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Un-Fancy

Outfits: Spring, spring outfits

How I developed my personal style + 3 steps to develop your own

04/21/16

 

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It took me a full year of capsuling to develop my style. 

But it doesn’t have to take you that long.

Throughout the year, I learned three little things that really fast-tracked the process. And — happy news — most of them are free!

ONE: Make lists.

We’re starting off on a very unsexy note here. :) But list-making is where it all started for me.

One day, I doodled out a pie chart that broke up the activities in my everyday life.

When I finished, I had to laugh — my closet was a pretty good representation of what “every woman should have in their closet.” But it was painfully obvious that the clothes in my closet didn’t match my actual life activities.

It was frustrating, but — how fascinating! — I learned something.

And just like that, I had instant style direction.

Other valuable lists I made? The average weather in my area each season. My favorite features to play up. Words that define how I wanted to feel in my clothes.

QUICK ACTION: You can download my free wardrobe planner to help you make lists + discoveries, but really, you could just start by drawing a lifestyle pie chart real quick. (Here’s an example, top left.) Just spend three minutes on it –it’ll give you instant style direction.

TWO: Spot the difference between a cool picture vs. an outfit that actually works.

Most of the time, people will suggest starting a Pinterest board to develop personal style.

But often what we end up pinning is the vibe of the photo and not the actual outfit. Then we look at our style board and we’re confused because we’ve got pins all over the style map.

I’ve done this so many times. I fall in love with an outfit that feels SO ME … and then once I put the outfit together, it’s so NOT me. It turns out I was just in love with the photo. 

We’re drawn to great design — even if it’s not our style.

But I’ve learned a little trick to help with this:

Separate the photo into three layers — (1) clothes (2) setting or location of the photo (3) styling or hair and makeup.

First, focus on the first layer — the actual clothes. Ask the big question: Do you still think the outfit is cute when you remove the location and the styling?

This single question usually clears it right up for me, but you can keep going: Have you ever worn pieces like that before? If so, how did you feel in them?Can you see the outfit working with the way you usually style your hair and makeup? Does the outfit only work in that kind of location or can you see it working at your office or home? 

A perfect pin is a photo where the clothes + setting + styling come together just right. The vibes all match. This could trick you into thinking that you love the outfit, when actually, you just love the vibe that’s been executed flawlessly. 

QUICK ACTION: Hop on Pinterest, scroll til you find an outfit you’d pin, and practice separating the layers. Once you get the hang of it, start your style Pinterest board.

THREE: Decrease your fashion intake + increase your style intake.

I eventually hit a point where I stopped browsing through fashion magazines.

At first, I thought I needed their guidance. But really, it was just trend overload.

So I took it even further. I unsubscribed from clothing retailer email lists. I quit paying attention to the rules and the shoulds. If I saw an article touting “20 pieces every woman needs in her closet” I ran the other way.

In short, I created a quiet space. 

And that quiet space helped me find a world of style resources:

I read books on personal style (Stacy London’s book helped me a lot in the beginning). I read blogs on building a wardrobe (Into Mind is an excellent resource). And I used apps that helped me get the most out of my wardrobe (Stylebook or Capsules are both awesome)

These resources taught me that developing my style is less about visual outfit inspiration, and more about the strategy behind building outfits. For so long, I confused the two — but not anymore. :)

QUICK ACTION: Create some quiet space and unsubscribe from retailer email lists + take a break from fashion magazines. Read Stacy’s book. Browse around IntoMind. And look into using Stylebook or Capsules.


01 | White button up by Stone + Cloth | similar by Everlane (socially responsible)

02 | Jean shorts by Madewell (old) | similar cut by Madewell | similar wash by Frame (made in USA)

03 | Bag by Ona

o4 | Shoes by Veja (environmentally friendly + socially responsible)


Do you have any tips for finding your personal style? Share away, I’d love to hear!

xo

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91 Comments

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Comments

  1. Laura R Kensil says

    April 21, 2016 at 7:25 pm

    One tip that helps me a lot that you haven’t mentioned is considering my body type when pinning/selecting styles. I try to focus only on shapes/details I find flattering on me.

    Love that you included some resources for style vs fashion. So many blogs and publications claim to have that content but most of the time it’s just a bunch of trends and sponsored items. Its awesome to see you aren’t going down that path. Another great post, Caroline!! Un-fancy is the best!

