Winter 2021 Capsule Wardrobe At 72
This capsule wardrobe segment will be familiar to regular readers, as it’s based on a curated selection of clothing that can be mixed and matched to create multiple stylish outfits. In this post, I’ll reveal my personal style for the next three months, from mid-November 2021 to mid-February 2022. For context, you may recall that I’m 72 years old, standing at just 62 inches tall and carrying a few extra pounds – not the typical demographic often featured in media. However, this blog’s core focus is authenticity, showcasing real women of all ages and shapes. As we age, our physical appearance naturally changes, but that doesn’t mean we can’t strive to look our best every day. The photos accompanying this post were taken in a small space, which proved more challenging than usual due to the less-than-ideal angles. I apologize if my head appears larger than usual – it’s all part of the blogging learning curve! For those interested in purchasing similar items, please scroll down for links to retailers featuring the featured clothing.
A wardrobe for cold weather
While a seasonal wardrobe’s primary focus is on having the right attire for the weather, this capsule collection serves as inspiration rather than a reflection of personal winter preferences. Instead, it’s tailored to adapt to your local climate. A British winter, for instance, presents distinct challenges compared to the mild winters I’ve experienced on the French Riviera. Last year, I relied heavily on two jackets – one with no sleeves – and my wool coat was often too warm due to the layers. This year, however, it’s already too chilly to venture out without a coat, so you won’t find any jackets in this winter wardrobe. Building upon last year’s approach, I’ve prioritized layering with shirts of varying weights paired with woollen pieces. This thoughtful design enables a seamless transition from the cold, damp outdoors to the warmth of indoor heating. In contrast, my French Riviera days are marked by open doors and sun-kissed balconies, highlighting the unique demands of different climates.
Color choices for my winter 2021
As the seasons transitioned, I found myself craving a more subdued approach to my wardrobe. Gone were the bold combinations of black, gray, and red that brought me joy during winter’s chill. This year, I sought a softer aesthetic – not just in terms of fabrics but also the colors that comprise it. The result is a tone-on-tone minimalist look that deviates from my usual style.
Base color
I have a special affinity for the bluish-green spectrum, which shares a harmonious affinity with my eye color. This affinity has led me to consistently incorporate these hues into my wardrobe, starting from Fall and carrying it over to Winter. To establish a cohesive base tone this season, I sought softer, grayed-out nuances of blue and green that would provide a gentle foundation for my winter wardrobe. For instance, the olive green that dominated my Fall palette was too vibrant and distinct to serve as a subtle backdrop, so I opted for more muted shades instead.
Second color
With a focus on understated elegance, I’ve opted for cream as my second neutral color choice. The soft hue complements my current state of mind, which is characterized by serenity and calmness. In contrast to the bold statement that white makes, cream whispers softly, much like my contemplative mood. As I reflect on this season’s wardrobe, I’m drawn to a more subdued aesthetic, one that feels organic and gentle rather than vibrant and zesty. The dire state of climate talks and recent weather disasters have undoubtedly contributed to my somber demeanor.
A special color
When crafting a capsule wardrobe, one common technique involves incorporating a third color to add subtle highlights to the overall aesthetic. However, for those embracing a minimalist tonal approach, the focus tends to revolve around a cohesive palette rather than introducing an accent hue. In my case, I’ve opted not to add another color to my wardrobe, instead relying on select pieces to introduce visual interest. This is achieved through the thoughtful combination of neutral footwear and accessories, such as black or tan shoes, and a complementary handbag. While it may be tempting to identify this secondary shade – in this instance, tan – as a defining characteristic, I’ve chosen to emphasize the understated beauty of my core color scheme.
Textures and textiles
To complement my subdued colour scheme, I opted for natural, organic fabrics with a focus on pure cotton against my skin. My objective is to amass a collection of timeless pieces crafted from high-quality materials like wool, cashmere and silk, allowing me to feel pampered while also anticipating years of wear and appreciation.
Dressing for my lifestyle
As I settle into my winter routine in the Welsh countryside, my wardrobe needs are shifting away from urban chic and towards cozy country comfort. Gone are the days of dressing up for city nights out; instead, I’m focusing on layers that can keep me warm during brisk walks with the dogs or snuggled up by a roaring fire at a rustic gastropub. My winter capsule wardrobe is designed to be practical, yet still stylishly dressed for the inevitable family gatherings. This isn’t about dressing for a specific occasion, but rather finding pieces that can be mixed and matched to create outfits that feel effortless and comfortable. I’ve chosen items that will see me through my winter days in Wales, and while my lifestyle may be different from yours, I believe the principles of building a seasonal wardrobe apply universally.
