My Autumn/Winter 2014 Capsule Wardrobe...

It’s finally here! My capsule wardrobe video for  Autumn / Winter  2014.

If you are unable to see the video above please click here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-qbnmisNio&feature=youtu.be

These are my everyday clothes. This wardrobe will take me from now until the end of winter. Some items are new, but a majority of the garments are old (not purchased this season). Some, like the Monsoon wool dress, Topshop brown polka dot dress, Gap brown wrap sweater, Burberry Scarf, Ted Baker wool coat  I’ve had them for over four years while the black blazer from Max Mara and Miss Sixty sweater are more than ten years old.

This  video is not about the brands mentioned. It is to give you an example of what one woman’s capsule wardrobe + extras can look like. You must tailor the capsule wardrobe to work for your life situation. This will all depend on who you are, where you live and what sort of lifestyle you lead. A business woman will, of course, have a different core item wardrobe than a stay-at-home mum.

So things to consider are what does your day usually consists of (board meetings, working from home), the season, the weather and of course your style and personality (fashion forward, classic).The selection of my 10 items fit my needs as a stay-at-home mum and have been customised to my particular lifestyle and the climate where I live: I am a wife and mother in my 30ies and I live in London - which in my experience has very cold and changeable weather.
My days consists of taking care of the home and my son, running errands, meet ups, going on play dates, writing etc but I always like to look presentable.

Keeping in mind your own personal style, your body shape, your daily needs and your budget, are you ready to begin thinking toward a core wardrobe? Have fun with it! 

You do not need to stick to ten-core items. There are no strict rules. This video shows you the clothes I will wear from autumn through winter in London.

The point of having a capsule wardrobe is to cut the clutter in your closet.  It's not so much about money or labels (I mention the brands purely for information) as it is about simplicity and ease of dressing. If you have a few pieces that fit you well and flatter your shape, then you never have to spend time trying on twenty outfits whenever you go out. You can easily pull out something to wear and know that you will look presentable. It is liberating!

This will not only save you time but also money as good quality can last you longer:) 

Here is a list of clothing items shown in the video:

Ten core items: 

Polka dot dress tea dress by Topshop (over 5 years old)

Intimissimi dress 
Monsoon green and black wool dress (over 4 years old)
French Connection black and white dress (over 4 years old)

Gap brown wool wrap sweater (over 5 years old)
Zara blue silk blouse (over 4 years old)

Zara cream blouse (over 4 years old)

Zara black printed blouse 

Black skinny jeans by Topshop (over 5 years old) 

Blue super skinny jeans by Ted Baker *new

Extras

T- shirts: 

Banana Republic white t-shirt
Intimissimi grey t-shirt

Gap brown t- shirt

Cardigans and jumpers:

Intimissimi wool cardigan 

Hobbs grey wool cardigan

Miss Sixty black jumper (over 10 years old)

Ralph Lauren green v-neck jumper (over 4 years old)

Blazers:

Max Mara black blazer (over 10 years old)

Topshop blazer 
Jack Wills blazer 

Coat

Ted Baker black wool coat (over 4 years old)

Additionally, special occasion clothes for wearing to the theatre, weddings & special events, etc.

Evening / Special occasion wear 

Banana Republic black dress 
LK Bennett wrap dress  *new

Principles black lace dress (I wore this on a party this summer)
Phase Eight rouch grey long sleeves dress 

Accessories

Shoes: 
Tory Burch ballet flats (over 4 years old)

French sole ballet flats * and few extra pairs of boots and heels not shown in this video

Geox brown suede ankle boots

LK Bennett black sledge shoes 

LK  Bennett blue stila shoes *new 

Prada Bauletto Saffiano Lux Sabbia bag *new 

LV pochette 

Chanel classic flap bag (a great luxury birthday present 3 years ago from my hubby)
YSL black clutch bag 

Alexander McQueen scarf (gift from my hubby last year)

Burberry scarf (over 4 years old)

I love to hear from you. Please let me know what you think. Are you trying the capsule  wardrobe? How is it working for you?


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Get your autumn/winter capsule wardrobe ready...

Autumn is officially here and this week I wanted to talk about getting your autumn/ winter capsule wardrobe ready. Many of you have probably already started this. I have and am shooting my autumn/winter video soon. 