    Reply
    • lottie @ yellow bliss photography says

      April 21, 2016 at 10:15 pm

      Yeah, I’m with you there! Since I don’t wear makeup that often I usually feel like it’s easy to remove that aspect, but body type is definitely something that matters! That’s one of the keys to finding what clicks for you. I have a secret board where I pin things that are for me to try and am very picky about what I pin — never more than 50 or so pins to that board so I’m not overwhelmed.

      Reply
    • Ania says

      April 22, 2016 at 8:16 am

      This is such a great point! I used to ALWAYS forget about my body type when pinning/selecting items to try in a shop. I’d choose a lot of things in which only a tall, slim girl looks great, lured by the flawless styling, and then—surprise, surprise!—they wouldn’t look great on me and I’d feel frustrated and hateful towards my body (short & curvy). Slowly, I’m learning to disregard from the start items that I knew wouldn’t look great on me. There are some bumps along the road, but it really is a good tip to consider when thinking about your style :)

      Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 24, 2016 at 1:31 pm

      Hi Laura, that is such a great tip! Thanks for sharing :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
    • Taylor says

      April 28, 2016 at 9:07 am

      Totally agree! Of course that boxy, huge, top looks great when you’re thin as a rail!! Or that strappy, flimsy top would look awesome on me if I weren’t a DD :) I’ve tried to conscientiously think of this when I’m drawn to a particular pinterest outfit.

      Reply
  2. Ames says

    April 21, 2016 at 7:36 pm

    Thank you so much for distilling all of your experience into this simple guide! I was just thinking today how much I need to develop my own sense of style, and this post is speaking directly to that. I can’t wait to try playing with these principles!

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 24, 2016 at 1:32 pm

      Yay! I’m excited that you are excited to try these out :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  3. CC says

    April 21, 2016 at 7:52 pm

    The Pinterest tip is excellent!

    90% of the time I wish I was the girl in the picture I pinned because of the ‘vibe’. (Rather than loving her style.) Unrealistic as I don’t do messy buns, heels and ripped jeans. Ever.

    Do I ever pin pics of girls wearing skinny jeans, pony tail, colourful kicks and an American apparel tri-blend track tee? No. And that’s the uniform I wear 90% of the time!

    Aspiration vs Inspiration. Not the same thing. Love it.

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 24, 2016 at 1:33 pm

      CC, I love that! :) Thanks for sharing xo, Caroline

      Reply
  4. Laura says

    April 21, 2016 at 8:32 pm

    I have to second every. single. one. of these!!!

    List making was HUGE for me. Still is. I continue to keep running lists of my overall wishlist (which continues to dwindle, yay!) and pieces I’m mapping out for buying over the course of an entire year — this helps me not only hit budgets but also de-clutter my mind so that I have mind space and energy to utilize toward refining my style.

    Stylebook has helped me IMMENSELY in identifying and categorizing the types of looks I actually create + owning that.

    One other piece of advice I would give is to not get caught up on specifically labeling your style right away — or ever for that matter. I know I’m a little more edgy in cooler months and a little more bohemian in warmer months. I drove myself crazy for a long time not being able to identify my style within one short phrase. Once I let go of that, I really feel like it just became apparent.

    Beautifully articulated as always lady! :)

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 24, 2016 at 1:35 pm

      Hi Laura, that’s a great point. Glad you’re finding way to do this that work for you :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  5. janiece says

    April 21, 2016 at 9:42 pm

    I have an out of control closet and I’m so excited to try to capsule. Love your pie chart idea and started working on mine – Any tips on how to pair down when you have two distinctly different areas of life? I dress business professional for work and when home, I’m super casual. At this moment, I have very few cross-over pieces.

    Reply
    • Olivia says

      April 24, 2016 at 5:02 am

      If I were you I’d think about doing two separate capsules, especially since the two styles are so different.

      Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 28, 2016 at 3:45 pm

      Janiece, If I were in your shoes, I’d try applying the general concept, but with two mini capsules — one for work and one for home. Fill out two separate capsule planners. Don’t worry about a specific number if you’re building two smaller capsules — just do what feels right. To me, keeping them in separate spaces is the key. Try to keep your work capsule on one side of your closet and your home capsule on the other side. Or keep your work capsule in your closet and your home capsule in a set of drawers. Hope that helps! :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
      • Sheila says

        May 2, 2016 at 9:06 pm

        I’m in the same situation and found two separate smaller capsules were easier to manage. There is a small bit of overlap on casual Fridays or rare dressy weekend events, but for planning purposes it was easier to think of them as separate – and then figure out the ‘in between’ outfits afterwards.

