The Vivienne Files

Capsule wardrobes inspired by art and nature

  • Home
  • Start Here
  • Articles
    • Starting From Scratch
    • Common Wardrobe
    • Packing
    • Start With Art
    • Project 333
    • 4×4 Wardrobes
    • Weekly Timeless Wardrobes
    • Archives by Date
    • Archives by Categories & Tags
  • Support The Vivienne Files
    • Books, Clothes & more
    • Templates & Color Planners
  • Contact
Home » 12 Months, 12 Outfits in 6 Capsule Wardrobes: August

12 Months, 12 Outfits in 6 Capsule Wardrobes: August

August 1, 2016
 

In August, the stores have VERY little warm-weather apparel, so we’d better be prepared to plan ahead and pick up some things that will be useful in autumn and winter…For reference, the earlier installments of this series can be found here:

 

  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • July

And for reference purposes, these are the 6 scarves with which we started the capsule wardrobes: (I can’t wait to choose NEXT year’s 6 scarves – maybe we’ll vote?)

6 Hermes scarves from Spring 2016

Navy– Hermes Voyage en Etoffes; brown – Hermes Tyger Tyger; beige – Hermes Le Voyage de Pytheas; olive – Hermes Cheval Mirage; grey – Hermes Cheval Surprise Remix; black – Hermes Au Pays des Oiseaux Fleurs

 

This month, I really wanted to find things in darker prints that would segue us into cooler weather. And I realized that if I was EVER going to find decent tall boots for us, I’d better start looking…Let me rant for just a few words about boots. Open heels? REALLY? If the weather is cold enough to cover your calves, do you want your heels (or your toes) exposed? And are your heels SO VERY attractive that you want everyone to see them?

And over the knee? Avast, ye scurvy fashion swabs, we are NOT going to be talked into dressing like pirates… Although I did include a pair of over the knee boots here, thinking fully that they will be worn with the top part turned down. (if you wear over the knee boots – please let us know how you keep the back of your knees from sweating like a linebacker at the July training camp…)

Anyway…..

navy cardigan, cream blouse and bluegreen textured skirt

Brooch – Sukartini; cardigan – J. Crew; blouse – Lands’ End;  boots – INC International Concepts; ring – John Hardy; skirt – Comme des Garçons
 

I also felt it was about time I started looking for simple, classic blouses or shirts in a light neutral for all of these wardrobes; in cooler weather, these can layer under sweaters, cardigans, or even sweatshirts!

 

Capsule Wardrobe in navy, cream and teal or turquoise

 

For each wardrobe addition, I’m also going to show a few ideas of how each new garment can be worn with older pieces of the wardrobe:

 

three ways to wear a navy patterned skirt
3 ways to wear a cream blouse with navy
3 ways to wear a navy cardigan

 

Yes, this is a skirt for those among us with a clearly defined waist:

cardigan, blouse and skirt in rust, cream and brown

Brooch – Stephen Dweck; cardigan – Miu Miu; blouse – Roberto Collina;  boots – Naturalizer; rings – Barse; skirt – Societe Anonyme
 

 

Capsule wardrobe in rust, beige, ivory and brown

 

3 ways to wear a brown plaid skirt
3 ways to wear a beige blouse
3 ways to wear a rust cardigan

 

This just getting prettier and prettier – it’s almost impossible to find these colors in garments that AREN’T feminine and soft:

cardigan, blouse and skirt in cream, soft blue and beige

Brooch – On Aura Tout Vu; cardigan – Dorothy Perkins; blouse – Forte Forte; boots – Steve Madden; ring – Elizabeth and James; skirt – Cityshop

 

Capsule wardrobe in beige, ivory and soft blue
3 ways to wear a beige skirt
3 ways to wear a blue blouse, with beige
3 ways to wear a cream cardigan, with blue and beige

 

This was the month in which I finally indulged my love of both brooches and rings – two categories of jewelry that are sadly, and wrongfully, neglected. Never underestimate the impact of these small items on your overall look!

cardigan, blouse and skirt outfit in teal, ivory and beige

Brooch – Heidi Daus; cardigan – Miu Miu; blouse – Saint Laurent; opal ring – Wwake; boots – Michael Antonio; skirt – Altuzarra

