Lace & Pearls

A Seattle Style blog. Helping women who struggle with their personal style or those who just need a fashion fix!

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #9 – 5 Reasons to Start Your Own Capsule Wardrobe

In honor of the Spring Wardrobe Challenge coming to an end (only one post left!), I thought it would be helpful to revisit my goals and what I wanted to accomplish. This will hopefully inspire you to start your own capsule wardrobe and rid yourself of unnecessary items.In honor of the Spring Wardrobe Challenge coming to an end (only one post left!), I thought it would be helpful to revisit my goals and what I wanted to accomplish. This will hopefully inspire you to start your own capsule wardrobe and rid yourself of unnecessary items. In honor of the Spring Wardrobe Challenge coming to an end (only one post left!), I thought it would be helpful to revisit my goals and what I wanted to accomplish. This will hopefully inspire you to start your own capsule wardrobe and rid yourself of unnecessary items. This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

In honor of the Spring Wardrobe Challenge coming to an end (only one post left!), I thought it would be helpful to revisit my goals and what I wanted to accomplish. This will hopefully inspire you to start your own capsule wardrobe and rid yourself of unnecessary items. In case you missed it, also check out this post on 6 Things I’ve Learned From My Capsule Wardrobe.

5 Reasons to Start Your Own Capsule Wardrobe

Save money. This was a huge one! Not only was I feeling creatively stagnant in my clothing choices, but I also didn’t want to spend a bunch of money. Due to some weight gain, I didn’t have many options that still worked. My 10 pieces were interchangeable and perfect for every day.

Ignite creativity and feel content. Prior to starting this blog almost four years ago I was a complete shopaholic! When I felt stressed I would shop. Didn’t feel pretty? Shop. Lose or gain weight? I would shop. Thankfully J.Jill sent me a bunch of spring items so I didn’t have to pick up a lot of stuff: see here, here, and here. As a bonus, working with less helped me think outside of the box and allowed me to really maximize my 10 items.

Make intentional purchases. Once I paired down my wardrobe and curated my 10 looks, I found that what I really needed was some new undergarments like tanks, underwear, and bras. What I had was either too small, old, or both.

Identify wardrobe gaps. Other than undergarments, I realized that I could also use a few more pairs of shoes and another lightweight jacket. I wore my denim jacket and some other lightweight options for most of the season. I realized I wanted one more, preferably something that looks good with black.

Try something new. When you’re limited to only 10 pieces you have to get creative, which is why I am a big fan of this outfit where I wore my dress as a skirt. I know it’s not super innovative but I was proud of myself for trying something new.

Will you be trying a capsule wardrobe? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Shop the Post:

Blouse: J.Jill c/o | Denim: J. Crew | Purse: Issac Mizrahi (thrift) | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Booties: Report c/o Famous Footwear (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #8 – The Lightweight Sweater

How are we already toward the end of May when it feels like spring has just arrived? Although we have been lucky enough to have some warm days, we still tend to have some chilly ones throughout the season, so even though we are mid-spring, I can always use some type of lightweight sweater. How are we already toward the end of May when it feels like spring has just arrived? Although we have been lucky enough to have some warm days, we still tend to have some chilly ones throughout the season, so even though we are mid-spring, I can always use some type of lightweight sweater. How are we already toward the end of May when it feels like spring has just arrived? Although we have been lucky enough to have some warm days, we still tend to have some chilly ones throughout the season, so even though we are mid-spring, I can always use some type of lightweight sweater.This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

How are we already toward the end of May when it feels like spring has just arrived? Although we have been lucky enough to have some warm days, we still tend to have some chilly ones throughout the season, so even though we are mid-spring, I can always use some type of lightweight sweater.

The Lightweight Sweater

Other then the leopard print, this sweater is perfect for cooler days. The material is super soft but not overly warm for days that are damp or overcast. My suggestion is, depending on your climate, don’t pack away all of your sweaters. They’re great for early mornings and afternoons spent al fresco. Rosé anyone?

Today’s takeaway – wear lightweight layers that are easy to throw in your purse when you’re not using them. This sweater is perfect for just that! In the early morning, I can wear it over this camisole and by the afternoon I can wear the cami on its own (available in several colors). Since this sweater was on the shorter side, I added the cami for a little flare. The accessories are minimal, but I still managed to slip in this statement pendant and adorable cat purse!

Where is your favorite place to shop for lightweight sweaters? Share in the comments.