        Reply
  6. monicaP says

    April 21, 2016 at 10:17 pm

    Been all over your blog and I am really inspired to give a capsule wardrobe a try .. I think putting my clothing away as a safety net tipped me over the edge and I’m going for it :-)

    Monica

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 24, 2016 at 1:35 pm

      Hey Monica, have fun with it! :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  7. lottie @ yellow bliss photography says

    April 21, 2016 at 10:24 pm

    I love this! I’m not a big makeup wearer, so it’s pretty easy to separate that from the rest of the picture — but I definitely pay (too much) attention to the location + overall vibe. I find that a lot of times I have a more conservative style (stuff I feel like I could put on my body and is appropriate for my lifestyle) and then more liberal stuff (things that I like the overall vibe of — an outfit I might tell someone at the store I liked on them, but know I could never pull it off myself… end of story.)

    I was actually just talking to my sister about developing style (I definitely connected her with your blog) and how I do go through and delete pins often… sometimes once or twice a week. Because I find it doesn’t fit — it doesn’t belong.

    Another thing… I have a secret pinterest board for copy-cat clothing. Usually I like the silhouette and feel like that would work on my body (my more conservative pins) plus I have the pieces to recreate that kind of vibe. I’m very picky about what gets pinned to this board and try to keep it under fifty pins so that when I check it out for outfit inspiration I don’t feel overwhelmed.

    Great post as always Caroline! I cannot begin to tell you how excited I’ve been that you’re back!! ♥

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 24, 2016 at 1:37 pm

      Hi Lottie, that’s a great idea to have the secret board that you’re super picky about. That way you can draw inspiration from lots of places, but keep one quiet board just for you. Great idea! :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  8. Elaine hartman says

    April 21, 2016 at 10:34 pm

    Polyvore is a site that I have enjoyed learning how to shop my own closet and the setsthat other members have crested have given me new ideas of how to combine clothes that I already have.

    You have articulated the basic foundation of developing individual style very well. We have to know ourselves, and that’s a tough one sometimes.

    Reply
  9. kim domingue says

    April 21, 2016 at 10:51 pm

    Transposing your style from one decade to the next is…….interesting. I’m 56 and while I still like many things that I liked in my 20s, 30s and 40s, it can be a challenge to translate those things from one decade to the following decade. Add to that yet another challenge in that I am small and high breasted (also small) and can’t wear anything in the women’s department (darts at the breast fall somewhere around the bottom quarter of my ribcage) and I don’t have enough rear end to fill out the pants AND I’m very short waisted. So I end up having to shop in juniors and sometimes children’s. Who wants to be 56 and shopping in the children’s department?

    So, I try and stick to very, very simple silhouettes which suit me best anyway. Still, it would be nice to find a nice tailored jacket that’s not juniors trendy that I could wear for the next decade or so, lol!

    Reply
  10. Daisy says

    April 22, 2016 at 12:15 am

    On point post. Thank you for sharing your insight. I have been following your blog for a while. Figured that one day I should say hi. And that day is today. I <3 your blog!

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 24, 2016 at 1:38 pm

      Daisy, hi and hello to you too! Thanks for checking in :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  11. Delia says

    April 22, 2016 at 1:21 am

    Thank you, Caroline for sharing such valuable advice and encouragements. As you say, I need to come back to a quiet space, listen to my own voice and just be me.

    Reply
  12. Sartreuse says

    April 22, 2016 at 2:20 am

    Nice list! I found your blog randomly and I love your simplistic approach to style and fashion. It is refreshing to find more blogs out there that focus on wearable outfits, and real people instead of getting the perfect picture and perfect look the whole time. Have followed you and am going to read more of your posts now.

    http://www.sartreuse.com

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 28, 2016 at 10:20 pm

      Yay! Welcome Sartreuse! :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  13. MODENOVA says

    April 22, 2016 at 2:58 am

    What a beautiful spread. We really like your style! Continue the great work!
    Best, MODENOVA I http://www.modenova.com

    Reply
  14. Paula says

    April 22, 2016 at 3:15 am

    You have so many great tips! I love it!

