Winter Capsule Wardrobe. Over 70 Real Life Try-On
My stay-home casual winter 2020-2021 capsule wardrobe
As winter approaches, deciding on a capsule wardrobe can be a daunting task. The uncertainty surrounding the pandemic’s impact on social gatherings adds an extra layer of complexity. Will older women still desire to socialize freely, even without restrictions, or will caution prevail? This raises questions about investing in evening or smart casual attire versus prioritizing athleisure wear for everyday comfort. With the unpredictability of lockdowns and virus activity, it’s essential to consider these factors when planning your winter wardrobe.
Dressing for my age, body shape and lifestyle
As I’m now over 70 and living in rural South West France during the warmer months, I have a unique routine that involves moving to the French Riviera each October and staying until March. While I usually enjoy strolling along coastal paths, browsing Provencal markets, and savoring breakfast at cafes, this year’s circumstances are quite different. The pandemic has forced all cafes and restaurants to close, but I’ve adapted by taking long walks with a flask of hot coffee and buying croissants from the bakery on the way – it’s become my new perfect morning routine.
When packing for winter, I had to make most of my wardrobe choices in October, as I was preparing for an extended stay. Although I intended to add some pieces during my time here, France’s lockdown forced me to prioritize essential items only. As a result, the capsule wardrobe you’ll see is not necessarily my ideal, but it reflects my authentic winter wear from now until mid-March.
By the way, these selfies are taken in the corner of my tiny studio apartment, using the mirror – that’s why you can spot the camera!
Putting together a seasonal capsule depending on the weather
My winter wardrobe is tailored to the mild climate of the Côte d’Azur, where the temperature drops significantly only after dark. As I prepare for the last stretch of December, a transitional month that sees sunshine give way to cloud and rain, my capsule collection must be versatile enough to accommodate both cool and cozy moments. By January, the cold sets in, but the bright skies return, making it perfect for removing my cardigan by midday. Fast forward to February, and the sun shines brightly once more, with people enjoying their balconies again. By March, the weather is nothing short of heaven, with warm days allowing me to shed my layers. Throughout this period, you’ll find me in comfortable clothing and sneakers, prioritizing practicality over flashiness.
Dressing for a Covid-safe lifestyle
As the winter season approaches, I’m looking forward to embracing the quiet charm of the coastal towns and villages. The crisp air invigorates me, and I relish the opportunity to explore local galleries and exhibitions without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season. However, 2021 has thrown a wrench in my plans. France’s curfew, in place from 8pm to 6am, has dampened the evening cultural scene, leaving me to ponder the best way to spend my free time.I’ve curated a capsule wardrobe that caters to both going out and staying in – comfortable athleisure wear for everyday lounging. The emphasis is on practicality and relaxation, as we’re all encouraged to limit social gatherings during the holiday season. The thought of traveling to the UK to celebrate with my daughter and her family has become increasingly daunting, especially with London’s closure till after Christmas.As a result, I’ve reimagined my festive attire for this year. A simple dress from my Fall wardrobe will make an appearance on Christmas Day, symbolizing a more subdued yet still joyful celebration. The world may be in a state of flux, but I’m determined to continue enjoying the art of dressing, even if it means simplifying my choices and saving myself some expenses.
Using the Capsule Wardrobe Recipe
I’ve previously shared a comprehensive guide to building a seasonal capsule wardrobe, which you can access here. As I prepare my Winter 2020-2021 Capsule Wardrobe, I’m excited to walk you through the process and share my thought process behind each piece. My goal is to inspire you to create your own capsule this season, which will not only save you money but also eliminate those frustrating moments of standing in front of an open closet wondering what to wear. Over the years, adopting a capsule wardrobe has had a profound impact on my life, and I’ve documented 45 benefits that have resulted from this approach.
Choosing a color palette for the winter
When it comes to my core color palette, black is the winner. With a stash of black pieces already in my wardrobe, I’ve decided to stick with what I have rather than splurging on new additions. Grey takes center stage as my secondary hue, punctuated by subtle pops of white to add some visual interest. I’m quite fond of grey, though I do find it’s becoming increasingly challenging to wear close to my face as my skin tone has lightened over the years.My go-to accent color is red – a choice I made early on in October when planning my Riviera wardrobe. With black and grey not exactly the most flattering colors for someone over 70, I wanted to inject some personality into my outfits. A patterned top with red accents and a bold red cardigan that can be paired with multiple tops and bottoms were the goals.But alas, lockdown had other plans. As online shopping has become the norm for me, I wasn’t too fazed by the closure of physical stores. Instead, I dedicated myself to scouring the web for red treasures. And it’s precisely because of my capsule wardrobe that I was able to focus on finding the specific items I needed – no distractions from trendy pieces I wouldn’t wear often.Efficient searching is key when you know exactly what gaps exist in your wardrobe. However, my quest for a strong, vibrant red proved surprisingly elusive.
