A minimal autumn capsule wardrobe
First thing’s first. Apologies for the lateness of this post. I know we’re halfway through autumn already but the truth is I’ve been playing ostrich and burying my head in the sand. I blame the horses and all the shows I’ve done with them this year, but I’ve been hanging on to summer for as long as possible. That’s not like me at all. Normally I can’t wait to swaddle myself in cosy knits, tights and boots. Given that I’m sat here writing this in a chunky cardigan with the heating on, I don’t think there’s any hiding from it anymore.
Autumn, I accept you’ve arrived. Let’s do this.
When I did my Autumn capsule wardrobe audit – something I still do every season, I felt quite relieved (and a little bit smug) that I didn’t have to declutter anything or add new pieces to my wardrobe. This time last year was a different picture and I don’t mind admitting I was a bit worried.
When my first Peak District autumn reared her head and I found myself ill equipped, I thought I’d lost my grip. I know now it was just a lifestyle change I had to adjust to and allowing my style to evolve was the kindest thing I could’ve done for myself. I’m reaping the rewards now and proving to myself once again that I can own so much less as long as I own the right things. This is why individuality is so important when it comes to creating a capsule wardrobe for yourself. There’s no point dressing for any other life but the beautiful messy version you’re living right now.
I don’t like strict rules when it comes to my capsule wardrobe and I don’t ever put items into storage. I like everything out where I can see it. Having said that, these are the items I’m expecting to pick out to wear over and over this autumn.
I don’t have any fancy parties coming up so I haven’t included dressy wear. Should the highly unlikely event arise, I’ve got an LBD I can turn to for any occasion. Fancy events used to cause me so much stress and had me panic buying something new every time but now I’ve given myself permission to wear items more than once, I’ve found two or three versatile dresses are more than enough to have my back. I’ve always got something to turn to.
Long sleeve stripe tee (old but similar here and here)- It doesn’t take much for me to throw short sleeves to one side and embrace long. I think this stripe is one of if not my absolute favourite piece in my wardrobe. I never get tired of it and it fits just the way I like.
Long sleeve white tee (*gifted)- Long sleeves for the win! My favourite thing about this tee is how its actually off-white in colour. I find it much softer on the eye than a stark white.
Cashmere cardigan (*gifted) – I wear this over my thermal vests or on its own with jeans. It looks good over my pinafore or jumpsuit too.
Wide leg trousers – It’s taken a while but I’ve found a trouser shape I feel my most comfortable in. A high waist, wide leg and ankle crop seems to be it. I love these so much I have them in black too.
Waterproof rain coat (*gifted) – I was gifted this coat last year and I reach for it constantly. It’s the most beautiful feminine cut so I wear it all over, not just for walks out on the hills.
Mom jeans (similar) – I bought these at the beginning of this year and they’re finally starting to wear in the way I want them. The cotton is getting so soft. I’m still thinking about dying them a lighter colour but I haven’t plucked up the courage to give it a go yet. Any tips for dying jeans, let me know in the comments.
Chunky cardigan (old but similar here and here) – When I saw this in Sweden last year I knew it would be a long love affair. I was right. I’ll throw it on over anything.
Long linen dress (gifted) – I love how heavy this linen is and although it’s an oversized dress it has a high waist detail which my short legs thank it for. It’s one of those pieces my husband thinks makes me look ‘frumpy’ but I love wearing it with long sleeves underneath, boots and tights. I’m looking forward to another autumn together.
Jumpsuit (*gifted) – Without sounding really strange, the thing I love most about this is how its basically a baby grow for adults. I layer a tee underneath and pull it down through the pockets. Yep, it has bonus pockets too!
Pinafore (old but similar here) – I’ve worked with Nadinoo before but I bought this for myself for my birthday back in January and it’s been one of the most worn items in my wardrobe. I’ll pop tights under in now the temperature is dropping and layer a long sleeve tee underneath.
Wool coat – I haven’t worn this yet this autumn but as soon as it gets cooler this is the coat I’ll reach for. It’s like walking around in a dressing gown.
White shirt (old but similar here and here) – this is the only item I’m not sure about right now. I think I’d prefer a more feminine long sleeve blouse but we’ll see how we go.
Cashmere sweater (*gifted) – I love how light this sweater is, so much so it’s more like a heavyweight top. The fact it’s a tighter fit makes it a balanced match for the wide leg trousers and baggy jeans.
Skinny jeans – A bit faded now I’ve had them for over 4 years but they’re still going strong and still part of every season of my wardrobe.
Short wellies (*gifted) – What’s autumn without splashing through puddles? These will keep my feet dry.
Backpack (sold out but similar here) – I can’t believe I questioned needing one of these for as long as I did. This is always the first bag I reach for if I’m going out anywhere. I love how I can put my water bottle, keep cup and camera in there it never gives me shoulder pain.
Chelsea boots (old but similar here) – A smarter version of my wellies, these get much less wear now I live out in the sticks but I still love to wear them for meals out or nights at the cinema.
Trainers – these are on their last legs now. I’ve worn them to death but I’m actually a bit disappointed with the way they’ve torn because I can’t have them repaired. That means they’ve only lasted me a year. I think I’ll replace them with a pair of sturdier pair of Veja or Flamingos.
Scarf (old but similar here) – I don’t think I’ll be reaching for my hat or gloves until winter sets in but this scarf is at the ready. I bought it five years ago and I still love it.
Brogues – I see these as the sturdier version of ballet flats. I wear them with tights or secret socks and they go with everything.
There you have it. What about you? What are you most looking forward to wearing this autumn?
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