I really wanted this exact shirt in my fall capsule wardrobe. But according to my plans, there wasn’t going to be room — in the count or in the budget. Sure, things weren’t finalized, but I knew I had pieces to buy that would serve my capsule wardrobe better than that shirt would.
Still, I wanted it. And I wasn’t going to be able to get it.
I railed against my own rules for a few minutes. (Yes, it happens.) I was all, “But! BUT! Black & white buffalo check is the new red & black buffalo check!”
As convincing as that argument was, it didn’t change the fact that I had to pass on the shirt.
But later! I found this scarf at Forever21. For $9. It worked!
It was kind of a consolation prize at the time, but look at it now! Stealing the show and all! Looking awesome and cape-like. Way more statement-y than a shirt.
So if you have a pattern or color you reallyreally want in your wardrobe, try incorporating it with an inexpensive accessory. Might work out nicely.
Hat: Urban Outfitters
Top: Aritzia
Necklace: Madewell
Scarf: Forever 21
Bottoms: Gap (similar)
Shoes: Sam Edelman (similar)
xo
The scarf totally rocks this outfit! I’m taking baby steps at making over my wardrobe and am pleased at how many different combinations I can make with the new separates. I’ve even inspired a co-worker who is much younger than I. Couldn’t have done it without you! The first time I read your blog, I was thankful to find exactly the style I was looking for. I love your put-together, edgy, fun vibe! Thanks!
Wow, you look great! One of my favourite outfits :)
Those blanket scarves at F21 are the bomb. I had a similar situation the other day. I love the whole southwestern motif, but couldn’t really commit to a big print sweater. The scarf is sooooo cozy and versatile! The capsule wardrobe has really taught me the power of accessories!
I love it! I always get mad at myself for wanting a few more scarves.
I am considering going even more neutral and basic with my winter capsule for this exact reason! Accessories can really mix it up. Paired with quality neutrals, an inexpensive accessory can completely change up a look! Great post!
what a great suggestion! Especially scarves… I get way more complements on my fun (and inexpensive) scarves then I do on any shirt in my wardrobe!
Love seeing how every now and then you incorporate a cheaper piece – shows that it’s OK to buy them sometimes and not everything has to be pricey (I’m on a tight budget). I follow your blog daily and am trying to minimize my wardrobe like you have. Thanks for the post!
I think this is my favorite fall outfit of yours so far!
I love the hat on you. I’m scared to wear one. I’m going to date myself here, but I wore a fedora to a wedding many years ago when I was in college. I’m convinced that when they look at the pictures the couple thinks, “Oh, that’s my friend’s crazy sister.” Anyone else hesitant to put on the hat?
I’m so happy you posted this because it’s such a creative compromise. I wanted the red buffalo check shirt so bad but couldn’t justify the price at this moment. Thank you for being honest about your own situations and solutions!
thats exactly what i did with my target scarf! Great post!
moniquitabella.com
Love this scarf! Reminds me of a buffalo check shirt that my husband owns. Speaking of… What are your thoughts on borrowing a shirt or accessory from your significant other? Does that break any ‘capsule wardrobe’ rules? Even though most of them are too big for me, I can occasionally snag a piece of my husbands wardrobe and wear it myself. Just curious what your thoughts were. Thanks! =)
Absolutely loving this outfit! Head to toe! One of my faves of this capsule so far! Such a great idea! Might have to head to the fabric store to whip up a quick scarf like this!!
I wonder: what bag you would pair with this outfit ?
I just realized she doesn’t have a purse in this photo! Loving it! Oftentimes, I find myself putting cards and ID in my pocket and running off hands-free.
If you need a bag, I’d do the cognac tote. Plain enough that it won’t distract and will help bring out the shoes.
I’m preferring hands-free outfits to these days!
And I second that with the cognac tote, you could even turn it inside out and use the black side.
whoops! *too
I did the exact same thing with a red buffalo check scarf! (Weirdly enough, after looking EVERYWHERE, I saw it in the window at Delia’s on the way out of a mall. And it’s perfect! I didn’t even know Delia’s was around anymore.)
I am dying to know how you do your hair. It’s so perfect, I think I love it even more than your outfits! I’m in a hair rut and am looking for new styling options. I’m grateful for any tips you can share. Thank you!
LOVE this! It’s so true. Sometimes, you can find that ” I NEED” with less of a reach. Totally helpful for me because I tend to get super hung up on certain prints or textures. Thanks for this!!
I love love love this outfit! So much so that I’m actually a bit jealous. It’s so me! Which is funny, because you’re the one wearing it ;-). The scarf is amazing. I’m myself on the lookout for a cute blanket scarf, but I think I’m going to have to wait till the sales.
It’s a great tip – to put in accessories of the pattern you love but don’t want to, for various reasons, include it in the capsule. Super effective – you get what you want without compromising your rules :-)
My only thing with accessories – esp. scarves is, do I shed a little more money and get a better quality scarf or do I get a cheapo one from Primark or F21? I kind of want to go for quality but some prices are hard to beat! So I’m deliberating whether it’s okay to get something cheapo but temporary in lieu of expensive but lasting.
I would say choose a quality version that you will have for many years. This is something I’m really focusing on currently. I find that retailers like Gap, J.Crew Factory, and sales at Aritzia, Madewell, J.Crew, Banana Republic all offer great quality at an affordable price point.
XO, Gina
http://classyeverafter.blogspot.com
Hi Gina,
that’s exactly what I was thinking about, but I’m also worried that the if I invest in a good quality scarf, the pattern will be out of fashion in a few years time, or, if my style changes it won’t suit my wardrobe…
I’m based in UK and the retailers you mention aren’t available here, except for Gap, – and if you compare US Gap with UK Gap, the selection is much smaller! I’ve looked and they don’t have any blanked scarves on their UK site (or any I’d want to own). But you’re right, the best solution is probably go for mid price point for a bit better quality. So I’m gonna wait for the sales and hope my favourite styles don’t sell out till then :-)
xo Kat
I actually think the scarf is way cuter than the shirt would have been haha!
My only trouble is I have TOO much fun with accessories. In my next capsule I am capsuling my accessories too. Apparently the fact that I only have one neck has never sunk in to my brain :-) Loving the checks this fall/winter!
I agree, the black and white scarf looks classy, whereas the red and black shirt screams lumberjack to me?!
It is so easy to get hung up on the current trends. I think that is going to be the biggest challenge with the capsule wardrobe. Reusing pieces the following year even if that trend is ‘over’, and the urge is to get rid of everything and replace it all with new, ‘in’ items.
“Life is a bridge. Cross over it, but don’t build a house on it”
Okay, I really need you to answer this in the next 30 seconds or I might make a big mistake… hahaha!
Seriously though, I want your opinion… what do you do when you really want & love an item but it runs out in the color you want? I have been hunting for this specific vest at J Crew for three weeks now. I really really really want it in cream, but it keeps running out in my size. Today I even had it at 50% off in my cart, ready to go and before I could finish checking out – it was sold out!!! I like two other colors okay, but they’d be a consolation. I have looked everywhere for a similar vest, but I just really like this one. So if you were me, would you just get a different color (like black) or keep holding out?