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 #10 – Capsule Wardrobe Recap

Today is the end of my spring wardrobe challenge where I took 10 pieces and created 10 entirely different looks. Keep reading for the full wardrobe recap.Today is the end of my spring wardrobe challenge where I took 10 pieces and created 10 entirely different looks. Keep reading for the full wardrobe recap.Today is the end of my spring wardrobe challenge where I took 10 pieces and created 10 entirely different looks. Keep reading for the full wardrobe recap.Today is the end of my spring wardrobe challenge where I took 10 pieces and created 10 entirely different looks. Keep reading for the full wardrobe recap.This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

Sometimes changing things up can be life-changing, or at least therapeutic! Simple things like changing up your morning routine, taking a new commute, or even a different workout can really lift the dust and rejuvenate the mind. The same goes for having a clean and organized closet.

Today is the end of my spring wardrobe challenge where I took 10 pieces and created 10 entirely different looks. If you missed any of these outfits, I have included a link to them at the bottom of this post.

Before I get into the heart of things, I have to admit that I did lose some momentum in posting for this series. I’m not sure if I ran out of topics to write about or if life just got in the way, but either way I’m proud that I completed the challenge!

A few weeks ago I shared 5 reasons why you should start a capsule wardrobe as well as some goals that I wanted to reach with this challenge. My primary goal was to prove that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to look stylish and I feel like I successfully accomplished that!

Capsule Wardrobe Recap

What I would change. I am pretty satisfied with the pieces that I chose for this exercise. I do wish I would have posted twice a week so I could have ended the series in a timely manner. Some of the items that I chose were more winter than spring, but since I do live in Seattle, it was pretty true to the climate!

What piece got the least amount of wear. I think the snow leopard sweater I wore here and here got the least amount of wear, but I am not sure how else I would have worn it. Perhaps I could have worn it on top of my J.Jill dress like I did with this sweater.

What was my fav piece? I know I’ve mentioned this outfit throughout the series, but I really love how it turned out.

Would I do a capsule again? Definitely! The capsule wardrobe was easy, but sharing the looks and keeping the momentum was hard. If I were to document again, I don’t think I would have shot all of the looks in one day but instead maybe shot 3-4 at a time. I think this would help keep me more in the moment and allow me to better express how I am feeling at the time rather than having to recall it months later.

What did you think of this capsule wardrobe recap? Will you be doing your own challenge in the future? Please share in the comments.

Shop the post:

Dress: J. Jill c/o | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Booties: Report c/o Famous Footwear (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 

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 

How to Wear Velvet in Real Life

Velvet is one of those fabrics that people either love or hate. I hear things like "That looks like something my grandma would wear," and "Do you remember when I had a similar top? You were a lot younger so you probably don't remember."Velvet is one of those fabrics that people either love or hate. I hear things like “That looks like something my grandma would wear,” and “Do you remember when I had a similar top? You were a lot younger so you probably don’t remember.” I don’t know about you, but I’m a bit old school and love a more classic look, so I don’t really have a negative view when it comes to velvet. I do, however, think of the Victorian era or my mom’s burgundy velvet chaise lounge from back in the day.

Velvet is one of those fabrics that people either love or hate. I hear things like "That looks like something my grandma would wear," and "Do you remember when I had a similar top? You were a lot younger so you probably don't remember."Velvet is one of those fabrics that people either love or hate. I hear things like "That looks like something my grandma would wear," and "Do you remember when I had a similar top? You were a lot younger so you probably don't remember."Nowadays, velvet has really become modernized. I see it in every available option, from skirts and dresses to handbags and boots! Plus, there are a lot of affordable options and if you’re not comfortable fully embracing this luxurious fabric you can easily do an accessory and call it a day.

What I like about today’s look is that it’s a pretty simple outfit: black denim, Chelsea boots, and a crushed velvet top. I’m obsessed with the burgundy color and love the pleats.  So girly and feminine!

Velvet is one of those fabrics that people either love or hate. I hear things like "That looks like something my grandma would wear," and "Do you remember when I had a similar top? You were a lot younger so you probably don't remember."How to wear velvet in real life

Choose something you would actually wear. If you are scared to go all out, try something subtle like a velvet ribbon in your hair, a cute choker, or a clutch. I also love the element of surprise like a sock bootie.

Pick a color that mixes well with others. I’m a big fan of color, but if you aren’t, go for something more subtle. Black is a no-brainer and easy to style. Darker tones like navy and green work great too.

Don’t overdo it. A little goes a long way! Choose one item to wear: top, dress, skirt, pant, or blazer. I would also avoid head-to-toe velvet, unless you like to go all out of course!

Wear it with a classic. Still struggling with how to style? Wear your velvet with one of your favorite closet staples. Take the chambray shirt for example. It would look great paired with a velvet skirt! Or you can always wear a velvet jacket over a simple white tee.

What velvet pieces are you planning to incorporate into your wardrobe this winter? Share in the comments.

Shop the Post:

Blouse: J.Jill c/o | Denim: J.Crew | Necklace: SugarFix by Baublebar c/o | Boots: Naturalizer  | Purse: Clutch: DSW | Lashes: First Glance Lashes c/o| Lipstick: Neutrogena MoistureSmooth color stick (Rich Raisin) c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

A Versatile Holiday Outfit + Where to Shop

When shopping for your holiday outfit, think functional. Take the faux fur coat for example. Instead of investing in a coat, consider a fur vest or scarf.When shopping for your holiday outfit, think functional. Take the faux fur coat for example. Instead of investing in a coat, consider a fur vest or scarf.When shopping for your holiday outfit, think functional. Take the faux fur coat for example. Instead of investing in a coat, consider a fur vest or scarf.For the next couple of weeks, I will be sharing several holiday-inspired looks. Funny enough, it’s been a long time since I’ve attended a holiday soiree. It’s for this very reason that I recommend not overspending when looking for your holiday outfit and purchasing items that can work long after the holidays.

