Tag Archives: what to wear

How to Transition Your Capsule Wardrobe from Winter to Spring

February 20, 2020Fashion, Style and Design12 pieces, basics, capsule wardrobe, closet declutter, eliminate decision fatigue, fashion, minimalism, seasonal dressing, transitional pieces, what to wear, winter to springBeth Berger

how to transition your capsule wardrobe from winter to spring

When you set up your capsule wardrobes based on the season, it can get a little difficult in the weird in between times. Here in North Alabama, there are definitely days in late February/early March where we could bust out the barbecue and then days when I’m running to wrap up in an extra blanket or two. If this sounds like your current climate situation, I would recommend swapping out a few of your winter pieces for more springlike items and to ease your capsule into warmer weather. You don’t want to pack up your cozy sweaters and stow them away only to sheepishly pull them back out on one of those random frigid mornings!

But swaps don’t have to just be about temperature control! After months of dark hues, maybe you want to throw in a pastel or two. If you’re drawn too chunky cocktail rings and statement necklaces for winter party season, maybe you want to switch out for something more dainty! Just because capsule wardrobes help us embrace minimalism doesn’t mean BORING. Have fun with it!

Here are 12 swaps you can make to turn your winter wardrobe into a WINTER-TO SPRING wardrobe —

Swap a turtleneck for a vintage inspired tee shirt.

Swap dangly statement earrings for dainty geometric studs.

Swap your chunky knit scarf for a silk scarf.

Swap every day pearls for every day hoops.

Swap a parka for a polka dot rain coat.

Swap black hoodie for a creme fleece pullover.

Swap heavy duty flannel for a lighter plaid option.

Swap a midi skirt for a mini.

Swap a white button-down for a white crop top.

Swap a chunky knit sweater for your lightweight crewneck sweater…

and dark colored pieces for WHITE.

Finally, for those super unseasonably warm days where you just want to go for it, swap black skinnies for black shorts!

Have you ever tried seasonal capsule wardrobes? Any more advice for transitioning from one season to the next?

P.S. If you’re more of a one and done capsule wardrobe person (or the concept sparks your interest), you can get a checklist PDF of my 50 Piece All-Season Capsule Wardrobe right this way!

Found! The Perfect Striped Dresses for Spring

May 10, 2019Fashion, Style and Designclothes, dresses, fashion friday, Lulus, online shopping, prints, Spring fashion, spring looks, stripes, what to wearBeth Berger

It’s Friday! To celebrate the end of the work week, let’s do a bit of online window shopping, shall we? I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect dress for spring and my eyes keep getting pulled in the direction of stripes. There are so many options that are colorful, airy, and fun…and the stripes feel a little less expected than a floral print. What do you think? What prints are you feeling drawn to this spring?

If you’re in the market for a STRIPED DRESS, here are 5 options I found from one of my favorite online shops, Lulus…

Option 1 –

Brooklin Pink Multi Striped Button Front Mini Dress

Option 2 –

Sun-Shiny Red Rainbow Striped Midi Dress

Option 3 –

Binx Green Striped Short Sleeve Shirt Dress

Option 4 –

Peppermint Green Striped Shirt Dress

Option 5 –

Kersee Olive Green and White Striped Midi Shirt Dress

Which would YOU choose? xoxo

A Super Simple Capsule Wardrobe for Warm Weather (with outfit combinations!)

April 30, 2019Fashion, Style and Design37 pieces, capsule wardrobe, chic, closet basics, eliminate decision fatigue, fashion, minimalism, outfit combinations, real life outfits, warm weather, what to wearBeth Berger

If you’ve been around these parts long enough, you know I LOVE a capsule wardrobe. I love creating them, I love reading about them, I love wearing them. Today, I’m back on my bullshit and bringing you yet another capsule wardrobe. This one is for warm weather and I created it with basic wardrobe pieces in mind. Think: items you probably already have in your closet. (And if you don’t they’re super easy and affordable to find — I’ve linked Amazon versions for all of them!!)

Once I decided on the capsule’s 37 pieces, I tried to think about outfits I might put together for events in my own life to show you how easy it is to create combinations.

