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 #3 – My Best Closet Staple

Have you ever bought something that you weren't sure about only for it to end up being your favorite closet staple? That's what happened with this sweater vest. I got it last year from Club Monaco at an end of the season sale. I remember being worried that I wouldn't wear it, but wanted an alternative to my beige one.Have you ever bought something that you weren't sure about only for it to end up being your favorite closet staple? That's what happened with this sweater vest. I got it last year from Club Monaco at an end of the season sale. I remember being worried that I wouldn't wear it, but wanted an alternative to my beige one.Have you ever bought something that you weren't sure about only for it to end up being your favorite closet staple? That's what happened with this sweater vest. I got it last year from Club Monaco at an end of the season sale. I remember being worried that I wouldn't wear it, but wanted an alternative to my beige one.This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

Have you ever bought something that you weren’t sure about only for it to end up being your favorite closet staple? That’s what happened with this sweater vest. I got it last year from Club Monaco at an end of the season sale. I remember being worried that I wouldn’t wear it, but wanted an alternative to my beige one. Surprise-surprise, I’ve literally worn it weekly for the entire season! Talk about return on investment, right?

My Best Closet Staple

The best thing about this vest is it goes with everything! I’ve worn it with jeans, dresses, and every top in my closet. It’s my weekly go-to, so of course I included it in my capsule. For this look, I chose to layer this vest over my trusty snow leopard sweater, another great staple! The merino wool is so warm and smooth, plus I love the print. I could totally see the top of this outfit being paired with a faux leather skirt and tall boots. So chic!

Now that the winter sales are winding down, I highly encourage you to invest in a sweater vest for next fall. I’m on the hunt for my spring alternative now, but this one from Nordstrom will be awesome for next year. For the warmer months, I’m leaning more towards this utilitarian style. Military outerwear never really goes out of style whether it’s a jacket or vest, so I’m adding it to my wish-list this year.

That’s why Lee’s 10 x 10 challenge is amazing! It really allows you to identify the gaps you might have in your closet and separate your needs from your wants. I don’t necessarily need a vest, but do know that it allows me to maximize my closet and get more bang for my buck. In my eyes, the vest is a necessary closet staple that I will indeed pick up this spring.

I almost forgot to mention the jeans! These are the same cut and style as the ones seen here, except a different wash and no button fly. The fit is the same, but the material is definitely tighter and not as comfortable as the lighter color. You might not find them as comfortable if you are curvier in your midsection. I might even recommend sizing up. I still love the jeans, but won’t be wearing them as regularly.

What are your favorite closet staples? Please share in the comments.

Shop the Look:

Vest: Club Monaco (similar) | Sweater: J.Crew (similar) | Denim: J. Crew | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Purse: Ted Baker (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Related posts:

  1. Unintentional Capsule Wardrobe + Spring Wardrobe Challenge 10×10
  2. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #1 – Mastering the Half-Tuck
  3. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #2 – Taking Fashion Risk
  4. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #8 – The Lightweight Sweater

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #2 – Taking Fashion Risk

Let's get to the point of today's post - trying something new and taking a fashion risk! Even though it was outside of my comfort zone, I styled this dress as a skirt and look how good it turned out. Let's get to the point of today's post - trying something new and taking a fashion risk! Even though it was outside of my comfort zone, I styled this dress as a skirt and look how good it turned out. This series is part of the10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

I’m not the biggest fan of dresses or skirts. I wear them in the summer, but pretty much steer clear of them in the colder months. I have a handful of reasons for not loving them but the three reasons that stand out the most are:

Read More »

Related posts:

  1. Unintentional Capsule Wardrobe + Spring Wardrobe Challenge 10×10
  2. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #5 – 6 Things I’ve Learned From My Capsule Wardrobe
  3. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #7 – Be the Change You Want to See
  4. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #10 – Capsule Wardrobe Recap

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #1 – Mastering the Half-Tuck

I have always been envious of those who wear the half-tuck. I've tried countless times to make it work but it always looked like a hot mess! I tell friends that they need to show me, and they look amused. I have always been envious of those who wear the half-tuck. I've tried countless times to make it work but it always looked like a hot mess! I tell friends that they need to show me, and they look amused.

