truth is, it’s the basics that make an outfit unforgettable.

It all comes down to styling. A pair of mom jeans and a plain black top might seem dull—until you add a chunky bag, rectangle sunglasses, heels, and your favorite jewelry. Suddenly, basic becomes chic.

I used to think showing more skin was the only way to look sexy. Six months ago, that was my gospel. And yes, it did turn heads—but usually for the wrong reasons. I’ve since learned you can be sexy and classy. Not that I won’t ever show some skin (I’m not a saint), but let’s avoid the HR crisis, shall we? Save the bodycon for drinks with the girls, when you want to impress—tastefully.

The turning point? Laundry day. My hamper was filled with basic tops paired with elevated bottoms. The evidence was undeniable: Mom was right. (But don’t tell her I said that.) It only took me 23 years to learn that less really is more.

Now, I can proudly say I love my basics. A sleek pair of work pants with a simple top that has a little something—maybe the cut, the ruching, or the way it hits your waist—is more than enough. You don’t need a complicated outfit to pair with your already complicated life.