Fashion – My Living Tip https://www.mylivingtip.com Health - Beauty - Lifestyle Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 Want to Level Up Your Style? The Best Dressed Women We Know Share Their Tips https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/06/08/want-to-level-up-your-style-the-best-dressed-women-we-know-share-their-tips/ https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/06/08/want-to-level-up-your-style-the-best-dressed-women-we-know-share-their-tips/#respond Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/06/08/want-to-level-up-your-style-the-best-dressed-women-we-know-share-their-tips/

Tell me if you’ve seen it too: In our hyper-connected, digital world, fashion no longer seems to be a matter of personal style. Instead, Y2K trends are in one week, followed by 70s vibes (à la Daisy Jones) a few days later. And don’t get me started on the battle between low-rise and skinny jeans. I’ll take whatever’s comfortable, thank you very much. The point is, as we cycle through core trends, our outfits of the day appear to repeat a templatized structure. But, if you want to break free from the masses, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re chatting how to make maximalist fashion your own.

Featured image from our interview with Mariana Velásquez by Belathée Photography.

Image by Michelle Nash

Maximalist Fashion: Tips for Curating a Wardrobe That’s Uniquely You

But first, let’s clarify. “Maximalist” fashion can conjure up ideas of going big or going home. And while we love exploring bright colors and fun prints, especially in the summer, the core ethos aligns with the simple guideline of following your sartorial bliss. So how do you make that happen? I chatted with two of my favorite fashion creators, Courtney Pentimalli and Alejandra Hernandez, to learn how we can all sift through the noise and embrace the style that feels best for us.

Courtney Pentimalli

  • Instagram

Courtney runs the online community, The Fair Court. The brand was built around her favorite form of creative expression—getting dressed! She has always felt that putting together an outfit was similar to finalizing a puzzle or creating a collage. It is the epicenter of her journey in experimentation with art, in a physical form. The Fair Court began as a personal platform, but over time has grown into a place where she can share her styling tips and vintage secrets. Courtney loves helping people feel the most comfortable in the things they wear while encouraging sustainability at the same time.

Alejandra Hernandez

  • Instagram

Alejandra (goes by Ale) was born and raised in Mexico until 23 when she got married and moved to California. She has always loved exploring her creativity, which inspired her to pursue a degree in architecture. Ale is a content creator and runs the online consignment and thrift store, Vintage Butterfly.

Image by Michelle Nash

On Defining and Developing a Personal Style

The idea of creating a personal style can feel deeply elusive and impossible to pin down. It’s one of those things that when you see it, you know it. Someone dawns a bold print that wears like an extension of their personality. Or perhaps a coworker rocks an all-black ensemble every day with confidence. And while we love seeing others owning what feels best for them, doing it ourselves can come with a few roadblocks.

Below, Courtney and Ale share their tips on finding and continuously evolving a personal style that’s entirely your own.

Shop with intention.

Like many people, the idleness of the pandemic inspired Courtney to get creative with her closet. “I got really into Etsy—retail therapy was my coping mechanism. People would say how good I was at finding these unique pieces, and I think it came down to being really intentional about what I was looking for.”

Building on this, she adds that shopping with intention honors the intimacy inherent in building a wardrobe that feels like a reflection of yourself. “Knowing your body, what feels good, and what you feel comfortable in is such a deeply personal experience,” Courtney notes.

“I’ve always felt that putting together an outfit is like putting together a puzzle.” — Courtney Pentimalli

So how do you make this happen? It can start with a simple journaling session, reflecting on the styles, prints, colors, and shapes you’re drawn to. From there, jot down what may be getting in the way of wearing these pieces. Is it related to body image? Or perhaps someone made an unkind comment when you wore something out of the norm? Oftentimes, our clothing can touch upon aspects of ourselves that go beyond getting dressed. It can be helpful to discuss these questions with either a therapist or a trusted friend to help you gain clarity.

From there, create a vision board that outlines your intention and visualize the wardrobe you want to build. Gather images on Pinterest or from magazines and create a digital or physical collage that expresses the look and feel you want to exude. You can even add words, phrases, or mantras that capture the energy you want to bring to your looks.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ALE FEHR (@alefehr)

Prioritize comfort.