If you are joining us for the first time the capsule wardrobe is a concept that I read from the book Lesson from Madam Chic. I wrote about how I was inspired by the author of the book. If you'd like to read that please click here 

http://reliablerealist.blogspot.co.uk/2014/03/why-im-aiming-to-only-have-10-items-in.html 

http://reliablerealist.blogspot.co.uk/2014/03/why-im-aiming-to-only-have-10-items-in_25.html

http://reliablerealist.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/my-capsule-wardrobe-for-spring-2014_11.html

http://reliablerealist.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/my-spring-capsule-wardrobe-2014-chat.html

Now it's time to store away your spring/summer items that you no longer need, bring out the clothes from last autumn/winter that you plan to use again this year and mend anything that needs mended. Go from your clothes last year autumn/winter and decide what you want to keep. It might be time to bring some of them back. In fact the higher quality pieces you buy the longer they'll last. I will definitely be bringing old pieces into my autumn/winter capsule wardrobe. 

Everything else give them away or donate to charity. If there are items that you can't simply part with but you are not sure you want to use them on your up coming autumn/ winter capsule wardrobe, put them away in the closet in another room in the house. You might get into the middle of winter and you might want to inject some different clothes into your wardrobe. You might pick those or might not and just bring them back next autumn/winter. There are no strict rules you just have to do what works for you.

As you go through your items keep a shopping list of items that you need to update your capsule wardrobe with. Let's say you feel might want to purchase 1 new dress and 1 top or you need a new pair of jeans or a coat. Whatever it is keep it in your list and the next time you are out shopping you can keep an eye for those items and not end up buying things just because they were on sale and you did not really like.

From now on when you go shopping you won't be just aimlessly wondering through the stores. No more wasted money and time because now you know your style, what you like and what you need. You now know what to get and won't end up buying things that you don't really need.

So for example I needed a new pair of jeans this year that went on my list along with a new dress (I love dresses!) and I have now purchased them. But it made my shopping time much for focused and specific, with a clearer idea of what I'm looking for and what will work with the rest of my items.  

I will be shooting my autumn/winter capsule wardrobe and it will be out soon.

I'd love to know how is your autumn/winter capsule wardrobe coming along. I'd love to hear from you on twitter, facebook and instagram too! 

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What if someone's wearing the same dress as you?

Four years ago, I was in a restaurant and I saw a girl who was wearing the same dress that I was...we both sort of looked away a little embarrassed and pretended we didn't notice. Thankfully I had a blazer so I immediately put it on :) so that wasn't too bad :)

But I 've been to a formal black-tie event and also to a wedding where two guests were wearing the exact same dress...talk about awkward.

There is a chance that one day you'll show up to an event in the same dress as someone else. Well, ladies, what to do if it happens to you.
DON'T be embarrassed or worse be upset (and start giving her death stares!). Because that would only make you look foolish and b*tchy.

Rather than run away EMBRACE IT and use confidence to turn what could be deemed as an embarrassing situation into a celebration of your style!
You obviously have similar taste, why hate her?. If a guest says something obnoxious like, "What, are you two bridesmaids also?", don't comment. Just laugh it off. And if someone says, "You look better in it", you could respond with "You look gorgeous yourself!"

So, instead of getting upset and potentially ruining your night, you could ask to pose for a picture with your dress twin and say, "One thing is obvious, we definitely both have a good taste!" That would avoid all the awkwardness and you will certainly leave everyone with a good impression of you :)

Have you ever worn the same dress as another guest? Did anyone bring it up? So how do you feel about this? Are you flattered, or embarrassed, or annoyed? 

I would love to know what you think. Please leave me a comment below or if you wish you can also email me at annadizon.rr@gmail.com. I try to respond to every comment or question.

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My Summer 2014 Capsule Wardrobe update

I know you have seen me wearing with different clothes that were not in my Spring capsule wardrobe (especially on our holiday in Italy) but honestly I've not purchased anything nor added any extra to update my wardrobe.

It got really warm and I only swapped my two Gap sweaters, trench coat, my blazers, for tops and dresses.

Chelsea (London) photo by London Wedding Photographer MikiPhotography

Pull and Bear dress - LV totally bag - Burberry Aviator Sunglasses
Verona (Italy)

When we went on holiday to Italy and because of the hot weather I just brought out my shorts and pulled out old summer clothes lighter items suitable for the weather. This is a perfect example of how to edit your wardrobe when the weather changes. There is no strict rule!