    Paula- http://www.livingpaula.com

    Reply
  15. Carolina says

    April 22, 2016 at 3:27 am

    i’ve been trying to downsize my closet for a few years, but choosing the right pieces afterwards wasn’t always easy. what has really helped with that part is definitely pinterest, but i never pin outfits – just pieces that i like, preferrably with a white background and on a hanger. i find that by pinning them i stop thinking about them and eventually by looking at my board i realise if the aesthetic fits. :)

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 24, 2016 at 1:39 pm

      Hi Carolina, that’s a smart idea too – leaves very little room for distraction. Thanks for sharing :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  16. Gemma says

    April 22, 2016 at 3:54 am

    I love how casual and comfortable your style looks on you Caroline. I’m 34 and still haven’t really found mine but I’m going to take your advice and see how I get on. Have you considered having getting someone to turn your capsule and style tools into an app? I don’t have a printer lol x

    Reply
  17. Rena says

    April 22, 2016 at 3:59 am

    Many thanks! Honestly I try to find my own style since decades – so far not really with success :) Hopefully with your help this will change now…
    xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
    http://www.dressedwithsoul.com

    Reply
  18. Iris says

    April 22, 2016 at 4:31 am

    Love this so much! I deleted a lot of pins a while ago, because it wasn’t actually my thing. Thanks for this post.

    Reply
  19. Nat says

    April 22, 2016 at 7:59 am

    Hey Caroline,
    I was wondering if you are ever taller than your husband when you wear heels and if you have thoughts on that? My husband and I are about the same height (he is just a smidge taller), so I always shy away from shoes with heels. Problem is…I looove the look of heeled boots, sandals, anything! Do you have any thoughts on how to navigate this?

    Reply
    • Emily says

      April 22, 2016 at 5:25 pm

      Hi Nat,

      I am 6’2, and have dated guys that were shorter or the same height as me. I used to be really self-conscious about it. But after I met a guy (maybe 5’6?) who had no qualms about resting his head on my shoulder, I finally relaxed about it. It just takes getting used it and letting go of what you think people are thinking of you. (Does that make sense?)

      You work those heels if you want to!

      Reply
    • LeahLW says

      April 22, 2016 at 10:19 pm

      I’m not Caroline but I thought I’d take a stab at a reply since my husband is, like yours, just a smidge taller than I am.
      You don’t say if you shy away from heels because you feel uncomfortable being taller than your husband or because he feels uncomfortable. If it’s the former, I say wear what makes you feel good! I don’t do super high heels but I love ankle boots and wedges and those definitely make me taller than him some days. We have this weird idea that men are supposed to be be taller (thanks society!) but I decided a long time ago (with a reallllly short prom date) that my style happiness didn’t need to be squashed by that.
      If he’s bothered by it, maybe it’s a conversation to have about what feeling shorter than you means for him (inferiority? Not able to protect you? Etc.). You might find another way to address his real underlying concern and then feel free to wear heels all day long. Btw male body image issues are real and one way they manifest is shortness complexes–see above re: not manly enough, inferior to women, etc.
      One of my best girlfriends almost didn’t date a man significantly shorter than she was and now they’re married and utterly happy. And she rocks heels. So that’s my mantra for height differences :)

      Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 28, 2016 at 10:23 pm

      Hi Nat, Aaron is only two inches taller than me, so when I wear three inch heels, sometimes I’m an inch taller than him. It doesn’t bother either one of us a bit. But for me personally, I don’t like to wear heels that are taller than three inches anyway. Two to three inches tall is my sweet spot — anything taller is uncomfortable for me. It’s definitely a personal decision though — I remember my mom never wearing heels because she didn’t want to be taller than my dad. No matter what, I think the decision should be treated with care and empathy. xo, Caroline

      Reply
  20. AP says

    April 22, 2016 at 9:39 am

    ^^^What CC said: aspiration vs. inspiration.

    We all have in our minds who we want to be, and how we want to portray ourselves to the world. I wish I was a punk rock, artsy mom who dresses the part. But, I never felt comfortable in that costume even as a kid when I was way into punk and new wave (I did shave off half my hair one time and horrified my immigrant parents). I’m a t-shirt, jeans, and sneakers girl and EVERYTHING I’m most comfortable in for work and weekend revolves around that aesthetic. It’s nothing to apologize for and I can be a cool mom (inside and out) without looking like I live on the fashion edge.

    This is really a wonderful blog and a quiet place on the ‘net. Thank you for letting us journey with you.