Ale admits that, though she’s built a dedicated community around owning your unique style on Instagram, she struggles with identifying her aesthetic from time to time. But despite this ebb and flow, she knows that feeling at ease is what’s most important. “I’ve learned that, at the end of the day, I am going to feel most comfortable and happy when I wear what aligns with my true self.”

However, like most things in life, it’s all about striking a balance. She notes that it can be fun to take risks with your style. “You’ll never know if you love something if you don’t try it,” says Ale.

Courtney speaks to the physical element of comfort, encouraging women to embrace the changes our bodies go through over time. “Change is inevitable—own it. Confidence is something that many women struggle with,” says Courtney. But she encourages growing through these changes, letting go of the trends, and embracing what works for you. “Mentally and physically, everything just falls into place once you start wearing what feels best in your body.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Courtney Pentimalli (@thefaircourt)

Step outside of what’s marketed to you.

As a style consultant, Courtney sees countless clients holding onto clothes that connect them to a specific experience or that they feel deeply nostalgic about. “Clothes should be a vehicle that help us move throughout the world with confidence,” she says. “Not the other way around.” Again, we may feel that we have to be a certain size or body shape to wear something. But Courtney wants us to let go of that belief immediately.

“So often, we’re not comfortable in the clothes we’re wearing because we’re only selecting what’s been marketed to us. We need to step outside of that box and have fun experimenting with the pieces that resonate.”

Remember: personal style is different for everyone.

Developing your own style is a process—be patient and curious as you discover what resonates with you. While Courtney still loves to look at what’s trending, she’s careful to approach it through a different lens. “I ask myself: Can I buy this vintage? Can I buy this secondhand?

She encourages exploring the trends you find yourself drawn to. However, it’s important to not invest too heavily—financially and emotionally. With our culture of overconsumption and the constant cycling of “-core” trends, it’s easy to burn out. “And,” Courtney adds, “you don’t want to give up that precious closet real estate to a piece that isn’t really you.”

Image by Belathée Photography

When it comes to style on social media, how do you tune out the noise and find inspiration versus copying a trend entirely?

“We have to be careful to consume only what makes us grow, what inspires us, and what makes us better,” says Ale. It’s such an important reminder that goes beyond style. Remember: social media is a tool. As users, we’re empowered to direct the algorithm in a way that serves us inspiring, uplifting, and ultimately positive content. And as Ale notes, we can learn by what others are doing on social media and add our own twist. “But remember,” she cautions, “not every trend is for you to adopt.”

“We have to be careful to consume only what makes us grow, what inspires us, and what makes us better.” — Alejandra Hernandez

Courtney views social media similarly, seeing it both as “an amazing place to be inspired and exposed to new things” as well as a reflection of our collective push to overconsume. She admits that she’s had to unlearn some of the patterns she’s experienced by diving deeper into the fashion community online. “It took realizing that those things—that next purchase or piece—weren’t giving me the value I thought they would.”

Again, that’s where intention comes in. “Our money is our power, and where we spend it says a lot about what we support,” Courtney observes. So instead of immediately buying whatever is cheapest and on-trend, she encourages looking to small business owners or stylists who you can build a relationship with and feel good about supporting with your purchase.

Image by Belathée Photography

If someone wants to have more fun with their style, but is afraid to branch out, how could they build the confidence to try something new?

Courtney’s response underscores the truth that finding your personal style is a process—and one that will be filled with plenty of paradoxes. While it’s important to get specific about the wardrobe you want to build, you can also learn by how you respond emotionally to pieces and patterns. “Don’t think too hard about it,” she says. “Remember, it’s a process and it’s important to reflect on how certain pieces, colors, and shapes make you feel. It’s not about other people complimenting or commenting on what you wear—it’s about what makes you feel vibrant.”

She adds that, when it comes to who you follow, find people on the internet you relate to. Whether you have the same body shape or gravitate toward similar pieces, get inspired by how they wear these styles. Conversely, unfollow anyone who makes you feel fearful to be brave with your style or try something new.

Ale agrees, citing experimentation as a core part of her process. “Take a risk! If you like a trend or a style but think you couldn’t rock it, just try it.” Ultimately, what it comes down to is letting your truth lead the way, but never be afraid to brave and bold with your style.

