I’ve been  looking at all the ways to build a wardrobe. Some will tell you Capsule Building a Fall 2015 wardrobe is the only answer.  For me, I love the idea.  But, what happens when I’ve sewn all my pieces?  Does my machine just collect dust for the rest of the season?  I found a Seasonal Shopping Plan that works on the basis of 2 or 3 of each item listed is enough.

  • Sweaters, Cardigans   (2 or 3)
  • Tops: Sleeveless, tanks, tees, strips  (2 or 3)
  • Tops: Blouses, Button Downs  (2 or 3)
  • Shoes: Tennis Shoes, Sandals, Heels, Flats, Wedges  (2 or 3)
  • Skirts: A Line, Pencil, floor length  (2 or 3)
  • Jackets: Blazers, Jean, Wool,  (2 or 3)
  • Pants: Straight Leg, Skinny, Wide leg, Boot Cut  (2 or 3)
  • Jeans: Straight Leg, Skinny, Wide leg, Boot Cut  (2 or 3)
  • Accessories (2 or 3) I know this must have meant 20 or 30! 🙂

So, looking at this list and using it as a guide, you would need a total of 6 tops, 3 sweaters, 3 pair of shoes, 3 skirts, 3 jackets, 3 pair of pants, 3 pair of jeans and numerous accessories!  Just kidding, she actually said 2 or 3. A total of around 24 items.

I can work with this!  Although no dresses were mentioned, which is concerning for me 🙂

Overall, the first step in building a wardrobe is defining your style.  I found a worksheet for this here. Art in the find has a wonderful graphic of ways to pair your clothing.  I would love to share the entire library here, but I don’t think there is enough space.  Please visit her page.  So much to learn from her.[envira-gallery id="2183"]
[envira-gallery slug="art-in-the-park-ideas"]
 I included a couple of photos to tease you. Click on the title on her site and a whole library opens up!

There are so many versions on the internet to help you along your way of defining what your wardrobe should and shouldn’t be. Another website has a workbook to help you along the way. Her workbook, PERSONAL STYLE & THE PERFECT WARDROBE can be downloaded in it’s entirety by clicking on the title above.

I really like her workbook.  She has questions I would never think of asking myself. For the perfect outfit she asks  “What is the ensemble perfect for?” and “What are the main accessories, hair and make up variations?”

I am no where near as creative or organized as these ladies.  I personally buy fabric with a vague purpose in mind.  Then make something with it, say a skirt.  At that point I realize I have no idea what type of top, jacket, or accessories are appropriate for said ensemble. Eventually, I get there and look good.  I just don’t take a straight path like these brilliant ladies.  I hope you find something useful for your own sewing here, ENJOY!