    Reply
  21. Thays Dos Santos says

    April 22, 2016 at 9:44 am

    I really love the whole concept behind your style. I have been challenging myself this year to not buy a single item of clothing. I failed slightly because I bought a white and a black t-shirt. However, since I knew these items are simple and I enjoy where minimal color then they were a perfect fit to my wardrobe. I am currently a college student so I have been changing my style so that it feels more me and less what my mom bought for me in high school :P I am so happy I found your blog and I look forward to reading more of your posts! Hope you have a lovely day,
    Thays

    http://www.sillycrazyme.com

    Reply
  22. Taryn says

    April 22, 2016 at 10:20 am

    Wonderful post, Caroline! Your blog is quickly becoming one of my favorites because you’re so darn relatable and authentic. Also, I love that step one is “make lists” – they make my nerdy heart happy (and really do help!). I feel more prepared and excited to take on my closet because of you. Keep it up! :)

    Reply
  23. Kristy says

    April 22, 2016 at 10:43 am

    I’m a very data driven person, and I find Stylebook really helpful for generating information I can use to help define my personal style. I’ve been keeping track of my daily outfits for almost a year at this point, and when I hit that mark, I’m planning on donating/selling most of my clothing items that I haven’t worn at least 10 times in the previous year. That will leave me with a surprisingly small wardrobe, but it will be filled with things I love, feel great wearing, and turn to over and over again!

    Thanks for all of your great posts, your blog is always a pleasure to read!

    Reply
  24. Aline Alves Aragão says

    April 22, 2016 at 11:43 am

    OMG!
    I just fooled myself all my life about “the vibe” in pinterest pictures! I did it every single time… I dreamed about being the girl in the photo, but it has never to do with my routine. I kept pinnig girls in jeans, suits and sneakers because I love it, but I can’t use sneakers at the office, and jeans only on fridays…
    You just opened my eyes, I had never thought this way… You are awesome!

    Reply
  25. Jessica says

    April 22, 2016 at 11:50 am

    I think the area that I really need to work on is the ‘difference between a cool photo and an outfit that works’ I find that I pin all these inspirational outfit ideas, but when I try to re-create the outfit myself, It just doesn’t look the same, and it can be really disheartening. (then starts the great comparing game). I think I’m going to try to be more intentional about finding outfits on pinterest that I know will work with my body type, colors, etc.

    Reply
  26. Debbie says

    April 22, 2016 at 12:02 pm

    Great post! Soooooo sensible!
    Thank you for putting the concepts out there.

    Reply
  27. Aylin says

    April 22, 2016 at 3:13 pm

    Dear Caroline,
    I’m turning 30 next month (yes, nearly the same age as you! ) and I’m still not sure, if I found “my” style. Also, what I think what “my” style is, seems to change over time.

    Anyway – with your blog, I kind of started capsuling, which for me meant in the first place to put away the clothes not appropriate for the season. Since then, I further reduced the amount of clothes (even though it had not been much in the beginning). So the distillate that was left over after the reducing and putting away seems to define my style.

    Or something like that. I really find it hard to find words for the process, since so much of it happens unconsciously. This is what I admire the most about your blog – that you are capable of reflecting what’s happening and putting it in a short text :)

    Reply
  28. Emily says

    April 22, 2016 at 4:55 pm

    As the younger sibling, I always got hand-me-downs, and after that my mom would buy me my clothes.

    I’m finally learning what my style is, and the best indicator for me is COMFORT! Am I comfortable physically and emotionally? If not, it’s got to go because I will be too busy worrying or fidgeting during the day to actually pay attention.

    Great tips Caroline!

    Reply
  29. elie says

    April 23, 2016 at 7:28 pm

    It seems that a lot of the time people forget to take in their body type as a consideration on whether or not to buy something. I do it all the time! Longer shirts don’t work on me because I’m short. Neither do low rise jeans! Again, because I’m short. Cropped tops and high waisted bottoms are the perfect combo for me! I’ve recently figured it out and it’s stopped me from buying random pieces that I “think” would look cute on me! Fantastic point!

    Reply
  30. camille says

    April 24, 2016 at 11:49 am

    Such a lovely look
    Xoxo
    http://www.fashionbackyard.blogspot.fr.

    Reply
  31. Caitlin says

    April 24, 2016 at 4:12 pm

    So glad you’re back blogging and you’re mother is recovering! Last year your blog actually inspired me incredibly to cut down my wardrobe, and eventually my makeup collection. I’ve now started my own makeup blog, which like you’ve pointed out with clothing, doesn’t often go hand in hand with minimalism. I’m still learning a lot, but I find your blog so inspirational that I had to say thank you!

    All the best,
    Caitlin

    Reply
  32. Lucretia says

    April 24, 2016 at 7:07 pm

    An excellent post. I never thought about the design aspect of choosing pins. It makes perfect sense, you love it but it’s not for you.
    I am a new receiver of your blog and find your comments relevant.

