I Lived in the Midwest for 22 Years—Here's What I'd Still Wear

In case you’re new to my byline, a couple of fun facts about me: 1) I’m from Kansas, and 2) I didn’t graduate college with a fashion degree. Yet right after college, I landed my dream internship at Who What Wear and moved across the country to Los Angeles. Since then, my wardrobe has certainly gone through a mini makeover, mainly because I had just landed my first job and needed to bulk up my “workwear” essentials, and also because I was stocking up on everyday Cali classics like the perfect oversize denim jackets and pieces you can easily transition from day to night.

Earlier this year, I shared the items from my Midwest wardrobe that I wouldn’t wear again, but today, I’m slightly shifting gears and highlighting the pieces I’d still wear to this day. I’m even sharing throwback photos from my pre–Los Angeles days so you can get a sense of what my style was like when I was living in Kansas. While I’ll admit some of the looks as a whole feel dated (rightfully so), the key pieces I’m pointing out though still feel timeless. Keep reading to see a snapshot of my Midwest style and which items from my high school and college days I’d still wear today.

Not going to lie—I’d probably still wear this outfit, from head to toe. As you can see from this photo, cute white tops have always been essential in my wardrobe.

Shop the white tops I'm eyeing right now:

New Year’s Eve always calls for something sparkly, and I think I did a good job dressing up this embellished minidress by styling it with a matching oversize blazer.

Shop embellished dresses I'd wear today:

This was by far one of my favorite tops in college, and full disclaimer: I actually borrowed it from a girl in my sorority, but it was the top of the night. I wish I’d never given it back (jk!).

Shop a couple backless tops I'd buy today:

As I mentioned in a few recent stories, I purchased this $8 headband from Amazon and wore it nearly every day while I was in Milan, so it’s safe to say this high school accessory is still relevant in my book.

Shop my latest headband pick:

I think this is still a solid outfit combination, and I still wear printed dresses and cool ankle boots on the reg during the weekend.

Shop my favorite printed dress and ankle boots of the moment:

While I’m ignoring my striped maxi dress situation, I still wear this black leather jacket all the time. It’s a staple every woman should invest in.

Shop the leather jacket I'm wearing:

This was my outfit for my 20th birthday dinner, and tbh, I wish I still owned it. I remember wearing it several times after this debut with flat sandals and occasionally my go-to leather jacket.

Shop LWDs I'd buy today: