Each season, I get to host this little wardrobe challenge alongside my blogging pal (and 10×10 creator!) Lee of Style Bee.
Here’s how it works: Pick 10 items of clothing from your closet. Include tops, bottoms, and shoes for your everyday life. Don’t include accessories, outerwear, underwear, bags, PJs, or gym clothes — they can flow in and out freely. Then, for 10 days, create a new outfit each day using your 10 items.
That’s it!
No need to buy anything. No need to throw anything out. No need to commit to minimalism forever. No need to overhaul your wardrobe.
Instead, it’s all about trying something new and having fun. This isn’t a serious, rule-based challenge. Sure, it has guidelines, but really, it’s less about the success of the challenge, and more about what it teaches us along the way.
Everyone has a different reason for jumping in. Some people do it to test drive a minimalist wardrobe without the commitment. Some use it as a trial run to pack for an upcoming trip. Some do it to find like-minded style friends through the #10x10friends hashtag. And some do it to push their outfit-making creativity to new heights.
Whatever your reason, Lee and I would love for you to join us in the spirit of lightheartedness.
And if you mess up, or can’t make 10 outfits, or something just goes plain wrong — how fascinating! :)
MY GOALS
Dress for myself, not others | When putting together my 10 items, I kept feeling like I should include more adventurous pieces so people wouldn’t think it was boring or that it meant they had to pick neutrals too. But you know what? While yes, I also enjoy pattern and color, these lovely solid neutrals just felt right for my life and this 10×10. So, no more “shoulds” — I’m happily choosing what works for me.
Be comfortable, dress easily | Since this challenge is all about mixing and matching a limited number of items, I went on the safe side this time for the sake of ease. I’ve used past 10x10s as an opportunity to push my style boundaries…but…not this time. Instead I just want to wear what’s cozy, what feels good, and what easily pairs together.
MY 10 ITEMS
Calendar | My agenda over the next 10 days is pretty typical — working from home, errands, and casual friend hang outs.
However, we do have a trip back to my home town in the middle of the challenge. Family time usually includes plenty of time playing with my nephews and cooking at home, so I made sure to include plenty of comfortable, low-key clothes in my 10 items.
Weather | Well this is a first! We are actually having fall weather during the #fall10x10! Our forecast for the next 10 days looks amazing — a bit of clouds, a bit of rain, a bit of sun, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. Absolute fall bliss.
I’ve even got sweaters in my lineup this time — sweaters! As in multiple sweaters! As a Texan, usually my fall 10×10 includes shorts and tank tops. Not this time!
And, we have to talk about this for a second. Have you ever noticed how temperature is relative — no two people seem to feel it the same. I’m fascinated by it. First, feel free to chuckle that my definition of sweater weather is anything below 65°F. But once you get done chuckling, I’d love to hear your definition of sweater weather, because I’m utterly fascinated by this phenomenon.
Anyway, for my 10×10 I included:
- 3 tops
- 2 pairs of jeans
- 2 cardigans/dusters
- 2 pair of shoes
- 1 dress
You could use this formula, too, if you’re not quite sure where to start.
Here’s the complete line up:
Camel cardigan by Aritzia (color: camel)
Light wash jeans by Grlfrnd | similar under $90 by &OtherStories
Flax turtleneck sweater by Everlane (conscious)
Black turtleneck tee by Madewell (old) | similar by Everlane (conscious)
White tee by Everlane (conscious)
Black woven mules by St. Agni (conscious, currently 25% off) | similar under $75 by Jeffrey Campbell
Black Dress gifted by Able (conscious)
Camel chore gifted coat by Rawson (conscious)
Black skinny jeans by Joe’s Jeans (old) | similar by Everlane (conscious)
PLAN + START YOUR REMIX IN 25 MINUTES
Ready to try a 10×10 for yourself? Keep it easy and approach it as if you’re packing for a trip.
1 | CHECK THE WEATHER / 2 min
Hop online and look up the 10 day forecast. Jot down any quick notes.
Crazy weather? Play around and see what happens anyway! The 10×10 is all about rolling with the punches and dressing for your lifestyle, weather, and needs — no matter what that looks like.
2 | NOTE YOUR DAILY ACTIVITIES / 3 min
Next, grab your calendar and make a note of any special activities you have coming up in the next 10 days.
Oh! And, just to be clear, life activities (gym, sleeping, etc) still call for work out wear and PJ/loungewear, so those can still go on in the background like usual.
3 | GATHER THE BASICS / 5 min
Gather two or three foundational pieces you know you’ll include, like jeans and your favorite pair of shoes.
At this point, it’s helpful to make a temporary space so you can see your 10 pieces as you’re pulling them together. You could use one side of your closet, a garment rack (like mine, pictured above), or even your shower curtain rod.
4 | BUILD AND FINISH / 15 min
Begin to build on your foundation, pulling pieces you love to wear, while considering:
- WEATHER + LIFESTYLE. Go off the notes you made earlier, and be honest with yourself. You’ll enjoy this challenge so much more if you pick items that work with the weather and your lifestyle.
- COLOR PALETTE. No need to keep it neutral (like I do), but consider limiting it to two colors. Ask yourself, what colors go with the basics you already pulled?
- PROPORTIONS. Pick shapes and silhouettes that work well together, like fitted tops with fuller bottoms or high rise bottoms with crop tops.
And finally, make any adjustments you need. Perhaps you’d rather not include shoes this time. Perhaps you’d rather include 12 pieces instead of 10. Feel free to ditch the guidelines and make it your own.
• • •
And there you have it! The fall 10×10 is underway!
Are you joining in? Instagram your 10 pieces and tag ’em #fall10x10 so we can all follow along. And you can also use our ongoing hashtags — #unfancyremix and #stylebee10x10 and #10x10friends.
And finally, feel free to go at your own pace. You don’t have to stick with my schedule — you can start early or late, skip a day, take weekends off, or go for 10 days straight. Make it work for you.
Now I want to hear from you! We all have different reasons for doing this — what’s your motivation for joining this time?
And I’m SO curious: what’s your temperature definition of sweater weather? Share away — I can’t wait to see all the differences!
xo,
I had to smile at your definition of sweater weather!
While I truly believe “who cares what the thermometer says, if you’re cold put on a sweater”, I have to say that sweater weather here is usually above freezing (0 or 32 American) and below freezing I make the kids wear a coat of some kind (and try to convince the boy child not to wear shorts). It was -8 this morning (17 American) and both kids wore light fall coats with a sweater to school. It will be +5 later (41) and the kids will walk home with just sweaters.
FWIW, I’m in the “southern” part of Canada – just 45min from the border with Minnesota.
I started shivering just reading your response! Lol! I’m in the Dallas area and 3 out 4 in my house have switched to sweaters w/tees ?
I love your 10×10 style selections. However, I feel it’s just begging to add a pair of leopard print flats with all that dark, monotone clothing! I’m loving my loafers I got from Rothy’s (they are woven, and super comfy). My definition of sweater weather is when it dips below 55 degrees. Our mornings have been particularly cold as of late!
I totally agree Cathy! I was vintage shopping this weekend and found the most amazing leopard silk shirt. After a lot of deliberation I decided to leave it behind though. I love the look of leopard print, especially with this palette, but I’m just not sure it’s my style. Hah, never say never though! :)
I completely support your reasoning for buying responsibly made clothes. Perhaps you could spotlight some lower priced items for people who don’t have enough money to shop like you. I am a lowly special education teacher and am unable to drop large amounts of money on one piece of clothing. My whole season purchase needs to be under $200. Please don’t leave us everyday Joe’s out. Thanks for considering us.
I hear you, Lori! I’ll do my best to include links to similar, quality pieces for less.
Hi Lori,
I’m a special ed teacher too :). I like to shop at ThredUp to save $$ and to shop more responsibly. I’m also able to get better quality clothing for less that way. Even if what I buy is not from a “conscious” brand, it’s more responsible to buy pre-owned clothing than it is to buy new.
I also do not spend a lot of money on clothes. What has helped me is letting go of the notion that I need to have a large wardrobe, that I shouldn’t be “seen” in something too much. I.e. I got this amazing dress at Old Navy and I wear it 2-3 times a week proudly! :-) I Own it and people will be on board. That along with using fashion sites and bloggers to inspire rather than directly shop has made all the difference.
ThredUp is my jam! I think you can find just about anything on there, so I like to draw inspiration from clothes I can’t afford, then go treasure hunting for similar items.
I’m a teacher too (so crappy salary), my husband is sick so I’m supporting him and two kids plus own a house. I’ve lost a bunch of weight this summer so most of my clothes don’t fit anymore. I’m working to reinvent my closet on my tight budget. I’m shopping my storage boxes and asking friends and family for clothes they no longer wear. My goal is to shop as little as possible. I’m determined it can be done! If you’re on instagram I’d love to see what you make with what you have. My insta is: a_chill_in_the_air
I’m on day 2 myself!! Holy smokes has it made dressing in the morning a breeze! I’ve never been one to hate dressing myself in the morning but there’s something to be said for having all your options laid out in front of you and you know they all (more or less) work together so just grab and go! Love that I’m finally joining along.
Allie
modbroadco.com
Girl. I am from the tri-state area and relocated to the mountain West so definitely not from a southern state ever but 65° is still sweater weather! I am so anxious for fall (I hate summer haha) that I wear those babies the second there’s a slight nip in the air! Sweater weather is whenever you want it to be! It’s a state of mind. :)
I love your picks, Caroline! I’m in the 10×10 for so many reasons this season– to find contentment with my wardrobe, to experiment with the soft brown tones that I’ve been so attracted to lately, and to meet all of the wonderful other “Ten-by’s” who always impress me with their warmth and their style.
Great post, as always! Could you please clarify how you’re using “conscious”?I could see it describing safe/fair labor practices, environmental awareness, or perhaps some third practice I’m not even considering…Just so we know!
Hi Laura! Great question! I’m using it as an umbrella term to catch all of the above. Since we all have different values, I like pointing people in a general positive direction and then letting them dive deeper on their own to make sure it fits with their particular values. :)
Thank you!
I live in Northern Canada so my definition of sweater weather is about -5 celcius:) But really, I can pretty much wear sweaters all year long up here! I’ve wanted to participate in this challenge for so long but haven’t for some reason – probably laziness. Maybe next time!
xo,
Sarah
http://www.poutineandprada.com
I’m hopping on board the 10×10 train for the first time! I’m trying to curate my wardrobe, live with less and buy more sustainably and consciously, and I’ve been doing well on my low-buy for a couple of years now. I just get in a rut and feel less excited about my style, so I’m hoping this challenge will pull me out of my fashion funk and find new ways to wear my wardrobe. So fun! Can’t wait to see how it goes and if I’ll find it difficult – but I’m also super excited to see what everybody else is doing.
I’m from Finland, but currently live in Illinois, so you’d think I was used to the cold. But I’m one of those people that is ALWAYS cold, so for me sweater weather is pretty much whenever :) I have been know to wear a light jacket when it’s 70F. #sorrynotsorry
Xo,
Jo
Yay for another 10×10! I joined for the first time last spring and really enjoyed the experience! I learned a lot about my style and had fun trying some unique combinations and wearings like a dress worn as a top layer or wearing a piece backwards! I’m joining again this fall to get even more understanding about my style and push my wardrobe a little more!
I wear light weight cardigans practically year round except for the month or two that it gets over 72. I reserve my heavier sweaters for 45 and below. I actually didn’t include any heavy outerwear (I love your chore coat, though) because the weather won’t be under 40 much this week. ? if I need warmth I’ll add a layer + hat, scarf, and leggings!
I wore a sweater to drop my child off at school this morning at 29 Fahrenheit, but I’m a weirdo Montana person who’s desperately trying to hang on to Autumn.
I’m always cold so sweater weather is anytime it’s not blazing hot outside. I’m wearing a chunky cardigan today at 66 degrees!
I am a native Oregonian that moved to England 37 years ago and have subsequently lived in Aberdeen, Manchester, Shrewsbury, and now just south of London in Surrey. My idea of sweater weather has not really changed below 55 or if my nails are blue. I wear fit flops until it really rains or snows and this wear because we’ve had an extraordinary summer and now Indian summer was wearing shorts until last week. Being a “winter” in colour analysis terms my neutrals would be grey and navy with striped tops!
I love the idea and i think im going to do something similar as well.
https://missvanessapt.blogspot.com/
Does square dancing clothes count as exercise clothes? I may add a prairie style long skirt that can be worn dancing or for a night out as one of the 10 pieces.
I’m going to take the challenge!
I’m one of those always cold people, and the weather where I live is 90s+ in summer and negatives in winter but I almost always have a sweater with me because AC is kept so low at most places in summer. We don’t have many “beautiful weather days” in a year—it’s mostly just the extremes + always windy…so I’m 32 and still learning how to layer and be comfortable in the climate I’ve always lived in. ??♀️ Looking forward to your 10 x 10!
Alabama girl here. Sweater weather is anything less than 70 Fahrenheit.
I went to college in Indiana, and I was always amused how, in the fall, 40 felt so cold and I would bundle up to the eyeballs… but in the spring 40 felt so warm and I was ready to shed my coat!
Packing for work trips to look stylish yet not tote lots!
I’m down in Tasmania, Australia, and for us I feel that sweater weather will depend on the type of wind blowing on the day! The wind chill makes such a different – it can be 25C (77F) and sun blazing, but if it’s a cold south westerly wind, that can make the apparent temperature plummet to something that feels more like 10C (55F).
Wind aside, I’m thinking anything below 15C (59F) is likely sweater weather during our colder seasons :)
Ohhh I loved this :-)
Love your 10 picks! I don’t claim to speak for all of the north eastern US, but sweater weather is anything below 60 F, though a sweater can still be to warm for me if it’s above 55. Anything above 60 is summer.
Your statement about sweater weather and how it’s all relative rings so true for me. I’m from the Midwest, so I define it as around 30-35F degrees. But I recently moved to Australia and people consider 55-60F here chilly. Truly all relative, indeed!
Really looking forward to see how you wear the sock boots with the two pairs of jeans. Rolling? Tucking? Hanging out breezily?
Sweater weather is all year round for me. I live near Philadelphia & even in July I’ll need a sweater in stores & restaurants because of the AC.
I’m ALWAYS cold, which I think is hilarious considering I grew up in Michigan and just moved to Alaska. For me, anywhere up to 80 degrees is sweater weather. I’ve even been known to throw a light cotton sweater on at 80 if the wind is a little too strong for my liking. I totally feel you.
Sweater weather for this SoCal lady is anything 70 or under. We will gladly roll our sleeves to be able to pretend we get sweater weather in fall! ;)
I was out shopping last week in a lightweight long sleeve and noticed my fellow shoppers in jersey knit open cardigans and thin slinky sweaters…I was feeling a tad hot but paid no mind until I got back to my car and it read 88 degrees. Like I said, we like to pretend play out here.
i love the stand you clothes are hanging on, where did you get i? I desperately need one.
It’s from Amazon! Search “Songmics bamboo” and you’ll find it. :)
For me in Alabama, sweaters come out when the temps are in the 50s, but the 60s can be unpredictable, too! Sometimes the 60s call for a chunky cardigan I can remove when the afternoons get warm, but if it’s windy and wet, 60s can feel chilly all day. I guess that’s why I jumped into the fall 10×10 – it’s definitely the most challenging (yet fun) season! I have a couple of new pieces I wanted to play with too, but ultimately I think I always come back for inspiration from 10x10friends. :)
What size did you buy in the white tee and flax sweater?
Hi Emily! I got a M in the tee and a S in the sweater. :)
Great post! :) Plus your clothing rack is super cute!
I live and grew up in Northern California. Sweater weather is 70 degrees for me. I would not survive in, say, Minnesota…
Everything under 65F (18C) is DEFINETLY sweater-weather!!! I live in Mexico City, and right now it’s around 65F… and i am absolutely FREEZING!!! Lol.
I concur on sweaters below 65ish. In fact, I wear them most of the year in “room temperature” (70ish) when sitting still at the computer all day. LIving in Oregon, this means that about 10 months out of the year are sweater weather — so, I’m usually wearing at least a light wool layers, often with something under it. Even in summer early/late in the day.
Consequently, I’m marvel so much at most stylists capsules and outfits. Because I would wind up covering everything up in an extra layer for warmth. If I were to actually have 20 mix+match tops, probably 15 of those would need to be “warm” layers. But I only have a few LOL. So in practice, it seems I dress much more minimally than I realize.
I’m going through hot flashes so Seasons don’t exist for me anymore! LOL I try to stay with natural Fabrics so my body can breath through like (humanely collected) down, cashmere, linen, silk, cotton, and dress in layers. By the way for anyone who can relate to this problem, I’m finding exercising everyday is really helping! ;)