From our contributor Zenita on Fashion.
When I read the word “minimalist” in fashion pubs the images in the story depict clothing that is simple, comfortable and easy-to-launder. But all too often the styles are mind-numbingly boring and look like you could buy them at half the stores in your local mall.
I like simple, comfortable and easy-to-launder. In fact, I appreciate clothing that calls out to me from the rack and says, “Pluck me out of the dryer and throw me on and I won’t let you down, sweetie!”
But I hate plain, boring and unimaginative clothing that makes us look like we all have the same twelve bland mix-and-match items in our closets. I am not that person.
Which brings me to the Headed to the Highlands blouse by Free People, which I discovered at Nordstrom. The front of the blouse qualifies as minimalist and simple, with a subtle gray and white stripe and sharp back buttons. The baggy sleeves make it more casual and add a bit of interest.
But when you turn your back, a yoke below the collar secures a gathered section in the lower back (upper left photo), which makes the blouse eye-catching and unique without making it formal or pretentious. You can wear it to work or to a picnic in the park and it works in both settings.
The blouse is machine washable but “dry flat,” and that small inconvenience is not enough to dull my admiration for this design. Especially at a mid-range $98 price point!
So, Free People, I may need to dry it on the kitchen counter but I don’t care. I’ve seen your Headed to the Highlands Blouse, and I love it!