“It’s not about other people complimenting or commenting on what you wear—it’s about what makes you feel vibrant.” — Courtney Pentimalli

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Cottagecore is a Mindset, and I’m Fully On Board—Here’s Where I Find My Inspiration https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/05/22/cottagecore-is-a-mindset-and-im-fully-on-board-heres-where-i-find-my-inspiration/ https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/05/22/cottagecore-is-a-mindset-and-im-fully-on-board-heres-where-i-find-my-inspiration/#respond Mon, 22 May 2023 21:24:48 +0000 https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/05/22/cottagecore-is-a-mindset-and-im-fully-on-board-heres-where-i-find-my-inspiration/

In our always-on, perpetually connected world, there’s obvious appeal in the possibility of a life pulled away from it all. Instead of running from meetings to appointments and trying to cram in a workout amidst the hustle (not to mention a 10-minute meditation), a back-to-roots lifestyle follows a different, slower route. From scrolling through countless Pinterest boards, related TikTok hashtags, and the many Reels dedicated to showcasing this dreamy approach—it’s clear that the cottagecore aesthetic is holding strong.

While the prevailing impression is one of Hill House nap dresses and shelves upon shelves of Penguin classics, there’s more to the cottagecore aesthetic than meets the eye. (Although those are components of the style that I’ll forever obsess over.) Really—it’s an ethos. Cottagecore is a mindset that prioritizes patience with the world, taking the time to sit with nature and observe its delicate intricacies. Those who practice cottagecore and weave its details into their lives know that connection with the people and places we love is the key to a whole and happy life. The ruffles and farmhouse flair are just the beautiful icing on the cake.

For those craving a little more romance in their everyday lives, this is for you. If you want to adopt the cottagecore aesthetic, keep reading for tips, tricks, and the best sources for inspiration.

Featured image from our interview with Claire Zinnecker by Michelle Nash.

Image by Nicki Sebastian

How to Create the Cottagecore Aesthetic for Yourself

As many of my friends can attest, I’m a self-prescribed homesteading enthusiast. And while I knit, sew, and spend many an evening by candlelight, I can only take my canning and small-scale gardening so far. (I’m a Chicago urbanite.) But the beauty in taking inspiration from an aesthetic and cultivating it for yourself is just that. With the resources available to you, you can find more joy in what you wear, how you decorate your home, and the inspiration you surround yourself with each day.

Let’s dive into the what, why, and how behind the cottagecore aesthetic. Who knows—you might get the itch to fix up a country farmhouse by the end.

What is cottagecore?

Cottagecore romanticizes rural life. While past decades and generations have prioritized the comfort and ease of a technology-driven lifestyle, the cottagecore aesthetic celebrates the exact opposite. Simplicity, traditional skills (those that have largely been phased out by technological advances), and self-reliance are key components. Some of the activities associated with cottagecore include:

  • Sewing/knitting/crocheting your own clothes and linens
  • Gardening and growing your own food
  • Project-based kitchen skills including sourdough, baking, kombucha, etc.
  • Canning and preserving food

But as I alluded to above, there’s also a consciousness that’s an inextricable element of cottagecore. In an article written by Courtney Jay Higgins for The Good Trade, she explores the importance the movement gives to sustainability and developing a deep connection to and appreciation for the land. Personally, I found my way to the cottagecore mindset through Julia Watkins, who before becoming a writer and photographer began her career in conservation. (More on Julia below.)

All that to say is, the trajectory makes sense. Across all areas of life that the cottagecore aesthetic touches—fashion, home, food, and garden—a respect for the materials, plants, animals, and people behind our resources is evident.

With that in mind (and the understanding that cottagecore really isn’t a trend, but a concept that developed as far back as 2,300 years ago), it’s clear that cottagecore goes beyond being a style or something purely visual. Instead, it’s a way of life that can inspire good and beauty in all that we do.

