YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sun, 03 May 2026 23:12:36 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Mary Beth (formerly LBD) on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/4#post-1358306 Thu, 18 Sep 2014 16:45:05 +0000 Mary Beth (formerly LBD) 1358306@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ @Keturah:   Do you know... I reached the same/similar conclusions, independently?    Two things happened that made me realize this capsule wardrobe challenge isn't for me: 1)   Our theatre company started rehearsals, plus putting together marketing and indiegogo campaigns for our upcoming holiday show, and I don't have time to pick over and agonize which of my 35-ish items I can make work for everything that I have to get done on any given day. 2)   Aaaaaaaand.... I got the respiratory virus that's been going around.   I am on Day 11 of it - the slooooow recovery from the constant coughing.  It has taken all of my energy and then some to stay on my feet and get things done, without letting this turn into pneumonia.   On a wry note, all the coughing has given me really nice, toned upper abs.   Lemonade from lemons, right?   :D But those two things aside... I've realized I am not a minimalist, and the 35 items doesn't really cover my highly varied wardrobe needs - or my highly varied personal creative needs.   I feel like I am good with my current wardrobe, which is much larger than 35 items.    That being said, I am so very glad I started out on this challenge!   I've learned a lot about specificity - what I want my style descriptors to be, what I want to say with my clothing.   I've learned some ways that I can make my wardrobe function better for me.   I've defined a seasonal color palette that thrills me, even though I mostly use it in small touches against a neutral backdrop.  And I've been able to narrow down, and become a lot more discerning in the silhouettes I want, and the quality of them items.   AND I've come to grips with what I feel is a workable ratio of dry-cleaning-to-laundry-at-home.   :D At the end of this, I have one hole - and it's more of a 'want' than a need - and that's for a really knockout dress to wear to weddings.   So I am keeping my eye out for when the right dress comes along.   Something colorful in my palette, and I am thinking strawberry or coral-seashell-pink.   I have other dresses to carry me along until I find that holy grail dress. In all other ways I can think of, I'm sorted through next spring, when I will try and find another pair of ladylike, refined wedge/ankle strap sandals to replace my worn out Nine Wests.    If I come across something now on clearance... all the better! Thank you girls, for exploring this seasonal wardrobe challenge, putting it out there, and sharing your interesting and inspirational discoveries!   I really enjoy and look forward to all of your updates on where you are with your wardrobes! Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/4#post-1357666 Wed, 17 Sep 2014 19:27:35 +0000 Keturah 1357666@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Elizabeth P, absolutely valuable! How do we learn if we don't experiment and try new things? Sorry your capsule didn't pan out the way you hoped. I know we'll still have fun with fashion and clothes this fall and winter xo Elizabeth P on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/4#post-1357595 Wed, 17 Sep 2014 17:39:50 +0000 Elizabeth P 1357595@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Mine has too Keturah (I posted on your other thread).  But that in itself is valuable, right?  Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/4#post-1357549 Wed, 17 Sep 2014 16:36:13 +0000 Keturah 1357549@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Update... So, I'm starting to phase out of the F/W capsule challenge. I'll still be adding a few pieces to my wardrobe for the coming months. But I don't know that I'm able to keep it in a neat tidy color scheme or style theme like I first planned. Here's my thoughts, posted separately from this thread: <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/my-continued-thoughts-on-capsule-dressing-i-dont-think-its-for-me?replies=1#post-1357537">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....nk-its-for</a> I still plan on popping in here. I just think my definition of capsule wardrobe has changed a lot from when I originally started the challenge.  Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1357547 Wed, 17 Sep 2014 16:35:13 +0000 Keturah 1357547@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thimblelina, oh yes! I found items I disliked in my capsule. I have put those in a holding zone for a couple months. If I still haven't thought of them by then, they're going to the thrift store. It's liberating! I don't feel one bit sorry or sad about it, that's for sure. I adore cashmere. But I think you're smart to switch to a cashmere/wool blend. I knit a lot. One thing I've learned is this: the rougher the wool, the longer it lasts and the less it pills. It's just the truth of the matter.  Bummer that everything you want to purchase is being pushed back I hope you can find some pieces to suit you! I love to buy quality items. BUT in the meantime, maybe give H&M a look to fill-in until you can purchase some higher quality items. Also use it as a time to try new lines and designers. <div> </div><div>Gigi, sorry you haven't had much success adding to your capsule! I know that is frustrating, especially if you need a specially cut size. I'm 5'10" and usually wear anything from a size 12 to 16. Sometimes it makes shopping tricky - especially for skirts. They are sometimes shorter than they should be because My waist is high and my legs are longer. BUT I'm glad you're being picky and sticking to your style and preferences. It just means you'll have more money to spend on things you love when they begin appearing :)  </div> Gigi on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1353523 Fri, 12 Sep 2014 04:34:52 +0000 