Choose three bottoms
I’m re-wearing a pair of jeans from last fall that have become a staple in my wardrobe due to their effortless style and comfort. These high-rise, boyfriend-style Mom jeans are a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. When I’m wearing them with ankle boots, I’ll often roll the hems up to prevent an awkward gap, but for other occasions, I prefer to keep them at a comfortable length above my ankles.In addition to showcasing these jeans in my 2021 try-on video, I’ve also recently acquired a merino cashmere cardigan from Jigsaw that adds a touch of sophistication to my casual outfit.As I searched for the perfect pair of pants to complement my laid-back look, I was drawn to wide, slinky styles with a smarter vibe. Although I did purchase some options (you can find them on the M&S UK site or the US site), I found that even petite-friendly trousers tended to puddle around my shoes when I wore them. This worked well for an evening at home but wasn’t practical for daily activities.Given my current situation without access to sewing equipment, I opted for a pair of narrow ankle-grazer pants instead. While they’re not perfect, they work reasonably well and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Leggings
I’ve got two pairs of pants that make up a significant part of my capsule wardrobe. The first pair is from Zara, made in cream faux leather. While they can be a bit clingy around the hips, I’m okay with that since it’s an authentic representation online. These leather pants are my top choice for bottoms and I think they’ll look great even in spring.My second pair is a different story altogether. I opted for gray check leggings from M&S made of heavier-weight knit. They’re warm, comfortable, and blend seamlessly with the overall neutral tones in my wardrobe. What I love about these leggings is their versatility – I can wear them at home with bare feet or chunky socks, or dress them up with a big shirt or sweater.While neither pair is absolutely perfect, I’m not fussed given the season’s fashion trends which seem to be leaning towards either oversized eighties-inspired looks or last year’s athleisure styles. Neither of these trends really brings out the best in me, so I prioritized affordability over perfection. The price point for both pairs was a major consideration, and I’m happy with the value they offer.
Choose nine tops
Three shirts
I opted for a more structured approach to my wardrobe by incorporating collared shirts, which I believe add a sense of definition and emphasis on the shoulder line. This is particularly effective if you have a curvier figure like myself, where broad hips and thighs can sometimes be distracting.
When selecting these shirts, I also considered their ability to complement my skin tone. Some of my tops have a rather pale and grayish hue that might wash out my complexion altogether. The collar’s subtle contrast helps to add a pop of color and prevent this from happening.
One of my go-to pieces is the cream silk shirt from Marks & Spencer, which I purchased in 2019 and wore during the Fall season. This classic item has a timeless quality that will undoubtedly get worn numerous times over the next decade. Its pale hue creates a lovely contrast with my complexion, giving it a healthy appearance.
More recently, I’ve acquired two new shirts from Jigsaw – a dull greenish-blue number and a brown-striped viscose shirt that feels and looks remarkably like silk. Jigsaw is known for its understated color palette, which sets it apart from faster retailers and their often-brighter offerings.
In particular, the brown- striped shirt has been a great addition to my wardrobe, as I’ve recently started gravitating towards earthy tones. This shirt will undoubtedly work well with any future outfits based on this theme, as I anticipate veering away from black and embracing brown as a staple color for the next few years.
All these longer shirts have also been useful in camouflaging my hips when worn over tees, effectively drawing attention to the narrower band of color at the shirt’s front. This is especially true for their gray check leggings from Marks & Spencer, which provide a versatile and comfortable foundation for any outfit.
Three tee shirts
As I was packing my wardrobe, I brought along some versatile white sleeveless vests and tank tops from previous seasons. One of these pieces makes an appearance in this collection. When it comes to silk, particularly cream-colored silk, a layer underneath is essential to avoid revealing any unwanted bulges. On the other hand, cotton feels comfortable against my skin when paired with a sweater or cardigan as the main top. My search for complementary tees led me to Zara, where I discovered their collection of soft-hued tops that perfectly complemented my existing pieces from Jigsaw. I fell in love with the short-sleeved designs featuring a loose welt around the sleeves, which provides a neat finish without pinching at the arms. The smart round necks, which sit just below the collarbone, beautifully frame the face. I picked up two shades – a darker blue-green and a paler blue-green – that will work seamlessly with my other tops and look great on their own indoors. With prices this affordable, I might just have to return for more!