I am so excited to kick off this series! I have been wanting to do a capsule wardrobe ever since I discovered Caroline Rector’s Un-fancy! I’m sad that she no longer keeps her blog up, but you can still follow her on Instagram.

If you missed my introductory post to this challenge, you can check it out here. I promise, you won’t be disappointed and you might even want to create your own capsule wardrobe! Now let’s get started with the basics.

What is a capsule wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a small wardrobe made up of versatile pieces (30-40 pieces) that you love. The catch – you can only swap out your items every season (three months). Caroline’s capsule included 37 pieces for three months.

What is the 10×10 challenge?

Take 10 pieces and create 10 different outfits in 10 days. It is the mini version of a traditional capsule wardrobe that was created by Lee Vosburgh.

Spring Wardrobe Challenge – My Take

Instead of going the traditional route, I thought it would be fun to do the 10×10. As luck would have it, the next challenge is starting Friday, March 30th, but I’m starting now! Instead of doing 10 days in a row, I will be sharing one look per week for the next two months using only 10 pieces (shoes not included). I will also tag my outfits with #stylebee10x10, #Spring10x10, #10x10Friends and do a full blog post on each look.

I have always been envious of those who wear the half-tuck. I've tried countless times to make it work but it always looked like a hot mess! I tell friends that they need to show me, and they look amused.

The formula:

  • Tops
  • Dress
  • Bottoms
  • Top layer
  • Shoes (you can choose whether to include in your count)

Accessories don’t count, so load up on as much as you want!

Who should try a capsule wardrobe?

Anyone.

Why should I try a capsule wardrobe?

Planning a vacation, feel stagnant in your wardrobe choices, want to save money, need to declutter your life? All of the above?  A capsule wardrobe can help you with all of these.

My goal:

  • Prove that you don’t have to spend money to look stylish
  • Show different ways to rework your wardrobe and change things up
  • Help you identify gaps in your wardrobe
  • Inspire you to try a capsule or declutter your life by pairing down your wardrobe

I have always been envious of those who wear the half-tuck. I've tried countless times to make it work but it always looked like a hot mess! I tell friends that they need to show me, and they look amused. Tricks to mastering the half-tuck

I have always been envious of those who wear the half-tuck. I’ve tried countless times to make it work but it always looked like a hot mess! I tell friends that they need to show me, and they look amused. If it’s so easy then why does J.Crew have a tutorial on it?! Here are three fail-proof tips, now tested by yours truly:

  • Wear high-waist jeans: I understand that some people aren’t keen on a high-waist jean, but I’m here to tell you, never say never! In the past, I’ve tried the half-tuck with a low rise jean and it just didn’t work for me. Once I found these beauties, I had a change of heart. They are super flattering, even in the midsection. Rejoice!!! A high-waist jean takes the guesswork out of the half-tuck in my opinion. Just grab the front of your shirt, tuck in the front and voila! You look beyond fabulous.
  • Look for a short hem: The more material you have to tuck in the more problematic. Plus, who wants to be bothered with a long hem? It will just add extra bulk to the front and sides.
  • Keep the top thin: These camisoles are thin (available in four colors) and come in a good length, making them super easy for mastering the half-tuck.

Shop the Post:

Sweater: Madewell (similar) | Camisole: J.Crew | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Denim: J.Crew | Booties: Paul Green (similar) | 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 

Related posts:

  1. Unintentional Capsule Wardrobe + Spring Wardrobe Challenge 10×10
  2. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #3 – My Best Closet Staple
  3. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #2 – Taking Fashion Risk
  4. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #4 – The Knit Dress and Why You Need One

Unintentional Capsule Wardrobe + Spring Wardrobe Challenge 10×10

After cleaning out my closet, I barely had anything left! This is when I thought about creating a capsule wardrobe: minimal, neutral, and basic. I like the look on some, but it's not necessarily my style, although I've always wondered if I could create a capsule wardrobe for myself that was more on the feminine side.Since gaining over twenty pounds, the majority of my clothes no longer fit, but instead of holding onto everything, I went ahead and put most of my closet on consignment and gave the rest away. I understand that getting rid of things can be scary, but I’ve always been very focused on keeping my closet in order, so I knew it was the right decision for me. Plus, if I lose the weight, I know that I’ll want something new and that makes me less worried about feeling remorseful.

