How are we already one month into the new season? I have to say, this truly is my favourite time of year. Well, combined with that transition into autumn. It’s when you get to have the most fun with your wardrobe. Layers are both serving a purpose, but can be chopped and changed to create a style mood. As I mentioned when I wrapped up my winter 30X30 capsule, I thought it would be fun (and useful!) to do a capsule “month” every season. It’s a way to go back to basics, continue refining your style, and also pushing yourself to make the most of a narrower selection of your closet. Well, assuming it’s anything like mine (size-wise) anyway… So, today I wanted to talk through my spring 30X30 capsule, which I’ll be wearing for the next 30 days.
* FYI the above image is shoppable.
SPRING 30X30 CAPSULE
This Sunday on my YouTube channel I’ll be sharing a better look into the process of building my spring 30X30 capsule, but I wanted to provide context and an overview before sharing all my outfits here on my blog. I probably won’t have the time to update you with outfits daily; instead, looking to do a download of what I wore at wore at least once a week.
I purposely chose to take a slow approach to selecting my 30 items. If my last experience taught me anything, it’s that you’re better off giving yourself some time to live with the items you’ve picked; this will give you the chance to better identify what’s missing, and result in a more well-rounded capsule. So, let’s talk through what I’ve included in my spring 30X30…
TOPS
Everlane white ruched blouse | I feel like the spring is the perfect time to start pulling out all the floaty white blouses, and this ticks so many boxes for me. I love the ruched detail at the neckline (which can be cinched in more by adjusting the tie at the back), as well as the 3/4 length sleeves. It’s semi sheer so I wear this with a nude bra underneath. A really good transitional piece too as it’s a lightweight base layer, so works well underneath cardigans or with a sweater casually tied over the shoulders.
Free People white tank | Popped this on the list as you can’t go wrong with a couple of simple basics. This has a ribbed detail to the cotton which makes it feel slightly more elevated than a plain tank. Love the u-shaped neckline, too.
Witchery black linen wrap top | I purchased this wrap top last year while I was still pregnant, and it’s easily become one of my favourite pieces in my closet. Being made of linen it’s nice and breathable, and the wrap style is universally flattering. Plus it can easily be adjusted if needed.
Alex Mill black & white striped tee | You may recall a few years back I bought a black and white striped tee from Brandy Melville. I loved the cut and spacing of the stripes, but the quality left little to be desired. This tee from Alex Mill is the closest thing I’ve found to an exact match. It’s a much softer cotton, and from the hand feel I can already sense it’ll hold up a lot better. I sized up to an L to get a relaxed kind of fit.
Bassike navy waffle tank | Once I settled on highlighting blue and navy tones as part of this spring 30X30 capsule, I knew I had to include this tank. It’s a thicker material, in a fun waffled cotton. The addition of texture is a nice way to add some visual interest.
Everlane cream henley top | Another waffled piece I decided to go for is this cream henley from Everlane. This isn’t too heavy, so from that perspective, is really great for those transitional months as a good base layer. I figure I can reach for this on cooler days, and push up the sleeves if I need a bit more “air flow”. My only bug bear with this top? The bottom hem is just overlocked and not properly finished. Given I’d only wear this tucked in it’s not a dealbreaker, but just wanted to highlight it in case you’ve had your eye on this piece.
Arket cream t-shirt | Continuing that cream theme, I also wanted to include a tee in that colour. It’s a little warmer and richer than a stark white, and these Arket tees have fast become a favourite of mine. I opt for the small which fits TTS for a relaxed fit. The cream is slightly sheer however I also have this in the navy, which is fully opaque.
Free People black off shoulder top | This was one of those tops I included as I wanted to get more wear out of it. I love how it’s ever so slightly off shoulder. I haven’t figured out any solutions for nursing and strapless bras, so I’m happy to wear this with a little black strap peeking at the shoulder. I’m banking on it looking like it’s part of the top!
Alex Mill blue cotton shirt | A piece I included in my last capsule was a blue cotton shirt – an easy, everyday essential. I went for one I have from Alex Mill as the collar is detachable (this is the same style with regular collar in stripe). Makes it feel like you have two shirts in one.
T by Alexander Wang stripe top | My final pick for tops is a striped number. Of course. I went with an oldie, but a goodie, a lightweight navy and white striped long sleeve from T by Alexander Wang. I bought this about five or six years ago, but they seem to release similar ones each season. As an alternative, I love this one from KULE.
KNITWEAR
Alessandra Cashmere sage mohair cardigan | As far as colour palettes go, I’ve been really drawn to sage green. Like everybody else on the internet, it’d seem! I absolutely adore this long coatigan from Alessandra Cashmere; it’s soft and fluffy, feels like wearing a cloud, and adds such rich texture to an outfit. Pairs really nicely with white and cream tones, too.