Shop the post:

Sweater: J.Crew (similar) | Camisole: J.Crew | Denim: J. Crew | Purse: Ted Baker (similar) | Necklace: Zulily c/o | Booties: Paul Green (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #7 – Be the Change You Want to See

This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

This post is a deviation from my typical fashion post and capsule wardrobe series, but I felt like I wanted to share something a bit deeper today. Hope you enjoy!

For the past few weeks I have felt incredibly uninspired and depressed. Last month I turned 35, but I don’t really think the age thing is a factor (although I didn’t realize it until I saw it listed somewhere about a week and a half later and thought that I was 34). Oh brother! I seriously didn’t know and neither did my husband.

Be the Change You Want to See

When it comes to my birthday, I don’t really like celebrating and feel super guilty asking people to. I’m an introvert in an extrovert’s clothing and do much better one-on-one. I thrive on deep connections rather than surface ones and struggle with anything else. If I don’t have a deep connection with the people I surround myself with then I’d rather just be alone. Does anyone else feel that way?

This year, my husband had to work late so my birthday was spent alone. Instead of having a home-cooked meal or going out, I stayed in and watched reruns of the Atlanta Housewives and snacked on whatever I could scrounge up. Between this and the last few birthdays I’ve had, I’ve realized that I want the next to be different, so my lesson here is to be the change you want to see. If you’re unhappy with something, change it. It won’t be easy, but it’s possible.

Here are two things I want to work on:

  • Plan my birthday early. This doesn’t mean that my party needs to be epic (who doesn’t want that), but setting aside time to reflect on what I want and how I want to feel is key. Other things I should think about is who to invite and what to do. Not planning my birthday in the past has worked out poorly, so making the time to plan ahead should really help.
  • My weight-loss journey. I’ve mentioned my weight gain in this post but haven’t really shared much details. Every week I do Orange Theory and try to watch my portions, but by the end of the week I’ve sabotaged things. Here are three reasons why I think this is:
    1. Treating myself to a cookie does not mean that my diet is ruined; I can still eat healthy throughout the day and balance things out. It does not mean that I get to binge on everything in sight because I’ve already made a mistake. I need to remember this, underline and bold it. So important! I would seriously be much further along if I did.
    2. Mindset is key. I’ve started Weight Watchers countless times and fail each week. For some reason, I think it should be easy, but deep down I know that isn’t true so I need to throw that idea out and get focused. I have always eaten healthy meals but have the worse time with portion control. I’m just going to have to suck it up and realize this is part of the deal.
    3. My favorite time to snack is at night when I’m on the couch. Since I know this, I try to drink a herbal tea or a high-protein smoothie to help with my cravings, but breaking the habit would be much more effective. I need to stop depending on food to feel content. Going to bed early or limiting the amount of TV I watch is helpful.

Hope this post inspires you to keep on thriving in all areas of your life! If you have similar thoughts on feeling lonely or know what changes you want to see in yourself, share them in the comments.

Shop the Post


Sweater: Banana Republic (similar here and here) | Camisole: J.Crew | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Jeans: J.Crew (similar) | Shoes: Report (similar) c/o Famous Footwear | Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #6 – Transitional Outfit For Spring

The weather here in Seattle is not quite warm yet and even though there have been some glimmers of spring, the temperature is still cold. This is why having a few transitional outfits on hand is key! Last week we had a high in the 70s and I had to think fast when it came to my clothing. The weather here in Seattle is not quite warm yet and even though there have been some glimmers of spring, the temperature is still cold. This is why having a few transitional outfits on hand is key! Last week we had a high in the 70s and I had to think fast when it came to my clothing. The weather here in Seattle is not quite warm yet and even though there have been some glimmers of spring, the temperature is still cold. This is why having a few transitional outfits on hand is key! Last week we had a high in the 70s and I had to think fast when it came to my clothing.

This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

The weather here in Seattle is not quite warm yet and even though there have been some glimmers of spring, the temperature is still cold. This is why having a few transitional outfits on hand is key! Last week we had a high in the 70s and I had to think fast when it came to my clothing. The mornings tend to be cool and the afternoons are warm, so it’s super helpful having an outfit with multiple layers.

Transitional Outfit For Spring

You are probably tired of seeing this vest, or maybe it’s just me (see other two looks here and here). Having an outer layer that is functional and cute has been great for days when the weather is unpredictable. As the day progresses, I can remove the vest and still have a cute blouse underneath. It has seriously been my best closet staple to date, but I am a little excited to put it away for summer. Plus, it could use a good dry cleaning!