Gigi 1353523@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thimblelina, you are really getting your share of disappointment! That's crummy that the Uniqlo and Boden items are being pushed out. That does make it hard to plan! It sounds like you have done more than enough to try to make those twill jeans work. They seem to have quite the list of drawbacks, ha ha. I agree that when you have to buy something in desperation, the results are rarely good. I think Banana Republic just got some twill pants in, if you're interested in something similar but in a different cut. I have found their twill to be quite comfy. I haven't met with much success in my capsule either. I had some very particular things that I wanted to buy—a navy v-neck sweater, a black-and-cream striped sweater, some cognac footwear, a pair of dark nondistressed jeans, and a wool circle skirt—but I couldn't find any of it, except for the cognac footwear and the jeans. It's hard to find my size (have to shop petites'), and I'm just not seeing what I want. I'm also overly particular with regard to fabric content—I dislike synthetics and want something that is predominantly natural fabrics—which makes an already-job harder. I think that the stores will be coming out with new collections near the end of this month, so I'm hoping I can find a few more pieces then! The good news is that by being picky and sticking to my capsule goals, I've avoided spending a lot of money. So I will look on the bright side. thimblelina on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1353178 Thu, 11 Sep 2014 20:04:32 +0000 thimblelina 1353178@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ How are the fall capsules developing?  I have gone to a month of substitute class assignments with my current very bare bones 16 piece capsule, but starting next week I will be in one classroom for the rest of the semester.  That means I will probably want a little more variety.  What I'm currently wearing is a black/gray capsule that mixes and matches really effortlessly.  I've got a brown/dark denim capsule in the works but I really need to fit in some shopping for it to expand to a workable size.  It also skews toward clothing more suited to cooler temps.   I'm frustrated because there were several items in the new Ines de la Fressange collection for Uniqlo that I loved on the website and were supposed to be available in September but have been pushed back to November fulfillment.  So I need to generate some new ideas.  There is an Aritzia in SF that I want to visit, and I always love visiting Madewell.  Maybe I just need to shift gears and start over.  I am looking for a tweedy menswear inspired jacket and a versatile plaid shirt.  I have an a-line denim skirt on order for Boden; it too should have come already but was pushed back to October... grrr... A few slouchy tees with long sleeves would be very much appreciated. And I think I'm going to ditch straight cashmere and switch to Woolover's cashmere/merino blend.  It gets great reviews, sounds much less prone to pills, and I really like the assortment of styles and colors they offer. And who can argue with their prices? In that range I could add two cardigans per capsule until I reached utter cardigan saturation! Anyone else finding they HATE something in their capsule?? I am loathing my slate gray NYDJ skinny twill jeans.  I had my seamstress attach cannibalized belt loops thinking that was the problem, but no... i just hate 'em, period.  The rise (tweedle dee territory), the fabric (prone to fiber nap shadows that look like stains), the butt (old lady), the hems (weirdly dowdy, but not so long as to merit professional hemming), their inability to be cuffed or rolled, kablah, kablah, kablah.  I have virtually nothing nice to say about these pants!  Sadly, theres an identical dark brown pair folded and waiting for the next capsule.  In my defense, I bought both about a year and a half ago when I really desperately needed some pants and never really had to wear them as intensively as I am now. And the moral of that story is that the chronically underclothed like myself should force themselves to shop more regularly to avoid making precisely these sorts of mistakes of desperation. If I had been on YLF watching trends and seeing what other people were enjoying I would have never settled for these suckers.  -sighs- anyhoo... let me know how its going!  xo       thimblelina on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1350859 Tue, 09 Sep 2014 03:55:12 +0000 thimblelina 1350859@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Here's a link to my pinterest board: <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.pinterest.com/thimblelina/subbing-capsule-wardrobe-q314/">http://www.pinterest.com/thimb.....robe-q314/</a> And no, I don't own that chicwish london cityscape skirt... yet!  I was really inspired by it but am not entirely sure it would be a flattering style on me.  Also, its practicality for special ed subbing is dubious at best, heh... thimblelina on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1350846 Tue, 09 Sep 2014 03:41:35 +0000 thimblelina 1350846@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hi! I would love to jump in... My current capsule is pretty minimalist. I've been wearing it since mid august when the new semester started at school. I have all the pieces on a Pinterest board, but I need to figure out the link. I did use the vivienne files as a starting place. My first core of four is a black ponte cropped blazer, black ponte pencil skirt, black ponte midi skirt, and black Hudson Collin skinny jeans. I'm working on a second core of four with an olive drab cargo jacket, grey pin cord jean jacket, and gray NYDJs skinnies. My fourth item is a pair of Paige boyfriend jeans, but I'm not really wearing them to the classroom at all so I should probably sub something else in their place. For 'mileage' pieces I have things like a cream chiffon blouse, olive & gray camo tee, olive drab python print blouse and a black