    Reply
  33. Mademoiselle Coconath says

    April 25, 2016 at 2:49 am

    You look so chic! Love your outfit!
    xx
    Mademoiselle Coconath
    http://mllecoconath.com

    Reply
  34. Janet Hagy says

    April 25, 2016 at 6:26 am

    Such good advice! I’ve been trying to really hone in on my style for about a year now and I was struggling. Now I know why! Thank you Caroline for your excellent evaluation of how to demystify the process.

    Reply
  35. Danielle says

    April 25, 2016 at 10:29 am

    Hi, caroline!

    Love this post — it’s so on point for me. I never considered the concept of aspiration vs. inspiration, but what a light bulb moment! I have a Pinterest board dedicated to style inspiration, but I’m definitely going to start curating it and weeding out what’s really just aspiration. I briefly considered abandoning that board altogether, but I really love using Pinterest as a tool to help me gather style ideas for items that already exist in my closet. I can’t tell you how valuable that’s become! The trick is avoiding tumbling down the rabbit hole and falling victim to the fashion trends (what a challenge that is) or pinning outfit ideas that are really about the vibe and not about the outfit itself.

    My initial enthusiasm for capsule wardrobes and minimalist style has sparked a revolution in my closet, but I’ve discovered that I still like to invest in a few fashion trends every season so that my closet continues to feel inspired and fresh (I’m looking at you, lace-up ballet flats). At first I felt bad about that, but then realized that this is what works for me! I’m just happy to realize I should love all of the things in my closet. No more half-assed shopping. I’m striving to be more intentional about what I purchase, where I purchase, and how much I purchase. I’m also open to shopping second-hand and letting some of my wardrobe go. Liberating. And Fascinating. :-)

    Happy Monday, Caroline!

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 26, 2016 at 11:13 am

      Danielle, I’m glad it feels so liberating for you as well! :) Thanks for checking in. xo, Caroline

      Reply
  36. Katie says

    April 25, 2016 at 11:18 am

    I have been itching to take a cue from you and start a capsule wardrobe. I have been pregnant back to back and have baby weight to shed but hopefully this fall can start. I love the idea of really knowing my style before I get started! Thank you for making getting dressed easier.

    Also I am loving learning about ethical clothing choices and manufacturers too!

    Reply
  37. Amelia Wasserman says

    April 25, 2016 at 2:18 pm

    Thank you Caroline! I downsized my Fashion board from 159 pins to 69 pins.

    It turns out I am a sucker for those collage outfit pins. When I looked at the items individually I really didn’t like any of them.

    There are many items of clothing that are fun to look at, but I would never actually wear, like beachy rompers and tulle skirts. Those pins were easy to delete.

    I also had a lot of repeat pins. Either ones that were very similar or exactly the same. So glad I cleaned it up!

    Reply
  38. Serein says

    April 25, 2016 at 3:54 pm

    Wonderful advice! You have great style!!

    Xoxo
    Serein
    https://sereinwu.com/

    Reply
  39. Kathleen says

    April 25, 2016 at 9:31 pm

    I love the idea of writing down what your daily routine consists of to help decide the type of clothes you need. I have always been a cutesy/fancy type of girl but I have realized that these clothes don’t work with my SAHM lifestyle, and that’s why I never wore my nice clothes and always wore my “good” sweats. After finding your blog about a year ago I donated almost everything in my closet and went shopping one afternoon and refilled it with nice leggings/jeggings and tunic length cute tops that were flowy and fitted around the neck (so everything’s not on display when I bend down to tend to a kiddo), and comfy cute chucks. I am just as comfy during the day as I was in my sweats, but now I don’t look like or feel like a hobo anymore and I have you to thank for that! :)

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 26, 2016 at 11:10 am

      Kathleen, That is so great! Feels good, doesn’t it? :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  40. sarah says

    April 27, 2016 at 5:25 am

    I am struggling to find my style again. a few years ago I was diagnosed with melanoma and now have to be very carful in the sun and try to stay covered. that was the end of denim shorts and little vests! coupled with the fact I was left with a side effect called lymphedema requiring me to wear a thick support stocking on one leg, means I don’t really like uncovering my legs in summer either (I do sometimes wear shorts and smile through all the strange looks I get). so now I am left with the tricky balance of trying to find my style within these restrictions. in many ways these aren’t really any different to restrictions imposed on us by our height, weight or body shape, but it is frustrating having to reject items that I like and that I know would suit me due to other considerations. reading your recent posts though has encouraged me to try harder and perhaps these factors can become the basis of my style rather than a limitation of it, so thank you!

    p.s. for some reason your comments window only displays capital letters, I am hoping this doesn’t persist into the comment post itself and apologies if it appears that I am shouting.

