In this post I’ll be sharing my French Inspired Winter Capsule Wardrobe. Winter brings with it a unique charm and an opportunity to redefine your style with a carefully curated capsule wardrobe. A winter capsule wardrobe is not just about staying warm; it’s about embracing the season with elegance and comfort. If you are interested in transitioning to or learning more about a capsule wardrobe, then this post is for you.
If you aren’t familiar with a capsule wardrobe, it’s 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. I began transitioning to a capsule wardrobe over 5 years ago and I’m obsessed! Let’s explore how you can create a versatile and chic winter capsule wardrobe that will keep you both cozy and stylish throughout the chilly months.
My secret to creating a winter capsule wardrobe is focusing on the outer layer, like the jackets & coats. I like to keep the first, under layer basic for interchanging. You’ll notice I don’t have a ton of pants I choose from in the winter. I just use a few pieces and interchange them with different tops and jackets/coats.
My personal capsule wardrobe consists of a neutral palette. I incorporate colors such as camel, oatmeal, black, cream and grey with the occasional darker shade of green in my wardrobe. Green is my color. It makes my eyes pop and goes well with my skintone. Do you know what colors work well with your skintone, eyes and hair? It’s most likely those colors that people compliment you on when you wear them.
Why a French Inspired Wardrobe?
I am drawn to the sophisticated, timeless and effortlessly chic sense of style that many French women possess. Due to my lifestyle, being a business owner, fitness instructor and active boy mom, my wardrobe ranges from athleisure to simple & sophisticated. I find that keeping things simple with a capsule wardrobe allows me to focus on the more important things in my life, rather than stressing about which outfit I’m putting together next. It also allows me to appear pulled together when in reality, it’s an effortless process because I choose from a small number of items. I can’t tell you how easy packing for trips has become! They are a breeze now.
What Pieces Should You Have In Your French Inspired Winter Capsule Wardrobe?
There isn’t a rule on how many pieces you should have in your capsule wardrobe. However, I’ve found that investing in fewer higher-end pieces for those items you will wear year after year, like a camel coat or black parka is well worth the money spent.
1. Foundation Pieces:
Start by selecting timeless, high-quality basics as the foundation of your winter wardrobe. Think about classic items like a well-fitted coat, a cozy sweater, and a good pair of denim. I personally opt for neutral colors like camel, grey, and black to ensure these pieces seamlessly integrate with the rest of my collection.
2. Layering Essentials:
Winter demands strategic layering to combat the cold. Invest in a variety of layering pieces such as long sleeves, sweaters and cardigans. These items not only add warmth but also provide flexibility in styling, allowing you to create different looks with the same core pieces.
3. Versatile Outerwear:
A stylish winter coat is the centerpiece of any winter wardrobe. Choose a versatile coat that suits your lifestyle, whether it’s a tailored wool coat for a polished look or a parka for a more casual vibe. Don’t forget to consider functionality alongside style—opt for pieces that can withstand the elements. For example: I’m a sports mom, my winter parka is a must!
4. Cozy Knits:
Embrace the warmth and texture of knitted sweaters. From chunky cable-knits to sleek cashmere pullovers, these pieces add both style and comfort to your winter ensemble. Mix and match them with various bottoms for diverse outfits.
5. Bottoms for Every Occasion:
Include a range of bottoms to cater to different occasions. Black pants, jeans, and leggings can be paired with various tops and outerwear, offering flexibility for both casual and more formal settings.
6. Accessorize for Flair:
Accessories play a crucial role in elevating your winter style. Invest in quality scarves, hats, and gloves to add a touch of personality to your outfits. Classic accessories in coordinating colors can tie your entire capsule wardrobe together.
7. Footwear with Function:
Choose footwear that not only complements your winter aesthetic but also keeps your feet warm and dry. Invest in stylish boots with insulation for added comfort during colder days.
