Capsule #2 // Outfit 20
I am not going to lie here. I don’t love the way this look turned out. Sometimes you have an idea in your head, but it just turns out kind of meh. But I decided to post it anyway because it could be a good lesson in styling. So pull out your #2 pencils, class. It’s time for Why This Doesn’t Work 101.
For starters, the shoes. The gladiator sandals cut me off at the ankles, and that mixed with the longer length of the skirt…well, it just isn’t flattering. I would have done much better wearing either a chunky heel or a flat sandal sans ankle strap.
The second mistake is the bag. Notice how there is a lot going on up top with the bag and necklace? It’s too much. I should have gone with either a clutch or a little black bag that would blend a little more with the dress and take away some of the visual clutter.
So that’s what I think. Do you agree or not so much?
Necklace: BUY or MAKE (you’ll need about 40 beads)
Dress: old from Ann Taylor (similar)
Bag: old from Fossil (similar)
Shoes: DSW
Hi! I just found your blog and I got to say I love it! I might try capsule wardrobe soon .. One of the things I appreciate in clothing is simplicity, so this could be my thing. I am definitely going to keep reading your blog, your outfits gives really much inspiration.
Greetings from Finland!
I don’t think it’s that bad, but I agree the bag + necklace combo is a bit heavy. I’ve noticed the outfits I like, that seem to really work with statement necklaces tend to have everything but the necklace monochromatic and understated so the necklace really pops. I also think this dress would work well with a belt, but maybe not a belt and statement necklace.
I love this type of post, Caroline! Maybe you should post all your “meh” outfits and we can practice anylizing them! That said, I actually think this is a pretty cute look. The shoes are not bugging me at all–you can totally rock an ankle strap. I love that bag (I’m obsessed with cognac completely) but I do agree that probably for this outfit it’s not the best.
I think having some less-successful outfits, and getting a chance to learn about yourself and style, is all part of the capsule wardrobe experience. Thanks so much for doing this blog! I’m really inspired by this, have put away and given away a ton of clothes in the last week, and am doing a little capsule project of my own. It honestly feels so refreshing.
I’m no style expert, but I do love this outfit! What I love most is that you still appear confident in what you’re wearing, even though it may not be exactly perfect. For me, that’s the most important thing about style – wearing something that may not necessarily “work” but still having the confidence to pull it off.
Love this Lori, and I completely agree. Confidence is what makes style. Such a great reminder. :) xoxo Caroline
I’m so happy to have found your blog. This is exactly the challenge I need and want. Simplicity. Thank you for sharing such a different approach to fashion blogging. It’s a breath of fresh air. This has now become one of two blogs I read. I have a question about your statement necklace. Would you mind sharing what type of cording you used and fasteners? I’d love to make one similar. Thanks!
First of all, I really adore everything you are doing here! I found your site via your interview on Into-Mind. I read that this morning and have been scrolling through your posts for the past 90 minutes. Coffee + Style = Perfect Morning!
Regarding this outfit, I think the shoes and the necklace compete with one another – in addition to the bag. I am viewing this on my iPad. When I cover the purse on my screen with my hand, my eyes don’t know where to look- the necklace, or the sandals.