 

capsule wardrobe in olive, ivory and teal
3 ways to wear a beige skirt with olive, turquoise and ivory
3 ways to wear an ivory blouse with olive, teal and beige
3 ways to wear a teal cardigan with olive and beige

 

Brooches can also just be gorgeous fabric flowers…

cardigan, blouse and skirt outfit in steel blue and grey

Brooch – Gucci; cardigan – Michael Kors; blouse – Uniqlo; boots – INC International Concepts; ring – Gemma Collection; skirt – Alexander Lewis
 

Yes, you’ve seen these boots before; they’re classic, timeless, and not blindingly expensive – not a combination that’s readily available!

capsule wardrobe in slate blue, grey and turquoise
3 ways to wear a grey skirt, with petrol blue and turquoise
3 ways to wear a grey shirt, with slate blue and green
3 ways to wear a slate blue cardigan, with grey

 

I don’t currently own a black and white tweed skirt, and I’ve got to REALLY steel my willpower – I don’t wear skirts often enough to buy another one. But they appeal… oh HOW they appeal…

cardigan, blouse and skirt outfit in cobalt, white and black

Brooch – Wayan Asmana; cardigan – J. Crew; shirt – Uniqlo; boots – Ugg; ring – Sheeva; skirt – Emporio Armani

 

 

capsule wardrobe in black, white, red and bright blue
3 ways to wear a black and white tweed skirt, with red, black, and bright blue
3 ways to wear a white blouse, with black, red and bright blue
3 ways to wear a bright blue cardigan, with black

 

I am (of course) already thinking of what garments will be September “wardrobe essentials.” Any suggestions or requests?

love,
Janice

UNIQLO USA

12 Months, 12 Outfits in 6 Capsule Wardrobes: August

Like this article? Save it to Pinterest!

Tweet
Pin417
Share
417 Shares

08.01.16 23 Comments

Tags: 12 Months - 12 Outfits, capsule wardrobe, shopping, Start With a Scarf
<<A Winter Travel Capsule Wardrobe in Black, Red and WhiteBuild a Capsule Wardrobe by Starting with Art: Mariana by John Everett Mlilais>>

Comments

  1. Taste of France says

    August 1, 2016 at 7:57 am

    As over-the-knee boots go, these aren't too objectionable. As you say, with the flap folded down, they are quite nice. The chunky heel keeps them from crossing the line into trashy.
    Personally I prefer (and have similar to) the black pair you show first. I like them right up to the knee–the difference in line between boots that go all the way to the knee and those that stop an inch or two lower is striking. Also, a nice, smooth finish and somewhat stiff leather (equestrian-style) make legs look longer and slimmer. And you can shine them (not possible with suede) to keep them looking new.
    I saw some boots with different calf sizes. Isn't that a good idea?

    Reply
  2. Anonymous says

    August 1, 2016 at 10:15 am

    For September I would love to see more casual pants like jeans or corduroys, with good walking shoes or booties maybe adding vests with scarves. Thank you for this series Janice, it has been fun and I look forward to the post each month.

    Reply
  3. Jazz says

    August 1, 2016 at 11:09 am

    Oh my, you have found some gorgeous skirts this month.

    Reply
  4. Caro says

    August 1, 2016 at 11:23 am

    I love these so much. I look forward to them each month. I can't decide which is my favorite.

    For September – why not feature vests or waistcoats. They are great as a layer of warmth especially in transitional seasons or under (or even over) cardigans/jackets when it's cold. They add that nice mid-section camouflage and the same vertical lines at the front as a cardigan or jacket without the extra bulk/warmth. Fleece ones are all over and some of them are not so attractive, but others are. And there are sleeker knitted or woolen ones and, if you are lucky, there are a few boho-ish embroidered/patterned/ quilted ones out there. I'd love to see what you could do with them.

    Reply
  5. Beckie says

    August 1, 2016 at 11:45 am

    I also like the skirts you've chosen.

    I am a brooch girl all the way!!

    I agree about opened toe/heel boots and can we add sleeveless wool coats? Why on earth? (and, this isn't a vest, it is a full wool coat, without sleeves)

    Reply
  6. Throckmorzog says

    August 1, 2016 at 12:24 pm

    For September, please consider showing vests, short boots, and cold-weather accessories. Your series on vests and accessories last year was wonderful and helpful.