cashmere cardigan sweater. I have 4 Uniqlo slouchy tees in assorted capsule colors. I bought a few shoes for this capsule, but for variety I've been mixing in any shoes from my wardrobe. I also use any scarves or jewelry I have handy. I think my personal style is quite minimalist overall. I like to pay attention to small, relatively quiet details. Every now & again I'll bust a move with a memorable print or a vintage item for surprise. Love hearing what you are all putting into your capsules. Now I'll work on that link! thimblelina on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1350830 Tue, 09 Sep 2014 03:25:48 +0000 thimblelina 1350830@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ (Sorry about that duplicate post... my cranky modem doesn't give me good coverage at the back of my house, so I thought this first one had aborted and reposted!) Mary Beth (formerly LBD) on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1350786 Tue, 09 Sep 2014 02:45:51 +0000 Mary Beth (formerly LBD) 1350786@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Keturah, THAT is an interesting idea! So.. Maybe a handful of basics to be the blank canvas for a bunch of mini-capsules? Or are you thinking of something different? Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1350781 Tue, 09 Sep 2014 02:40:13 +0000 Keturah 1350781@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Okay, so another capsule wardrobe update. <div> </div><div>I realized one thing: I love outfits. I know, I know. That's not the idea of a capsule wardrobe. But I really like outfits. In my head, I find myself going back-and-forth between more polished ladylike retro looks and boho looks. </div><div> </div><div>I read a few blogs on creating a signature look and "uniform." That I cannot do. Nope, not gonna happen. There are too many styles to love. I adore influences from the 1920s to the 1980s. How does a woman choose one? You're asking me to choose a favorite star.</div><div> </div><div>I made my first capsule purchase and it went rather well! I feel proud of myself. I feel liberated. I walked out with items I KNEW would work well for me and my capsule. </div><div> </div><div>I think my only question in the process so far is... I have a lot of different fashion tastes. Sometimes I still find the seasonal capsule limiting. I wonder if a style capsule would work best for me. I could easily own 2-3 capsules at one time - a bohemian capsule, refined lady-like capsule, a 1970s glam capsule... I don't think I would own lots of items for each capsule. Maybe I would even keep similar color schemes.  </div><div>More in a separate post here: </div><div> </div><div>XO</div> Mary Beth (formerly LBD) on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1350754 Tue, 09 Sep 2014 02:20:25 +0000 Mary Beth (formerly LBD) 1350754@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have really really enjoyed reading your posts, Keturah, Marley, Style Fan!   You all inspire me to get back to this! Things got busy in my life, and I haven't stayed with this challenge as I originally intended!   Like Marley, my brain kind of locks up when I sit and think about my wardrobe. I have not yet settled on my full Fall capsule wardrobe for a couple of reasons - one, it has been hot hot hot in Hotlanta and that makes it hard to think about "Fall".   The other reason... These past two weeks, as we've gotten into a regular rehearsal schedule for an upcoming holiday musical show, I realized there is a serious hole in my wardrobe:   a work-from-home wardrobe of clothing that I feel great in, but that I can get up and stretch in, or work on choreography for periods of time, or on breaks.   I want to assemble a capsule that I can wear out in public to run errands, or attend class, and that I can wear at home and feel happy and a little fancy in.   I want multi-purpose stuff, because I know my own self, and that self grabs at any excuse to procrastinate.   As an example, I wore a pencil skirt and a little jacket last Thursday to run errands, attend a meeting, and work from home.   I felt like a million bucks, but I also knew there were things I needed to do that I was not dressed to do.   Throughout the day, I kept thinking, "oh, I'll change and workout/review choreography for rehearsal and class and an uncoming performance/stretch out later".   Well, 'later' never came.  I kept postponing until it was time to go to class - and I changed at the studio.   So realistically... I want to close that wardrobe hole with stuff that won't get in the way of being physically proactive and productive. All in all, I feel like I'm making progress, and I have been wearing outfits from my capsule wardrobe.   Even better, I have been able to purge things that were originally going into this capsule wardrobe.   My eye has grown sharper, and I have a better idea of what I want my wardrobe to be.      Which for me, has been the whole point of this challenge :) Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1350697 Tue, 09 Sep 2014 01:08:09 +0000 Keturah 1350697@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Alasse, you are one of few to know it's provenance. :)<div> </div><div> </div> Alassë on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1341095 Wed, 27 Aug 2014 18:11:58 +0000 Alassë 1341095@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Yes, I knew its provenance. I bet that was a challenge! Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1341094 Wed, 27 Aug 2014 18:08:34 +0000 Keturah 1341094@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Alasse, thank you so very much The capsule challenge has been a huge learning moment for me. So far, I'm loving it!<div> </div><div>As for the name, there aren't many Keturahs in the world, ha. It's a biblical name, and goes back to the time of Abraham. My parents loved it. Took me years to accept it though, especially growing up in the Midwest during the 90s when Stacys, Heathers, Jennifers, and Stephanies and straight blond hair were all the rage. </div> Alassë on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1341089 Wed, 27 Aug 2014 17:57:47 +0000 Alassë 1341089@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Great realizations, Keturah! (And I like your name.) Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1341071 Wed, 27 Aug 2014 17:17:14 +0000 Keturah 1341071@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I have a bit of editing and adding to do for my Fall capsule. <div>However, I've now worn 2 outfits so far from it!</div><div> </div><div>WIW: black Brigitte Bardot style</div><div>(forgot to snap a photo of this.)</div><div>indigo skinnies</div><div>white cami  loose-fit, boat-neck black mohair sweater with a bow</div><div>booties slouchy knit hat</div><div>What I learned:  </div><div>- black skinnies are going to holding zone.  I actually tried on the hi-waist black skinnies first. They just don't fit me well. At first I thought it was because I was wearing a lot of black. But I kept fighting them when I had them on, and realized they had a lot of back of thigh horizontal creases -- so they need more "curve" to them. They are going to the holding zone for now, and then possibly gone for good. </div><div> - need blush/black camisoles. </div><div>The white was too severe. - I love slouchy hats.</div><div> </div><div>WIW: Plum & French </div><div>(photos here: <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wiw-something-plum-something-french">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....ing-french</a>)</div><div>black leggings black tunic plum Chanel-esque wool jacket (vintage, thrifted)</div><div>black booties</div><div>lots of gold bangles and cocktail ring</div><div>smoky eye, mauve cheeks, nude gloss</div><div>What I learned:   - This is really huge for me... while I wasn't "feeling" much of what I tried on prior to the plum outfit, it all still worked as outfits. And I felt like I had a lot of choices. I didn't feel confined by my closet at all, despite my capsule having a definite color scheme, being mostly black, grey, plum, and red. - I've owned this plum jacket for years but rarely if ever wear it. But the capsule wardrobe has sincerely helped me. I love the color of it. Even though the Chanel styling of it isn't usually my thing, I've found it can look really cool paired with my more bohemian type clothes! What I really learned: I can take a piece of clothing and make it mine! I can style it anyway I like and experiment. It is very freeing.</div><div> </div><div>That's it for now! xo</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div> Marley on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1339452 Mon, 25 Aug 2014 05:53:05 +0000 Marley 1339452@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ All of the posts on this thread are so fun to read - as well as very inspiring!  I have been slow in posting because if I think too much about my wardrobe I get stuck. I'm not an analytical person at all but I want to participate in the challenge because I really do need to bring some discipline to my wardrobe! We actually have what most people would call "fall" from the 2nd or 3rd week in November, until around the first part of March - and then we have "spring" through the rest of the year until November again.  We may have a week or two of warmer weather in September and a week or two of cooler weather in January - but when I say "warmer weather" I mean 85 F, rather than 75 - and when I say "cooler weather" I mean 60 F, rather than 70.  So - not really much change in the seasons - in fact, I wear most of my clothes year round.  I also have the advantage of not really having to worry about dressing for survival (warmth!) in the winter time.  I spent 3 months back in the mid-west last winter and style soon went out the window when I found myself stuck in the polar vortex for days on end!  It was literally ALL about warmth!  I came away from that with a deep sense of admiration for those of you who manage to dress stylishly in that kind of weather! So - I have been "feeling" into my fall wardrobe these past couple of weeks and have identified some actions that I would like to take: 1.  Inventory my basics (tees, tanks, camis, underwear, bras, watches, etc.) and make sure they are good to go for the season.   2.  Nail down my color palette.  Identify holes with regards to color - such as, I know that I need a navy top - not too casual, not too dressy. 3.  Complete my 'Closet Cleaning/Purging' project.  I started this several months ago - I didn't count items that I purged, but I counted hangars that were empty once I had done my initial purge.  Seventy-two (72) empty hangars - twenty-one (21) empty shoe boxes - thirteen (13) empty hat boxes.  Yeah!  But - I'm not done yet! 4.  Decide on an organizational system for my closet that meets my needs for wanting to be able to open the closet doors and identify immediately where my white shirts are hanging, my pencil skirts, etc.   5.  Clean off my top closet shelf.  I haven't looked up there in three (3) years and I'm kind of afraid to stick my head up there and survey the carnage! 6.  Decide on a couple of different silhouettes for fall.  Last year when I was in the mid-west during the coldest part of winter, I got SICK AND TIRED of the skinnies, knit top, and boots silhouette.  Now granted, in So CAL I won't have that problem - but I just want to make sure that I can mix and match clothing items depending on the silhouette I am going for that day. 7.  This is a hard one - photograph my daily outfits and post WIWs on the forum a minimum of 3 outfits a week - in order to get feedback with regards to silhouette, age appropriatness, event appropriatness, color, etc. etc. - or, just to share my outfit with my Girl Fabbers - or is it Frill Gabbers??? ;-) 8.  Bring a touch (just a touch!) of polish to my outfits, regardless of their casualness.  Things that come to mind that would add just that touch of polish might be a freshly pressed shirt, polished shoes, a tuck rather than a semi-tuck (once in awhile!)  9.  