Stuck In A Summer Style Rut?

It's the tail end of summer and I'm sick of my closet. For the first time in nearly 3 years, I didn't create a separate seasonal capsule, rather I allowed the garment assortment I edited for spring to roll right into August. Now I'm bored and itching for a change.

Before I jump off the wagon on an pre fall buying binge (hello 1 new sweater) I figured it prudent to evaluate which garments have served me well and why and which weren't worth the room on my rack. 

Summer Capsule Loves and Duds

LOVES

Ann Taylor LOFT skirt - (link to similar style) It was love at first sight when I laid eyes on this little number whilst cleaning out Joy Brock's closet. A spring and summer of heavy outfit rotation confirmed my first impression - this flirty skirt boasts a perfect fit, non restricting fabric and a versatile print that harmonizes with my navy/white/grey neutral palette. 

Leith Ruched Dress  - Another treat from Joy, this simple black ruched cotton tank dress didn't win me over until I actually put her on weeks later. This dress earned so much LOVE for the same points above - the fit is super flattering and subtly sexy, it's incredibly comfortable and the same dress went from LAS - DCA to the Watergate Whiskey Bar with simple accessory swaps.

Tart Zara Shorts -  Tart Collections is one of my go-to brands for consistency in 3 key areas - supple fabric (95% modal, 5% spandex), eye pleasing prints and huge discounts off retail when purchased on Amazon. While I know what to expect from Tart dresses, shorts sizing scares me (what if they are TOO SHORT and my legs rub together). Based on past purchases I shopped for M but only S was left is stock. Imagine my delight when they arrived and fit like a glove. KEEPERS!

Loeffler Randall Luz Sandal -  LR is another of my go-to brands for consistency in the same 3 key areas - excellent quality, unique minimalist/modern design and, if you are in the right place at the right time, huge discounts off retail. I eyeballed this nude lace up tassel block heel sandal for 2 summers but the price tag ($395) was just out of my double daycare comfort zone. Loeffler Randall is either psychic or serious about mining abandoned cart data because when they finally went on sale for $195, I had to have been the first customer the e-blast converted. Now, I love LR handbags across the board but the shoe fit is variable and runs narrow. Right out of the box I feared the Luz would be another all-sales-final fail but after I loosened the laces they exceeded two years of expectations. Versatile AF, unique, beautifully made and comfortable. The only con is that they are a bugger to get on. 

Rebecca Minkoff Aster Bag -  This cross body bag is a minimalist dream. It matches everything, is roomy, practical and devoid of silly embellishment. Sign her up for spring/summer 2018.

DUDS

Tart Zara Shorts - After by my success with the Tart Zara Shorts above, I was thrilled to spot the same style in a block print for a steal on Amazon. They were nearly perfect: Great fabric, great print, great price - wrong size. Turns out I swim in a size M and it annoys me every time I wear them. A great example of a habit we all need to break - buying multiples of an item we love only to find out we don't.

Saks Ruffle Top -  Even though I gave this purchase a lot of thought (shopped in store for an on trend top to take on Spring Break) it's just too boxy and not versatile enough for multiple wears. The lack of a picture is worth 1000 words. 

Equipment Shirt Dress -  Great fabric (100% silk), great brand, great color, great price, a little too long to LOVE.

Loeffler Randall Clem Sandal -  Following the LR website's suggestion, I bought a size up to ensure these flat sandals fit. They don't. My heel hangs off the end and I feel like I'm shuffling in pool slides. All-sales-final, ill-fitting FAIL. I should really know better by now. 

If the Shoe Fits... LOVE It.

Is it any surprise that the difference between LOVE and DUD comes down to fit? Any of these DUDS would have been LOVES if I'd taken the time to try on before I bought them. But hey, what can you do except try (on) better next time. My goal for autumn is to shop in store; stick to classic neutral staples and perhaps bite the bullet and pay full price. Or maybe I'll just clean out Joy's closet again.

Your Turn!

What items did you LOVE this summer? Any DUDS? Share your looks and your results on the MappCraft | Tiny Closet® Survival Guide Facebook group.

Or you can always call me and we can plan your autumn wardrobe together. I’ll even make you outfit formulas and teach you how to accessorize. But don't take my word for it! MappCraft | Tiny Closet, Tons of Style® was named Best Service to Pair Down Your Closet by Washingtonian Magazine.

Be the Bright!

Jenn