One sweater
As winter descends upon the countryside, one’s wardrobe often calls for a cozy sweater to keep the chill at bay. Initially, I had my heart set on an extravagant oversized cashmere sweater, but after scouring three of my go-to retailers, I couldn’t find the perfect fit. Undeterred, I opted for a high-neck boiled wool sweater from Jigsaw, featuring the season’s trendy square cut design. This versatile piece will effortlessly complement jeans or leggings, and can even be styled with a flowy skirt for a chic look. Meanwhile, at Zara, I discovered a baggy cotton athleisure-style top that echoes the same laid-back vibe seen in graphic tees. The creamy hue will provide a stylish contrast to my collared shirts, while also capturing the athleisure aesthetic that has remained popular since the pandemic began. The boiled wool sweater from Jigsaw remains a standout piece in my winter wardrobe.
Two cardigans
I slipped into a soft cashmere V-neck cardigan, its soothing hue reminiscent of a winter sea. The rustic buttons running down the front add a charming touch, allowing me to style it as is with a necklace chain for a more polished look or layer it over my tees and silk shirts for added warmth.The cardigan’s wide waist was designed to create a flattering silhouette, perfect for those like myself who carry their weight around the midsection. This thoughtful design ensures that even fitted tops won’t accentuate any unwanted curves.I’ll also be pairing this ensemble with my trusty classic cropped cashmere cardigan from Boden, which boasts a bold tone that complements every item in my wardrobe. Its enduring appeal lies in its timeless quality and ability to seamlessly integrate into multiple outfits.As an aside, I haven’t had the opportunity to photograph it yet, as it has already made numerous appearances in my try-on sessions. The joy of investing in a classic piece like this lies in its effortless versatility – it remains a staple for years to come.On a related note, Boden is a retailer that holds a special place in my heart. While it may not be the first choice for those seeking subtle color palettes, as its hues are often bolder than what’s typically found at UK retailers like Jigsaw, it excels at providing statement pieces perfect for summer or making an impact. However, if you’re looking for a more understated aesthetic, Boden might not be your go-to destination.
Footwear
As I didn’t have any suitable footwear to hand, I opted for a two-pronged approach: one lightweight pair for indoor use and smarter occasions, and another more rugged pair that could withstand muddy winter walks, snowy days in town, or wet strolls through the city. You might recall my daughter’s gift of Primark shoes with a small gold chain across the front – she had outgrown them, but I’ve grown fond of wearing them over the past couple of months despite their modest price tag. As they were essentially free to me (and likely cheap for her too, considering Primark’s reputation for affordable fashion), I’ve decided to keep them as my go-to lightweight shoes for winter, appreciating how the tan color complements my bag and the gold chain echoes my simple jewelry style.
Boots
The trend for oversized and chunky footwear appears to be a lasting phenomenon, as all the reputable brands have jumped on the bandwagon this year. Initially, I had planned to invest in a pair of brown or tan leather knee-high boots while visiting the UK, but unfortunately, options were limited. Ankle boots continue to reign supreme, offering a versatile choice between pairing with skirts, pants, or dressing up for a more rugged look with thick socks. Since I already own a pair of neat ankle boots – although they’re not currently by my side – I opted for the trendy heavy boots instead. They’ll serve me well during my time in Wales and, if I feel bold enough, might even make an appearance at the local pub! Interestingly, the popularity of ‘correct’ wellies has seemingly disrupted the market for leather boots, particularly within the UK. By ‘correct’ wellies, I’m referring to high-end rubber boots designed by Hunter and Aigle for farmers, hunters, and riders that have now gained widespread appeal among festival-goers and fashion-conscious urbanites taking leisurely strolls on a Sunday morning. As it so happens, I do possess my trusty dark green Aigle boots, which I rarely part with – they’re my go-to companion during the harshest British weather. In fact, my daughter gifted me a pair of Primark shoes, which I’m grateful for.
Accessories
As I refresh my outfit, I’m opting for the tried-and-true tan leather camera bag from my Fall wardrobe. Its versatility has earned it a permanent spot in my style rotation, and I see no need to introduce new pieces just yet. The small brown silk scarf and larger fine grey-green scarf are also making a return appearance, effortlessly complementing the season’s color palette. My trusty tan leather belt will remain in service as well, imbuing my jeans with a touch of sophistication. And, speaking of trends, belts seem to be experiencing a resurgence in popularity – I’m glad I stuck with this one! For added flair, I’ll be reaching for my gold-look chains and chunky hoop earrings from my Fall jewelry collection. These simple yet elegant pieces will subtly elevate my overall look.