The mistake I made this year choosing one of my colors
I failed to double-check the season’s colors before making purchases. In the fall, I easily picked up almond and Bordeaux-red items since they were the prominent hues of the season. However, I didn’t consider that these colors were specifically for Fall/Winter, not just Fall. As a result, the wine-red shade that dominated my wardrobe in December was the same one I had already worn throughout autumn.I’ve come to realize that red is indeed ubiquitous during this time, but it’s not the bright, bold hue I crave. My poor planning has led to a less-than-ideal color palette. A capsule wardrobe is all about being proactive and prepared for each season. It allows you to effortlessly create outfits without having to worry about what to wear.One of the perks of having a seasonal wardrobe is that on a specific day – when I’ve taken photos of my new collection and published the post – I get to put away an entire season’s worth of clothes. Suddenly, I’m left with a fresh set of items that are thoughtfully organized and ready to be enjoyed. This shift allows me to explore new color combinations and styles, even if some pieces have been part of my wardrobe for years.Unfortunately, this year’s wardrobe update has left me feeling less than thrilled since I didn’t want to repeat the Bordeaux color. Still, I’ve saved money and learned a valuable lesson about the importance of planning ahead.
Buy stategically and save money every season
When it comes to my Winter Capsule Wardrobe, I like to highlight all the essentials, showcasing a majority of pieces that have been with me for some time now. This is precisely the beauty of capsule living – it’s not about constantly buying new items or getting bored with what you already have; rather, it’s an exercise in creativity and resourcefulness. By making every item work harder for you, you can achieve a more stylish and streamlined look.As I’ve developed this habit, I find myself on high alert whenever there are sales – always keeping an eye out for those must-have pieces that will truly elevate my wardrobe. And when I do make a purchase, I take great pride in knowing that it’s something I’ll treasure for years to come. Perhaps most importantly, though, is the sense of calm and confidence that comes with never having to worry about what to wear again.
My Capsule Wardrobe Winter 2020 – 2021 list
Bottoms for Winter time
I’ve curated a selection of my favorite pencil pants and joggers that have kept me warm and stylish throughout the years. A pair of black straight-leg pants from Cache Cache France, purchased at a discounted price, gets a special mention. Although they’re too long, I had to turn them up, which means the side vents no longer appear at the ankle. However, the simple design with a flat waistband makes them a great addition to my wardrobe.Another favorite is a pair of grey and white micro-check pencil pants made from warm jersey fabric. I picked them up five years ago in a small boutique in France during the sales. Over time, I’ve had to take them in at the waist due to changes in my body shape. Despite this, they remain a cozy and comfortable choice.I also have black and white striped stretch joggers that have been part of my wardrobe for years. While not thick, they’re perfect for a morning walk along the beach with my dog. If I do get caught in the rain, they wash out quickly and dry easily.My most recent purchase was a pair of knitted athleisure cuffed jogging bottoms from Cache Cache France. After searching high and low for this style in petite sizes, I finally found them when the shops reopened. However, I made the mistake of buying a size Large without trying them on properly. As expected, they’re huge, even considering my recent weight gain. To compensate, I’ve had to roll up the cuffs twice.In hindsight, I should have taken more time to try them on or purchased them online when the price was reduced. Lesson learned: planning is key, especially when it comes to making wardrobe purchases.
Tops for cooler and cold days
My wardrobe staples are rooted in a mix of practicality and personal style. Among my trusted pieces is a red round-neck short-sleeved tee, which I purchased three years ago during a sale at the local supermarket. Although it was initially intended for choir uniform purposes, its versatility has allowed me to wear it on various occasions since the group hasn’t met in almost a year. The thought of leaving clothes unused bothers me, as it evokes feelings of wastefulness and guilt.I also cherish my white Marks & Spencer’s shirt with interior buttons between those on display, ensuring no gapping or awkward gaps. Its simplicity, affordability, and petite sizing make it an excellent addition to my wardrobe. Another treasured item is a black three-quarter-sleeve high-neck sweater that I’ve owned for over a decade – a true classic that never goes out of style.More recently, I acquired a new grey merino wool fine knit roll collar sweater from Marks & Spencer during their early lockdown sale. This timeless piece is well worth the investment, and its quality will withstand the test of time.My wardrobe also features several cardigans: a hip-length Boden cashmere cardi for added warmth, a pale grey longish cashmere cardigan from Boden that I’ve worn frequently since buying it two years ago, and a black and grey classic thick jersey lined jacket purchased twelve years ago from Carroll France. Each of these pieces serves as a reliable layering option.As for dresses, my Bordeaux-red cotton jersey slip-on Penny dress from Boden has become a staple in my Fall wardrobe. Its comfort and versatility make it the perfect choice for Christmas Day, despite being a bit more special occasion-focused than usual. I might even consider purchasing other colors at the current 30% off sale.Lastly, my athleisure warm grey knitted hoodie serves as a cozy layering option when paired with jogging bottoms. While it does overwhelm me when worn together, I can easily use each piece separately on chillier days.
