Seeking Inspirato with Cameron Collins in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Cameron is an Oklahoma City girl, through and through. Here she is at the very cool, outdoor/indoor bar, The Pump.
You’d be hard-pressed to find a better Basics wardrobe than Cameron’s starting lineup.
I’ve learned through doing the Seeking Inspirato series that boundaries and guidelines can actually be helpful when we’re trying to figure out our personal style. They encourage Forced Resourcefulness — a scenario where we’re obliged to become creative because resources are limited.
Mary had limited cash to support her wardrobe, but she adored the curated items she had.
Today’s feature, Cameron, has a classic style filled with elegant basics. Anyone seeking a wardrobe restart or fresh perspective can apply her looks to their own closet.
I recently did an article with Nicole Leachman (who actually introduced me to Cameron!) all about Basics and the response was so great that I figured we’d ask Cameron a similar set of questions:
What kind of clothing makes you feel the most yourself, and will you please share some of your favorite pieces with us?
Cameron did just that!
Oklahoma City has amazing bars and outdoor spaces, and thank Cameron, I actually got to see some! Photo above is of the Pump Bar (by Maddison McKinley).
Cameron’s Summer Basics: Day to Night
Summer 2021 vibes. Image Courtesy of Cameron.
“What makes me feel best? A sweater dress and boots. A nice crisp blazer with a tee and a blue jean. Easy, no-nonsense stuff.”
When it comes to essentials, Cameron’s clean on the blazer (and so am I!).
“Every person should have a solid black blazer. A blazer can be used to dress up any outfit and pull together last minute looks. A blazer adds a classy, sometimes edgy flair depending on how you wear it and pair it.”
Blazers are a year-round staple. A black blazer can be worn in March or October without anyone batting an eye. If you’re looking for a more summer-y feel, check out some other options (hello Cotton Candy!).
(LOVE THE BUTTONS)
Cameron’s Day Time Basic Look
“Blazer, band t-shirt, simple blue jean and converse. Add some hoops and layered necklaces for a more fun touch.”
Inspiration ^^^
$135 - COMME DES GARCONS PLAY Converse Large Emblem Low Top Canvas Sneakers.
Cameron’s Night Time Basic Look
“[A] blazer with a white t-shirt, structured a-line pant [or a] dressier trouser gives this look a great night time vibe. Paired with a statement purse and some sneakers, [it] leaves room for comfortability & edge!”
Inspiration ^^^
$60 - The Easy Pant on Everlane.com.
This kind of lightweight, cotton pant is the most versatile of all and should be in every girl’s closet — the question for your personal style is: what silhouette are you going to opt for? A high-waist, mid-rise, or low-rise? Will the hem be tapered, bell bottom, or straight leg?
$8 Universal Threads - Target.com.
Shirts come in all shapes and sizes, and it’s important to make sure the neckline you choose works for your face and upper body. Crewnecks rarely work for me, so I often opt for V-Necks. What t-shirt Cut works best for you?
$55 - NO BAD VIBES PLATFORM SNEAKER on DSW.com.
The platform is back, y’all, and for good reason. The stacked sole gives you all the elevation with none of the pain.
$114 Large Distressed Leather wristlet clutch bag - Shop VitalTemptation on Etsy.com.
I love the fact that this is a new handbag, but has a vintage vibe!
$50 - Chic Loose Light Green Women’s Blazer - Shop VittorioBoutique on Etsy.com.
It can be cool to wear similar colors, but in slightly different shades. A green purse with a green blazer … monochromatic-chic! If that sounds like too much, a black blazer is always yourfriend.
$18 Paperclip Necklace - Shop AngelLuckyEyes on Etsy.com.
Layered necklaces in gold tones offer the kind of casual, on-trend look that can be worn every day.
What are the questions Cameron asks herself before she brings a new piece of clothing into her wardrobe?
Worth: Is there enough versatility of the piece to justify purchasing? [Can you pair and style] with numerous outfits?
Versatility: Can this piece be worn or paired with outfits season-round? Oklahoma weather changes so frequently, this is a major factor!
Clothing Confidence: Do I feel confident in this piece, and will I get my wear out of it?
Ask yourself these questions, too, and you’ll forget what “buyer’s remorse” even feels like.
How does Cameron find items that are both flattering and aligned with her personal style?
“It all comes down to comfortability and versatility. If I’m comfortable in something, I automatically have more confidence … I also think it’s important to stay true to yourself/personality, so in my case that's comfortable, classic looks with a dash of edge. [That’s] my style.”
LOUDER FOR THE BACK. I couldn’t agree more — staying true to how you want to show up is critical to feeling good in your clothing.
On Becoming Confident
Image Courtesy of Cameron
“I’ve always found confidence through the mind. If you like certain things and you learn about them and you educate yourself, and you’re passionate about them ... I think that drives confidence more than anything.”
When it comes to Confidence, Cameron focuses on the work in-house — on improving the self to build self-esteem. Afterall, what’s more attractive than confidence in one’s intelligence? In the self-assurance that knowledge brings?
This is such a great reminder that Confidence is developed from the inside.
I am a believer in the “try it till you thrive it” mentality. Dressing in a way that radiates confidence (even if you don’t feel it on the inside just yet) can have the power to transform the way you see yourself. It can move you towards a more confident self.
But of course, Cameron’s right. You can dress well all day, but if you’re feeling downtrodden for whatever reason, no pair of your favorite, flattering jeans alone is going to bring you out of that.
It’s also true that clothing is an element of our lives we can control. In this past year, we’ve been able to control very little, but the clothes we wear can have a positive impact on the way people see us and the opportunities we receive ... so don’t disregard clothing’s power to move your life in a better direction!
So how might you want to build your self-esteem through improving your mind or body? What’s something you’ve wanted to do, but haven’t quite gotten to yet? Name an accomplishment you want to achieve this year!
Some examples:
Volunteer or join a non-profit board
Write a book, or start a blog
Take up something artistic and submit your work to a festival
Sell your art
Run a 5k
Accomplishments make us who we are — what’s one you can complete (or work towards) over the next 30 days?