If you want to make an authentic Italian bagna cauda, the key ingredients are garlic, anchovies, and olive oil gently cooked into a warm, flavorful dip. This traditional Piedmontese sauce is perfect for dipping fresh vegetables or spreading on crusty bread. My version of the bagna cauda recipe includes an optional touch of cream, which softens the intense flavors and adds a smooth texture. It’s an easy way to enjoy this classic dish with a slightly richer twist without losing its original character. I’ll guide you through each step, explaining how to balance the ingredients so you get a sauce that’s savory and inviting. Whether you stick to the classic or try the creamy variation, you’ll have a reliable recipe to bring a taste of Italy to your table. My Bagna Cauda Recipe https://youtu.be/J8A-hHgCMtQ I make Bagna Cauda using a simple mix of garlic, anchovies, olive oil, and butter. The garlic is gently cooked until soft but not browned, which helps keep its flavor mild and rich. Anchovies dissolve in the warm oil, creating a savory base. I typically use about 10 garlic cloves and 8 anchovy fillets for a small pot enough to serve four. Here’s a quick list of ingredients I use: 10 garlic cloves, peeled 8 anchovy fillets 1/2 cup olive oil 2 tablespoons butter I start by crushing the garlic lightly, then simmer it slowly with the anchovies in olive oil. Butter is added at the end to enrich the sauce and smooth the texture. This sauce is perfect for dipping fresh raw vegetables like bell peppers, celery, and fennel. I like to keep it warm while serving to maintain its silky consistency. You don’t need cream for the traditional sauce, but it’s optional if you want a creamier texture. In that case, I add a small amount of heavy cream toward the end and stir gently. The process is straightforward but requires attention to temperature to avoid burning garlic. The flavor is umami-rich, lightly pungent, and deeply comforting. Italian Bagna Cauda Recipe Bagna Cauda is a traditional Italian dip from the Piedmont region. It’s made with simple ingredients but delivers a rich, savory flavor. The key components are anchovies, garlic, olive oil, and butter. I start by gently cooking minced garlic and anchovies in olive oil until they melt together into a smooth sauce. Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients I use: Ingredient Amount Garlic 6-8 cloves, minced Anchovy fillets 8-10, finely chopped Olive oil 1 cup Butter 4 tbsp I melt butter into the olive oil over low heat, then slowly stir in garlic and anchovies. The mixture should be warm and silky, not boiling. To serve, I keep it warm in a small pot and dip in fresh vegetables like bell peppers, fennel, radishes, and boiled potatoes. The mild bitterness of raw veggies contrasts well with the garlicky, salty sauce. Bagna Cauda works best when eaten slowly, letting the flavors develop while you dip and enjoy. It’s a simple, rustic recipe that highlights the quality of each ingredient. Bagna Cauda Recipe With Cream I like to add cream to traditional bagna cauda for a smoother, milder flavor. The cream softens the strong taste of garlic and anchovies without overpowering the dish. Start by melting butter in a small pan over low heat. Then, add finely chopped garlic and anchovies until the mixture becomes fragrant and the anchovies dissolve. Next, pour in about ¼ cup of heavy cream. Stir gently and let it warm without boiling. The sauce should be rich and silky, perfect for dipping. Here’s a simple ingredient list: Ingredient Quantity Butter 3 tbsp Garlic (minced) 4-5 cloves Anchovy fillets 6-8 Heavy cream ¼ cup Olive oil 2 tbsp Olive oil is added last to enrich the sauce. I always keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling. Serve the bagna cauda warm. It pairs well with raw or roasted vegetables like celery, carrots, and bell peppers. This creamy version makes the dipping experience more approachable for those sensitive to intense flavors. Final Thoughts Bagna cauda is more than just a dip — it’s a cozy, flavorful tradition that brings people together around the table. Whether you go for the classic version or try it with a creamy twist, this rich Italian sauce is perfect for slow, mindful snacking with your favorite fresh veggies or warm, crusty bread. I hope this recipe brings a little taste of Piedmont into your kitchen and becomes one of those dishes you come back to again and again. Let me know in the comments if you tried it and how you served it — I’d love to hear your twist!