Lake Garda
Habana linen dress ~ Mango cardigan 

Lake Garda
Banana Republic top (part of my spring capsule wardrobe) ~ Topshop denim shorts 

Lake Garda
Zara top ~ Topshop denim shorts ~ LK Bennett ballet shoes (part of my spring capsule wardrobe) 

Lake Garda
Zara top (part of my spring capsule wardrobe) ~ Abercrombie shorts

Many of you noticed and asked about the dress I was wearing when I went to the theatre. Yes, it was not in my Spring Capsule Wardrobe video because as I have said my spring 11 item wardrobe are my everyday (day wear) clothes and it does not include my evening wear, cocktail dress (for parties, weddings, formal occassions, etc).
So this Zara dress is part of my summer evening wear :)

Prince Edward Theatre - London
Zara dress ~ Hobbs blazer (part of my spring capsule wardrobe)

While my outfit on this wedding was a birthday gift from my wonderful husband.

London
LK Bennett top and skirt 

This is my summer capsule wardrobe but I will be attending another wedding in two weeks time and I might purchase a new dress:)

How about you? Have you updated your summer capsule wardrobe? 

I would love to know what you think. Please leave me a comment below or if you wish you can also email me at annadizon.rr@gmail.com. I try to respond to every comment or question.

See you next week! :)  xx

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Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Portion

This Urban Decay Primer Portion is a must have! I highly recommend this product to anyone who wants their eye shadow to glide on smoothly and stay put all day.

Using this before applying eye shadow makes such a difference as it prevents creasing and lasts from the minute I put it on to the minute I take it off.

Great primer, you only need a small amount on your finger. It really does make your eye make up last all day without having to keep popping off to the ladies' room for a touch up. 

I would love to know what you think. Please leave me a comment below or if you wish you can also email me at annadizon.rr@gmail.com. I try to respond to every comment or question.

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The most comfortable flat shoes I have ever owned...French Sole

I love ballet shoes! After all my search and considerable reading and reviews I can say that French Sole are the most comfortable ballet shoes I have ever had and my absolute favourite. 

Reading reviews is good but the truth is the only way to know  whether the shoes are right for you, you need to try them on your own. So, that is what I did. I decided to go to  French Sole in Ellis Street , Knightsbrige/Chelsea to try them out. I'm glad I did as the shop assistant Anne (thank you!) was so helpful and let me try numerous pairs to find the right one for me. Shoes are like an investment so it's always important to get it right and not rush it.

OOTD : Hobbs blazer, Gap skinny jeans,
LK Bennett nude patent ballet shoes, LV totally bag

French Sole is one of the recommended names when it comes to ballerina flats. The founder, Jane Winkworth, is an avid lover of ballerina flats. From creating bespoke flats for clients in the beginning, to forming her own mail order business and later French Sole, she has successfully made a name for herself in the industry - she's called the 'Queen of Ballerina Flats' and has been described by Vogue Magazine as being solely responsible for turning the humble ballet pump into a true fashion classic.  Fans include the late Princess of Wales, Diana and the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate.http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2075518/Kate-Middleton-following-Princess-Dianas-footsteps-French-Sole-creator.html

The company prides itself on superb quality and craftsmanship to age old methods of manufacture, hand lasted by third generation shoemakers in two partner factories in France and Spain and using only the very finest of Italian leathers.French Sole shoes are made in European factories in an ethical and legal environment. They openly oppose the use of cheap labour, child labour or any unethical practices.

I purchased the India grey patent crocodile leather ballet pumps with an elegant low vamp, revealing a little toe cleavage and has a quarter inch heel. A graceful ballet flat which will make the perfect addition to your wardrobe.

The leather upper and fabric lining is very soft with  an elegant low vamp, revealing a little toe cleavage and has a quarter inch heel. A graceful ballet flat which will make the perfect addition to your wardrobe. 
Even though they're made of soft leather, it doesn't look as flimsy as most of the mid-range shoes I've seen in the market. 
Ribbon ties add a feminine touch and it  is fully adjustable bow for your comfort and fit .They are true to size .

The sole reason why I purchased them is because they look good, are well-made (very good quality) and absolutely very comfortable. I will soon be replacing my other ballet pumps and slowly build my French Sole collection. I would highly recommend them.

See you next week! x


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My experience of the Capsule Wardrobe

" I guess you must have the desire to want to change and you must make a choice to put into practice these changes on a daily basis. When you do this, you will eventually reach a tipping point whereby you consciously change the way that you live. 

There will be no looking back- "

I have to say that now opening my wardrobe is such a joy! I can actually see all my clothes (not jam packed next to each other) and it is such a liberating feeling to not wonder what to wear for the day. I don't have to waste precious time (where in fact I could be spending it in more productive way) because I know all my 11 core items plus the extras will suit me perfectly.