Image by Suruchi Avasthi

Inspiration for Cottagecore Outfits

That being said, getting dressed with the cottagecore aesthetic in mind is one of the many creative ways you can bring it into your life. Cottagecore as it relates to fashion is defined largely by a traditionally feminine way of dressing. Think: Long, flowing skirts and dresses, whimsical patterns and delicate frills, hair tied back in a bow. Of course, this isn’t to say that to achieve the aesthetic you have to adhere to antiquated views on gender. Much of the cottagecore style can simply be conveyed through a penchant for vintage finds and cozy, comfy layers like a hand-knit sweater or your favorite well-worn socks.

Keep scrolling for some of the brands and creators who do cottagecore best.

@hillhouse vintage

With over half a million followers on Instagram, Paula Sutton knows a thing about effectively bringing the cottagecore aesthetic to life. (Further proof: Her bio reads: “Country Interiors, Gardens, Frocks, Flowers & Cake!”) Her style is cottagecore to a tee: bright prints, florals galore, Peter Pan necklines, and dungarees done to perfection. But what’s even more captivating about Paula’s presence online—and I have to imagine in real life as well—is the infectious joy she exudes in every post and story. While it’s true that social media has long been written off as a highlight reel, I have to believe that what Paula posts is true and authentic bliss with the life she’s created for herself.

@itsmargoroth

Anna Margaret (who goes by Margo) is the queen of thrifting. She regularly shares her vintage-hunting hauls on both her Instagram and YouTube. And you’ll regularly catch her frolicking through flower-flecked fields in a Dôen or Christy Dawn dress (that is to say, cottagecore apparel at its finest). And while her wardrobe does the aesthetic to perfection, be sure to also give her a follow for her cottagecore-inspired interiors. Her home is nothing short of a cozy cottage daydream.

@chloecleroux

As a creator, photographer, author, and plant-based cook, Chloe Crane-Leroux translates the cottagecore aesthetic to the digital sphere with elegance and grace. And though she’s New York-based, you’d never know that she captures most of her content in an urban setting. While she shares slower living through concrete, easy-to-recreate recipes, she also inspires this way of life through thoughtful captions and Reels that deserve a showing at Cannes. (Proof that I’m not exaggerating.) As an aside, her relationship with her mom is Nancy Meyers-level of cuteness. For the cottagecore aesthetic with a French flair, be sure to give Chloe a follow.

Image by Michelle Nash

Inspiration for a Cottagecore House

PSA: You don’t need a house on ten acres complete with farm animals to create a cottagecore vibe. Even with just 1200 square feet and no outdoor space to my name, I’ve prioritized secondhand quilts, embroidered pillow cushions, and thrifted china to create a general sense of coziness. At the end of the day, you’re after comfort and a home that feels like a warm hug. Whether that’s through candles galore, hand-me-down heirlooms, or simply well-loved pieces, the aim is to make your home a visual reflection of your life’s personal narrative. Everything you give space to should have a story—and these are the creators who do it best.

@clairezinnecker

Friend of the site, Claire Zinnecker’s design talent and eye for potential knows no bounds. Case in point: she transformed this fixer-upper Austin farmhouse (that she found on Facebook Marketplace, mind you) into a true haven of beauty. She’s the founder of Claire Zinnecker Design, an Austin-based boutique interior design firm that crafts spaces with a resonant character and timeless appeal. And while Claire might not describe her aesthetic as cottagecore per se, she has the rare talent of expanding a client’s passions into the look and feel of a space. For more get-ready-to-go-down-a-rabbit-hole design inspo, follow the before and after of her Austin home on @savingidahouse.

@mamawatters

I’ve been a fan of Amanda Watters’ work long before I even got on Instagram. Every week, I ate up Amanda’s stories, seasonal musings, and creative projects on her blog (which she continues to regularly update). She’s translated her talent for writing and photography into a feed that keeps the beauty of a static photo alive. From home vignettes to reflections on motherhood to images that elicit simple joys, Amanda is a must-follow in your cottagecore social media kit. She’s also the founder of Homesong Market, a Kansas City-based home story that can also be shopped online.

@momentsbyjemma

When you need a few moments of blissful social media scrolling, pay Jemma’s feed a visit. You’ll find galettes showcasing every seasonal fruit, idyllic country landscapes, and composed corners of her home that will remind you to seek beauty at every turn. Jemma is also a talented amateur florist. Stunning dahlia arrangements, colorful cosmos, and vases filled with wildflowers have all merited a home on her page. And for true culinary delight, be sure to watch her sourdough English muffin tutorial.