The Ultimate Downtown Girl Style Mood Board
Downtown girl style captures that cool, effortless city-girl energy everyone’s obsessed with. The downtown girl aesthetic is all about vintage-inspired streetwear, neutral tones, and that “I just threw this on” vibe that somehow looks perfectly put together. Whether you’re strolling through the city, hanging out at a local coffee shop, or taking moody Instagram photos, downtown girl style is a must-have look. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to build your ultimate downtown girl mood board—from staple wardrobe pieces to outfit inspiration and styling tips! What is the Downtown Girl Aesthetic? The downtown girl style is effortlessly chic with a mix of 90s grunge, vintage streetwear, and minimalist fashion. Think oversized blazers, baggy jeans, vintage sneakers, and dark-toned accessories. The vibe is cool, laid-back, and perfect for anyone who loves casual yet fashionable outfits. If you would like to dive This aesthetic is often seen on influencers like Bella Hadid, Devon Lee Carlson, and Matilda Djerf—girls who master that undone but stylish city look. Key Pieces for a Downtown Girl Outfit To dress like a downtown girl, here are the essential wardrobe pieces you need: 1. Oversized Blazers & Leather Jackets A structured blazer instantly makes any outfit look elevated. For an edgier take, swap it out for a vintage leather jacket—bonus points if it’s slightly worn-in for that effortless, city-girl aesthetic. SAMPEEL Leather Jacket AMAZON Click here American Trends Leather AMAZON Click here 2. Baggy Jeans & Micro Mini Skirts Low-rise baggy jeans scream downtown energy. Pair them with a cropped baby tee or a fitted top for balance. On warmer days, opt for a micro mini skirt, especially in denim or plaid, for a 90s touch. EMMIOL Jeans AMAZON Click here LILLUSORY Cargo Mini Skirt AMAZON Click here 3. Baby Tees & Cropped Tanks Tight-fitting baby tees with tiny logos, cropped tank tops, and lace-trim camis are the backbone of the downtown girl aesthetic. They add a casual, vintage feel to any outfit. EMMIOL Summer Tops Baby AMAZON Click here SAMPEEL Crop Tops AMAZON Click here 4. Chunky Sneakers & Loafers For shoes, go for: Vintage Converse – The classic downtown girl shoe. New Balance Sneakers – Perfect for an off-duty model vibe. Loafers – A sleek, polished option for days when you want a Parisian twist. Star Shoes Walking Sneakers AMAZON Click here DREAM PAIRS Loafers AMAZON Click here 5. Minimalist Accessories & Messy Hair The downtown girl’s accessories are subtle yet stylish: Tinted sunglasses (small, rectangle frames) Slouchy tote bags or baguette-style shoulder bags Silver jewelry for a minimalist touch Messy hair – Think effortlessly undone waves or a claw-clip updo How to Build Your Ultimate Downtown Girl Mood Board Creating a mood board helps you visualize your ideal downtown girl aesthetic. Here’s how to get started: Use Pinterest – Search for downtown girl outfit ideas, downtown street style, and 90s grunge fashion to find curated inspiration. Follow Instagram Style Icons – Some of the best inspo comes from influencers and models who embody this look. Check out Lily-Rose Depp, Bella Hadid, and Hailey Bieber’s street style. Look at 90s Fashion – Movies like Reality Bites, Clueless, and early Calvin Klein ads are full of downtown girl outfit inspiration. Browse Vintage Magazines – Old Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar issues from the 90s are a goldmine for styling ideas. Know Where to Shop – Finding the right pieces is half the fun. Check out some of the best stores for the downtown girl aesthetic like & Other Stories, Urban Outfitters, Zara, and your favorite local thrift shops for that perfectly effortless city vibe. Don’t be afraid to mix high-street staples with vintage finds — that blend of polished and worn-in is what makes the look feel authentic. Look for pieces like structured blazers, oversized denim, and worn leather jackets that instantly channel that “off-duty in the city” feel. 03/22/2025 03/22/2025 03/22/2025 03/22/2025 