I’ve been trying to do this thing where I rotate my skirts, denim and trousers as part of this capsule. Mostly, because I know if I didn’t, I’d end up wearing the same two items on repeat. And while it wouldn’t be a bad thing, that stagnant repetition can get a uninspiring, fast.
Wearing Grana (mens) b/w stripe top (old but this is a great short-sleeved alternative); Marle silk skirt; Vince coatigan (old but this is a near match); Karen Walker belt (old); Everlane 40 hour flats*; Chanel boy bag
So I opted for the most impractical item I included in my capsule. A silk slip skirt from Marle. This was maxi length when I bought it, and even after getting it taken up, I do find that with some outfits the proportions seem a little off. So I did the next best thing; I rolled the waistband up to expose a little more of my legs. A luxury in winter, I know, and one of the many reasons I love living in Sydney.
I have to say, that while I absolutely adore this skirt – that contrast hem detail is exceptional – it does come with its flaws. It’s a reminder that more expensive isn’t always “better”. You may recall I had a similar satin slip skirt from a more affordable brand, which I’d purchased to test the waters of this style in my wardrobe. Safe to say it fast became a favourite, and I found myself looking to spend a little more on a version in a more luxurious fabric – silk. This Marle one ticked all the boxes for me; high waisted, cut on the bias, and that special detail which makes it an elevated basic.
The fit though, is where I felt a little let down (as the quality is otherwise exquisite). Just like with my Realisation Par skirt, there is some bubbling on the hip as the side zipper doesn’t lay flat against my silhouette. I did wonder momentarily if this was down to the fact that my hips are my widest point – I am pear-shaped, for those curious – but that flaw is mirrored both when the skirt is on, and when it is off.
I’m reminded of when I first started doing capsule wardrobes, and one of my key learnings at the time? We make peace with the items we have, and they are good – or perfect – enough as is. And that’s the way I’m looking at this purchase, too.
Neutrals are always a sure fire winner with me, and what I really loved about this mid-week outfit. Sometimes I feel a bit like a one trick pony when it comes to the styling tools I use. I know what I like, and I’m not afraid to repeat silhouettes or even exact outfits (just with different pieces).
Wearing Joseph knit sweater; Theory leather trousers; Vaneli two tone pumps; The Curated bag*
Take the above outfit as an example. Usually, I’d be inclined to tuck the sweater in at the waist. It’s a “look” that’s always worked well for me. Plus I love how a simple French tuck can create some shape while naturally defining the waist in a subtle way. But I decided to try something different and wear my knit loose for a change. And I really liked how it looked with this outfit. For me there’s balance in the fact that I’m wearing a skinny silhouette on my lower half.
I completed the outfit with some equally neutral accessories. My beloved Vaneli two tone pumps (which I seem to wear almost daily at this point), and a mock croc leather bag from The Curated*. I’ve had quite a number of requests to do a review on this bag, so planning on putting something together once I’ve wrapped up with this 30 day capsule.
