I think I began adopting a french inspired capsule wardrobe a few years after my youngest was born. So sometime between 2018 and 2019. I gave my body time to heal from pregnancy and post-partum and get back in shape after having kiddos. I knew we weren’t having any more kids and I had always been very interested in a French inspired capsule wardrobe. I was also ready for some simplicity in my life. (It may have had something to do with raising two energetic boys.) 😉 We were trying to budget and spend less as well. Therefore, I stopped spending money on so many pieces that would be out of style the next season and slowly started accumulating timeless, neutral, staple pieces that I knew I would wear every year. For example, a stylish raincoat, a good pair of black denim, a camel sweater and so forth. I focused on accumulating pieces that were interchangeable as well.
A Few Examples of My French Inspired Fall Capsule Wardrobe
Green Jacket | Black Body Con Dress | Black Heels | Gold Necklaces
This black body con dress can be worn with everything! Dressed up or down. You can dress it up with heels and a cute jacket or blazer. It can also be worn with a denim shirt tied around the waist with sneakers and a ball cap.
White Button Down | Black Jeans | Black Booties | Gold Bracelets | Gold Necklaces
Black denim and a white button down, two major staples in my closet. I wear this top with all my denim. The black denim can be dressed up or down as well. Dress it up with heels or booties. Dress it down with sneakers.
Blue Button Down | Jeans | White Sneakers | Gold Necklaces
Denim on Denim. Easy staple. Not sure this will ever go out of style. The light denim shirt also goes with black denim, a floral skirt, or a black denim skirt. I wear these dark denim jeans for all seasons.
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a minimalist approach to clothing and fashion that involves curating a collection of versatile, high-quality, and timeless clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. The concept of a capsule wardrobe is to have a smaller, carefully selected set of clothing that you genuinely love and that fits well, rather than a large and cluttered wardrobe filled with trendy or disposable fashion items.
Key characteristics of a capsule wardrobe include:
- Limited Number of Items
- Versatility
- Timelessness
- Quality Over Quantity
- Seasonal Rotation
- Personalization
- Reducing Clutter
Creating a capsule wardrobe can be a thoughtful and intentional process. It often involves evaluating your current clothing, decluttering items that no longer serve you, and carefully selecting new pieces that complement your existing collection. The goal is to have a wardrobe that brings joy, saves time and money, and aligns with your personal style and values.
The Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe
Adopting a capsule wardrobe saves money, reduces clutter, makes getting dressed easier and so much more. Some of these benefits are listed below.
- Simplicity:
- Less Clutter:
- Cost-Effective:
- Versatility:
- Personal Style:
- Reduced Decision Fatigue:
- Travel-Friendly:
- Mindfulness:
- Stress Reduction:
While a capsule wardrobe can offer numerous benefits, it’s important to note that the number of items in a capsule wardrobe and its specific composition can vary from person to person. What works as a capsule wardrobe for one individual may not be the same for another, and it should be tailored to your lifestyle, preferences, and needs. So if you are interested in the Parisian or French inspired capsule wardrobe for busy, active moms this is for you.
How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe
- Define Your Style:
- Start by defining your personal style and the types of clothing that make you feel comfortable, confident, and express your personality. Consider what colors, patterns, and silhouettes you prefer.
- Assess Your Lifestyle:
- Think about your daily activities and lifestyle. Your wardrobe should be tailored to your needs, whether you work in an office, have a casual lifestyle, or require specific clothing for hobbies or activities.
- Clear Out Your Closet:
- Donate or sell items that you no longer wear or that don’t fit your style.
- Determine Your Color Palette:
- Choose a color palette that complements your skin tone and is versatile. Neutrals like black, white, gray, and navy are great starting points, and you can add a few accent colors if desired.
- Select Versatile Basics:
- Invest in high-quality, timeless basics that can be mixed and matched easily. These may include:
- T-shirts
- Button-up shirts
- Sweaters
- Jeans
- Trousers
- Skirts
- Dresses
- Invest in high-quality, timeless basics that can be mixed and matched easily. These may include:
- Focus on Quality:
- Invest in well-made, durable pieces that will last. Quality items tend to be more comfortable, look better, and can save you money in the long run.
- Add Seasonal Pieces:
- Incorporate seasonal items to adapt your capsule wardrobe for different weather conditions. For example, coats, scarves, and swimsuits.
- Accessories:
- Include a few versatile accessories like belts, shoes, and bags that can elevate your outfits and add personality.
