Discover the raw truth behind personal style—beyond the glitz and glamour—and learn how to craft a wardrobe that genuinely reflects who you are. But here’s where it gets controversial... Norma Kamali, a legendary figure in fashion, shares a surprisingly down-to-earth and practical approach to fashion that might challenge everything you've heard about trends and fleeting styles.
Her core message is simple yet powerful: wear what genuinely makes you happy and take good care of it, rather than following the latest fads. Kamali emphasizes that personal style should be rooted in your identity and taste, not the ever-accelerating cycle of fashion trends—whether it’s the recent Barbiecore craze or the more subdued normcore movement.
To organize your wardrobe for maximum versatility, Kamali recommends dividing your closet into two main sections: the essential 'core wardrobe' and the more experimental 'styling wardrobe.' The core includes timeless basics you wear daily—think plain T-shirts, reliable jeans, and the classic little black dress—items that serve as your foundation. The styling wardrobe, on the other hand, is where unique finds come into play—vintage brooches, statement heels, or any piece that sparks inspiration and allows you to add personality to your look.
Building these two sections isn’t just about shopping; Kamali encourages curating through experiences, memories, and, importantly, reflection. She advises asking yourself whether you can see yourself wearing a piece ten or twenty years from now, underscoring that garments should stand the test of time.
Equally important is caring for your clothing to ensure longevity. Having started her career selling vintage clothes in the 1960s, Kamali knows firsthand how crucial proper maintenance is—especially when dealing with delicate fabrics like silk. Her simple but effective method involves laundry basics: water and gentle dish soap.
Back in her vintage selling days, she used mild dish soap—preferably Mrs. Meyer’s Dish Soap—and lukewarm water to carefully wash delicate items from the 1930s and 1940s. This process removes dirt and grease without damaging fragile fabrics, preserving the life of cherished pieces. She also suggests spot-cleaning areas like collars, cuffs, and necklines with a sponge dipped in dish soap, a trick especially useful at the end of winter when it's time to pack away outerwear.
A surprising aspect of her approach? Kamali’s love for shopping vintage—sometimes from as far back as the late 19th century. She advocates for exploring pieces from the 70s and 80s, as many vintage treasures still hold up beautifully today, provided you look carefully enough. Her vintage finds are not just nostalgic; they are strategic tools that, when paired thoughtfully with contemporary items, create a style that balances ease, elegance, and a touch of history.
Her playful experimentation with shoes exemplifies her mix of antiquity and modern chic. Her collection has been so impressive that she donated part of it to The Metropolitan Museum of Art in the 1990s. Today, she prefers a more relaxed vibe, often sporting Ugg boots for comfort—yet she styles them in unexpected, fashionable ways, such as pairing Uggs with evening dresses, which she finds striking and stylish.
Travel, she says, was instrumental in shaping her aesthetic. During her time working for an airline, she traveled extensively—her transatlantic tickets once cost only $29 thanks to her employee discount. Each country had its own distinct identity and fashion style, fueling her appreciation for diverse aesthetics. Though today’s globalized world offers a different experience, Kamali still encourages exploring new cultures and styles through travel, viewing it as a vital way to expand one’s personal aesthetic.
When packing for trips, she advocates for planning outfits thoughtfully—bringing just enough for each day, typically two ensembles per day—one for daytime and one for night. Her packing technique involves efficiently using plastic bags, packing shoes separately, and making sure everything is tightly organized to prevent damage and mess.
In her decades of experience, Kamali asserts that the most important thing is for individuals to trust their instincts. While she shares advice and philosophies, she emphasizes that each person’s style journey should be authentic to them. Her ultimate mission is to inspire women—and everyone—to see each new day as an opportunity for adventure, creativity, and self-expression, driven by the confidence that comes from inside.
So, do you agree with her views on timeless fashion and self-empowerment? Or do you believe trends are essential for growth and freshness? Share your thoughts below—let’s spark a lively debate!