Retailers I’ve purchased from this season
Jigsaw
Here, I’ve listed the items I purchased from Jigsaw’s online store using affiliate links that won’t add any extra cost for you. The commission generated will help me cover hosting and software expenses for this blog. My picks include a boiled wool jumper in blue, Merino cashmere cardigan in green, silk shirt in blue-green, and viscose shirt in brown and cream.As I’ve been living in France for a few years now, I decided to take advantage of one of my favorite UK stores that no longer ships internationally. For the time being, they’re not exporting to the USA either, so this section is specifically tailored for my UK-based readers.Jigsaw has been a well-established high street brand since the early 1970s, with a strong online presence. Their physical stores are always tastefully designed, featuring carefully curated displays that leave me feeling uplifted and inspired even if I don’t make a purchase.Given my decision to opt for a more minimalist capsule wardrobe this time around, Jigsaw was an excellent starting point due to their propensity for understated color palettes. While paying slightly more often yields more intriguing hues, Jigsaw’s general aesthetic aligns with the restrained tones I’m aiming for.Jigsaw occupies a unique space between fast fashion and designer fashion, offering mid-range prices for high-quality materials that will endure for years to come. Their emphasis on classic yet modern styles also resonates with me.I appreciate that they prioritize sustainable practices by adhering to strict supply chain guidelines to prevent the exploitation of women.
Zara
I recently made a conscious effort to explore Zara’s online store and purchase a few pieces that caught my eye. As someone who typically doesn’t shop there due to their younger target audience, I was eager to get a feel for the fit and quality of their clothing. To my surprise, they offer a range of tee shirt styles, from clingy to loose-fitting, and several color palettes that appealed to me, particularly the softer, muted tones. While most of Zara’s clothing isn’t designed with older women in mind, I did find some classic, affordable pieces that I thought were worth purchasing. In particular, I picked up a washed-out green tee, a pale green top with ribbed neck and sleeves, a sand-colored sweatshirt, and high-rise leggings made from faux leather.
Marks and Spencer
In my recent shopping haul, I picked up the following items. Please note that these are affiliate links. For those in the UK, you can find the products here: grey check leggings, suedette borg-lined coat, brown leather biker boots, and cream silk shirt. If you’re based in the US, the same items can be found here: grey check leggings, suedette borg-lined coat, brown leather biker boots, and cream silk shirt (note that the cream silk shirt from Marks and Spencer is still available, even though I purchased it a couple of years ago).
What I’m missing for my winter capsule
I embarked on a quest to find a dress that could seamlessly transition from casual boot-wearing occasions to more formal get-togethers around Christmas and New Year. Unfortunately, my search was met with disappointment as every dress that caught my eye fell just shy of my ankles, leaving me stuck in a style rut.
The country-inspired look, characterized by floaty dresses worn over boots and often paired with cashmere jumpers or cardigans, has been a popular trend for years. While it’s a charming aesthetic, I couldn’t help but feel frustrated that retailers seemed to overlook the fact that petite women like myself would adore wearing mid-calf-length dresses that aren’t overwhelmed by excessive fabric.
As someone who’s well beyond the age of regularly donning heels, I found it perplexing that even more modest options weren’t available. Nevertheless, I’m committed to continuing my online search over the coming month, hopeful that I’ll stumble upon a beautiful piece that will make me feel confident and stylish.
Never shop without a plan
When starting your capsule wardrobe, it’s essential to remember that not everything is available at the beginning of the season. However, this shouldn’t prompt you to make impulse purchases. Instead, keep an eye out for pieces that will fit seamlessly into your wardrobe once you have a clear understanding of how they’ll work together. Buying out of desperation can lead to costly and guilt-inducing decisions.A special dress or outfit doesn’t need to be incorporated into the rest of your capsule; it can stand alone as a unique item. Including something that breaks the uniformity of your capsule is essential, allowing you to look distinctly different on occasion. If your capsule becomes too organized, you risk finding it dull before the season ends.Creating your own capsule wardrobe for the season ahead is a fun and effective way to avoid impulse buying. It’s an excellent opportunity to develop a more intentional approach to shopping.If you’d like guidance on building your capsule wardrobe, consider enrolling in The Mature Style course. This step-by-step process will help you navigate dressing for your figure type, coloring, lifestyle, and budget. Treat yourself or ask a friend or family member to gift it to you – the benefits of this course extend far beyond the season.