03/22/2025 03/22/2025 03/22/2025 03/22/2025 03/22/2025 03/22/2025 Disclaimer: All images used in this mood board were found on Pinterest. I do not own the rights to these images; all credit goes to their respective creators. How to Style the Downtown Girl Aesthetic in Everyday Life Want to incorporate downtown girl outfits into your daily wardrobe? Here are three easy outfit formulas: Casual Coffee Run Look: White baby tee + baggy jeans + vintage Converse + oversized blazer Model-Off-Duty Vibes: Black micro mini skirt + leather jacket + loafers + tiny sunglasses Streetwear Edge: Cropped tank + wide-leg jeans + chunky sneakers + slouchy tote bag Final Thoughts on Downtown Girl Style The downtown girl aesthetic is all about effortless, vintage-inspired fashion with a city-girl edge. By mixing classic staples like oversized blazers, vintage denim, and chunky sneakers, you can create your own version of this timeless look. Now, it’s time to start curating your downtown girl mood board and building your perfect wardrobe! Frequently Asked Questions What is a Downtown Girl aesthetic? The Downtown Girl aesthetic is all about effortless, slightly edgy, city-inspired style — think oversized blazers, vintage jeans, messy hair, and a bit of a rebellious, artsy vibe. How do I dress like a Downtown Girl? Mix casual staples like leather jackets, vintage denim, and chunky boots with simple accessories. Keep your look relaxed but stylish, and don’t overthink it — Downtown Girl style is meant to feel natural. What colors are popular in Downtown Girl style? Neutral shades like black, white, gray, and denim blue are staples, but you’ll also see pops of deep red, army green, and sometimes bold patterns like stripes or plaid. Can I create a Downtown Girl look on a budget? Definitely! Thrift stores, vintage shops, and even DIY projects are perfect for building a Downtown Girl wardrobe. It’s more about attitude and creativity than expensive brands. What accessories complete a Downtown Girl outfit? Chunky belts, simple silver or gold jewelry, tote bags, and worn-in sneakers or combat boots are perfect. Sunglasses and a messy tote bag always finish the look. What’s the difference between
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Plus Size Capsule Wardrobe
Building a plus size capsule wardrobe is a fantastic way to simplify your fashion choices while ensuring you look stylish and feel confident. This guide will help you create a plus size wardrobe with versatile, high-quality pieces that complement your body shape. What Is a Plus Size Capsule Wardrobe? A plus size capsule wardrobe is a thoughtfully curated collection of clothing pieces that are versatile, comfortable, and actually made to fit and flatter plus size bodies. Instead of having a closet full of clothes that don’t work, you focus on fewer high-impact pieces that reflect your personal style and your real, day-to-day life. If you’ve ever struggled with: Buying trendy pieces that don’t sit right on your body Feeling like you have nothing to wear (even with a full closet) Shopping fatigue from limited plus size options— then a capsule wardrobe can be a game changer. Unlike generic fashion advice that often skips over our needs, a plus size capsule wardrobe is built around fit, function, and body confidence. Benefits of a Plus Size Capsule Wardrobe A capsule wardrobe isn’t just a fashion trend — it’s a confidence tool. When your closet is filled with clothes that actually fit and flatter your body, getting dressed becomes easier, less stressful, and way more enjoyable. Here are some of the biggest benefits: 1. Clothes That Actually Fit When you’re plus size, it’s not uncommon to keep clothing that almost fits or “might work later.” A capsule wardrobe flips that — everything in it fits your current body, not your goal body. That means no more frustration in the morning, just clothes that make you feel good right now. 2. No More Overbuying (and Still Feeling Like You Have Nothing to Wear) Plus size shoppers often buy out of urgency: “This fits, so I better grab it before it’s gone.” A capsule wardrobe shifts your mindset to intentional purchases — fewer items, but every one serves a purpose and works with multiple outfits. 