Sustain This! Podcast Episode Summary: "Is the Pursuit of 'Timeless Style' Really a Trap?"

Release Date: April 1, 2025

In this engaging episode of Sustain This!, hosts Alyssa Beltempo, Christina Mychas, and Signe Hansen delve into a thought-provoking discussion on the concept of timeless style. Drawing inspiration from a TikTok reel by LA-based stylist Alison Bornstein, the trio examines whether the pursuit of timeless fashion truly enhances our wardrobes or inadvertently confines our self-expression. Here's a detailed breakdown of their conversation:

1. Introduction to the Topic

The episode kicks off with Alyssa introducing the central theme inspired by Alison Bornstein’s TikTok video, which questions the validity of striving for a "timeless" wardrobe. Alyssa sets the stage by highlighting Bornstein’s critique of timeless dressing as a potential hindrance to personal style and creativity.

Alyssa [00:16]:
"Alison Bornstein talks a lot about using what you've already got... questioning the hyper-focus on timeless dressing."

2. Analyzing Alison Bornstein's TikTok Video

Alyssa and Christina discuss Bornstein’s perspective, which suggests that the quest for timeless style might suppress individual self-expression and experimentation. The hosts explore how certain style icons are labeled as timeless, yet their looks are often a reflection of current trends, thereby blurring the lines between timelessness and trendiness.

Alyssa [01:30]:
"Is seeking timeless style really not honoring our own self-expression and experimentation?"

3. The Concept of Timeless Style: Benefits and Drawbacks

Christina acknowledges the benefits of timeless pieces, such as reducing decision fatigue and providing an effortless feel when dressing. However, she aligns with the hosts' skepticism about an overemphasis on timelessness, arguing that it can lead to a monotonous wardrobe lacking in diversity and creativity.

Christina [03:21]:
"Timeless pieces can help minimize decision fatigue and contribute to an effortless feeling when you're getting dressed."

Conversely, Alyssa shares personal reflections on her own wardrobe, noting that while she appreciates timeless silhouettes, her style includes variations in fabric and styling that prevent her outfits from feeling stagnant.

Alyssa [02:00]:
"My style hasn't changed much since university, but I would style my outfits differently now with better fabrics and footwear choices."

4. Balancing Timeless Pieces with Personal Expression

The conversation progresses to the importance of balancing timeless staples with expressive elements. Christina emphasizes that while timeless pieces serve as the foundation of a wardrobe, incorporating unique accessories and varying silhouettes can infuse personality and prevent outfits from feeling basic or repetitive.

Christina [07:44]:
"Timeless pieces are the foundation, but adding accessories like a snakeskin belt or a bright red belt can make your outfits more interesting."

Alyssa echoes this sentiment, highlighting that timeless pieces act as the "glue" that holds an outfit together, allowing for personal flair through accessories and styling variations.

Alyssa [13:35]:
"Timeless pieces are kind of the glue that puts everything else together."

5. Practical Tips: Breadth and Depth in Your Wardrobe

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the concepts of breadth and depth in building a versatile closet. Alyssa explains that breadth refers to having a variety of silhouettes and styles, while depth involves having multiple variations within those styles, such as different colors or textures.

Alyssa [17:15]:
"Breadth and depth are essential for a timeless closet. Determine where you want breadth in your silhouettes and depth in your colors or textures."

Christina provides practical examples, illustrating how one can maintain a timeless wardrobe without sacrificing individuality by diversifying within categories like T-shirts or jeans.

Christina [19:12]:
"I have a bunch of different white T-shirts, each with a unique silhouette—cropped, baby, high neck—that adds depth to my wardrobe."

6. Embracing Style Evolution and Eras

The hosts reflect on the inevitability of style evolution, sharing personal anecdotes about past fashion choices that may no longer align with their current tastes. They agree that it's natural for one's style to cycle through different eras and trends, and that embracing these changes can be a testament to personal growth.

Christina [26:13]:
"I tend to dress in cycles. Right now I'm into denim, but during other times, I'm really into track pants."

Alyssa [26:16]:
"Embracing different eras in your style honors who you were and showcases how you've grown."

7. Concluding Thoughts

Wrapping up the episode, Alyssa and Christina encourage listeners to find a balance between timeless essentials and personal expression. They advocate for wearing what feels good and aligns with one’s current self, rather than being overly concerned with how outfits will be perceived in the future.

Christina [28:25]:
"It's okay to have eras in your style. If you hate an outfit from 10 years ago, just have a laugh and enjoy the memory."

Alyssa [28:05]:
"Don't worry about being timeless so much. Honor who you are and the moment you're in."

Notable Quotes

• Alyssa [05:26]:
  "Nothing will stifle your creativity more than the fear of making a mistake."

• Christina [23:36]:
  "Timeless dressing is a trap."

• Alyssa [16:34]:
  "Understand what your variance is to make your closet timeless for you."

Final Takeaway

The episode challenges the conventional wisdom of timeless style, urging listeners to prioritize personal expression and adaptability over rigid adherence to timelessness. By integrating a mix of timeless staples and expressive elements, one can cultivate a versatile and fulfilling wardrobe that evolves with their personal journey.

Join the Conversation:

Have you struggled with the quest for timeless style? Do you find joy in mixing timeless pieces with trendy accents? Share your experiences and thoughts with Sustain This! by connecting on Instagram @usustainthispodcast. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite platform to support the show!