@simply.living.well

Teased above, Julia Watkins is one of my favorite creators who shows the cottagecore aesthetic in action. Not only are her visuals dreamy, but she shares concrete tips to help you build traditional skills. Head to her blog for candle-making tutorials, tips on creating a low-waste home, and more. I also have both of her books, Simply Living Well and Gardening for Everyone on my shelf. Trust: there’s a treasure trove of cottagecore inspiration to be found within each.

Image of Kate Zimmerman Turpin’s Sunday House

Resources for Cottagecore Decor

To bring the cottagecore aesthetic home, I can’t emphasize enough: start making vintage shopping and thrifting a hobby! I love visiting estate sales on the weekend and hunting for pieces that have lived a life before me. I find that when I shop secondhand, the items I bring into my home share a loving energy with the space. That’s part of the magic of shopping with intention.

But if you’re also an avid online shopper, take heart: there are plenty of resources where you can find beautiful pieces and craft your cottagecore home. Below are my favorites.

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Homesong Market

Mentioned above, Amanda Watters has taken her eye for vintage and heirloom-quality pieces and turned it into a beautiful shop. Within home categories that span everything from the bedroom to bathroom to the sweetest pieces for kids, Homesong Market has it all. Amanda has revived the lost art of running a general store and made the experience available for all of us online. But because I want to live the magic in-person, you can bet I’m planning a visit to the Kansas City brick-and-mortar shop soon. Who wants to join?

Large Oval Heirloom Laundry Basket


$72



Indigo Star Patchwork Quilt


$300



June Home Supply

June Home Supply is intent on helping homeowners bring a quiet and simple sense of beauty into their homes. The pieces aren’t just stunning to look at. They’re curated to inspire thoughtful moments at home. Whether it’s dinner by candlelight, an afternoon spent reading with tea, or going about your everyday tasks with a sense of mindfulness, June Home Supply’s beautiful assortment makes it all possible.

Double Arm Iron Wall Candle Holder


$57



Picardie Tumbler – Set of 6


$30



Casa Zuma

I couldn’t wrap up this guide to the cottagecore aesthetic without highlighting Camille’s lifestyle brand, Casa Zuma. While the overall aesthetic is inspired by Camille’s love of the ocean, the intention runs deeper. Each piece is crafted to inspire presence in your daily life—a core tenet of cottagecore. Items are designed by makers all over the world to help you shape your home’s unique story. It’s a mindset that “sparks connection, nourishes your soul, and makes you feel more alive.” Expressing consciousness, slow living, and thoughtful curation, if that doesn’t describe cottagecore at its most fundamental, I’m not sure what else can.

Blanco Stoneware Pitcher


$68



Reclaimed Wood Dough Bowl


$225



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“Help, My Closet Is Out of Control!” Take These 5 Steps to Curate a Wardrobe You Love https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/05/17/help-my-closet-is-out-of-control-take-these-5-steps-to-curate-a-wardrobe-you-love/ https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/05/17/help-my-closet-is-out-of-control-take-these-5-steps-to-curate-a-wardrobe-you-love/#respond Wed, 17 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/05/17/help-my-closet-is-out-of-control-take-these-5-steps-to-curate-a-wardrobe-you-love/

Lately, life has looked like a busy blur of travel. And while I’ve loved making memories, connecting with friends, and jumping into new experiences, perhaps the most unexpected result of life on the go has been how it’s motivated me to do a closet clean out. Let me explain. Over the past two months, I’ve been traveling at least every other week and living out of a suitcase. That means I’m rotating between the easiest and most versatile outfits that 1) fit in my carry-on and 2) effortlessly take me from day to night.

Those unicorn pieces include my favorite Freda Salvador slip-on sneakers, this cozy Frank & Eileen travel set for the flight, an old DOEN dress that has easily become my most-worn (and complimented) dress, a leather jacket, a few workout outfits, and anything that might be specific to the occasion whether a wedding or work trip.

Grabbing these staples weekly has illuminated the fact that a small portion of my closet is for my tried-and-true staples, minus a few special pieces. And the rest? Nothing seems to be getting worn—and the items are taking up too much precious closet space. Clearly, a closet clean out is calling my name.

