She exists. She’s the dreamer, but also the doer. She shows up and hopes to make a statement in the process. She’s in all of us–that girl who likes to dress up and be equal parts intelligence and elegance.
That girl is innate in my personal identity. And that is why the majority of the time, I am the girl in the room that is the overdresser.
Being overdressed is not an accident, but a sense of purpose. I’m a girl of intent–stylistic choices are no different. So when I wear T-shirts–which yes, overdressers like doing–I feel the need to capture essences of the scholarly fashion aficiando.
When I saw this T-shirt from The Style Club, I fell in love. The words written in ruby red, “YOU CAN NEVER BE OVERDRESSED OR OVEREDUCATED” spoke to me on a spiritual level. Those words are my mantra. I am extremely passionate about learning, as I am a journalist who constantly loves intaking information from the past, present and looking forward at the future. I am also always the overdresser at the majority of functions I go to.
BUT, that doesn’t mean I don’t love a good T-shirt and vintage jeans combo whether out and about in LA, at school, at the Malibu Newsstand, or walking barefoot on the beaches in Malibu.
You’re probably wondering…how does an overdresser simply wear a T-shirt and jeans without confusing the world? No, really. I have had friends in the past be in utter shock when I stepped out of my home in jeans before. That has been remedied since they realized I do enjoy the all-American uniform. It’s all in how it’s styled.
First: start with a conversational piece. “YOU CAN NEVER BE OVERDRESSED OR OVEREDUCATED” are not merely words splattered on a T-shirt, they mean something to me when I wear them. The Style Club has a whole bunch of poetic, girl power tees like this one. Other possible T-shirt options are band tees from a memorable concert you went to. Pick something that you care about and may prompt others to ask you questions. Personally, I love simpler T-shirts like this one that provide a foundation to build on further with accessories.
Next: opt for jeans with character. I practically live in these vintage Levis I thrifted from waistland because they are comfortable and flattering. When I bought them, they were a little worn in and had some paint splatters, but that’s what I loved about them: they had a past life–and had the potential to give texture and spunk to a more polished look.
Third: find a bridge–a styilsh one.. This red Gucci belt highlights the slogan on my T-shirt, which is what you want when that is your statement piece. But on its own, the accessory is still prominent.
Fourth: Throw on a Blazer. If you’re an overdresser, your casual look can have remnants from your business or formal attire. This blazer is a staple in my closet because it’s come in handy during internships or on-air while hosting Good Morning Malibu. Since it’s a looser fit, this vertical stripe, cuffed beauty can also go great over a T-shirt for a casual day in my capstone class.
Last but certainly not least: accessorize–with some gold hoops, some slides, vintage sunnies…your favorite magazine…you name it. If it makes you feel like yourself when you wear it, then it’s probably the right accessory. I opted for my everday jewelry and comfy slides that I’ve probably overworn. Another option is vintage dangly earrings and some more embellished slides.
This post was sponsored by The Style Club.
Photos were taken by the extremely talented, Claire Fagin.
