10×10 Closet Challenge Winter Edition Re-cap

[ column 1: Looks 1, 2, 3 // column 2: Looks 4, 5, 6, 7 // column 3: Looks 8, 9, 10 ] Check marks = favorite looks.

Count ’em up. Ten outfits, with ten items. This season’s 10×10 Closet Challenge was another great exercise in creativity. I learned about balance, my preference for oversized proportions, and the need for forethought, among other things.

MY TAKEAWAYS:

>>  My biggest eye-opener was when I started to pay attention to balance as I styled these outfits, particularly the wide pants. I found the outfits worked so much better with a nipped waist and a turtleneck or cowl to balance the volume of the pants. A symmetry of sorts. Previous to this exercise, I hadn’t given a lot of thought about balance in my looks. I hope to carry it forward when styling other items in my closet.

>>  As always my preference for oversized proportions jumped out to me. This 10×10 really reinforced how much I do not prefer a perfectly fitted outfit. Movement in my garments makes me feel more feminine and beautiful . I like the swing and flow that comes with oversized pieces.

>>  I have not been giving enough time to consider accessories in my outfit. Most days I am grabbing for a scarf or a necklace when my family is halfway out the door. (Mom problems. That’s what happens when I spend the bulk of my time getting three little people ready to head out, my prep time shrinks.) To combat this issue, I plan to choose my accessories at the same time I select my outfit, so it’s a complete look from the get-go, rather than searching for final items when heading out the door.

>>  I really, really like texture in my outfits. That explains why I am such a fan of the Jamie + the Jones sweater and the black and white tights. Moving forward I will look for new ways to add texture to what I’m wearing. It’s one of those elements that can be the “finishing” factor of a look.

MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT:

After wearing the same things day-in and day-out, I started to feel bored with the actual clothing items themselves, though not necessarily the outfits. Nonetheless, it was still a great way to learn new combinations that I will repeat in the future.

FRINGE BENEFIT:

Restricting myself to just ten items for the better part of two weeks really made me appreciate the rest of what is in my closet. When the exercise concluded, I felt like I gained a whole wardrobe without having to spend a dime, ha!

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION:

What a turnout!! Lee and Caroline did a great job inviting ladies to join in. I’d be embarrassed if I told you just how much time I spent on Instagram checking out other participants’ looks and feeds. The encouragement was amazing. YOU are a group of engaging, creative, honest and conscientious women. I am honored and inspired to be able to connect with you.

SHOP THE TEN:

1 // Black v-neck cashmere sweater, Everlane, $120 // This is a classic piece that I hope to wear for a very long time. I like this particular v-neck because it isn’t too high, nor is it too plunging. It hits just right for me. Features Mongolian cashmere, made responsibly overseas.

2 // Alpaca cardigan, Zady, sold out // This sweater is so warm, but it is a bit heavy at times. If I were still looking for an oversized cardigan, I’d consider Amour Vert’s navy option, which is very similar (it comes in wool). (Amour Vert is committed to responsible manufacturing, read more here.) Or you could get wild and knit your own.

3 // Camel crew-neck cashmere sweater, Everlane, sold out // These ones went fast! I love the Oatmeal version of this sweater, and almost got it instead. Grana has a more camel-leaning color with hints of blush that looks really pretty. Both sweaters feature Mongolian cashmere and are made responsibly overseas.

4 // Pima turtleneck, Everlane, $30 // This shirt is a real workhorse my friends! If you’re looking for something thicker, ESBY has a few left in gray and cream. Made in Lima, Peru.

5 // T Sweater, Jamie + the Jones, $198 // You want this sweater, trust me. It’s amazing. It’s 100% woven cotton and it is like wearing a dream. Made in Nashville, TN.

6 // Rigid denim, Imogene + Willie, $195 // Still stiff, but beginning to fit a little better. I’ve noticed that high-waisted denim without stretch seems to stay up on my hips a lot better than stretch denim, which I constantly had to pull up. Made in the USA.

7 // Black shift dress, Hackwith Design House, $95 // I haven’t said much about this label yet, so here goes. They’re based in St. Paul, Minnesota, and they design and make all their products in house. If you haven’t checked out their line yet, you’re missing out!

8 // Wide Pants, Lauren Winter, $133 // These bad boys are currently on sale! I love these pants because they provide the wide leg silhouette I love with the comfort of my favorite pajamas. They are the ultimate lounge pants. Made in Portland, OR.

9 // Suzie Closed Toe Clog, Mid Heel, in Sienna, c/o Bryr Studio // Artfully made clogs that are individually crafted by hand in San Francisco. One of the quickest ways to elevate an outfit. I particularly like the shape of the toe-box on Bryr’s clogs.

10 // Modern Chelsea Boot, Everlane, $235 // These look a little formal out of the box, but are incredibly useful and versatile shoes. Currently the most worn pair in my closet.

Lets hear it, what did you learn from your 10×10? Will there be looks you’ll be re-creating? Do you feel a little more acquainted with your personal style?