Unintentional Capsule Wardrobe

Getting your closet together is no small feat! It actually took me several months. The clothes that I put on consignment had to be dry cleaned and properly packed, then the items that weren’t in good shape were donated. Accessories and shoes went to ThredUp or Poshmark, which I’m still in the process of finishing up.

After everything was cleared out, I barely had anything left! This is when I thought about creating a capsule wardrobe: minimal, neutral, and basic. I like the look on some, but it’s not necessarily my style, although I’ve always wondered if I could create a capsule wardrobe for myself that was more on the feminine side. Once I was committed to the idea, I revisited my favorite capsule blogger, Caroline Rector of Unfancy, and saw that her and Lee Vosburgh had just finished the 10×10 challenge.

What is 10×10 Challenge?

Take 10 pieces and create 10 different outfits in 10 days.

What is a Capsule Wardrobe?

A small wardrobe made up of versatile pieces (30-40 pieces) that you love. The catch – you can only swap out your items every season (three months). Caroline’s capsule included 37 pieces for three months.

After cleaning out my closet, I barely had anything left! This is when I thought about creating a capsule wardrobe: minimal, neutral, and basic. I like the look on some, but it's not necessarily my style, although I've always wondered if I could create a capsule wardrobe for myself that was more on the feminine side.Spring Wardrobe Challenge – My Take

Instead of going the traditional route, I thought it would be fun to do the 10×10. As luck would have it, the next challenge is starting Friday, March 30th, so look forward to joining me on my journey! Instead of doing 10 days in a row, I will be sharing one look per week for the next two months using only 10 pieces (shoes not included). I will also tag my outfits with #stylebee10x10, #Spring10x10, #10x10Friends and do a full blog post on each look.

Challenge Goal: At the end of this challenge I want to save money, ignite creativity, feel content, and make more intentional purchases.

My Small Wardrobe Theory

As long as you look good, do you need to have a lot of clothes? Say you have three lipsticks that look great on you. Between the three of them, you’ve got a look for every day, a statement color that wows, and a classic red to throw in the mix. Do you really need 15 lippies? The shelf life will expire before you can even wear them all!

Just like clothes, you primarily wear your favorites and the others are neglected or you grow tired of them. Wouldn’t you prefer to have a closet full of your favorites that get equal wear? No more spending money on unnecessary items or countless mornings trying to figure out what to wear.

The pieces: click the images to shop. Some of these items aren’t my exact pieces, but I did my best to choose similar items.

Have you attempted your own capsule wardrobe? What was your experience like? If you’re hesitant to start one, what are the reasons? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

You might also like: Outfit remix category , 8 Tips for Defining Your Personal Style , Wardrobe Building Blocks: Your Guide to a Cohesive Closet

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Related posts:

  1. Outfit Remix: Easy Ways to Maximize Your Wardrobe
  2. Outfit Remix: 4 Tips for Remixing Your Outfits
  3. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #1 – Mastering the Half-Tuck
  4. Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #2 – Taking Fashion Risk

Pause & Reflect: Help! I Need My Beauty Sleep + Last Winter Outfit

On the flip side, 2018 is moving faster than a speeding bullet and I know you're tired of the cold and gloomy weather. To help you beat the winter blues and increase your beauty sleep, I’ve rounded up a list of tips. By the time you've mastered these things, you'll be recharged and ready for the warm sunshine!On the flip side, 2018 is moving faster than a speeding bullet and I know you're tired of the cold and gloomy weather. To help you beat the winter blues and increase your beauty sleep, I’ve rounded up a list of tips. By the time you've mastered these things, you'll be recharged and ready for the warm sunshine! You know that person that nods off in the middle of a meeting? Yep, that’s me!  I didn’t even realize it until my co-worker mentioned it in passing. I was mortified and knew that my late-night tendencies were starting to take a toll. It’s just so hard to unwind from the hustle and bustle of a busy week!

