Big decisions, big changes, and big rewards—that pretty much sums up what the year 2011 has meant to me.
Seven months ago, I quit my day job and started working full-time as a freelance writer and stylist. The road was uncertain at times, and the adjustment period took longer than I expected; but in the end, it was a decision that left me happier, more productive, and certainly more creative.
I’m sure many of you have a similar story this year. Maybe you undertook the major career move from employee to self-employed, like I did. Maybe you shifted from one industry to another in hopes of achieving your childhood dreams. Or maybe you faced a new chapter that wasn’t related to work at all; perhaps you got married or gave birth to a child. In any case, every year that passes leaves in its wake a trail of choices made, changes undergone, and expectations altered.
I, for one, went from a ten-to-eight job to working largely from my house. That basically cut out the necessity to wake up early, make the daily trip from Alabang to Mandaluyong, and come home way past dinner. Sounds good, right? On the other hand, working from home also meant I didn’t have to dress up anymore—and dressing up is one of the few, constant things I find absolute pleasure in.
From piecing together a new outfit every day, complete with high heels and statement jewelry, my manner of dress for “work stuff” has become decidedly more casual. Even on days when I’m pulling out clothes or in the studio for a shoot—roughly twice a week—I have to think practically. What is the most comfortable thing I can wear for six hours of trudging through the mall or styling a pictorial? (FYI: Stylists rarely sit down during shoots, unless it’s for a quick bite—and if you’re in a rush, you eat standing up.)
Of course, I could never really lose my enthusiasm for flair—I am a “fashion girl,” after all. When I shop, I still buy whatever I like, however impractical; I just save these pieces for special occasions, rather than forcing them on my comfy workwear. My taste in clothes hasn’t changed, in other words—it’s the functionality of each outfit that has. When you won’t be putting your feet up from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, five-inch heels just aren’t worth the trouble—unless you stow them in your car for drinks post-shoot.
In honor of the year’s end, I’ve compiled 11 go-tos from my personal wardrobe of 2011. Several other pieces made the short list—as often happens with girls who love fashion—but when I think of the ones I dig through my closet for on busy, can’t-be-bothered days, this is the bunch that easily springs to mind.
Happy New Year, FNites! And before I sign off, let me ask: what were your go-to items for this year?
(Photos by Stephanie Castillo)
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