Outdoorwear for changeable weather
I’ll be donning these jogging bottoms frequently next month, despite their size being quite modest compared to my own. My trusty black faux leather biker jacket from Cache Cache France, which I purchased three months ago, will likely make many appearances as well. This vegan leather alternative has exceeded my expectations in terms of quality and appearance, feeling remarkably supple and durable. The short, boxy silhouette of the jacket flatters my figure by emphasizing my upper body while balancing out my heavier lower half. For colder winter days, I find myself reaching for my reliable grey sleeveless puffer jacket, which is at least six years old and still going strong. Its lightweight yet insulating design makes it perfect for stuffing into a bag or wearing over jeans, pants, and even dresses to keep warm.
My one special item this season
My trusty bright orange coat, made from a luxurious blend of wool and cashmere from Marks & Spencer, has been a staple in my wardrobe since I purchased it around 2014 or 2015. I’ve had the pleasure of wearing it numerous times over the years, and its generously cut design makes it perfect for layering over thick sweaters when venturing into colder climates. The versatility of this coat is one of its standout features, as it looks just as striking paired with pants as it does with an over-the-knee skirt or a dress, like I’ve worn here. While orange isn’t typically a color I associate with my winter wardrobe palette, the boldness of this hue means it can still pull off the look when paired with a contrasting color like red. In fact, it looks particularly sharp when layered over black, adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. If you’re in the market for a new coat this winter, be sure to check out my post on the best winter coats, where I’ve also included an updated version of this very same coat.
Footwear for a casual life
A glance at my shoe collection reveals a mix of practicality and style. My trusty black sneakers, purchased from the local supermarket a year ago, have become a staple in my athleisure ensembles. More recently, I’ve added beige and tan animal print sneakers to my Fall wardrobe, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to casual outfits. Additionally, I own a pair of black ankle boots with gold trim, which I acquired several months prior as part of my winter wardrobe strategy – knowing that black would be the foundation color for many of my seasonal looks.
Accessories
I recently replenished my wardrobe with some timeless and versatile pieces that will see me through the entirety of 2021. One of my key purchases was a medium-sized black nylon bag with tan trim from M&S, which offers great value compared to similar bags from Longchamps. The best part is that it folds up small, making it easy to store without taking up too much space.In addition to the bag, I’ve also restocked my jewelry collection with some gold chains and a shiny new bangle. I was initially going to wear my heavy gold chain necklace (which I’ll showcase in a future post), but I ended up finding some fine gold chains that look great worn together at Cache Cache. These affordable pieces will keep me looking stylish throughout the year.To add some visual interest, I picked up four scarves: a vibrant red and multi-colored scarf, a black, white, and pink silk square, and two cashmere scarves in grey and navy with matching pom-pom hats. The latter was a thoughtful gift from my daughter three years ago, which makes it even more special to wear during the holidays this year.In terms of accessories, I’ve also added two pairs of gloves – one in grey and another with an animal print – as well as some black and grey socks, thick black tights, and a few pairs of leggings from M&S. For headgear, I’ve got a cashmere pom-pom hat that’s perfect for colder weather.To round out my wardrobe, I’ve packed some versatile tops, including several vests and two grey tees that can be worn under other pieces or on their own if the weather warms up in March. To accommodate any unexpected warm spells, I’ve also included a lighter weight pair of cotton three-quarter pants.
Why bother to make seasonal capsule wardrobes?
While shopping can be a chore, having a clear idea of your wardrobe needs can make the process much more efficient. Just last week, I found myself zipping through three stores with ease, focusing solely on red items and grey athleisure wear. The experience not only saved me time and energy but also helped me avoid impulse purchases. In fact, I returned home with a significantly reduced shopping haul. One of my favorite pieces is the Penny dress by Boden, which I restyled for winter with tights, boots, and a biker jacket – and it’s currently 30% off! You can find the US link here.By knowing what my wardrobe will need in future seasons, I’ve developed a strategy of shopping during clearance events just before new styles hit the shelves. I don’t feel the need to keep up with the latest trends; instead, I opt for timeless pieces that won’t look too young or dated quickly. It’s amazing how often a fashion trend can dominate every store one season only to disappear for years – not my cup of tea.On the other hand, there are styles that surprise us by lasting much longer than expected. Animal prints, for instance, were initially thought to be fleeting but have become modern classics. Similarly, platform sole sneakers were initially deemed a flash in the pan but have been a staple in many wardrobes for years now. I was initially hesitant about these ‘fast fashion’ items but eventually took the plunge when they became a consistent presence in stores.
Make your own capsule wardrobe
Start your new year by taking control of your wardrobe and creating a stylish collection that reflects your personal style. To help you achieve this, I’ve developed a 10-step program that can be completed at your own pace. This comprehensive guide takes you from a overwhelming closet to a curated wardrobe that accurately represents who you are and how you want to present yourself. My ultimate goal is for you to feel confident in your appearance.Before diving into the program, I recommend taking my free Personal Style Quiz, which is designed to help you discover your unique style personality. The quiz is followed by detailed notes and tips tailored to each style profile, ensuring you learn which clothing items will bring out the best in you. By understanding your personal style, you’ll be better equipped to build a wardrobe that truly reflects who you are.