In late July I decided to put myself on a 34-day / 34 item capsule test. My goals were to "seek first to understand" -- know myself, my behaviors, and wardrobe needs. And to use this knowledge to pare down my wardrobe to a more manageable level. I also wanted to come up with a wardrobe count, and thereafter to practice one-in, one out.

Net capsule is up to 35 pieces.
The work capsule grew, the smart casual capsule shrank. The casual capsule would like to have permission to increase. I miss all of my colorful Summer tops.

Lessons.

• Similar to what I observed after 8 days, my smarter attire needs are minimal. This is where my closet needs a lot of paring down.

• By engaging in what's become for me a mindful process, I am better appreciating the clothes that work. And, I'm having an easier time letting go of what doesn't work. What's important here is the focus, the mindful observation (= tracking what I'm wearing and why, and observing what I'm not). 3 items from the capsule are on the purge list so far.
• Unworn items -- smart casual capsule mostly. Duplicate colors (too many white tees in the capsule) and items with fabric issues (fabric look or feel not stellar - some of my Zara things fall in this category).

• I crave color variety. When I created this capsule I had a more limited color palette. But as each day wore on, I found myself substituting the whites and grays for more colors. I know cool pale blues and greens aren't my best, but I like the way they make me feel. Summer is my longest season. I am going to enjoy all of my casual colorful Summer clothes, they don't take a lot of room, and make me happy. Conclusion: I don't need as much paring down from this section -- everything is getting worn.

• For all of the non-Summer seasons, this color explosion will be unrealistic. More layers means more clothing. I must focus on a more limited color palette, because I like a coordinated look.

• Failure at the shopping ban effort! I got some sandals (love them!) and another Three Dots Hi-Low top (Missey I'm coming clean!). I don't like feeling bad about myself. Or comparing my will power to yours. I must think twice before joining another shopping ban.

Some WIWs.
1/2 -- My one and only smart casual occasion was seeing a matinee showing of "100 Foot Journey." Jean Paul Gaultier sheer pencil skirt, Zara tee. Gorjana necklace. Here in my "runway" pose. Do you think it's better with Birks (picture 2)? What about length, would midi be better? Do I need bike shorts due to sheerness (sheerness shows selectively, with flash photography and in certain light).
3 -- Worn today, the new Donald J Pliner slides, and my second Three Dots Hi-Low top. Thanks again Sarah for the first top! I have worn these sandals daily since I got them. They are much better quality than my usual Summer footwear. The jeans are Mother "The Groupie," my improved Mom jeans (bye-bye BDG Mom jeans, they were great starters but these are so much better).
4 -- A top that's getting the ax. Love the color, but it's too low cut, the armholes are too big, and it's not my best length (ends where I'm widest). Do you agree -- purge?
5 -- One of my several colorful striped tees. Stripes = high happiness factor. From last year, Madewell. Worn with TR Camerons 2 + year old workhorse jeans.
6 -- Work look of the moment.

Feedback appreciated on the italicized areas! And anything else.