It is a common phenomenon for many women to have a closet full of clothes, but still feel like they have nothing to wear. This feeling can be frustrating and overwhelming, leading to wasted time and energy in the morning trying to figure out what to wear. The root cause of this problem can vary from person to person, but a few common reasons include owning items that don’t fit well or don’t match with other items in the wardrobe. To overcome this issue, it’s important to start by decluttering your closet and getting rid of items that are no longer being used. From there, consider investing in a few high-quality basics that can be mixed and matched with other items in your wardrobe. But before you go out and buy anything new, I recommend creating a capsule wardrobe, which involves selecting a few key pieces that can be worn interchangeably to create multiple outfits.
After feeling overwhelmed from cleaning out my closet two weeks ago – inspired by Bri Lambert and Jessica Harumi – I embarked on a 10-day capsule experiment to gain some wardrobe insight. I’m delighted to share that by creating 10 outfits with just 10 items and wearing them for 10 days, I have a fresh perspective on my wardrobe and a clear vision for my spring-summer season ahead.
What is a 10X10 Capsule Wardrobe?
“The entire goal of doing a 10×10 capsule wardrobe challenge is to give yourself wardrobe freedom.
Many of us lack time to build outfits we love so we default back to what we’re comfortable in. With a 10×10 capsule you “front load” the work of creating outfits so you can put your style on autopilot for 10 days (or more if you’re savvy).
Imagine waking up and knowing you have a catalog of 10 beautiful and chic outfits ready to go. How awesome would that feel?!
So, if you’ve been feeling stuck in a style rut, like you have a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear, or like you need an injection of life back into your style then this challenge is for you.” – Bri Lambert and Jessica Harumi, creators of the ParisianStyle10X10 IG Challenge
Where to Begin?
- create your capsule. This can be whatever you like. I selected a few of my go-to pieces, adding in 2 items I love – but don’t wear very often – as an extra challenge.
- style 10 looks
- I don’t count accessories or shoes in my 10 pieces – so that’s where you can get really creative and have some fun with styling.
My 10 items
- 2 dresses
- 2 t-shirts
- 1 denim shirt
- 1 cashmere sweater
- 1 skirt
- 1 pair of jeans
- 2 outerwear
Style Notes: 10 Things I Learned
- As much as I love my jean collection – over the course of 10 days – I discovered I favor skirts and dresses over pants, especially when the weather heats up.
- As a base color, black works for me, but, I love a pop of color – especially up by my face – making accessories an essential in my wardrobe.
- During the Pandemic years, I wore very minimal accessories, and the same shoes and (large) handbag for 2 1/2 years. It’s time to change that up and have some fun with accessories and shoes again.
- Here, in the Bay Area, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so spring-weight jackets – a black blazer and denim jacket are a must! – and sweaters are key for creating outfits.
- Tanks win over a short sleeve tee for me, preferably in a v-neck style.
- Comfort and fit are non-negotiable. If something doesn’t fit right or is uncomfortable, it needs to go.
- When it comes to basic pieces, invest in fewer pieces and aim for the best quality within your budget. The second-hand market is an excellent resource for high-quality pieces at a fraction of retail. More on mastering the second-hand market and thrifting (HERE).
- Mix high and low. Try pairing “dressy” pieces with unexpected “casual” pieces. Have some fun, it’s just clothing, style is how you interpret the pieces.
- There are many ways to wear a button-down denim or poplin shirt.
- Be picky when you shop. Always have a list – and photos if possible – of what you are looking for, to avoid spontaneous shopping and picking up pieces you don’t need or items “because they are on sale”
What I Wore: My 10 Outfits
Read More:
If you like the idea of a Capsule Wardrobe – even if just for travel – stop by and visit Jessica and Bri on Instagram, YouTube, or on their individual websites. You can also visit (THESE) three archived articles here on AskSuzanneBell for ideas and inspiration.
Follow Bri:
Instagram (HERE)
YouTube: (HERE)
Website: (HERE)
Follow Jessica:
Website: jessicaharumi.com
Instagram: @jessica.harumi
Download Bri’s free 10×10 Guide & Exclusive Newsletter (HERE)
Let’s Chat!
How do you get your style groove back, when you are frustrated with your closet? Have you tried experimenting with a limited Capsule Wardrobe to help gain insight into your current personal style? Do you use the idea of a Capsule Wardrobe when packing for a trip? Will you be giving this idea a try?
