Hello, and welcome to my capsule-like wardrobe! First off, I want to start by saying I never really considered myself a fashion blogger nor do I follow any too closely. This was just a fun, motivational project that I did for the heck of it, and because I thought we all could read something other than the news for a bit, soooo hope ya enjoy! 😉
In the fall/winter of 2019, I realized how badly I needed to purge some clothing of mine. The kids are always growing out of their things so I sort through theirs often, but mine was overdue. Several trips with a full tub to donations and consignment were made. It was honestly embarrassing. Nobody, I repeat NOBODY needs the amount of clothing I had, yikes! Even ONE of those tubs was MORE than enough for one person. Back in the day, I had a passion for shopping for clothes. Now, I’m not saying a little retail therapy doesn’t feel good, it does! I’ve just changed my entire perspective over the past year, for the best.
Quality is appreciated, and quantity is overrated. Since the pandemic happened, I think we have all learned more about REAL necessities. In fact, that is a lesson I’m forever thankful for and continuing to grow with the slow living life. Anyways, I had set a goal, a fun little project for myself to keep the motivation to purge most of my closet. (Wish I had pictures of the before) The goal was that I would make capsule-like wardrobe blog post and piece together some favorite, easy-wearing outfits that mix + match easily, dress up or down and make you FEEL good. I should also add- I’m a sucker for high-waisted leggings ALWAYS, but they are un-pictured. Because are you even a mom without them in full rotation?! lol.
Textiles are important when choosing items for a long-lasting capsule. What is most comfortable to you? This varies from person to person, for example: I LOVE faux fur and fleece blankets, but my hubby can’t stand to touch them. Think of cozy organic cottons or broken-in denim… fabrics that hold up! Well, I started thinking about trying linen. I know, I know it can be pricey, especially in the handmade shops. When stumbling upon this beautiful company, Not Perfect Linen- it totally had my attention. After visiting their Etsy shop and reading their story, I knew the entire concept was right up my alley. Here is a passage from their site:
“Why not perfect? The beauty of linen is that it is not perfect. If you keep trying to iron it, you will definitely miss the beauty of it. Linen needs to be used and it gets better with age. Linen pieces can be compared to old English leather shoes or old mechanical Swiss watches – all of these things are not new or perfect but are definitely more valuable than any new. We are inspired by linen simplicity and imperfection and we are glad to share with something irregular and something that is not perfect with you.”
umm, yes please!
When I ordered a few pieces, I figured the quality would be great, but it wasn’t until I received my package in the mail, felt the clothing, and slipped on the first dress (drop shoulder dress + tie)… It was all soooo heavenly! Loved it so much, had to order a few more, literally want to live in this stuff for the rest of my life. It’s super practical no matter what we are doing (so far is #quarantinelife of course, haha). I work around the house all day though, take care of babies, lots of time outside, and linen is truly so cozy, along with being flattering on many body types. These items would be great for anything and anywhere. If you ever check out their shop to purchase, you will run into one little problem though- you will NOT be able to choose a color for the fabric. There are loads of options and I would be thrilled with any. All are very pretty! The color palette I ended up with is perfect, hints of summery tones, but ya know me- made sure to keep it plenty neutral (ha!) and added in earthy pieces too.
To pair with the linen I added a trusty pair of Levi high-waisted cut off jean shorts, a mauve pair of free people skinnies, free people destroyed jeans, and a knit pullover from one of my fav small shops, Hillfolk Co. To top off an outfit, I usually reach for a cute scarf, or one of my GigiPip felt hats or a Harper + Grey sun hat (for the warm sunny days) and a pair of handmade clay earrings by Whiskey + Wine. Oh and I never ever take off my Jay’s + Jewels gold plated personalized necklaces (my babies intitials and my handrawn rainbow symbol). For the feet- my forever fav, SOLS! Or in the cooler months free people booties- both pairs last for years so I never need to shoe shop.
IF I had to reach for ONE outfit from all of this for the spring/summer days, it would be the Sorrento cami paired with the cut off’s, SOLS sandals with the Livorno oversized shirt (kinda like a lightweight cardi). A common question is ‘how does this top run in size?’ and it’s a but of a trick answer! It runs TTS however it’s ‘oversized’ on purpose. Trust me, you want this one nice and roomy…
The reason I have named this ‘My Capsule-LIKE Wardrobe’ is honestly because this is my own spin on the idea. Do I have other clothes, of course but still purging also. Collaborations with clothing brands still happen, too. Love helping small shops and brands by advertising or modeling so that is another reason why I end up with more than I need. But it’s apart of my job so… ya know. Just wanted to share how stunning this line of clothing is and how many ways you can make many different looks with just a handful of clothes and a few accessories! Hope you enjoy the try-on IGTV which was MY FIRST EVER lol. Did I do okay!? Kinda obsessed with editing videos now that I finally taught myself. Really, this was enjoyable and kept my mind busy and occupied so I appreciate you guys tuning in and listening to me blab!
Here is a complete list of items by name + color from Not Perfect Linen. I have size small in everything and everything fits wonderfully. You don’t want linen to be too snug, it should feel breathable. Always happy to answer any questions on style, fit, comfort etc.
- pinafore cross apron (beige)
- oversized livorno shirt (b+w stripe)
- wrap madrid top (amber yellow)
- wrap jumpsuit (almost apricot)
- mama maxi dress (natural
- sydney midi dress + front snap (desert sage)
- drop shoulder dress (canyon clay)
- wide palazzo pants (camel)
- loose athens pants (natural)
- sion skirt (taupe)
- bay cropped top (olive)
- porto tank top (cream
- sorrento cami (redwood)
You can find my full length try on video on my IGTV over at @katyroseprichard!
Hope this has helped inspire you to be mindful in your wardrobe and minimal in wasteful buying. May the things you reach for be the things you love, over and over again. Let go of the clutter that is in the way and find beauty in simplicity.
Xo,
Katy