TRY NEW THINGS!   Don't know yet what they will be - but am ready and excited to discover all the possibilities! 10.  I don't think that I will be shopping - but if I do it will be minimal and mindful.  No more grabbing something because its on sale.  No more dancing in the store dressing room because I've just found the CUTEST-CAT-SHIRT-IN-THE-WORLD and I have to have it!!!!!  (I already have 2 cat shirts!) Well, that's all that I can think of for now.  There's probably more - but this feels like a good start.  I'll check back in a week or so and let you know how I'm doing!  Such a FUN exercise! Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1339391 Mon, 25 Aug 2014 03:06:04 +0000 Keturah 1339391@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I inventoried my f/w clothes. This is a long post. Here's my doozy of a list: {Shoes} Taupe suede Birkenstocks Black chunky heel booties Dark brown, chunky heel tall boots Taupe high heel brogues (uncomfortable--need to replace) Short grey Ugg boots (too short, but warm) {Tops} Gold oversized cabled sweater Floral-print black chiffon blouse Ivory Swiss dot and lace boho blouse Chambray button-up shirt Gold henley tee (size too large but comfy) Black oversized lace mohair sweater Ruffle collar/placket red tartan button-up shirt (slim fit) Flannel red tartan shirt (oversized) Green dolman oversized tee (fine lightweight knit) Handknit plum cable sweater (forthcoming! ) {Toppers/Jackets} Mauve chiffon circle topper Pine green lightweight knit wool cardi Black ruffled jacket (needs taken in, not warm.) Grey vintage Austrian handknit cashmere cardi Plum boiled wool jacket (vintage, made in Hong Kong) Brown leather bomber fur vest Mauve furry wool vest RLauren Black-grey-purple geometric ethnic print wool shawl collar vest Sable brown cabled sweater cardi Red down puffer vest (w/ hood) {Tunics/short dresses} *Black shirt dress (needs taken in) Black tunic tee Grey tunic tee White folk embroidered tunic Mohair plum dolman sweater dress Wine dolman dress (needs taken in) Floral-print black dress (needs taken in) {Long dresses/skirts} Anthropologie forest green drape neck dress (it's fancy, with black leather wrist patches--not for casual wear.) {Bottoms} Leggings, 2 black pairs Jeans- skinny indigo skinny black (not comfy; replace) "boyfriend" indigo (old pair, sized up skinny) bootcut indigo loden green French cuffed cargoes (too thin for winter?) {Coats} Black Russian fit and flare long wool coat Short heavy wool lodge jacket sweater Butterscotch fox ruff leather (mid length and belted) Fox stole {Belts} Skinny forest green Skinny cheetah Skinny cognac/saddle brown Skinny gold glitter Wide oxblood red Brown leather (pants only) Need... Black/white close-fitting tees for layering Leggings (another color, maybe dark green or burgandy) Tights Cream/nude blush blouse Flat tall boots (cognac?) Pair of ballet flats Maxi skirt (cream or black) Close-fitting narrow pencil skirt? (It's not in my mood board. It would be a wildcard silhouette.) 1 pair comfortable, flattering black skinny jeans Warm socks Jewelry (bangle bracelets for stacking; some rings) I have a lot more f/w clothes than I realized. And not only that, it seems the pieces will work beautifully together. And I realize dark green and dark red/burgundy together can look Christmasy. But I may wear them together anyway. The Birkenstocks really only work with jeans. I feel they look too "wandering in a VW van hippie" if paired with dresses and skirts. Ballet flats are a better choice. The Uggs are warm but I don't care for them with anything but jeans and leggings. I just need a pair of flat boots. The chunky heel isn't bad. But some days it's nice to just and far more comfy to slip on a pair of flat boots. I didn't list accessories. I have several scarves, cowls, and hats. The big item to get next, besides flat shoes, is a maxi skirt. That would give me three or more silhouettes to work with. I'm still not sure how to style the bootcut jeans. They feel so summery to me because I prefer them with sandals or heels. I might store those away for next spring. I don't think I'll be buying too much. Even if I don't purchase everything on my list I'll be in good shape for the coming months. I might even take a break from shopping after I purchase a maxi skirt and flat boots. This challenge is proving to be extremely helpful!! Style Fan on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1338728 Sat, 23 Aug 2014 20:04:02 +0000 Style Fan 1338728@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I just returned from a shopping trip.  DH and I were in Toronto for 4 days and I spent 2 days shopping with a list.  This was the first time I have done this. I prepared my list from the Vivienne Files Starting from Scratch Worksheets.  I went through my fall/winter wardrobe and realized I had lots of chocolate brown and denim.  I love golden yellow and olive green.  Therefore, I have switched by colours  My neutrals are chocolate brown and blue denim.  My accents are golden yellow and olive green.  Accessories are cognac and amber.  Shopping Successes 1/  I bought a pair of Fidelity relaxed skinnies with holes in them.  I have a pair already without holes.  My BFs have holes but are very faded and baggy.  DH is puzzled as to why I would need yet another pair of jeans but agreed that they were very nice.  I am content with my jean collection.  I have a pair of dark denim straight leg Citizens as well.  2/  I bought 3 long sleeved T shirts from J Crew.  One is olive green and two are golden yellow.  I bought two golden yellow ones because I always get a spot on my favourite T shirts and that is the end of the favourite T shirt.  I love golden yellow and I now have a back up T shirt.  Yeah!!!! 3/  I bought a scarf in brown, olive green, golden yellow and cognac.  It is paisley.  How perfect for moi.  4/  I bought a short sleeved T shirt from J Crew in olive green. Still on my list I am pretty happy with my wardrobe overall.  