3. Easier Shopping When you know what pieces you need — like a great-fitting black blazer or the perfect pair of jeans — shopping becomes focused. You’ll skip over the “meh” options and only say yes to pieces that serve your wardrobe and your shape. 4. More Style, Less Stress Every item in your capsule works with multiple others, so you’re not guessing at outfits every morning. You get dressed faster, feel more put together, and build a style that looks consistent — whether you’re going to brunch, work, or running errands. 5. It Grows With You Capsule wardrobes aren’t one-size-fits-all. You can adjust it by season, lifestyle changes, or shifts in your personal style. And if your size fluctuates, you’ll already know which pieces to replace — no more starting from scratch. Benefits of a Plus Size Capsule Wardrobe Building a plus size capsule wardrobe isn’t just about having fewer clothes — it’s about having the right clothes. Clothes that actually fit your body, match your lifestyle, and reflect your personal style. Here’s how a capsule wardrobe can change the game: You wear clothes that truly fit nowNo more squeezing into things that “almost work.” Every piece in your wardrobe is chosen to flatter your current shape and make you feel good every single day. You avoid regret shoppingYou stop buying “just okay” items out of panic or scarcity. Instead, you make confident, intentional purchases because you know what your wardrobe actually needs. You stop settling for whatever’s availableCapsule dressing helps you break out of the cycle of buying shapeless basics just because they’re in your size. You start choosing pieces that express your style — not hide your body. Getting dressed becomes effortlessWith fewer, better pieces that mix and match easily, you save time and energy every morning. No more closet meltdowns or outfit guessing games. You build confidence in your body and styleAs you learn what works for you — from fabrics to silhouettes — you gain trust in your personal style. You stop chasing trends that weren’t made with you in mind. Steps to Building a Plus Size Capsule Wardrobe Creating a capsule wardrobe when you’re plus size takes a little strategy — not because it’s harder, but because the fashion industry hasn’t always prioritized inclusivity. The good news? When you take control of your style, you’re no longer limited to what’s left on the rack. Follow these steps to build a plus size capsule wardrobe that actually works for your lifestyle and your body. Step 1: Do a Closet Audit Go through every item you own. Try things on. Ask yourself: Does this fit me right now? Do I feel confident in it? Would I actually choose to wear this tomorrow? Get honest. Remove anything that doesn’t fit, flatter, or feel good — even if it still has tags. Step 2: Define Your Lifestyle Needs Think about how you actually spend your week. Are you dressing for work, school drop-offs, gym sessions, or social events? Your wardrobe should reflect your reality, not a Pinterest version of your life. Make a list of how many outfits you need for each type of activity. Step 3: Choose a Color Palette Stick to 2–3 base colors (like black, navy, or beige) and 2 accent colors that reflect your style. This makes mixing and matching easier and gives your wardrobe a cohesive look — even if you’re mixing brands, price points, or textures. Step 4: Select Core Wardrobe Essentials Choose timeless, flattering basics that suit your body and lifestyle. Think: A great pair of jeans that hug your curves A soft tee that doesn’t ride up A jacket that fits your arms and shoulders comfortably Comfortable leggings or trousers you can actually move in Focus on fit first, not just trendiness. Step 5: Add Personality Pieces This is where you bring in your style identity — whether it’s a printed kimono, a bold blazer, edgy boots, or a dress that makes you feel unstoppable. Your capsule shouldn’t feel boring.