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 27, 2016 at 8:29 am

      Sarah, it would definitely be a challenge to work around something like that! My hope is that you find a happy balance between items you love and items that will keep you safe and healthy. :) Thanks for sharing. xo, Caroline

      Reply
  41. Pam says

    April 27, 2016 at 7:12 am

    Very interesting post. I happned to find the below blog post by Laura Sauer about the same topic. The media really does influence our style choices whether they work for us or not.

    http://www.lmsauer.com/2016/04/i-dressed-like-style-icon-to-prove.html

    Reply
  42. Luce says

    April 27, 2016 at 10:24 am

    Hi Caroline, you have SO helped me with my capsule style, but it’s funny how you’ve inspired me in other ways too. I loved your post a while back explaining how the conductor teaches his orchestra how to handle mistakes – throw your hands in the air and say ‘how interesting’! I teach 4-5 year olds (I think kindergarten in America?), and I tell all my kids in the class to handle mistakes like this. It’s lovely watching a child look a little sad when they answer incorrectly, or they knock a huge tower of blocks down…. and then break out into a huge smile with a ‘how interesting’! Even better, they aren’t afraid to try in front of their friends – there is no embarrassment because they know mistakes are great for learning, and the whole class joins in with a ‘HOW INTERESTING’!! (Sorry this is so off topic. But its become such a crucial part of my teaching and classroom). Thank you.

    In other news – I love a crop top maxi skirt pin. Until I try it. Wrong on me on many, MANY levels. Love Luce xx

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 27, 2016 at 12:40 pm

      Dear Luce, I love this more than you know! Thanks for sharing :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  43. Marie @ The Business of Blooming says

    April 27, 2016 at 11:53 am

    Thanks for such practical tips! I’m totally guilty of wanting to imitate a cool photo shoot and then, looking like a hot mess.
    I think it’s really cool how you incorporate organization into the wardrobe. I think it’s easy to think that because Style looks effortless that it just is.
    Thanks, Caroline :)

    Reply
  44. Becky says

    April 27, 2016 at 4:26 pm

    Thanks so much for this – it’s supremely helpful. I’ve long felt the need to work on my style, but without concrete steps, I find myself paralyzed. I’ve already devoured most of Stacy London’s book (I’m totally a Sarah) and have renewed motivation to take action.

    Reply
  45. Jane says

    April 28, 2016 at 1:42 am

    Hi Caroline!
    When I came across your blog, I thought about how taking daily photos allows style bloggers to look back on past outfits and hone in on what works/doesn’t for them, and thought,”why can’t I do that for myself (but without posting for all to see)?” So I started to take a daily picture of my outfit and saved them to a folder on my phone. After about 3 months, it was clear what items I liked to wear regularly, and after several seasons, I had a better sense of what my style was and what worked best for me and my lifestyle. Other realizations: 1. clothes that looked good in my closet but looked meh on me were more easy to let go of. 2. seeing items on me in pictures rather than on supermodels helped me to be more discerning with my pins as well as future purchases. 3. I took pictures daily, which meant a lot of repeat outfits, but by comparing the same outfit worn on different days, I realized how just a different accessory or haircut made an outfit look much better, which also cut down on my purchases.
    Side note: belated welcome back and I’m digging this slow fashion angle you’ve taken on your blog! – Jane

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 28, 2016 at 10:23 am

      Hi Jane, I love the recommendation of daily pictures!! What a smart idea, and a clear way to see what looks great and gets repeat wear. :) Great suggestion xo, Caroline

      Reply
  46. allie says

    April 28, 2016 at 9:44 pm

    i love those sneakers! the link takes me to men’s sizes – is that what you are wearing?

    thanks!

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      April 28, 2016 at 10:29 pm

      Hi Allie! Yes those are the ones. I’m normally a 7, so I ordered the 38 and they run true to size. :) Hope that helps! xo, Caroline

      Reply
      • allie says

        May 1, 2016 at 3:49 pm

        thank you!

        Reply
  47. lynn says

    May 3, 2016 at 2:46 am

    Hi Caroline,

    I’ve been your loyal reader for a pretty long time, and your blog inspired me a lot. Thank you so much! I like your capsule wardrobe planner, and am using it to plan my summer capsule wardrobe :). Since there are more and more Chinese readers are into minimalism lifestyle, and wanna build their own capsule wardrobes as well. Do you mind if I translate your planner into Chinese, and share it with my Chinese friends? I will introduce your blog to them as well~

    Thanks,

    Lynn

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      May 3, 2016 at 4:13 pm

      Hi Lynn! That sounds pretty great! Thanks for checking in :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  48. Za says

    May 3, 2016 at 6:33 am

    I’ve been away from your blog far too long. Too many things going on in my head and a real need to get back to simplifying, emptying, tidying and enjoying what I’ve got.