Featured image by Teal Thomsen.

Need more tips for designing your life? Let Camille’s morning routine inspire your own.

Image by Michelle Nash

5 Tips for an Effective Closet Clean Out

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve Kondo’d my place (yes, Marie Kondo and her KonMari method is now a verb), only to fill it back up with gifted goods from brands, more seasonal items that I thought I’d wear and didn’t, and sadly, the clothes that I mentally can’t get rid of because of how much I spent on them. Every time I walk into my closet, I’m met with overwhelm and sigh to myself: “I have too much!” 

Because I don’t have all the time in the world to tackle my closet and go into full-on spring (now summer) cleaning mode, here’s how I’m approaching Project Closet one step at a time. My best advice before you start? Be patient! Each step will take considerable thought and time, but doing this process thoroughly is the only way to create lasting change. Let’s get started!

Image by Michelle Nash

Step 1: Start With the Items I Know I’ll Never Wear Again

I have an entire section of my closet filled with cycling kits and gear from my cycling days in 2015-2017. Want to guess the last time I hopped on my road bike? If you guessed 2017, you win. It’s been five years since I’ve “kitted up,” so the likelihood I’ll get on it anytime soon is very low. Thankfully, there’s a huge resale market for high-end cycling gear, so I know I’ll be able to make a little more money back. I’m saving two kits should the temptation to go for a ride ever strike. 

Step 2: Assess and Streamline All Duplicates

I reach for the same one cozy sweatshirt whenever I need to relax. Do I really need a closet full of 18 of them, most of which are stiff or not my style? Same with my multiple trench coats and workout tops. In this instance, more is not more and only takes up valuable real estate. The only thing that will stay are my white tees and tanks. I’m prone to spilling and always need a backup! 

Image by Belathée Photography

Step 3: Edit the Items I Rarely Grab

A huge percentage of my closet is filled with clothes that I only grab once or twice a year. Mostly because it doesn’t fit (too big, too small, uncomfortable), but also because the style no longer suits me. For some reason, I have a really hard time with the fact that I don’t have the same style I did even a year ago. It can be difficult for me to let go of these pieces, especially if they were a big investment. If the item can be altered to fit again and I’d wear it, I’ll keep it. If not, it’s out! 

Step 4: Donate, Sell, Gift

ThredUp, Poshmark, eBay, Dress for Success, and pals. All options for me to either make a little money back, give to those in need, or gift to a friend I know would get use out of the products. I’ve been kicking my heels doing this because when I have free time, the last thing I want to do is take pictures for a website and have the product hang in my place. But it’s time. My goal is to take a few hours out of every weekend day and make it happen!

Image by Belathée Photography

Step 5: Set Some Ground Rules for the Future

My sister has a friend who embodies a true minimalist attitude. If she goes shopping, she must remove the same number of items from her closet that she’s bringing into her closet. And she never buys something unless she can use it right now. She has a clear inventory on what she owns, unlike me who forgets about pieces for months at a time.

On another note, my fridge and pantry operate the same way, and I’m often buying the same thing twice because my organization is… non-existent. Sounds like I’ve just unlocked a clear need to hire a professional organizer! (Or take Camille’s kitchen organization advice!)

While the process feels daunting, nothing makes me feel more clear and grounded than a clean and beautiful home. If you’re hesitant to get started, know that I’m right there with you. Doing a full-on closet clean out is a lot, but trust that by removing clutter you’re freeing up space and time that you can devote to the things you love. Happy Kondo’ing!

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How to Build a Neutral Capsule Wardrobe That’s Cool, Not Boring https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/05/14/how-to-build-a-neutral-capsule-wardrobe-thats-cool-not-boring/ https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/05/14/how-to-build-a-neutral-capsule-wardrobe-thats-cool-not-boring/#respond Sun, 14 May 2023 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.mylivingtip.com/2023/05/14/how-to-build-a-neutral-capsule-wardrobe-thats-cool-not-boring/

I’m tired of the lie that neutral is boring. Listen, I’m certainly not a hater of the classic “pop of color,” but also no apologies for the effortless and classic look that is a white t-shirt and jeans with a perfect *chef’s kiss* fit. We at Camille Styles love to celebrate style in all ways, it’s true. However, allow me to state the obvious and say that we love a neutral look. Neutral decor for the home is calming—and the same is true for your closet. Today we’ll prove it, with a cool-not-boring neutral capsule wardrobe collection. Ahead, we’ll show you what you need to get started—and exactly how to style it.

