Since starting the blog, so many women have reached out wondering how they can update their wardrobe to a point that is classic but still trendy. And I was shocked that so many people wanted help in that area. I can remember distinctly the moment I tried to get my mom into skinny jeans after wearing “mom” jeans for so long. She is hooked now and looks beautiful as ever in them. But this was also around the time when she wanted to start dressing better so we went shopping for everything!! She got plenty of cute clothes but got stuck in the mindset that only one outfit exists with those articles of clothing; I called them her “grrr-animals” like those kids clothes.
So she is my inspiration in putting together the capsule wardrobe. Mind you, these are pieces that I own and wear (I own plenty more lol but for the sake of this we will keep it simple) and the goal is to make as many outfits as possible with just these.
Before we get into the whole thing, I really want to talk about my photographer Dylan!! I met Dylan at a networking event in Philadelphia in the summertime! We didn’t talk very much but I have been following her instagram adventures since then! So when she put out into the internet that she wanted to build her portfolio I took the opportunity right away!! She is such a sweetheart and so talented as you will see! The best part of it all was her communication style. She reached out asking what my vision was so she could nail it perfectly. It really did make me feel so much more comfortable going into the shoot knowing that we were both on the same page! I really appreciate that kind of care and attention!! She was amazing throughout the day and the pictures speak of her talent!! If you are looking for a great photographer in the Philly area, definitely reach out to Dylan. You can follow her on Instagram @DylanInTheDetails and at www.dylaninthedetails.com ! Check out her portfolio and all her travel tips!!
Okay so now to perfect your capsule wardrobe. I would define these tips and tricks best for a fall/winter wardrobe. You can roughly make 15 different outfits (I am sure there are even more than that). And we will go over some tips and tricks to put it all together as we go!
Tip 1: Pick a simple color scheme and stick to it. Trust me, it will help in the long run. In this case, I stuck with neutrals with a few pops of color. By doing this, you can get the maximum use out of your clothes and put together an infinite amount of outfits.
Tip 2: Use this guide as a basis. You have your own unique style so if you want to swap something out you are more than welcome!! I’d actually prefer it that way since this matches my style most of all!!
Tip 3: For winter, layers are key! It can really change how an outfit looks!
Tip 4: Add jewelry! I am not a huge jewelry person so I didn’t show that. I keep it super simple with my favorite bracelets and then my favorite earrings that Michael bought me. If you have statement pieces you can totally add flare that way!
Let’s talk categories: Tops, Bottoms, Coats, Shoes, and Accessories. Easy to keep track of and organize. In total you have 25 items. And in the three hours we shot at Longwood Gardens, I was able to make 15 outfits. Each item will be linked to its appropriate website if by chance you are interested in them.
Tops: White collared button down, White short sleeve shirt, Chambray shirt, Camel sweater, Camel cardigan, Black long sleeve shirt, Gray long sleeve thermal, White sweatshirt.
Bottoms: Black jeans (mine have polka dots), High waisted dark jeans, Black leggings.
Coats: Trench coat, Jean jacket, Camel blazer, Leather jacket, Suede jacket.
Shoes: Over the knee black boots, Brown riding boots, Gray wedge sneakers.
Accessories: Scarf, Beanie, Hat, Crossbody bag, Tote bag, Watch
Tip 5: Use what is already in your closet. This should go without saying but a capsule wardrobe can be made with things you already have.
Tip 6: Be comfortable. Life shouldn’t be about discomfort so when you’re building the wardrobe, find things that make you feel comfortable and like a million bucks!
Tip 7: Invest in quality pieces. If you know you’re going to be using something for many years, it is okay to spend the money.
Tip 8: Don’t fall for the trendy pieces that come and go. With a classic wardrobe that you can dress up or down, there is no need to have the on trend item.
Tip 9: Makeup can change an outfit easily! Nude/natural keeps things casual but a red lip and sparkles take things to glam!
Tip 10: HAVE FUN!! If you can’t have fun with outfits what’s the point?! Even 25 items can be so much fun!
The options are endless here!! This is just the start!! You can build from here but if you need to build a great wardrobe for yourself this is a great way to begin!! You deserve these pieces and will use them I can guarantee it!!
If this helps you in any way possible, let me know! I love hearing from you all! Tag me, email me, call me, etc!!!
AND LASTLY, thank you to my friends, best friends, family, and everyone in between that I bugged to get their opinion on their favorite pieces in their closet! The data was so helpful!!
Xox, Z