On the flip side, 2018 is moving faster than a speeding bullet and I know you’re tired of the cold and gloomy weather. To help you beat the winter blues and increase your beauty sleep, I’ve rounded up a list of tips. By the time you’ve mastered these things, you’ll be recharged and ready for the warm sunshine!
On the flip side, 2018 is moving faster than a speeding bullet and I know you're tired of the cold and gloomy weather. To help you beat the winter blues and increase your beauty sleep, I’ve rounded up a list of tips. By the time you've mastered these things, you'll be recharged and ready for the warm sunshine!On the flip side, 2018 is moving faster than a speeding bullet and I know you're tired of the cold and gloomy weather. To help you beat the winter blues and increase your beauty sleep, I’ve rounded up a list of tips. By the time you've mastered these things, you'll be recharged and ready for the warm sunshine!

Help! I Need My Beauty Sleep

Read a book. Opt for a kindle or an actual book. The blue light from your phone is stimulating and will keep you from getting adequate rest.

PRO-TIP: Steer clear of education or skill-building materials. You don’t want to be reading up on social media strategies when you’re trying to get your mind in a relaxed state. A book light is also helpful if your partner is already sleeping.

Drink something warm and soothing. I like a good sleepytime tea, hot toddy (when sick), or cocoa drink. Did you know that all-natural cocoa has no calories and is fat-free?! You add 2 tablespoons of a plant-based milk (I like unsweetened vanilla almond milk) and heat it in the microwave or on the stove until warm. Add the cocoa, a calorie-free sweetener like Truvia, and you have a delicious and soothing, low-calorie drink that’s also good for the heart.

Aid your sleep. Now, I prefer a natural sleep remedy like melatonin or Emergen-zzzz, but sometimes you need something a bit stronger. Tylenol PM has been my go-to lately and gets the job done.

Get in a dream state of mind. Purchase a diffuser. I just picked up one similar to this and love heating up the lavender melts about 30-60 mins before I go to sleep. It makes the room smell heavenly and the lavender makes you feel relaxed.

Jot down your to-do list and any concerns in a notebook. Clear your mind and know what you need to prioritize the next day or that week. This will also keep you from worrying about forgetting something important.

Get 20-30 mins of fresh air daily. Even on your laziest days, you can benefit from some fresh air. I like to walk around my neighborhood or take a walk during my lunch break. It’s amazing how inspired and calm I feel during and after. On days that I don’t do OrangeTheory, a low impact walk helps me sleep more soundly.

Get up and go to bed at the same time every day (including the weekends). Sounds crazy, but it works! I’ve tried this in the past and was shocked when I began to feel sleepy around the same time every night. This is a great way to reset your biological clock and will most likely help your REM cycle, allowing you to feel like you actually slept.

For more self-care tips read:

On the flip side, 2018 is moving faster than a speeding bullet and I know you're tired of the cold and gloomy weather. To help you beat the winter blues and increase your beauty sleep, I’ve rounded up a list of tips. By the time you've mastered these things, you'll be recharged and ready for the warm sunshine!On the flip side, 2018 is moving faster than a speeding bullet and I know you're tired of the cold and gloomy weather. To help you beat the winter blues and increase your beauty sleep, I’ve rounded up a list of tips. By the time you've mastered these things, you'll be recharged and ready for the warm sunshine!

Last Winter Outfit

Now that we are midway through March, you probably aren’t going to see too many winter outfits from me so I wanted to share this cute ruffle sweater!

Although this look is great for cold weather, don’t think that the ruffle trend is going away anytime soon. I’ve been seeing a lot of lightweight options popping up all over. It’s a great look for spring and fall, and when the cold front comes around again, just add a blouse or tee underneath. If you’re looking for a cute spring option, check out this one. I definitely need to snatch this up!

What tips do you have for getting your beauty sleep?

Shop the post:

Sweater: J.Crew (here & here)| Blouse: UNIQLO | Denim: J.Crew | Necklace: Lace & Pearl Jewelry | Earrings: J.Crew | Bracelet (old): J.Crew | Boots: Naturalizer (similar) | Purse: Club Monaco (old) | Lipstick: Neutrogena MoistureSmooth color stick (Rich Raisin) c/o

📷’s by Hello Rigby

Related posts:

  1. How to Stay Motivated + 2 Year Blogiversary
  2. How to Overcome Anxiety When Networking
  3. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
  4. A Year In Review + A Unique Spin on New Year’s Resolutions

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