Long Live The Process Pt. 2
How I shop vintage, sunscreen, and Instagram ads
Not to be dramatic, but distilling my life’s passion (researching and discovering vintage clothing) is going to take more than a newsletter. I like to think of each installment of Long Live as serving the greater good of inspiring readers to search their own closets and then take to eBay, Poshmark, their local thrift shop, or a flea market when they’re in a need of a new item.
To be clear, I’m not perfect about only shopping when it’s a need. I love a recreational shop. My New York closet, does not. When I was in my early 20s, I was constantly cycling in and out—a thirty dollar purchase here drunk on the G train home from a night out, a weekend browse turned into a $200 “must have” sweater. I’m barely older, maybe a little wiser, but more than anything, I just like investing in pieces I know will stick around.
But even the most conscious of shoppers isn’t always safe from the allure of Instagram served ads. Please note this screenshot is at 10:35 in the morning, which is the perfect argument for my new commitment to not be on the app until after noon. It’s true, I was in the market for a new belt when this ad found me. I knew I wanted something vintage, something black, and definitely leather. Did I know I wanted something that was “always looking cool, always looking chic?” No, I didn’t.
The belt being advertised to me was upwards of $300 for no good reason. I quickly found thousands of alternates on eBay for under $30. This wasn’t a case of replacing an item I already owned that had been worn out. It was more of an attempt to integrate an accessory I’ve gone without for at least five years. Was anyone else burned by the statement elastic belts from Rue 21 from high school?
Here were my criteria, beyond what I mentioned, for justifying this new item for my wardrobe. You’ll notice, it’s almost never about the cost, but about the space. First, I had to donate all the other belts I know I’ve hidden somewhere, but can’t find at the moment, and commit to this belt as My Belt. I’ll keep you updated on that process. Second, I had to resist the urge to opt for something more visually interesting. No braiding, no weird buckle, just buy a plain belt, Erika.
All this to say, setting the stage for what you need from an item, imagining how you’ll wear it, and then sticking to it, are all essential steps in the process of building a closet you actually wear and actually love.
Archived Outfit
Charlotte Gainsbourg might be the embodiment of whatever that Instagram ad was trying to sell me under the guise of “French chic.” I adore her sense of style, which is rocker, yes, but (spoiler) influenced by her mom, Jane Birkin. This outfit could not be more simple. But I think it illustrates the power of a belt in breaking up a look. The rise of the jeans is…specific…but I love a loose leg like she’s wearing. Next time you’re really stumped on what to wear, pull out a medium wash, a black belt, and an easy button up. I hate to say it, but très chic.
Darling little belt for $12.
Here’s an option for those overwhelmed by having to commit to silver or gold. It’s ok! Be non committal for $20.
Honorable Mentions
If you’re riding the scammer wave like I am, you might like the podcast compliment to the new WeWork show. Don’t love the show, loved binging the podcast on a long drive.
Read an absolute delight of a female friendship/queer historical fiction masterpiece called When We Lost Our Heads. 448 pages flew by. It’s exactly the kind of book I would pack for a vacation with open afternoons dedicated to reading. Also read Pure Colour, which I adored, but it’s certainly weird.
This is the sunscreen of the summer. It takes its sweet time with shipping, so order now. My friend Eva loves it, Charlotte Palermino loves it, and so do I.
Closing thought! If you’re feeling angry, frustrated, indignant, or scared (this is magnetic poetry) like me, donate to an abortion fund.
Thank you so much for reading. This week I wrote about pajamas and my new favorite concealer. See you next Thursday! x
been looking for a belt for the first time in yeeeears. thanks for the link - i went for it! :,)