3 quick steps for building a fall capsule wardrobe.

August 28, 2017

It dipped below 90 degrees here which seemed to validate the word Autumn here in GA. It doesn’t get cool enough for jackets here till about November, so I may not be wearing my favorite staples until then, but I have a feeling many of you will be needing warmer pieces in under a month! Below are some quick steps for building a fall capsule wardrobe if you are interested in creating one, as well as some good base staples to get you started.

 

 

3 quick steps for building a fall capsule wardrobe:

  1. Decide the overall style of what you want your capsule to be. Bold and functional? Neutral and comfortable? Minimal and chic? When you narrow that down it will make the process of deciding on pieces much easier.
  2. Start pinning your favorites to a pinterest board and see how they will mix and match before purchasing. Another great option is Cladwell app which allows you to see all of your pieces you are working with and even suggest outfits for you based on what you have.
  3. Divide your categories based on your occupation or state of life. If you work in an office 5 days out of 7, you will want dressier separates. If you are a stay at home mother, you will want durable and comfortable staples. No matter your situation, throw out your perceptions of colors for seasons, and build a wardrobe based off what actually makes you look forward to getting dressed.

 

Starting layers:

Boots + Shoes (scroll right)

Jackets:

Denim / Pants / Skirts:

 

 

Tops / Sweaters:

 

These are just basics you can start with, and layer with fun prints and bold colors if you choose! It’s easy to get stuck in style ruts where we dress according to how we perceive ourselves, how others perceive us, or what we render appropriate for our age. It can make a significant impact on our day to day lives when we can confidently choose pieces that make us feel ready to put your best foot forward without these factors getting in the way. I feel like this took me years! I dressed for trends in high school, dressed with a negative body image in college, and dressed according to who I thought I should be in the early phases of my career and motherhood. I will probably always change according to what phase of life I am in, but at least now I know the difference of what a good bold color dress can do for your mental game, or how putting clothes that actually fit my body type will prevent all the fidgeting, tugging, pulling, and self-doubt.

What would you say is your biggest struggle when defining your own sense of style??

When in doubt, just ask yourself, What would Iris Apfel do? 😉

 

Leave a Comment

  • Talk about timing. I’ve literally spent the entire day having a panic attack because I start a new job next week and my appearance will matter for the first time in my work world (heck world world). I picked up a couple items with your summer capsule vibes in mind and am trying to channel your creative fashion sense but I’m SO lacking in that area. I’m basically Anne Hathaway at the beginning of Princess Diaries, here’s hoping I can pull off a minor transformation. Mom-bod is certainly not helping… nor is the pint of ice cream I bought on my lunch break to cope….

    • Oh man I know that has to be nerve wrecking! Sometimes it takes some trial and error with wearing clothing, so don’t be afraid to try a few different stores till you find styles that work for you! Made me laugh about Anne Hathaway…we have all been her!

    • Pat Schwab

      Carrie, Make sure you have a good pair of black pants that you love which you can dress up. A couple of blazers and you can wear some tops you already own underneath because the blazer pulls the whole outfit together and will make you look more professional. You can jazz up your basics with accessories to add some personality and flair. If your budget is low check out Goodwill and some resale shops in your area to pick up some tops. Good luck on your new job.

      • Thank you! I appreciate the tips. I’m really lucky because I’ll be leading a Detroit guide/event planning company so my wardrobe needs will vary from presentable casual, business professional and cocktail events. I definitely plan to take advantage of blazers! And yes my budget is low for the moment but I’ve had some luck at TJ/Marshalls 😉

        • Pat Schwab

          It sounds like you’re off to a great start. I love TJMax and Marshalls too. You can find some great affordable gems there. I like that your job has 3 tiers of dressing so you have options. You are going to shine. Hugs

  • I can’t wait for all the layering I can do in fall. I really like the tips you mentioned, as with the items you suggested!

    Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
    http://charmainenyw.com

  • Gabrielle

    Where is that gray sweater jacket in the top photo from and your green quilted jacket from?

  • Where is that wrap dress from the first photo from?!

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  • Everything is very open with a clear description of the challenges.
    It was truly informative. Your site is very useful.
    Thanks for sharing!

  • Where are the crossbody bag in the second photo and the emerald ring in the third from?

  • Camila Liege

    Hi Anna,
    I’m in love if your blog. I’m new here though. Do you usually post the links for what you post?

    Thank you ?

    • Hi Camila! Thank you so much! Yes I try to, but if you see anything you want to know the doesn’t have a link just let me know and I will do my best to find it:) x

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