37 Pieces

Tops

Bottoms

Dresses

Layers

Shoes

White Converse Sneakers

Bags

Outfit Combinations

Funky night on the town: Chambray Tank + Blue Skirt + Dressy Flats + Evening Bag (add a chunky watch and beachy waves)

Meeting with a client at the coffee shop: White Button Down + Jeans + Brown Booty Heels + Work Bag (add sunglasses and a pink lip)

Gallery opening and outdoor drinks: White Tank + Blue Skirt + Neutral Sandals + Day Bag (add pretty nail polish and a big spring scarf)

In and out of air-conditioning all day at a campus event: Plaid Button Down (maybe w/ a white tee underneath) + Loose Cardigan + Jean Shorts + Neutral Sandals + Work Bag (add SPF and a dainty necklace)

Dinner out at your favorite downtown restaurant: White Tank + Drapey Vest + Jeans + Brown Booty Heels (add a gold bangle bracelet and your phone for snapping Instagram pics)

Thrift shop ‘til you drop: Pastel Sweater + Jean Shorts + White Converse Sneakers + Work Bag (add a cozy scarf and no-show socks)

Perusing the library book sale for deals: Chambray Tank + Black Jeans + Black Birks + Day Bag (add stacks of rings and eyeliner)

After work activities like stopping by a friend’s event or your monthly book club meeting: Graphic Tee + Black Jeans + Dressy Flats + Evening Bag (add a loose ponytail and a chic watch)

Evening concert in the park: Work Dress + Jean Jacket + Neutral Sandals + Evening Bag (add a blowout and red lip)

Saturday morning errands: White Button Down + Athletic Shorts + Black Birks + Day Bag (add rolled up sleeves and self tanner)

Networking or promotional event: Plaid Button-down + Grey Trousers + Brown Platforms (add business cards and texturizing spray)

Travel day in the airport: White Tee + Jean Jacket + Joggers + Dressy Flats + Work Bag (add earbuds and a cute water bottle)

Administrative happenings like house showings and accountant meetings: Striped Tee + Black Jeans + Jean Jacket + Brown Platforms + Day Bag (add a loose braid and hoops)

Day trip spent exploring nearby towns: Graphic Tee + Black Blazer + Jean Shorts + Black Slide-ons + Work Bag (add sunglasses and a changed up part)

Picking up the CSA at the farm and then going for brunch: White Tank + Boyfriend Jeans + Neutral Sandals + Day Bag (add a to-go mug and dangly earrings)

Cheering on a sports team: White Tank + Drapey Vest + Jean Shorts + White Converse Sneakers (add a bandana/headscarf and sunglasses)

Getting all the meal planning and grocery shopping done: White Tee + Denim Jacket + Athletic Shorts + White Converse Sneakers + Day Bag (add a flowy scarf and beaded jewelry)

Outdoor fair and silent auction: White Tank + Plaid Button-down + Jeans + Brown Booty Heels + Day Bag (add a cocktail ring and gold studs)

Attending a class or lecture: Striped Tee + Loose Cardigan + Boyfriend Jeans + Black Birks + Day Bag (add a moleskine notebook and colorful pens)

*Whew!* I’ve barely even scratched the surface on outfit combinations…but you get the idea! The possibilities really do feel endless. What do you think? Have you ever tried a capsule wardrobe? Do you have a few wardrobe basics you think you could pull from your closet to create one? Let me know your thoughts below.

P.S. If you’re more of a one and done capsule wardrobe person (or the concept sparks your interest), you can get a checklist PDF of my 50 Piece All-Season Capsule Wardrobe right this way!

Is packing in a 19 liter backpack possible for winter travel?

March 1, 2019Travelairport chic, one bag travel, packing hacks, Tom Bihn, what to pack, what to wear, winter, winter capsuleBeth Berger

As you know from this post, last month I took a weekend trip to Florida with my husband. But a few weeks later, I had to travel again. This time, I was headed north to Ohio. The circumstances weren’t as happy (it was for a funeral of a loved one) and the travel arrangements were very last minute. On the first trip, I had no problem planning and packing in my 19 liter Tom Bihn backpack. I had time to strategize and I was traveling to a warm climate. But for my last minute flight to Ohio? I threw everything into my husband’s Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30. He usually carries it as a duffel but I strapped on the backpack attachments (and probably looked like I was headed to a month of hostel-hopping). 30 whole liters? The luxury!

At the time, I didn’t want to put a lot of extra thought into packing. I just wanted to get there. I also knew I would need warm clothes for the snowy conditions, a dressy outfit, laptops and books for trying to work (and entertainment in case of any flight delays/cancellations). If you’re looking for a one-bag travel situation but need to cram in a suitcase worth of stuff, I HIGHLY recommend the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30 (there’s also a 45). Especially if you, like me, prefer hauling stuff on your back. (Listen. I’m not saying it’s because I can pee without putting all my stuff down but I’m not NOT saying it’s because of that, ok?) In a pinch, this bag will fit under the seat in front of you and it slides right into the overhead bin…that person with the dreaded luggage tags won’t even give you a second glance if they see all you have is a backpack.

winter packing 19 liter backpack

But…

Because I’m a packing nerd….

and I LOVE a challenge….