8. Mindful Shopping:
Building a winter capsule wardrobe is an exercise in mindful shopping. Prioritize quality over quantity, and choose pieces that align with your personal style. This approach not only reduces clutter but also encourages a more sustainable and intentional approach to fashion.
In Conclusion
Crafting a winter capsule wardrobe is about creating a curated collection that reflects your style and embraces the beauty of the season. With a thoughtfully selected array of timeless pieces, you can effortlessly navigate the winter months in style, staying warm and chic every step of the way.
Head over to My French Inspired Fall Capsule Wardrobe Post for more info on…
- The Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe
- How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe and
- The French Woman Style
Here’s a list of items and outfit inspiration I’ve put together for my French inspired winter capsule wardrobe. I hope it gives you some inspiration for your winter wardrobe.
Some of My Favorite French Inspired Winter Pieces
Black Puffer Coat | Camel Winter Coat | Gray Cardigan | Camel Trench Coat | Brown Checkered Blazer | Camel Blazer | Green Jacket
Black Long Sleeve Body Suit | Green Sweater | Camel Sweater | Beige Sweater | Black Dress | Gray Sweatshirt | Green Sweatshirt | Camel Dress
Flare Denim Jeans | Black Skirt | Leather Leggings | Black Skinny Jeans | Black Tights | Black Leggings
White Socks | Black Chelsea Boot | Ugg Slipper | Beige Boot | Socks Set | Black Bootie | Black Boot | Nike Sneaker
Beige Scarf | Beige Gloves | Black Gloves | Black Scarf | Black Hat | Beige Hat
Gold Hoops | Pearl Studs | Gold Studs | Gold Necklace | Gold Layered Necklace | Similar Gold Necklace | Gold Bracelet | Apple Watch | Black Purse | Black Bag
Outfit Inspiration for a French Inspired Winter Capsule Wardrobe
Leggings | Jacket | Long Sleeve | Sneakers | Socks | Green Jacket | Uggs | Puffer Jacket | Beanie | Scarf | Sweater | Gloves | Booties | Trench Coat | Gray Sweatshirt
Black Boots | Leather Leggings | Sweater | Bag | Sunglasses | Blazer | Tights | Bodysuit | Mini Skirt | Purse | Sweater Dress | Trench Coat | Jeans | Booties
Winter Capsule Wardrobe Try Ons
Trench Coat | Gray Hoodie | Leggings | Sneakers
Scarf | Trench Coat | Leggings | Gloves | Boots
Beanie | Scarf | Trench Coat | Gloves | Leggings | Boots | Bag
Scarf | Jacket | Leggings | Socks | Boots | Bag
Hat | Scarf | Jacket | Leggings | Socks | Boots
Blazer | Bodysuit | Jeans | Boots | Bag
Sweater | Jeans | Boots | Purse
Jacket | Black Shirt | Leggings | Sneakers
Factors to Keep in Mind as You Create Your Winter Capsule Wardrobe
Climate
For your winter capsule wardrobe, you also have to keep in mind the climate you reside in. Your winter may look more like my fall or visa versa. I live in north central Texas and it’s HOT in the summers and can get bone chilling in the winter for a month or two. We also don’t get a ton of snow, it may snow a day or two out of the year, but we will usually get a few days of ice in February (and the whole city shuts down) ;). Therefore, there is no need for snow shoes for me. All things to keep in mind as you curate your own personal winter capsule wardrobe.
Stage of Life
Keep in mind… I’m out of the stage of raising littles. My boys are now almost 12 and 9. I didn’t adopt my capsule wardrobe until my kids were a little older and out of the messy stage. I don’t think I would have invested in higher end pieces when I was consistently getting thrown up on, spilled on and cleaning up messes nonstop. 😉 Even with that said, you can still adopt a capsule wardrobe without spending a ton of money. You just may have to purchase new items more often as they wear out.
Additional Resources
Learn more about the French woman lifestyle and a capsule wardrobe with these resources.
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