    As an aside: I enjoy your posts so much and would like to help keep the lights on at The Vivienne Files…if I click on your links for a retailer but do not buy the highlighted item, do you receive your tiny commission if I then purchase OTHER items from that retailer? I would be happy to make all of my purchases at retailers that you endorse through your links if it helps your ongoing mission to educate and inspire us all : )

    Reply
  7. Anonymous says

    August 1, 2016 at 2:25 pm

    I would like to see *long* (skirt-length) vests. Thank you for all you do – I love this series.

    Reply
  8. Janice says

    August 1, 2016 at 2:54 pm

    Wow, love your choices this month, Janice! I've begun to wear bracelets and have two I wear all the time. Never wore bracelets before! I like some brooches but don't know how exactly to wear them, perhaps you can help us there. My favorite here is the light blue/tan wardrobe –so so beautiful and feminine. I am totally inspired and purchased a couple of tops in that blue as I have lots of light tan/navy. That blue is also beautiful with navy and whenever I wear that blue near my face, I get lots of compliments. I guess it goes well with my coloring – fair, blond and light blue eyes. Anyway, thanks for all the inspiration every day!!! How do you do it??? XXX Janice Collins, Washington, DC

    Reply
  9. Margie from Toronto says

    August 1, 2016 at 3:01 pm

    For Fall posts I was thinking more generally about clothes for different body types and how each "type" can incorporate similar pieces. For instance, I am petite in height but bordering on plus size, especially above the waist. My youngest sister is 6'1" and slim build – so we each have our own issues, needs and wants as far as trying to get clothes that fit. I'd love to see you work with a core number of pieces and then show how different body types can bring in both classic clothes plus some more faddish pieces just for fun. I also need wide fit shoes and not being able to always find stylish shoes in my size means that my clothing options can be limited simply because I can't find shoes to work with an outfit. I know that I'm not the only one with these issues so I'd love some pointers from someone like you who does so much research in this area. Just a thought.

    Reply
  10. Throckmorzog says

    August 1, 2016 at 3:09 pm

    Oh, I agree with Margie for Toronto's idea for autumn posts! Proportion is such an important part of each of the groups you put together, and applying your skills to focusing on that aspect of wardrobe for your readers' different shapes and sizes might be a fun challenge. Getting the core pieces right for one's shape, especially. I'd love to see a post or a series on that topic.

    Reply
  11. Anonymous says

    August 1, 2016 at 3:38 pm

    This is such a great series. I like the idea of voting on the scarves for next year and I really like the fact that you are writing about next year too.
    For our September or October elections, I would like to see some more nice casual looks along with coats.
    Deb from Vancouver

    Reply
  12. Kay says

    August 1, 2016 at 4:02 pm

    September may be a bit soon for it, but I am starting to look for a nice winter coat. I love this series.

    Reply
  13. Madame Là-bas says

    August 1, 2016 at 5:35 pm

    You are right about skirts. I love the Comme des Garçons skirt and it would suit my wardrobe nicely but I hardly ever wear skirts and already own at least 5. Don't need it, won't buy it. I rediscovered a simple fabric flower brooch that I bought in a market in Budapest and have been wearing it on grey. We so often overlook what we already own.

    Reply
  14. Lena says

    August 1, 2016 at 6:27 pm

    How about adding a weekend casual outfit? Maybe jeans or corduroy pants and a print sweater or jacket. Love this series. It will be fun to vote on next year's scarves!

    Reply
  15. Nancy/n.o.e says

    August 1, 2016 at 7:45 pm

    I am most definitely gravitate to skirts rather than dresses, and separates rather than suits/matched pieces. I guess I like the challenge of putting together outfits from as many pieces as possible! I have made a conscious effort to buy and wear dresses recently and it's going fairly well, although I nearly always reach for skirts first.