I’m also still loving these button fly jeans (buttons not shown). They have been so popular that they sold out, but this non-button fly option is still available and they’re also available in this lighter wash with button fly I would snatch them up before they’re gone too! They fit true to size and are very comfortable.

I just can’t say enough good things about this blouse! It’s seriously so cute and comfortable. I’ll definitely be wearing it throughout the warmer months and again when it turns cold. The pocket detail and red threading are subtle, but I love them so much. It would also look great with a pair of leggings and sneakers if that is your style. Throw on a denim jacket and you’re good to go!

I do wish I had tied the front of this blouse or tucked it in for a cleaner and more flattering look. I originally had it tied at the waist, but wasn’t sure how I liked it. After seeing the photos, I would have left it tied. This is another lesson I’ve learned from having a capsule wardrobe and documenting my looks.

Shop the Post:


Vest: Club Monaco (similar) | Blouse: J.Jill c/o | Jeans: J.Crew | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Booties: Paul Green (similar) | Purse: Ted Baker (shop spring version) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #5 – 6 Things I’ve Learned From My Capsule Wardrobe

We are halfway through the 10X10 capsule wardrobe challenge! I have seriously learned so much about myself and my style going through this process. I've learned what works for my body type and what doesn't, and even how to pose better in photos! Curious about what else I've learned? Keep reading for all the deets. We are halfway through the 10X10 capsule wardrobe challenge! I have seriously learned so much about myself and my style going through this process. I've learned what works for my body type and what doesn't, and even how to pose better in photos! Curious about what else I've learned? Keep reading for all the deets. We are halfway through the 10X10 capsule wardrobe challenge! I have seriously learned so much about myself and my style going through this process. I've learned what works for my body type and what doesn't, and even how to pose better in photos! Curious about what else I've learned? Keep reading for all the deets.

This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

We are halfway through the 10X10 capsule wardrobe challenge! I have seriously learned so much about myself and my style going through this process. I’ve learned what works for my body type and what doesn’t, and even how to pose better in photos! Curious about what else I’ve learned? Keep reading for all the deets.

6 Things I’ve Learned From My Capsule Wardrobe

  • Cute clothes don’t always photograph well. Take this sweater for example. It has all of the qualities of a great sweater, but the waistband is not ideal for those who are wide through the midsection. In fact, this type of style makes me appear a lot larger. I’m pretty disappointed since I love this sweater so much and am obsessed with the ruffle collar.
  • Good posture is key. Sadly, my old photographer is no longer shooting and I am in the process of finding a new one. She made shooting a breeze! I could literally just show up and she would suggest poses and keep an eye out for flattering and non-flattering angles. For this shoot, I had to depend on myself and forgot to elongate my neck and posture. My previous photographer would always remind me to think tall and lengthen my neck. When I saw these photos, I realized I had missed the mark and my neck was lost in the majority of these photos. This is key in taking a flattering picture. Always stand up straight and keep your neck elongated as much as possible. You might feel awkward but your photo will look much nicer, I promise!
  • Nude-like lipsticks aren’t always best on camera. Although I love this lipstick, it just fell flat on camera. I realize now that I should have added a gloss on top to make things pop. I kinda look washed out and dead. Now I understand the beauty of heavy-handed makeup when being on camera or on stage. It looks great in real life, but on camera, brighter is probably better.
  • A button down shirt is a great closet staple. Even though I would have avoided it for this particular look, it’s a great way to add interest and stay warm in the colder months. The extra material really doesn’t do me any favors and I should have tucked it in or gone without it. I have two more looks featuring this blouse and probably could have come up with several others, so stay tuned for those.
  • Neutral palettes are easy to work with. When building a small wardrobe, neutral colors really allow you to maximize your closet and interchange your look. I do prefer neutral colors but am not shy of brighter options, so I was kinda surprised that my capsule wardrobe ended up being predominately neutral with touches of black.
  • You don’t need a lot of clothes to look good. I knew this from day one and still stand behind it! After starting this blog about 3 1/2 years ago, I shop less and value the clothes that I own. I might need more variety if my lifestyle was a little different, but for my 9-5 and casual weekends, this is all I need.

How are you enjoying this series? Do you want me to continue to focus on having a small size wardrobe or go back to sharing personal style tips? Please share your thoughts in the comments.

Shop the post: 

Sweater: J.Crew | Blouse: J.Jill c/o | Denim: J. Crew | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar) | Shoes: Report c/o Famous Footwear (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

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