Farewell from Fashion File

Almost two years ago, I approached Castanet about writing a style column, and they very kindly gave me web space to share my discoveries and musings from the world of fashion.

I’d really like to thank Castanet for this opportunity to explore a topic that has always been a passion of mine. 

Some people religiously memorize hockey stats, some restore vintage car models, and others zealously collect digital Pokemon. 

For me, it’s always been about fabric, patterns and shapes. And I’m a bona fide purse snob. 

In my humble opinion, until Star Trek-ish uniforms become the norm, we all gotta wear something so we might as well enjoy what we dress in every day. 

As I bid adieu to Fashion File, I want to leave you with some parting thoughts on what constitutes quality clothing.

Whether your style is completely casual or strictly business, these are the hallmarks of good style. 

• It fits and doesn’t leave marks on your body. You are not sitting in a meeting or at dinner fidgeting at the way it pinches your waist. 
• You don’t get overheated nor too cold in it. If you find yourself sweating or shivering on a moderate day, probably cheap synthetic fibres are to blame.
• With proper care, you can keep it for more than a season. It doesn’t wear out and it doesn’t go out of style. 
• Beware the hangtag fallacy. Just because it says “Made in China” doesn’t necessarily mean it was created with sweatshop labour and is of poor quality. With a few clicks on Google, you can learn about the production impacts of many brands and fabrics. 
• You can maintain it. If it says “dry clean only” and you ruin it putting it through the wash, it’s a waste of your money. 
• Most importantly, you feel good in it. As Marie Kondo espouses, the things you surround yourself with should bring you joy. If it doesn’t, consign or donate it for someone else to enjoy. 

When it comes to my own wardrobe, I have become increasingly choosy over the past few years about what gets added. 

I spend half of the year living in a small travel trailer; there is no room in my closet for waste. Each piece must serve a particular purpose, coordinate with other articles, and be easy maintenance. 

I have actually enjoyed the process of creating a capsule travel wardrobe. Living out of a small space doesn’t mean one has to sacrifice style, and in many ways this thoughtful approach to clothing is better for the budget and the environment. 

This focus on travel and exploration also means less time for keeping up with fashion, so it is time to say farewell to Fashion File. 

If you’d like to keep up with my latest adventures, plus see pictures of a very adorable mexi-mutt, follow me on Instagram@mobsworld. 

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.