Fashion Tip: When shopping for your holiday attire, think functional. Take the faux fur coat for example. Instead of investing in a coat, consider a fur vest or scarf to throw over a dress or skirt. Both options can be worn after the holidays with jeans or a more casual look.

A Versatile Holiday Outfit + Where to Shop

Dress: Velour is apparently back in style! I can’t help but think of the infamous Juicy tracksuit and my husband’s snide comment “ain’t no one wearing velour!”, but this dress is surprisingly super cute AND has pockets. The length is perfect and I love the burgundy color. The fabric is also really soft and comfortable. I love how you can manage to still look cute and be semi-warm.

Fashion Tip: When shopping for a holiday dress, go for an LBD (little black dress), or something in a wine or burgundy color. Both colors are great for the holidays, but can be worn on other occasions too. Red is also good depending on the style. Look for a more versatile frock rather than one that screams Christmas, unless that’s what you’re going for then, by all means, do you!

When shopping for your holiday outfit, think functional. Take the faux fur coat for example. Instead of investing in a coat, consider a fur vest or scarf.Boots: I needed a casual holiday shoe since I live in Seattle and the weather is unpredictable. I opted for these bronze boots that I’m obsessed with and can wear all winter long. They look super cute with a dress. Bonus points that they’re a comfort shoe and are available in a wide range of sizes.

Accessories:  If you want to purchase something that is more on the festive side, I recommend buying a statement necklace or purse. You can get these type of things at a lower price that won’t break the bank. This necklace is perfect for the holidays and inexpensive. The black clutch is not festive, but I have literally worn it with everything from an LBD to jeans. Look at places like Charming Charlie, DSW, Target, Marshalls, TJ Maxx, and even Forever21 for inexpensive options.


Shop the Post: 

Dress: J.Jill c/o | Boots: Naturalizer | Necklace: Charmie Charlie c/o | Earrings: Baublebar by SugarFix c/o | Clutch: DSW | Lashes: First Glance Lashes c/o | Ring: Happiness Boutique c/o | Lipstick: Neutrogena MoistureSmooth color stick (Rich Raisin) c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

How do you keep your holiday outfit versatile? Please share in the comments. If you liked today’s post let me know and also remember to follow along on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Bloglovin.

📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

Versatile Closet Staples From J.Jill

J.Jill has a large assortment of versatile pieces. My latest box was full of cozy fall pieces in dark tones that are easy to mix and match. Do great minds think alike or what?!J.Jill has a large assortment of versatile pieces. My latest box was full of cozy fall pieces in dark tones that are easy to mix and match. Do great minds think alike or what?!I’m all for buying new clothes, but as I become smarter in my fashion choices, I realize that I don’t really need a lot of clothing in my closet. In fact, having too many options just makes it harder to get dressed. For this reason, versatile pieces are the way to go.

Last week I wore my black pants 3 out of 5 days (Monday – Friday). At first I was worried that people would notice but then I thought who cares! As long as you look good it doesn’t really matter if you wear a piece multiple times.

With that said, J.Jill has a large assortment of versatile pieces. If you missed my previous collaborations you can find them here and here. My latest box was full of cozy fall pieces in dark tones that are easy to mix and match. Do great minds think alike or what?!

If you to want to master a cohesive wardrobe, you’ll want to keep most of the pieces in your closet neutral with pops of color. Think “capsule wardrobe”.

J.Jill has a large assortment of versatile pieces. My latest box was full of cozy fall pieces in dark tones that are easy to mix and match. Do great minds think alike or what?! J.Jill has a large assortment of versatile pieces. My latest box was full of cozy fall pieces in dark tones that are easy to mix and match. Do great minds think alike or what?!

Versatile Closet Staples

  • Accessories: You want your accessories to easily mix and match with the other items in your closet. For this reason, I always have a brown, black, and nude bag in my wardrobe. Vibrant purses are great, but make sure functional options are your priority. Other great accessories to have are scarfs, hats, and jewelry. These are simple closet staples that won’t break the bank.
  • Outerwear: I am really into outerwear this season especially ones like the sweater jacket I am wearing. I’m also a huge fan of the open sweater vest and lightweight jackets like this olive green one. Outerwear is essential to changing up your look especially in the colder months.
  • Shoes: For shoes, I would recommend a classic riding boot, a bootie, and a dress shoe. Then grab a couple fun options to throw into the mix. If your wardrobe is pretty neutral you can always wear a statement shoe to elevate your look.
  • Makeup and Hair: Changing your side part or swapping out your lip color can take your look to the next level. If you’re feeling extra bold, go a step further and watch a YouTube video on contouring or mastering the classic cat eye.

Have some tips of your own on how to be versatile? Please leave a comment.

Shop the Post:

Jacket: J.Jill c/o | Sweater: J. Jill c/o | Jeans: J.Crew | Necklace: Rebekah J.Designs | Tote: Ralph by Ralph Lauren (similar) | Boots: Naturalizer (similar) | Lipstick: L’Oreal (color Blake)

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

Photos by The Blogger Photog

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