convenient classics.

almost two years ago i wrote about a self-imposed dilemma that keeps me from buying designer knockoffs.

items that can be considered iconic (bitchslap for using the word in vain, again!) or representative of a trend, i cannot purchase as "inspired" copies no matter how much i desire them nor however beautiful the copies were themselves. my dilemma with the classics is rather unnecessary and sometimes tragic, but nevertheless true.

to my detriment, the problem has shown no vanishing potential during the past two years: trying on designer inspired gear makes me feel icky and i end up leaving them at the store. hence, i am still stuck with either living without or buying the originals - if i can afford them.

luckily following very randomly whatever goes on in fashion means that i am blissfully ignorant of many striking garments that appear on runways and glossies, and thus, i do not feel their limiting power. that is, i can happily buy clothes that i find interesting and fabulous even if they were inspired by some designer's collection – as long as i am unaware of it.

i know it sounds pathetic, but what can you do, right?

nevertheless, i have some originals that i would not trade for the world. for example, as far as knockoffs go, the yearly appearance of the pirate boot copy shows no signs of evanescence; a long slouchy boot with straps is a regular in the collections of high street brands. some look okay and i wouldn't mind a unicolor pair (black, naturally...), but needless to explain, i cannot bring myself to buy one from anywhere else than dame westwood herself.

luckily i've had these for years and can wait a few more in order to find myself a completely black pair...

these originals are an investment (sic!) if not for monetary value, but for their lasting appeal. for me the balmy soft pair greets fall like no other and there isn't a more appropriate boot for kicking fallen foliage in the park.

boots by vivienne westwood, jeans by drkshdw, bag by marc by marc jacobs, scarf by johanna kahra. photo by vesa peräkylä.

where's your fashion stumbling block?