Paperbag Waist Shorts Woven Belt (similar) Seamless Tank (similar)

We love a go-to shopping destination. After all, the name of the came when it comes to a capsule wardrobe is simplicity. EVEREVE is a new favorite destination among our editors for literally all the things. Clothing, shoes, and accessories from some of our go-to brands like AGOLDE, Splendid, Citizens of Humanity, Dolce Vita, Frame, Free People, Nation LTD, and more—all in one place.

We’ve partnered with EVEREVE to build out the most conclusive, hard-working, and stylish (obviously) neutral capsule wardrobe. These are your heavy hitters. You’re go-to pieces. Your foundation of fashion from which to build. Care to add color? All for it. Make it a red lip or a shoe pop moment—or keep it cool and calm. Either way, there’s nothing boring about this collection.

How to Build a Neutral Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a collection of high-quality tops, bottoms, dresses, rompers, shoes, and accessories that can be paired together for a seemingly endless amount of outfits. It’s meant to bring ease and even joy into getting dressed. The trick is building a collection that not only plays well together but ultimately feels and looks like you.

The downside of building a collection is that it takes time and resources—it may feel like a large investment up front. But that’s exactly what it is: an investment. Collecting pieces that are made with high-quality fabrics and materials in classic shapes and styles means you’re removing yourself from the fast-fashion hamster wheel. You’ll wear these pieces for longer, and guarantee you’ll feel better in them, too. Plus, you’ll actually save money in the long run. Here’s how to get started in two easy steps.

STEP ONE: Shop Your Closet

It’s time to purge. Take a look at all the clothes, shoes, and accessories you already own. We all have our systems for a closet cleanout, but if you need a kickstart, here are 10 things to remove from your closet right now. Once you’ve made space, do the hard work of determining what you truly love and want to keep. For your day-to-day pieces, here’s a good question to ask yourself: Would I wear it today?

STEP TWO: Determine What You’re Missing

Is it easy to get dressed for work but you struggle with date-night outfits? Are you lounging around in stained t-shirts and old sweats? Have your basics taken a beating? Use the starter kit below to find gaps in your wardrobe.

Neutral Capsule Wardrobe: Starter Kit

1. Seamless Tank 2. White V Neck Tee 3. Linen Blend Vest
4. Draped One Shoulder Top 5. Linen Top 6. Multi Stripe Resort Shirt
7. Half Zip Pullover 8. Chambray Shirt Jacket 9. Striped Maxi Dress
10. Paper-bag Waist Shorts 11. Splendid Linen-Blend Pant 12. Mid Rise Straight Crop Jean
13. Lightweight Sleeveless Romper 14. Black Linen Romper 15. Black Wide Leg Pant
16. Kork Easy Platform Sandal 17. Recycled Raffia Sandals 18. White Leather Sneaker
19. Goldie Clutch 20. Woven Belt 21. Gold Plated Chain Necklace

How to Style a Neutral Capsule Wardrobe

Now that you’ve got the building blocks, here’s a starter kit to style them for any occasion:

Date Night

Day to date night couldn’t be easier. Pair this easy and lightweight sleeveless romper with sneakers or sandals then slide into these comfy platform sandals for a breezy date night look.

Running Errands

A busy day running around calls for an outfit that doesn’t pinch or pull. Grab a pair of paper-bag waist shorts and a classic tank. Pull it all together with a woven belt, aka, the new unsung hero in your closet.

Out for Brunch

Our obsession with the ease of a romper continues. The all-in-one outfit makes for one less decision in the day—we’ll take it. Brunch calls for cute and effortless, the definition of a black linen romper.

Weeknight Lounging

Every good capsule wardrobe requires loungewear because, let’s be honest, this is where we spend a lot of our time. Pieces need to be soft—and able to withstand multiple washes and dries over time. Enter a mainstay white tee and cozy, linen-blend pants.

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