Capsule Wardrobe 2025: The Ultimate Guide
What is a Capsule Wardrobe? A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched to create numerous outfits. The goal is to have a selection of high-quality, versatile pieces that minimize clutter and maximize style. This approach to fashion is perfect for those who value simplicity, sustainability, and personal style. Why Build a Capsule Wardrobe in 2024? The fashion industry is increasingly moving towards sustainability, and a capsule wardrobe is a perfect way to contribute to this trend. By focusing on quality over quantity, you can reduce waste and invest in pieces that truly matter. Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe: Simplicity: Reduces decision fatigue by limiting your choices to only the best items. Versatility: Ensures that all items can be mixed and matched for various occasions. Sustainability: Promotes eco-friendly fashion choices. Cost-Effective: Encourages investing in high-quality items that last longer, saving money in the long run. Capsule Wardrobe Checklist for 2024 Creating a capsule wardrobe starts with a checklist of essential items. Here’s a capsule wardrobe checklist to guide you through building your ideal wardrobe: Bottoms Pair of Jeans: Opt for a classic, well-fitting pair of jeans that can be dressed up or down. Midi Skirt: A versatile piece that can be styled for both casual and formal occasions. Trousers: Neutral-colored trousers for a more formal or business-casual look. Pair of Skinny Jeans and Sweater PINTEREST Skinny Jeans and Leather Jacket PINTEREST Outerwear Trench Coats: A timeless piece that adds sophistication to any outfit. Blazer: A well-fitted blazer is perfect for both work and casual outings. Light Jacket: For transitional weather, a light jacket is essential. Black Blazer and Shorts PINTEREST Black Blazer and Suit PINTEREST Dresses Little Black Dress: A classic piece that can be styled in numerous ways. Day Dress: A casual, comfortable dress for everyday wear. Dotted Pumpkin Dress Pinterest Dotted Mini Dress Pinterest Footwear White Sneakers: Versatile and comfortable, perfect for casual outfits. Ankle Boots: A great choice for both casual and more polished looks. Heels: A pair of neutral heels for formal occasions. Bow Heels AMAZON Butterfly Heels AMAZON Accessories Scarf: Adds a touch of style and warmth. Minimalist Jewelry: Simple, high-quality pieces that complement any outfit. Bags: A versatile handbag and a clutch for special occasions. Gold Earrings Pinterest Pearl Earrings Pinterest Building Your Capsule Wardrobe: Step-by-Step Guide Assess Your Current Wardrobe: Start by evaluating what you already own. Identify pieces that you wear often and feel good in, and set aside items that don’t fit or suit your style anymore. Define Your Personal Style: Think about the styles, colors, and patterns that you gravitate towards. Your capsule wardrobe should reflect your personal style and make you feel confident. Create Your Capsule Wardrobe Checklist: Using the checklist above, identify the gaps in your current wardrobe and make a list of items you need to add. Choose Neutral Colors: Focus on neutral colors like black, white, beige, and navy, which are easy to mix and match. These colors form the foundation of a versatile wardrobe. Invest in High-Quality Pieces: Quality over quantity is key. Invest in high-quality items that will stand the test of time rather than trendy, fast-fashion pieces. Mix and Match: Ensure that every piece in your wardrobe can be paired with multiple other items. This maximizes the number of outfits you can create. Regularly Reevaluate: Your capsule wardrobe should evolve with your style and needs. Regularly assess your wardrobe and make adjustments as necessary. Capsule Wardrobe Essentials for Different Seasons Creating a capsule wardrobe isn’t just about owning fewer clothes — it’s about having the right pieces for every season. With just a few essentials, you can build outfits that are stylish, comfortable, and practical year-round. Here’s a simple guide to help you curate your capsule wardrobe for spring, summer, fall, and winter. Spring Capsule Wardrobe A spring capsule wardrobe should include lightweight layers and versatile pieces that can adapt to fluctuating temperatures. Tops: Light blouses, tank tops, white t-shirts Bottoms: Pair of jeans, midi skirt Outerwear: Light jacket, trench coats Footwear: White sneakers, ankle boots Summer Capsule Wardrobe For summer, focus on breathable fabrics and comfortable styles. Tops: Tank tops, lightweight blouses Bottoms: Shorts, midi skirts Dresses: Day dresses Footwear: Sandals, white