I am retired and spend my time doing Yoga, walking dog, reading, visiting friends and going to music events.  Jeans seem to work for these activities.  I have more options when it is warmer (dresses, skirt, wide legged pants) but right now I have not seen anything that I like for fall or winter. I will be buying very warm winter boots.  Probably Sorels.  I have an old pair and they are warm.  We are going to Montreal for a month soon so I will be doing some shopping there.  I am excited about that. Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1336266 Wed, 20 Aug 2014 21:15:09 +0000 Keturah 1336266@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Staysfit  I'm just having a blast!! So thank you for participating! :) <div> </div><div>OOOH! What sweater are you knitting?? I just ordered the plum yarn for my sweater.</div><div> </div><div>Can't wait to see your fall wardrobe capsule/outfit photos, everyone!!! :)</div> Staysfit on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1336243 Wed, 20 Aug 2014 20:41:13 +0000 Staysfit 1336243@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Keturah,  thanks so much for this fall capsule post!  I have really enjoyed the process!  I can't believe that I started out with three pictures - a hummingbird, an iris, and an ivory bracelet, and ended up with all the items that now make up my fall capsule wardrobe.   I finally found a teal blouse, by Halogen.  It works well with everything else in my wardrobe.  So now my capsule is complete.  I just have to stop shopping and purchasing items!!  If only that would happen!  I am trying to get busy on knitting my sweater because that is supposed to be part of the capsule!! La Belle, I love the idea of photographing outfits for fashion reference.  I am so groggy most mornings that I am likely to pick items that clash!  With photos, voila!  They are already put together!  No more spending too much time choosing what to mix and match!  (I will get more sleep - hooray!!) Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1336235 Wed, 20 Aug 2014 20:32:46 +0000 Keturah 1336235@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Update. I am still planning to actually inventory my fall wardrobe this week. I am getting caught up after being sick and finally think I'll have some space and time to lay out my clothes and decide what will work.<div> </div><div>Right now the thing I'm really learning about is... COLOR. <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/help-me-decide-capsule-item-dilemma-crimson-or-plum?replies=1#">I just posted this thread about it</a>. I noticed there was a lot of red shades on my pinterest board - wine, burgundy, oxblood, true red, crimson, and the like. I've never worn a lot of red, but I do love the darker shades of it. </div><div> </div><div>But the crazy thing is, all of my shopping choices of late have been more in the plum category. This isn't terrible. Everything else in my mood board and wardrobe works beautifully with plum too because...it's all absolutely 100% neutral. Cream, ivory, nude, black, grey, indigo denim, - there's not a lot of strong color. And I am a strong color girl! I like lots of rich color, contrast, etc. I'm finding in some ways that my pinterest mood board isn't exactly going with my actual shopping choices.  I realize that crimson and plum work together. I'm just kinda...astounded I guess how what I chose for my mood board isn't exactly translating to what I'm wanting to purchase. I'm more comfortable and happy in plum. Red makes me feel highly visible, which feels unnerving -- unless we're talking rosy lips and cheeks.</div><div> </div><div>And then you lovely ladies told me...I can change my capsule. WHAAA?! Yes. I can. Whew. So here's to more plum, less red. They both work together anyway! So why not wear them both! I also realized, I wouldn't mind adding more green. Army. Forest. Pine. Loden. Moss. Those are my greens and I love them so. </div><div> </div> Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1336186 Wed, 20 Aug 2014 19:49:10 +0000 Keturah 1336186@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ La Belle,  you had me at Gaynor Minden! I never had the opportunity to dance professionally or take pointe. But I just love ballet and always wanted to try their shoes. Jeepers, girl! You've done a SMASHING good job! I love that you're shopping your own closet. I don't see why not! Your wardrobe sounds really sophisticated and beautiful!! I can't wait to see photos As for weird spacing, I don't see it. But sometimes I start my post in Word and it does funky things when I copy+paste to the forum. HTML is a pain. <div>Cerinda, I'm shocked at how much I keep chucking too. It's so freeing, though! I like that you've created wish lists - extremely helpful! I'm right there with you a bout good quality and taking more daily photographs. They are EXTREMELY helpful. We can feel one way in something, but I realized when I see it in actual print it gives me tons of information and feedback. </div><div> xo</div> Cerinda on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1331099 Thu, 14 Aug 2014 23:24:22 +0000 Cerinda 1331099@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Another check-in, here.  Long. Progress <ul> <li>Summer and fall clothing inventoried -- have way too many things I do not wear</li> <li>Made a second trip to the consignment shop, a trip to donate clothes, and still the purge pile grows daily</li> <li>Basement boutique continues to grow, just slowly</li> <li>Identified interesting silhouettes and corresponding existing wardrobe pieces</li> <li>Created wishlists on pinterest and my laptop -- no more impulse buys!</li> </ul> Lessons learned <ul> <li>I am really a jeans-and-boots sort of girl</li> <li>I am an accessory hound:  that is why I like plain and simple clothing so much</li> <li>I care a great deal about texture, hand, drape and quality:  no more settling -- from now on, I do without until I can afford something that keeps its shape, holds its color, hangs straight, and fits right  (Good thing I can be happy in jeans and a tee shirt, eh?