As I daydreamed away an hour in the Charlotte airport (hi delays!), I started thinking about how I would pack for winter travel in my 19 liter. So, here are the tips I came up with…

1. Travel in bulky outerwear

This one’s a no-brainer, but perhaps it bears repeating. Do I hate having to pull off a coat, an oversized cardigan, winter boots, a beanie, and a blanket scarf at airport security? ABSO-freakin’-lutely! But will I be glad to have these items when I reach my snowy destination? YES! Save space in your small backpack and pack these much-needed winter items on your body instead.

2. Find a pair of comfy pants that can do double duty

I have a small and mighty collection of comfy pants that feel like pajamas, but when paired with the right items, look down-right dressy. If I were packing for a winter trip in my 19L, I would consider traveling in a pair of these and then also use them as lounge/sleep-wear.

3. Fleece-lined tights make dresses possible

One way to cut down on the bulk of a bunch of clothes is to pack one-and-done outfits. I love packing dresses for travel because it’s just one piece of clothing you have to worry about and *bam* you have an outfit! Now, you might be saying, “Is this really a practical solution in the winter months?” And to that I respond — Helloooo?! Have you ever tried fleece-lined tights? Throw a pair of those on under your dress and rock your boots and cardigan and there ya go! Bonus: These can also be used as a long-underwear option underneath your trousers or the comfy pants mentioned above.

4. Choose boots as your one shoe option

A benefit of my bigger bag was that I traveled in a pair of heeled boots but also brought along some casual slip-ons. This is less of an option when you’re traveling super light. So, pick a versatile pair of boots (I would have definitely nixed my heels) that you can rock with any outfit. Because your feet will thank you, consider throwing in a pair of slippers or slipper socks that you can pad around in during the evenings. They pack down super small and some hotels are just too sketchy for bare feet, ya dig?

5. Sweaters/Thermals before multiple layers

While normally I’m all about traveling with a bunch of mix-and-match layers, that’s not as feasible when you’re combining cold weather clothing and a teeny-tiny carry on. Consider pullover sweaters and thermal long-sleeve shirts instead. Throw a couple of those in your packing cube (you can always wear them under the big cardigan you’re wearing on the plane, if it’s mega cold!) and call it a day. These, plus a pair of trousers, your comfy pants, a dress, fleece-lined tights, and your cardigan will form your on-the-go winter capsule wardrobe!

Do you have any tips and tricks for traveling light in the colder months? Leave ’em below!

P.S. 7 things that totally changed my air travel game!

If you enjoy my blog content, please consider supporting what I do (and keeping me caffeinated). Thank you! xoxo ☕

Work Capsule Wardrobe: Spring Trends

February 20, 2018Fashion, Style and Designcapsule wardrobe, core capsule items, eliminate decision fatigue, minimalism, professional attire, simple wardrobe, Spring, spring fashion trends, what to wear, work clothesBeth Berger

I’m a big believer in the idea that finding ways to eliminate decision fatigue can increase your quality life, eliminate stress, and allow you to focus on the things that truly make you happy. One of my favorite hacks for cutting back on decision fatigue? The work capsule wardrobe. Did you know many of the most successful folk wear the same clothes over and over again. While you may not want to rock jeans and a turtleneck to the office every single day (a la Steve Jobs), reducing your wardrobe will make it a heck of a lot easier to answer “What am I gonna wear today?” every morning.

With this in mind, I thought I’d share a really simple method for putting together a seasonal capsule wardrobe for work! Since Spring is on the horizon, we’ll start there. Let’s go!

First, you want to establish your core pieces. These can change from season to season or remain the same all year long. Either way, these items create the base for your work capsule wardrobe.

Here’s an example —

You can adapt these to fit your own job (an office setting may require a blazer but a teacher may prefer a cozy cardigan instead) and your preferences (don’t like skirts? don’t include skirts!). But the equation will remain roughly the same —

2 tops +
2 bottoms +
1 dress +
1 outerwear +
2 shoes +
2 bags +
3 accessories =
Core Work Capsule

Next, you want to look for inspiration. Scour your favorite fashion mags, blogs, and Pinterest boards to get an idea of looks you might want to include in your capsule for the season. Identify about 5 trends. For Spring 2018, the fashion trends I’m loving are: FLORAL COATS, PASTEL MULES, PINK DRESSES, TIE BLOUSES, and WRAP SKIRTS.