sneakers Fall Capsule Wardrobe Fall is all about layering and cozy, warm pieces. Tops: Sweaters, blouses Bottoms: Pair of jeans, trousers Outerwear: Blazer, trench coats Footwear: Ankle boots, loafers Winter Capsule Wardrobe Winter requires warm, durable clothing to keep you comfortable. Tops: Sweaters, long-sleeve tops Bottoms: Jeans, wool trousers Outerwear: Heavy coat, trench coats Footwear: Boots Accessories: Scarves, gloves Gen Z Capsule Wardrobe: Trendy and Timeless Gen Z is known for their unique take on fashion, combining trends with timeless pieces. A Gen Z capsule wardrobe should blend classic staples with a touch of modern flair. Key Pieces for a Gen Z Capsule Wardrobe Graphic Tees: Fun and expressive, perfect for casual outfits. Wide-Leg Jeans: A trendy yet classic alternative to skinny jeans. Oversized Blazer: Adds a chic, modern touch to any outfit. Chunky Sneakers: Comfortable and stylish, great for everyday wear. Midi Skirt: Versatile and can be styled in various ways. Layering Pieces: Tank tops and cardigans for a layered look. How to Maintain a Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe Maintaining a minimalist capsule wardrobe requires discipline and regular upkeep. Here are some tips to keep your wardrobe streamlined and functional: One In, One Out: When you buy a new item, consider donating or selling an old one. Seasonal Rotation: Store off-season clothes to keep your wardrobe clutter-free. Quality Care: Take good care of your clothes to extend their lifespan. Follow care labels and invest in proper storage solutions. Stay True to Your Style: Avoid impulse buys that don’t align with your personal style. High-Quality Brands for Capsule Wardrobes Investing in high-quality pieces is crucial for a capsule wardrobe. Here are some brands known for their durable and stylish offerings: Everlane: Known for their transparent production process and high-quality basics. Uniqlo: Offers a range of affordable, well-made clothing. COS: Minimalist designs with a focus on
Building Your Deep Winter Capsule Wardrobe
For Your Local It Girl, the products featured here are handpicked by our editorial team. If you decide to purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend items we truly love and trust. Welcome to the world of winter elegance, rich colors, and high-contrast style. If you have dark hair, striking eyes, and cool or neutral-cool undertones, you may find that the deeper, more saturated colors of the Deep Winter palette really make your features pop. If you’re not sure where you fall in seasonal color analysis, color analysis (the kind you often see on TikTok and Instagram, where people drape different fabric color swatches next to their face) can help you figure out which palette suits you best. A Deep Winter capsule wardrobe is all about choosing pieces in rich jewel tones, deep neutrals, and crisp contrasts that work beautifully together. Think emerald green, sapphire blue, burgundy, charcoal, black, and bright white. And honestly, you don’t need a closet full of clothes to make this palette work. With the right deep winter clothes, you can create plenty of outfits that feel polished, flattering, and completely you. In today’s post, we’ll go through the Deep Winter color palette, the essential pieces to add to your wardrobe, how to build your Deep Winter capsule wardrobe, and some easy deep winter outfits you can recreate throughout the year. What is a Deep Winter Color Palette A Deep Winter color palette is made up of deep, cool, and highly saturated colors that create a strong contrast with your natural coloring. Think: Black and crisp white Deep navy Charcoal gray Emerald green Sapphire blue Burgundy Plum Deep teal Unlike softer seasonal palettes, Deep Winter colors have more depth and intensity. The goal is to choose colors that complement your natural contrast rather than compete with it. If you’re trying to figure out whether these shades work for you, this is where color analysis can be especially helpful. Deep Winter vs Other Winter Palettes When it comes to the seasonal analysis, it’s easy to confuse the different winter palettes. Here’s how Deep Winter stands apart: Cool Winter vs Deep Winter Color Palette: Cool Winter leans slightly lighter, with icy blues and crisp pinks, while Deep Winter thrives in darker, more saturated shades. Bright Winter: Features more vibrant pops of color with higher clarity, unlike Deep Winter’s grounded richness. True Winter: Falls between the two, but lacks the extreme depth that makes Deep Winter so striking. The biggest thing to remember is depth. Deep Winter is at its best in those darker, richer