    Reply
  49. Eva Del Rio says

    May 5, 2016 at 1:17 pm

    Great post! Love your blog and your style. Quick question about the Stylebook app. I searched for it and it’s not available on Android. Can you recommend an equivalent? I’m trying Stylicious but not crazy about it,
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      May 5, 2016 at 5:57 pm

      Eva, I can’t personally recommend anything since I don’t use Android, and it seems that most of the style/closet apps are iOS — but have you tried Personal Closet or Pureple? Good luck :) xo, Caroline

      Reply
  50. Ashley says

    May 6, 2016 at 10:33 am

    Thanks for the tips! Can you recommend an app for Android-users that is comparable to Stylebook?

    Reply
    • Caroline says

      May 6, 2016 at 12:20 pm

      Hey Ashley, I can’t speak for the quality of the apps since I haven’t used them, but have you tried Stylicious, Pureple, or Personal Closet? xo, Caroline

      Reply
  51. Valerie says

    May 13, 2016 at 11:46 am

    I love how clean this look is and this bag is EVERYTHING!

    Reply
  52. trish says

    May 16, 2016 at 6:13 am

    I am coming at this from a completely different angle… I love wearing good clothes, but I don’t enjoy shopping and so I tend to buy high quality, classic pieces that last a long time so that I don’t have to shop often! So after doing a wardrobe cull of things that had either worn out or no longer fit comfortably, I have found myself with… I can’t quite believe this myself… 36 pieces. Total. I don’t even know where to start, really, to fill in all the gaps. I’m sure it’s daunting to stand in front of an enormous wardrobe and try to whittle it down to 37 items but I can tell you from experience, it’s awful to stand in front of an empty one, too!

    Reply
  53. This city chic says

    May 22, 2016 at 7:12 am

    Hi,

    You have a great blog and you take really good photos.
    Love it!

    I’m starting my journey with the minimalist wardrobe, and hopefully it will be a successful one. I’m having a bit of a hard time getting rid of stuff, but I know there is no other option since I’m not really even wearing most of them.
    Here is a post I wrote on this issue:
    https://wordpress.com/post/coffeenglam.wordpress.com/238

    Have a great day! :)

    Reply
  54. Stacey says

    June 1, 2016 at 9:52 pm

    Love this blog, I’M STARTING TO TRAIN MYSELF TO BE A MINIMILIST AS I HAVE FAR TOO MUCH OF EVERYTHING.
    I AM IN THE PROCESS OF MOVING AND AS SOON AS I AM SETTLED I AM GOING TO CAPSULE MY WARDROBE INTO MANAGEABLENESS AND NOT A FRUSTRATING MESS.

    Reply
    • Stacey says

      June 1, 2016 at 9:53 pm

      SORRY FOR THE CAPS, KEYBOARD IS STUCK !

      Reply
  55. Julia says

    August 3, 2016 at 2:23 pm

    “It turns out I was just in love with the photo.” I have been making this mistake over and over again. You bring it to the point.
    I had a colour consultation a few months ago: for me, this was the best thing I could do. Since then, I started my capsule wardrobe experiment. The best thing. I love it!
    Your blog is so great – thanks for that! Greetings from Germany

    Reply
  56. Thirty Seconds says

    September 25, 2016 at 6:02 am

    These are great tips. Even I believe that each one of us have our own list of Must have. There is no one size fits all. Here’s my method to make your own must have list thirtysecondsconsulting.wordpress.com/2016/01/18/the-list-of-must-have-things/.

    Reply
  57. Catherine says

    January 20, 2017 at 5:48 pm

    Brilliant piece :)

    Reply
  58. Taylor Sauce says

    January 2, 2018 at 11:34 pm

    I love those sneakers!
    ( https://www.thetaylorsauce.com/hamptons-in-the-fall/ )

    Reply

Trackbacks

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    April 21, 2016 at 7:32 pm

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  2. Weekend Links / / A Shared Pint on the PCH  – A Short Blonde says:
    April 22, 2016 at 10:46 am

    […] Three Steps to Develop Your Personal Style / / The tip I found most enlightening was to separate actual outfit details from pretty styling in photos I pin on Pinterest. How many times do we pin beautiful images that would never work for our lifestyle or even climate? I do it a lot! […]

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