Black Friday is fast approaching and I want to encourage you to shop less or not at all. One of the ways I stop myself from making random clothing purchases is by creating capsule wardrobes. My Spring/Summer capsule really helped me look at the clothes I already owned as a more cohesive and functional wardrobe. So, I decided to do the same for Fall & Winter.
Creating a capsule serves as an inspiration to play with my wardrobe. I do not own every piece shown, nor do I intend to purchase a bunch of clothing. Instead, this capsule shows me gaps in my wardrobe, as well as how the colors I’ve chosen to wear fit together in various ways. For example, I do not own either of the cashmere sweaters shown. However, I do own striped and colored cashmere sweaters that mix and match just as well with the clothes I own.
Again, I’m not encouraging you to use this post as a literal shopping list, but instead, as a way to rework the clothes you own and to identify a couple of quality pieces that you may want to purchase on sale this Holiday season.
You may remember that I spent several years purchasing quality pieces for my year-round wardrobe, so I am no stranger to this concept. One thing I learned from having a very solid basic wardrobe is that the clarity and choices of having these piece cuts down on constant spending and reinforces intentional and minimal spending. Matter of fact, from these 30 pieces, you can put together over 250 outfit combinations (stay tuned to see a few)!
Every item linked below is one for which I can stand behind its make and quality, but I will list a few alternatives to more expensive pieces that I know will fit more budgets. Also, I will share weekly outfits built from this capsule over on my LikeToKnowIt, so be sure to follow me over on LTK. Lastly, I encourage you to go through your wardrobe and set a budget before you shop for new clothes (check out this helpful advice for capsule wardrobe tips).
SHOP THE AUTUMN CAPSULE WARDROBE
Tops
I really dislike being cold, so I wear a mix of long-sleeve tops that can be worn alone or layered. I adore J. Crew cashmere sweaters and you can’t go wrong with a classic turtleneck. Also, have fun with sweatshirts by repping your favorite city or brand. The oversized button-ups I own are thrifted, and I encourage you to shop second-hand in the men’s sections for alternatives to what I have listed above.
Outer Layer
As a petite person, outer layers can swallow me whole, so when I found this cropped bomber jacket I immediately added it to my cart. This half zip is a universal classic and my moto jacket is done, so I picked up this updated faux leather version at a discount from Nordstrom. The puffer jacket will more than likely get the most wear out of me because it works for all of the wonky Fall weather we experience down south.
Bottoms
Yes, I am a Millennial, and skinny jeans are not a part of this capsule wardrobe… instead, we have leggings. Honestly, as a woman with hips and thighs, I’m in love with the return of the 90s denim trend. The straight or flared leg is sooo much more flattering for my frame. Baggy cargo pants take me back to grade school, but they weren’t just fashion then. I used to fill those pockets with candy and a pencil or two for between and during classes.
Skirts/Dresses
Clearly, my priority here is warmth, so it seems that I haven’t included a lot of skirts and dresses. BUT, I envision a denim and a faux leather maxi skirt in your wardrobe. Two sweater dresses, one for going out and one for lazing around. Plus, it’s the Holiday season and I prefer to wear the same sparkly little black dress over and over again to get my full cost per wear.
Shoes
Shoes are my favorite item of clothing, so I do not show a lot of restraint in this department. These Sam Edelman shoes were calling my name in both black and red. Also, I’m thinking a pair of silver loafers would round out this wardrobe quite well. Plus, I’m a combat boot girlie, so they have a place in my space as well.
Elevate With Accessories
With these articles of clothing, the options are endless. You can stick with a feminine silhouette, break the rules, or serve chic realness. Nope, you do not have to buy a bunch of neutrals because these pieces are classic, so feel free to purchase these items in your favorite color to have even more fun with mixing and matching. I can’t resist, so check out a few accessories I would include in this capsule below. At this time of year, I typically purchase a purse, and this one is calling my name this year.
If you care to share, comment below which items you plan to purchase, or let me know if this post inspired you in any small way. As always, thank you so much for all your support, shopping through my links, and sharing the capsule with your friends!