shades that give your outfits that dramatic, polished look. What Does a Deep Winter Look Like? Skin Tone: Deep Winters typically have fair to medium skin with cool undertones (pink, blue, or neutral). Warm or overly muted colors can make the complexion look flat, but saturated cool tones instantly brighten the skin. Deep Winter Hair Colors: Naturally rich shades like jet black, espresso brown, or deep auburn. These colors anchor the wardrobe and provide the natural contrast that defines the season. Eyes: From icy blue and cool green to deep brown, the eyes pop best when framed by strong, saturated shades like navy, plum, or emerald. By embracing these seasonal colors, you’ll create a wardrobe that enhances your features rather than competes with them. A thoughtfully chosen deep winter capsule wardrobe ensures every piece supports your natural beauty while giving you endless mix and match potential. Best Colors for a Deep Winter Capsule Wardrobe Now that we know what makes the Deep Winter palette different, let’s get into the fun part: the colors you’re actually going to want in your closet. The easiest way to build a cohesive wardrobe is to start with a few deep neutrals and then bring in those gorgeous jewel tones as your accents. Best Deep Winter Neutrals These are the colors that will do most of the heavy lifting in your wardrobe: Black Charcoal gray Deep navy Cool espresso brown Crisp white They’re easy to mix and match, so you can build plenty of deep winter outfits without needing a ton of different pieces. Best Deep Winter Jewel Tones This is where your wardrobe can really come alive. Emerald green Sapphire blue Burgundy Plum Deep teal Cool ruby red You don’t need to wear these colors head-to-toe. A jewel-toned sweater, handbag, scarf, or pair of shoes can be enough to make a simple outfit feel much more interesting. Colors to Be Careful With Deep Winter tends to look best in colors that are cool, rich, and clear, so very warm or muted shades may not have the same effect. Think twice about: Mustard yellow Orange Warm beige Camel Dusty pastels Muted olive Of course, this doesn’t mean you can never wear them. Personal style always comes first. This is simply a guide to the colors that are most likely to harmonize with the Deep Winter palette. Building Your Winter Capsule Wardrobe Now that we’ve covered the colors, let’s actually put the wardrobe together. A capsule winter wardrobe is all about curating versatile pieces that work together effortlessly. For Deep Winters, this means selecting deep winter color palette clothing in rich, saturated tones that enhance your cool undertones while making it easy to mix and match. Each piece should feel timeless, practical, and aligned with your personal style. Here are the wardrobe essentials for every season that form the foundation of a polished deep winter capsule wardrobe: 1. Sweaters & Knits Cozy knits are non-negotiable for a winter capsule wardrobe. Cashmere Sweater: Choose jewel tones like emerald green, burgundy, or sapphire for instant elegance. Turtleneck Sweater: A classic in black, charcoal, or navy works beautifully for layering under coats and blazers. 2. Outerwear Outerwear is the anchor of a capsule wardrobe. Invest in timeless silhouettes in cool tones that elevate every outfit. Tailored Wool Coat: A structured coat in charcoal gray or navy is both chic
How to Find Your Personal Style
Finding your personal style is more than just following trends — it’s a fun, creative, and intentional process of self-expression. Whether you’re drawn to a minimalistic aesthetic or experimenting with bold looks, your style should reflect your individuality, lifestyle, and values. As you begin curating your wardrobe, you’ll notice certain pieces become repeat staples. This is where the idea of a capsule wardrobe becomes powerful — a small, thoughtful collection of clothing you truly love and wear often. The best part? Your personal style can evolve as you do. Below are the exact steps I used to discover and refine my personal style, build a wardrobe that works, and actually enjoy getting dressed every day. 1. Reflect on Who You Are Before you think about what to wear, take a moment to get clear on who you are. Your style should tell a story — one that’s rooted in your personality, passions, and the things that make you feel most you. Ask yourself: What are my interests or hobbies? How do I want to feel in my clothes — confident, comfortable, powerful, soft? What values or energy do I want to project when I walk into a room? Whether you’re artistic and free-spirited, calm and grounded, or bold and edgy, your wardrobe can reflect those traits in subtle (or loud) ways. This clarity is what helps you build a style that feels authentic — not just aesthetic. 