no brainer wardrobe :: day 12 the finishers

By Hayley Morgan •  Updated: 10/12/11 •  4 min read

The Finishers (they round out your wardrobe)

These are the pieces that add polish and bulk to your wardrobe.  These pieces are so versatile that you will find yourself relying on them quite frequently.  The colors should go together so to be interchangable and so that you are able to mix and match.  Luckily, in fashion today, practically anything goes.  There aren’t two colors that you couldn’t wear together if done skillfully.

The Pieces

Military/Safari Vest–This piece will add a bit of edge to your outfit without sacrificing texture or a sense of being put together.  Look for this piece in olive, khaki, or gray.

Patterned Blouse–In this shirt, you are looking for a fun pattern and a nice drape.  You want to feel really good in this shirt.  Detail around the neckline or collar will also add some style to your wardrobe.

Pussybow Blouse–I would recommend this in a solid color that you feel great in, most probably a neutral or almost neutral.  The pussybow is BIG this fall/winter and looks great under layers.

Puffer Vest–Nothing makes me feel sporty like a puffer vest.  This is a great casual layer that will also help you feel ready to go even if you are simply wearing jeans and a long sleeve t-shirt.

Dainty Dress–This dress can really be any shape or pattern you want, just make sure you feel great in it.  It will be important for layering, so make sure it coordinates with your other items.

Khakis–Skinny, straight, or trouser fits would work beautifully for these pants.  Make sure to choose them based on your lifestyle.  Mothers with young children may want something with stretch and that is wrinkle free.  Professionals may want a trouser with a crease.  The point is, base your choice on YOU.

Grandpa Cardigan–This cardigan is slightly oversized (not too long, though) and is perfect for layering.  Choose in any solid color.

Styled Sweatshirt–This piece is my secret weapon every falll/winter.  I choose a structured and style sweatshirt so I can be cozy and still look like I changed out of my pajamas.  Everyone needs a piece like this.

Dolman Cocoon Cardigan–This shape is really popular this fall.  It is cozy and stylish.  Choose in a color that can go with anything in your wardrobe.

Boatneck Shell–This piece is just a basic, polished shell that can be professional or sweet.  Look for a solid color, a polka dot, or a stripe.

Black Flats

Oxfords

About These Pieces

These pieces are the pieces that make outfits.  They are the polishing pieces.  They are the layers.  They add the interest, and they top it all off.  While we haven’t gotten to accessories yet, you can tell that these pieces add a bit of style to your wardrobe.  It is possible to do without these items, but really…why would you want to?

These pieces will mix and match effortlessly with the previous items.  This is the last installment of the capsule wardrobe, and it finishes off with a grand total of 39 pieces (including shoes and belts).  While you are certainly welcome to add more items (and you may want a few more long sleeve t-shirts for under layers!), this capsule wardrobe would certainly serve you very well.  I would caution going much over 60 items total, because then you will be tempted to give into overwhelm again.

Action Items for Day 12

*Evaluate your “Keepers” from your closet clean out to see which pieces you have and which pieces you need.

*Observe the colors you are historically drawn to (ie, what “color story” your Keepers are telling you already).

*Make a list of pieces you’d like to add and how high a priority they are to find.