</li> </ul> Next steps <ul> <li>Create a mini-capsule to get me through next month's 11 straight days of lectures, discussions, performances, dinners, and parties</li> <li>Start photographing outfits regularly</li> </ul> Mary Beth (formerly LBD) on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1330855 Thu, 14 Aug 2014 18:49:51 +0000 Mary Beth (formerly LBD) 1330855@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Okay, I am waaaaay overdue for a check-in on this process!   Long post coming, y'all.   Consider yourselves warned :D In a previous post, I said I was going to lemming Melaine's goals:  1) Learn to love dressing the way I love shopping. 2) Focus my style into a mixable wardrobe 3) Shop productively. Here is what I did with those goals: 1.   Learn to love dressing the way I love shopping:    As part of my daily to-do list, I have set myself a goal of creating three new outfits every day, centered around one or more capsule pieces.   I created a folder on my desktop, called "Fashion Reference" (with a subfolder of WIW's).   I photograph myself in clothing and shoes I am not sure about in the purging process, and try on new outfits, and take pictures of that.  If I am pressed for time, I lay clothes + shoes + accessories out on the bed and photograph those.      2)   Focus my style into a mixable wardrobe:  I put together most of a capsule, that I am going to outline below.   It isn't finished yet.   Previously I had posted some photos.   Most of those items made the cut, but a few are off the list.   This capsule covers my summer-into-fall transition, and includes pants and a dress now.    This capsule lists some shoes, but I am planning to wear any pair of shoes I want in my closet - and I own a lot of shoes. 3)  Shop productively:  I've decided to allow myself to 'shop' other things in my closet.  As for actual shopping.... in truth, I don't have any 'real' wardrobe holes.   Going down the "Start from Scratch" on the Vivienne Files, I realize I could piece out my secondary neutrals - but - I have so many primary neutrals in black, that I love, that a secondary neutral is a 'would like to have down the road', not a 'need'. Right now, my thoughts/goals are to save money for a vacation in late October that includes a visit to the Wolford Outlet Store in Orlando.  I also want to save up and get some gorgeous Marlies Dekkers lace bras that I have seen on the site - but that I think are shipped from Europe.   Cha-ching!   Expensive thoughts. I have four more goals to add to my list, that I have been working through: 4)   Wear the good stuff and quit saving/hoarding it.  I finally wore my new Schutz Gilberta pumps last week - twice - and I felt like a million bucks.   My old Guess ones are fixing to be donated. 5)   Wear something(s) from the capsule every day.   And document it. 6)  Integrate hair and makeup as part of my overall style inspiration.   i.e., make an effort.   I get kind of very lazy about this  ;) 7)   Work on bringing my outfits in line with my color palette board and inspiration boards My Mostly Completed Capsule Challenge Wardrobe: Bottoms: (12) Black slim-fitting trousers with flared hem Black skinny track pants  Black riding pants Black Linen Shorts Black Linen Fold-Waist Shorts Draped raped black pencil skirt Beaded-yet-rugged black pencil skirt Denim and mixed media casual pencil skirt Black knit a-line skirt Black cotton pencil skirt Dark blue denim capris Charcoal 'scuba'-like ponte skinny pants Toppers (all of which double as tops) (3): Gaynor Minden black wrap ballet sweater Ann Taylor black wool casual jacket Missoni White/Turquoise/Green/Gold striped cropped cardigan Dresses (2) Sleeveless gray military-style dress Forest green sleeveless sweater dress Tops: (13): Black shortsleeve top White shortsleeve top Black longsleeve Moulin Rouge souveneir top White longsleeve top Black bandage top Ivory + Silver Mesh Sweater White cropped casual Sweater Black Wolford Bodysuit Black capsleeve knit top White AQ/AQ bodysuit Creamy white fine wool pullover Ivory silk shell white button-down blouse Shoes: (7) - but I intend to wear all of my shoes throughout this process. (These are currently in rotation for hot weather) Light tan wedge sandals Blush ballet flats Black ballet flats Greyish-beige strappy high heel sandals Black patent leather strappy high heel sandals Bronze metallic strappy high heel sandals Black Pumps This makes for a mostly black-and-white palette, with pops of silver, turquoise, green, gold, and bronze, via scarves, jewelry, and bags. (okay, why is there weird spacing in this post??   Trying to edit to make it look nicer.   Dadgum those pesty HTML gremlins in my post) Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1330805 Thu, 14 Aug 2014 17:38:06 +0000 Keturah 1330805@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My little update is this: I still haven't inventoried my f/w clothes. I did pull them out of storage and lay them in a pile. Hoping to get to them this weekend.  Today I "cheated" a bit (which probably isn't accurate, since I don't really have a definite summer capsule anyway) and pulled out my oversized fall sweater in ocher-mustard yellow. <div> </div><div>So today WIW: boyfriends--sized-up skinnies, actually--  with said oversized mustard sweater, and black gladiator wedge sandals. It's only 50 degrees and overcast here in the mountains. Somehow, fall arrived a month early and has been hanging out the entire week.  Right now I'm holding off buying Into Mind's new clothing guide. I want to purchase it, but I think I would end up doing a lot of thinking (overthinking?) with it. Right now I'm enjoying easing into all of this and not trying to figure it all out and have it "perfect." (I can easily fall into that trap.)<div> Just read this from un-fancy and found it to be timely advice...