I’ve always had a thing for stripes. I’m not big on patterns or prints or logos, but stripes and I go way back. There’s a black and white photo of me from when I’m about 5, and I’m wearing a striped shirt that I would still gladly rock if it were still my size.

There’s something timeless about stripes. They’re always in style, and they always go with every occasion. I like that they’re subtle yet bold — they do make a statement, but they’re not quite as loud as full on patterns like florals, camo, or even knit patterns like houndstooth.

I’ve recently become kind of obsessed with my black baseball cap, which I got from H&M a while back and is felted wool. It looks polished, due in part to the fabric, but it’s casual and goes with everything. Whenever I need to slip out of the apartment and don’t want to get all dressed up I just throw on the hat, and I’m good to go.

Likewise, cardigans go with everything. They’re simple and to the point, and are an easy way to dress up a tank top, which is my usual uniform when the weather is in transition — it might be cold outside, but inside is usually roasting, so this combo is great for getting through comfortably.

To round out the look I went with my trusty Clarks Desert Boots in black leather with a chunky white sole. Style for me is all about balance, and I like that the heft of the sole balances out the oversized, slouchy aspect of the cardigan. The black and white combo was a perfect match, and keeps things looking simple and polished.

Photos courtesy Kristin Booker for Giafrese