Here are a few of my favorite pieces —

Finally, you want to gather trend items to build out your wardrobe. After you’ve found your favorite trends of the season, you’ll add wardrobe pieces to reflect them. Add 1-3 pieces for each trend (depending on how minimal you want to be). There are multiple ways to do this. Let’s use the trends listed above as an example. To incorporate your fave spring trends you might pull a wrap skirt and a tie blouse out of the “warm weather clothing” storage tucked in a bin under your bed, hit your local thrift shop to find a new-to-you pink dress, and splurge on a pair of pastel mules and a floral blazer. There’s no need to buy a ton of trendy items — find ways to incorporate the looks of the season without spending a fortune!

And there you have it! You can repeat this process each season to decrease decision fatigue while still lookin’ fly at work. 🙂

What other closet conundrums would be fun to combat with a capsule wardrobe? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll consider creating a capsule for a future post!! ❤

P.S. If you’re more of a one and done capsule wardrobe person (or the concept sparks your interest), you can get a checklist PDF of my 50 Piece All-Season Capsule Wardrobe right this way!

A 12 Item Wardrobe Inspired by February (For Warm & Cold Climates)

February 1, 2018Fashion, Style and Designcapsule wardrobe, clothing items, cold weather, february, madame chic, minimalism, simple wardrobe, twelve items, warm weather, what to wearBeth Berger

If you’ve been around these parts long enough, you’ll know I LOVE capsule wardrobes. I love looking at other people’s capsule wardrobes, I love creating them for myself, and I love researching new ways of whittling down a wardrobe. If you’re new, WELCOME. I’m Beth…and in case you hadn’t already figured it out — I’m really into capsule wardrobes. 🙂

Lately, I’ve been exploring the concept of a seasonal wardrobe that focuses on 10-12 core items and a limitless (but still minimal) collection of extras. The core items include tops, bottoms and dresses. The extras can include, well….everything else! I wanted to create a sample 12 Item Wardrobe inspired by February. For me, February is a warm month (every month is a warm month in South Florida). But for others it is still pretty chilly. So, I made one wardrobe for a warm climate and one for cold. Let’s check them out…

12 Item Wardrobe (somewhere warm)

6 Tops – jersey t-shirt, crepe blouse, sleeveless blouse, girls support girls t-shirt, athletic-inspired top, and love first t-shirt.

4 Bottoms – stretch leggings, denim shorts, satin skirt, and skinny levi’s.

2 Dresses – silk mini dress and striped velvet dress.

Extras (somewhere warm)

Shoes – court heels, suede strappy heels, ankle-strap sandals, braided sandals, and leather trainers.

Accessories – logo cap, acetate sunglasses, and jersey scrunchies.

Special occasion wear – chiffon dress, beaded clutch, and slingback heels.

Active wear – racer back tank, black leggings, tennis shoes, compression bra, and gym shorts

Jewelry – 2 classic watches, gold necklace, tassel earrings, and statement earrings.

Basic tees – distressed t-shirt, striped tee, and long sleeved t-shirt.

Outerwear – utility jacket, cotton cardigan, and knitted cardigan.

Swimwear – printed swimsuit and printed bikini.

Bags – medium backpack, bucket bag, and funky clutch.

12 Item Wardrobe (somewhere cold)

6 Tops – feminist t-shirt, floral blouse, tie neck blouse, babe t-shirt, v-neck sweater, and over-sized jumper.

4 Bottoms – flared trousers, high waisted jeans, black skinny jeans, and faux leather pencil skirt.

2 Dresses – sweater dress and floral print midi dress.

Extras (somewhere cold)

Shoes – zip booties, point-toe flats, funky flats, high-heel boots, and leather sneakers.

Accessories – floppy hat, cat eye sunglasses, earmuffs, and beanie with a pom pom.

Special occasion wear – slinky gown, cross-body bag, and pointed stilettos.

Active wear – pull over, fleece joggers, Nike Airs, high-rise leggings, and sportswear hoodie.

Jewelry – classic watch, Apple watch, stud earrings, gold hoops, and double choker.

Basic tees – pink t-shirt, cashmere base layer, v-neck tee.

Outerwear – over-sized blazer, furry coat, and fringe cardigan.

Cold weather extras – beanie/scarf/mittens set and scallop gloves.

Bags – mini messenger bag, small wristlet, and classic leather tote.

What do you think? Would you try the Twelve Item Wardrobe? Do you have a capsule wardrobe? Let us know below! I’d love to hear what methods you use to keep your clothes minimal. ❤

P.S. If you’re more of a one and done capsule wardrobe person (or the concept sparks your interest), you can get a checklist PDF of my 50 Piece All-Season Capsule Wardrobe right this way!