Uniqlo navy cashmere sweater (mens) | It can get a little cool during the spring, with the temperatures averaging 18-28 deg C. Our house is pretty draughty and as I spend quite a bit of time indoors, I always take this into consideration. So, I wanted to make sure I included a nice, lightweight knit. This cashmere option from the men’s section fits the bill perfectly. Love that it is super oversized, and can be worn thrown over the shoulders like a scarf, too.
& Other Stories beige oversized sweater | Perhaps more of a wild card choice, I threw this into the mix as a heavier weight option. Mostly because I wanted to challenge myself to wear it more. I loved the style online, but was a little taken aback by just how oversized it is when it arrived. Definitely size down if you’ve had your eye on this.
DENIM & TROUSERS
Assembly Label black linen trousers | The first item I wrote down to include in this spring 30X30 capsule? These linen trousers from Assembly Label. I feel incredible every time I wear these, and love the memories they have. I wore them while pregnant, and following the birth of our son. And now, close to seven months later, they are still on rotation. If that’s not the makings of a great essential piece, I don’t know what is. They do run a little large. I have the AU8 and find them a bit big on my waist.
Madewell blue skinny jeans | I included these skinny jeans in my last capsule, and couldn’t resist opting for them again. They’ve truly become one of my favourites in my closet, and it’s always a joy to wear them. They are so comfortable. The length is cropped, which makes them ideal for my short inseam!
Everlane bone cheeky straight jeans | My second denim choice were a slim straight leg pair. I wanted an ivory or white jean just as they seem most appropriate this time of year. And I figured, why not mix up the silhouette, and also pull out an old favourite. Again, another pant option which hit me just above the ankle. It’s one of my tricks for making my legs look longer!
SKIRTS & SHORTS
Madewell khaki shorts | Another piece I knew I really wanted to include were these khaki cotton shorts from Madewell. The colour is a little different for me, but one thing I’ve been trying to experiment more with is colour. Though in an intentional and slow way. Earthy tones seem to be a no brainer, and I think that the “kale” tone of these shorts looks amazing paired with white or nude hues. These fit large – I got a size XS and I am a true AU8 at the moment.
Isabel Marant Etoile navy skirt | Hands down one of my favourite purchases of the year is this wrap skirt from Isabel Marant. It’s a piece that I feel good in every. single. time. And I think that’s important when building your wardrobe – whether adding in trend pieces, or opting for classic staples. It’s a deep dark midnight navy, which sometimes pulls black. That’s one of the things I’m constantly drawn to, as I think it makes it look so much more interesting.
Yan13 denim shorts | And of course, I couldn’t build a spring 30X30 capsule without including some denim shorts. My pre-baby faves are at the point where they fit now, but I went for these ones from Yan13 as they are slightly looser through the leg. The raw asymmetrical hem with distressing is also a different detail – adds a casual vibe to an outfit.
OUTERWEAR
Kindersalmon ecru trench coat (current season version)| Chances are that of all the items I’ve pre-selected, this will get the least amount of wear. But, I wanted to have a jacket at my fingertips. You know, just in case. I went with a trench because it’s water-resistant so handy if it’s raining. I also love the tone of this trench. It’s a cool toned ecru, which works in effortlessly with the other items I’ve picked.
SHOES
Gucci brown leather loafers | You’ll have probably spotted that I recently decided to invest in the infamous Gucci loafers. And so far, so good. I can already see how these seamlessly work with my personal style. With summer not far off, I wanted to try and get that CPW down just a little, so of course had to include them in this capsule. I went with my usual size, an EU40. They’re a perfect fit, and comfortable straight off the bat (even though I have wide feet – win win!!).
Birkenstock black EVA Arizona sandals | Final item I went for? Another new shoe purchase: the Birkenstock Arizona sandals. I was so on the fence about these for the longest time, and now that I have them? I’m wondering why I didn’t bite the bullet and go for it sooner. The version I got are waterproof which makes them the perfect beach shoe. I found them TTS, and will say initially the straps did put a bit of pressure across the top of my foot. A few wears in and they’re pretty comfortable. Can’t go wrong.
So that’s where my spring 30X30 capsule is currently sitting. I’ve got 8 spare items and as per previous, won’t be including handbags in my overall count. As I drop new pieces into the mix, I’ll be sure to update you via my outfit posts (with a final edit at the end of the month!). PS. I’ll be sharing all related outfits as part of my capsule over on Instagram using the hashtag #30X30OCTOBER2020 if you would like to join me! x