I still love to shop but not as I did before...yes, yes, yes you read it right. I don't have the urge to shop and I can leave a shopping trip without purchasing something. I now do more window shopping for research purposes (and fun!) and not buying.

I really love my closet now and everything in it ...and NEVER feel like I have nothing to wear. I can easily pull out something to wear and know that will always look good on me, presentable and will represent me. 

If you choose your capsule wardrobe carefully, you will literally force yourself to only use the best things you have and over time  you become accustomed to it and can be trick yourself  out of ' saving the best for later.'

If your fashion budget is on the lower end, avoid over-spending on the core items of your wardrobe. Purchase the best that you can afford but you do not need to make all of your core items 'investment pieces.' Save the big splurges for the following items: coats, shoes, sunglasses, handbags, cocktail dresses, jean, watches and jewelry.

These items will last you a long time so quality is of the utmost importance, Also if the above mentioned items are quality, they can really dress up a moderately priced outfit and make it look expensive.

With regards to maintaining  and going forward you should adapt overtime  for what is right for you.If you are doing the experiment to the letter and are only using your 11 or more core items and you are having a wardrobe revelation carry on! If you find that you need to add more pieces into your capsule wardrobe to make it really work for you, then that is OK too. The exercise is extreme  and even though I truly employed the 11 core Item Wardrobe- it might be right for you.

Hopefully, going  forward, you will take the best that this challenge has to offer by becoming more discerning towards the clothing you bring into your wardrobe. You will look at your wardrobe like you look at your home and not allow clutter into it.  And ultimately, you will get one step to defining your true style.

I would love to hear your thoughts, observations and experience on the capsule wardrobe.

See you next week! :) xx

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OOTD 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

T.M. Lewin blazer ~ Gap skinny jeans - Banana Republic tshirt~ L.K. Bennett heels

   http://reliablerealist.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/my-capsule-wardrobe-for-spring-2014_11.html

My family

Memories are so precious and they go so fast. So hubby, Ethan and I were so thrilled to spend an afternoon with Yorkshire wedding photographer Andy Gaines to capture our family. 

In the age of smart phones so many people rely on these to capture those special moments but like anything I think it is worth investing in someone professional and of great quality.

To  see the rest please click here:

http://andygaines.com/hyde-park-family-photographer-mick-anna-ethan/

http://andygaines.com/slideshows/2014/mickannaethan/

See you next week! :) xx

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Photos by Andy Gaines  http://andygaines.com/

OOTD 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Zara top ~ Gap skinny jeans - Ted Baker silk scarf ~ Piede a Terre espadrille wedges

http://reliablerealist.blogspot.co.uk/2014/04/my-capsule-wardrobe-for-spring-2014_11.html

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Gap lightweight sweater ~ French Connection chinos ~ Red Wing shoes

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Zara sweater - Zara skinny jeans - Next hat - Converse shoes

How to avoid sweat patches...

All of us at some point had to deal with the problem of sweat patches and how to prevent them. It could be it's a hot day, your 'time of the month', when you are nervous or it's a day where you are rushing around.

If you are like me and have found that traditional deodorants don't seem to work I might be able to share something that's of interest to you. It's a product called Perspirex.

This product does work and actually helps to keep armpits under control. Sweating or perspiration is a natural and essential bodily function which regulates the body's temperature. However sweat patches are always embarrassing and regardless whether they smell or not they are unsightly.

The great thing about Perspirex is that it works for both women and men (as my husband can testify!). It may sting a little at times but as I am now able to not worry about any embarassing sweat patches it is worth putting up with, and it gets better with regular use. Just do not use it the same day you have shaved. Also, it does need to be put on at night because it does feel sticky but who cares when you throw on a pj top and go to sleep because in the morning you are completely dry. One simple stroke is all you need and after using it 2 or 3 times a week for a couple of weeks I only need it twice a month (once a week when weather is hot).

I've been using Perspirex for about 5 years now, my sweating has been brought completely under control! The difference has just been amazing, and my confidence has rocketed. I can now wear what I want and not have to worry about those dreaded patches emerging.

I would love to know what you think. Please leave me a comment below or if you wish you can also email me at annadizon.rr@gmail.com. I try to respond to every comment or question.

See you next week! :) xx

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Perspirex can be purchased in Boots http://www.boots.com/en/PerspireX-Underarm-Roll-on-Anti-perspirant_22021/