    I agree with the suggestions above for jeans/corduroys, vests, and how about denim or flannel shirts? Although those would be great for October also. A casual transitional dress could also be good. I bought one last year (at Target!) and I wore it with boots and scarves and also with sandals. – nancyo

    Reply
  16. Janice Riggs says

    August 1, 2016 at 8:38 pm

    Regarding keeping the lights on chez Vivienne Files – any time you click on something, I get a wee pittance (literally something like 2 or 3 cents). But if you purchase ANYTHING from that vendor, I will indeed get a commission. That is pretty much the entirety of my current income – so share your interest in my work with your friends, family, worst enemy, total strangers on the street etc…
    just kidding, I think!
    hugs to all,
    Janice

    Reply
  17. Janice Riggs says

    August 1, 2016 at 8:39 pm

    I am already looking forward to the September outfits – I think there's going to be some corduroy, maybe denim, flannel, outerwear, scarves…. What fun! Thanks for sharing your preferences and opinions – they mean the world to me.
    hugs,
    Janice

    Reply
  18. Nancy/n.o.e says

    August 1, 2016 at 8:46 pm

    And, oh, my, I would give my eyeteeth for the shoes that are shown on the Armani website with that tweet miniskirt! – nancyo

    Reply
  19. Kathy Acosta says

    August 1, 2016 at 3:53 pm

    I can't even STAND how much I love this whole "12 Months, 12 Outfits" series!!!

    Reply
  20. Margie from Toronto says

    August 2, 2016 at 1:22 am

    I think I misread your last line Janice – my original comment above was meant as a general suggestion for Fall/Winter posts – not for your Sept. edition of this series – my mistake, although that is something I'd like to suggest perhaps as another series? You would offer a "look" or a "scenario" with options for different body types…. Just a suggestion and only if it's something that is of interest to you of course.

    For Sept. of this series I'd like to perhaps see something about outer wear – specifically jackets – different weights, different styles, dressy vs casual -along with appropriate accessories. This is something that I will need to add to my own wardrobe this year so I would find it very helpful. Thank you.

    Reply
  21. Coco Colmani says

    August 1, 2016 at 10:29 pm

    What a cracker instalment! Thank you Janice. It's fascinating watching these wardrobes evolve, and while each has its own main style, we're now seeing how versatile they can be too.
    Speaking from the southern hemisphere, where the temperature range is currently 3-12 (sorry, I can't quickly convert to Fahrenheit), boots are go-to choices most days, especially to wear with skirts. And many in the shops have wee bits of elastic discreetly sewn in near the top to cater for different calf sizes.
    Looking forward to hints of spring,
    Robyn in Tasmania

    Reply
  22. Anonymous says

    August 2, 2016 at 12:00 pm

    For next year's scarfs, I would so much love to see that Gucci(?) four seasons flower scarf that you were selling a while back, even if the scarf itself isn't commercially available anymore. It has my two favorite things – colors and flowers! (Ideally the white-bordered version you had, for more colors and fewer neutrals ;-)
    – Kaci

    Reply
  23. Kate says

    August 2, 2016 at 12:50 pm

    Lovely additions, as always. I was interested to see the inclusion of black boots in the navy based collections. I always struggle with winter footwear (and handbags) because I don't wear black, but it's impractical (and certainly not always possible) to find colour-matched boots. I presume you would include a black bag to go along with the black boots?

    I also wanted to mention that your last 2 posts have not come through to Feedly in their entirety and I have had to come to your site to read them. There are times when I can do this, but I much prefer to read all blogs in Feedly.

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

logo
The Vivienne Files is a unique personal style blog with carefully-selected capsule wardrobes based on color palettes drawn from works of art, nature, and more. It helps women buy less clothing, and to love what they buy. Read more...
  • Bloglovin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter

STAY UP TO DATE

Privacy Policy

Recent Posts

  • START WITH ART SPORT COAT BY PIERRE MOURGUEStart with Art: Sport Coat by Pierre Mourgue
  • Part 2 Pantone London Fashion Week AutumnWinter 2023-24Part 2: Pantone London Fashion Week Autumn/Winter 2023-24
  • Build a capsule wardrobe starting with a bracelet in teal and orangeStart With a Bracelet: Fierce Radiance Bracelets from Fierce Lynx Designs
  • Bloglovin
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter
  • Home
  • Start Here
  • Contact
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2023 The Vivienne Files | All Rights Reserved - Built with ♥ by RockFort Media

THE VIVIENNE FILES IS A PARTICIPANT IN THE AMAZON SERVICES LLC ASSOCIATES PROGRAM, AN AFFILIATE ADVERTISING PROGRAM DESIGNED TO PROVIDE A MEANS FOR US TO EARN FEES BY LINKING TO AMAZON.COM AND AFFILIATED SITES.