- Mix and Match:
- Experiment with different combinations to create various outfits. The goal is to have a wardrobe where most pieces can be worn together.
- Regularly Edit:
- Every season or as needed, reevaluate your capsule wardrobe. Remove items that no longer serve you or have worn out and add new ones if necessary.
- Shop Mindfully:
- When shopping for new items, be intentional and selective. Consider if the new piece complements your existing wardrobe and whether you truly need it.
- Store Seasonal Items:
- Store off-season clothing to keep your active wardrobe clutter-free and organized.
What is a French Inspired Capsule Wardrobe?
I tend to lean more toward a French inspired capsule wardrobe. I am drawn to the sophisticated neutrals. Due to my lifestyle, being a business owner, fitness instructor and active boy mom, my wardrobe ranges from athleisure to simple & sophisticated. Read below why the French woman’s style inspires me.
The French Woman
French women are often admired for their timeless and effortlessly chic sense of style. I’ve always admired their style. While not all French women dress the same, there are some common elements that are often associated with French fashion:
- Simplicity
- Neutral Colors
- Quality Over Quantity
- Tailoring
- Effortless Elegance & Natural Beauty
- Mixing High end clothing pieceds and Low end
- Accessorizing
- Functional Footwear
- Confidence
Ultimately, what sets French women apart is their confidence. They wear what makes them feel good and exude self-assuredness in their style choices. While these characteristics are often associated with French style, fashion is diverse, and not all French women conform to this stereotype.
In Conclusion
If you decide to adopt a capsule wardrobe for yourself, remember it’s a personal process. It should reflect your style, needs, and preferences. Be patient and flexible as you fine-tune your wardrobe over time. The key is to prioritize quality, versatility, and clothing that brings you joy while reducing clutter and decision fatigue in your daily life.
Some of My Favorite Fall Looks
My French Inspired Fall Capsule Items
Camel Blazer | Jean Jacket | Leather Jacket | Cropped Camel Jacket | Green Raincoat | Black Athletic Jacket | Shacket | Green Cropped Jacket
Plaid Button Down | Brown Long Sleeve | Green Button Down | White Long Sleeve | Black Button Up | White Long Sleeve Button Up | Blue Long Sleeve Button Up | Nude Long Sleeve Bodysuit
Denim Jeans | Black Skinny Jeans | Denim Skirt | Leather Leggings | Black Denim Skirt | Straight Denim Jeans | Denim Skinny Jeans | Denim Flare Jeans
Camel Slip Ons | Nude Heels | Black Suede Booties | Hunter Boots | Black Slip Ons | Nike Sneakers | White Sneakers | Beige Suede Booties | Black Booties
Fall Capsule Pieces
Jackets:
- Camel Blazer
- Green Rain Coat
- Faux Leather Jacket
- Cropped Utility Jacket
- Full Length Utility Jacket
- Suede Tan Moto Jacket
- Jean Jacket
- Amazon Jacket
- Jean Jacket with Hood
- Oversized Hoodie
- Black Athletic Jacket
- Another Black Athletic Jacket
- Lululemon Jacket
- Shacket
Tops:
- Plaid Button Down
- The Classic Chambray
- The Relaxed Linen Shirt
- Olive Green Button Down
- Long Sleeve White and/or Black Fitness Shirt
- Workout Tank
- Nude Long Sleeve Bodysuit
Dress:
Pants:
- Grey/Black Jeans
- Dark Blue Jeans
- Black Skinny Jeans
- Spanx Leggings
- Flare, Cropped, Ripped Jeans
- Zella Leggings
- Leggings That Feel Like Butter
- Denim Flare Jeans
- Denim Skirt
- Black Denim Skirt
Shoes:
- Nude Booties
- Rain Boots
- Chelsea Boots
- Black Suede Booties
- Tan Slip On Mules
- Black Slip On Mules
- Nike Sneakers
- White Sneakers
- Nude & Black Pumps
- Nike Shoes
- More White Sneakers
- Asics
Accessories:
- Tan Tote
- Khaki Ball Cap
- Navy Ball Cap
- Backpack
- Fannypack
- Black & White Hat
- Long Gold Necklace
- Short Gold Necklace
- Pearl Earrings
- Gold Layered Necklace
- Gold Layered Bracelet
- Gold Statement Hoops
- Gold Studs
- Sports Athletic Apple Watch Band
- Gold Apple Watch Band
- Black & Brown Leather Apple Watch Band
Additional Resources
Learn more about the French woman lifestyle and a capsule wardrobe with these resources.
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