</div><div><a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.un-fancy.com/shopping-tips/shopping-how-to-make-decisions-in-the-dressing-room/">shopping: how to make decisions in the dressing room</a> <div> </div><div>Hows everyone else doing?? xo</div></div></div> Keturah on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1330752 Thu, 14 Aug 2014 16:50:46 +0000 Keturah 1330752@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Staysfit, long posts are great!!! I love reading all the detail and thought put into the process.  Fab job on all of the closet cleaning! I did that this summer and felt so immensely good about it. I’m not a minimalist when it comes to clothes. But I’m seeing how planning is saving me money, time, and I’m enjoying wearing my clothes so much more! Sounds like you’re nailing your goals. As for limiting sweater purchases…how is that possible? I knit (I know you knit too) and while I don’t knit dozens of sweaters, I’m very much in love with sweaters, purchased or handknit. I think you’re wise to wait until cold weather before editing your sweater collection. But the best part is this: “Finally, I truly love everything I purchased. I think everything looks great, I feel awesome when I wear it, and I am happy! Amazing!” I know that’s what I’m looking to have happen with my fall capsule. From what I’m reading, it’s beginning to happen for a lot of us in the challenge. And that’s why I’m loving our challenge sooooo much! Gigi, wishing you well in higher V-neck shopping! I’m finding it’s best to wait for something you truly love, even if your capsule isn’t complete as long as you have enough items to make outfits and don’t feel too limited.  I didn’t think of the Buckle or RL, so thank you! AEO is really hit and miss for me. I have a pair of their jeans from three years ago that I still ADORE! But then other items have bit the dust within weeks. I’ve reconciled that capsule shopping means a budget, but also spending a bit more on item I’ll love wearing and being okay with it. I found some reasonably priced blouses at Urban Outfitters, so I may purchase one or two of those. Do you have a link for your pinterest board? I’d love to see it!  Your fall choices sound yummy!!! (even the solids, ha!) My own surprise from my board is that I’m still in love with skinny jeans and leggings and only a little with skirts. But I do adore skirts to pieces!! And after I read your list of silhouettes, I want to get a form-fitting skirt, and it's not even on my pinterest board, haha!  Alana, I second what Gig said about maybe supplementing with black. There is more ink blue this season. But I know navy/ink can be difficult to find this time of year.  Gigi on "Challenge: Fall 2014 Seasonal Capsule" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/challenge-fall-2014-seasonal-capsule/page/3#post-1328865 Tue, 12 Aug 2014 03:40:58 +0000 Gigi 1328865@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Alana, I know, it's tough when we can't find some basic colors in the stores, isn't it? I'm a hard-to-find size too, and I've been looking high and low for a navy v-neck sweater that doesn't have the V cut down to my waist (I'm very short waisted). Argh! I am going to have to settle for just getting what few pieces I can find; I in all likelihood I will not complete my capsule this year. I already have enough clothes to technically get myself through fall and winter, though, so it's easier for me not to compromise. However, I know that you are in a different situation, with a very minimal wardrobe. Maybe buying the odd piece in black would be OK, just so you can make some outfits? Keturah, sorry to hear that you've been sick. I'm glad you're doing better! As far as bohemian-inspired clothes, the only places I can think of are kind of pricey: Ralph Lauren's Denim and Supply line, and the Buckle. American Eagle Outfitters has some bohemian stuff for cheap, but it can look pretty young, since it is geared more toward college students. Here is what I found after making my mood board. My mood board is for late fall, when things start cooling off: Key textures/materials . cotton knit . wool . leather . silky materials (for tops) Overall colors . Main: black, white/cream, dark gray . Secondary: navy, rust, cognac/camel/taupe (some version of a lighter brown) Patterns . Hardly any; possibly some stripes (black and cream) and some leopard print. Overall, I am the opposite of Keturah: give me solids! Silhouettes . drapey skirt, but still with structure (either above-knee or midi length) + sweater + tights + heeled booties (or knee-high boots with midi skirts)<div>. tube skirt + slouchy knit top or turtleneck + knee-high boots . skinnies + sweater + heeled booties . boyfriend pants + form-fitting top + blazer + flats (this is a wildcard silhouette) Overall themes . sophisticated . simple . modern . feminine (in a skimming-curves sort of way, not in a "loud" sort of way) . softness (soft lines as opposed to hard or crisp lines, but there is still structure to the fabric) One big surprise I found after I completed my board was that I am heading back toward skirts for fall. I wore skirts for years but then switched back to pants last year and loved my pants to death! But now I guess I'm switching back. Maybe I'm a skirts girl at heart. I was also surprised to see how many shorter skirts were in my board, like skirts that were only to my fingertips. I had told myself not to buy any more of those, because I thought that I had enough. I'm also not getting any younger (I'm 41). But I see what I am missing is *drapey* shorter skirts—the ones I have are all fitted. And I'll be wearing them with tights, so the age factor isn't such a biggie. I was surprised to see how much the theme of movement played in my board. There were lots of flowy skirts. And there were also a lot of slouchy, airy tops. This has been a good exercise. It has made it much easier to pinpoint my purchases for fall. I have already decided against buying a couple of things because they do not match the overall themes of my mood board, and I really want to try to cultivate the style I see there. So I will be patient and wait for what I want to appear in the stores. :) </div>