Style Swaps

I get a lot of inquiries about “capsule” wardrobes. I have to be honest, I hate that word, “capsule”, I don’t believe in it. I know the idea of 12 pieces that create a month’s worth of outfits sounds alluring, but unless you’re Mark Zuckerburg, who wants to wear the same hoodie everyday?! I don’t think it really works for the lives of most people I know.

I prefer the idea of a “core” wardrobe. Owning foundational pieces that are versatile and flexible are the golden keys to curating perfect looks. Now, more than ever, we need clothes that work for and not against us. You may go from teaching your kids at the dining table, to a video call with the CEO, to having cocktails with girlfriends. We need flexible fashion that can adapt to our constantly changing life demands.

The are certain core pieces in a wardrobe that I like to use as “style swaps”. They’re items that can effortlessly swap out for one another in order to instantly elevate or relax your look. Consider these five swaps to level your look up or down when you need them!

SWAP 1: Leggings to Joggers

Beyond Yoga leggings and faux leather joggers by David Lerner.

Working from home, I know it’s tempting to wear leggings all the time. They’re stretchy and comfy, but also deceptive. Their snuggly lies whisper that we will be just as productive as when wearing “real” pants, but I’m suspect of their intentions! To level up, how about trying a jogger? These days they’re made in everything from soft denim to leather and are equally as comfortable. Sporty and casual when paired back with a cashmere sweater and city sneakers, joggers feel elevated yet extremely practical. Or take a look at the next swap to dress them down.

SWAP 2: Sweatshirt to Sweater

Rolling Stones sweatshirt by Madeworn and pom-pom sweater by Alexa Chung.

Many of our favorite athleisure pieces have gotten upgrades over the past few years and this includes sweatshirts! Look for details like subtle ruffles, chic graphics, or interesting fabric dye techniques. This isn’t your Dad’s Hanes sweatshirt!  To take it a step further, swap up for a sweater. A cashmere or wool blend is just as cozy as fleece and feels more polished.

SWAP 3: Tee to Blouse

Grey tee by Paige and Alice & Olivia silk shell.

This style swap isn’t really so much about the item itself, but fabrication. A solid or graphic cotton tee feels casual and relaxed, while a silky tee, blouse, or shell raises the bar simply from the formal nuance of the fabric. You can get a variety of combos when pairing this swap with the layering pieces in swap 4 too!

SWAP 4: Cardigan to Blazer

Navy cardigan by Vince and Veronica Beard blazer.

You already know this one right? These layering pieces offer practically infinite possibilities! Need to bring your professional A-game? Wear a polished blazer and silk tee or blouse. Casual cool? Blazer and graphic tee. Swapping out a cardigan for a blazer feels even more relaxed because a cardigan lacks the more rigid structure of the jacket. Regardless of dressing up or down, a layering piece always feels thoughtful!

SWAP 5: Jeans to Trousers

Carly jeans by Reformation and navy trousers by Theory.

As denim trends have shifted away from skinny styles it’s been a nice reminder of how comfy a wider leg feels! A trouser cut jean or wide leg style easily swaps for a dressier trouser pant and looks chic with sneakers or heels. Play in opposites and add a graphic tee to the trouser or dressier blouse or blazer with the denim.

If you need more help styling the demands of your day, contact me for more wardrobe tips or to book an appointment! Happy swapping friends!