2. Create a Style Vision Board The next big step was diving into Pinterest — not just for pinning cute outfits, but to study what I actually gravitated towards. Unlike fast-fashion apps, Pinterest doesn’t pressure you to buy immediately. Instead, it lets you observe, collect, and reflect. I started pinning freely. Then after a few days, I reviewed my saved boards. That’s when I noticed consistent patterns — certain silhouettes, colors, and aesthetics I kept pinning again and again. 3. Identify Your Style Icons (Realistic Ones) One of the best things I did was study people whose style made me stop scrolling. These style icons gave me a visual roadmap for how I might want to dress — but I had to be honest with myself: most celebrities are decked out in designer brands I couldn’t (and didn’t want to) wear every day. So I started focusing on fashion influencers and content creators whose wardrobes felt stylish and accessible. The goal here isn’t to copy them — it’s to understand what specifically draws you in. Ask yourself: Do they layer a lot? Are they minimalist or bold? Is it their color palette, their silhouettes, or their attitude? Find 2–3 style influences you can refer to as your personal moodboard muses. Then, observe how you can take what you like and adapt it to your lifestyle and budget. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maison Veldt (@maisonveldt) 4. Purge Your Wardrobe One of the first things I did was audit my closet. It’s easy to feel like you need to throw everything out and start fresh — but I found so much value in revisiting the clothes I already owned. If something was in my closet, chances are I liked it at some point. So I went piece by piece, trying things on, checking what still felt like me, and noting what didn’t. That’s when I started noticing patterns. A few pieces just naturally went together — same tones, same vibe. These became the foundation for my personal style base. AfterBefore 5. Experiment Once you’ve done some self-reflection and moodboarding, it’s time to try things on — literally. Style is meant to be explored, not confined. Play with different silhouettes, colors, and textures. Step into pieces you’ve always admired but were too unsure to try. Whether it’s a pop of color you’ve never worn or a new pattern that feels bold — let yourself experiment. You’ll never fully understand your style unless you wear it. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s discovery. Sometimes the pieces you thought wouldn’t suit you end up becoming staples. Tip: Visit a thrift store or do a “style swap” with a friend — it’s a low-risk way to try new things without spending a lot. 6. Pay Attention to Compliments Sometimes, the clearest clues about what suits you best come from others. When someone stops to say, “That color looks amazing on you” or “I love your outfit,” — pay attention. These compliments often point to colors, fits, or styles that highlight your natural features or reflect your vibe well. It doesn’t mean you should dress only for validation, but outside feedback can reveal patterns you haven’t noticed yet — like how emerald green makes your skin glow or how a structured blazer instantly elevates your look. Start making mental (or physical) notes of what you’re wearing when compliments roll in. 7. Define the Key Elements of Your Personal Style As you experiment and observe what makes you feel good, start identifying the recurring themes in your wardrobe. This is where your personal style starts to take shape. Ask yourself: Do I lean toward minimalist, bohemian, preppy, classic, or grungy looks? What silhouettes make me feel confident — oversized, tailored, flowy? Are there colors or patterns I keep reaching for? These key elements become the foundation of your style identity — the things that make your outfits feel consistent, intentional, and you. 8. Invest in Quality Basics No matter your style, every closet needs a solid foundation of quality basics. These are the timeless pieces that anchor your outfits — think perfectly fitted jeans, a crisp white t-shirt, a versatile blazer, and comfortable shoes. When you invest in these essentials, you create a capsule wardrobe that’s easy to mix and match, saving time and stress while always looking polished. Building your personal style becomes much simpler when you have reliable basics to layer on or pair with statement pieces. Pro Tip: Keep a capsule wardrobe checklist handy to track your essentials and avoid unnecessary duplicates. 9.