Wednesday
Sep152010
6 Week Update
Wednesday, September 15, 2010 at 12:00AM 
Shopbop Ultimate Closet courtesy of www.Shopbop.comThe kiddies are back to school and the stores have been showing Fall collections since late July...but Summer is not over yet. It's not! The Autumnal Equinox is September 22nd, so that means it's still summer. I'm just sayin'.
But there is a little chill in the air. And somehow gladiator sandals and tank tops just don't cut it. And at the same time, it's too warm to break out the faux fur vest. So what to wear? It can all be a little overwhelming.
Everyday Glamour Chicks, (E.G.C.'s), have laser focus when it comes to pulling themselves together just right for the season. They use a technique called the 6 Week Update. The 6 Week Update is an advanced variation on Building Your Basics: Get to the Core of the Matter. It uses the same basic principles--but put on speed.
You will be devising a mini-collection of clothes that will take you through the next 6 weeks. This is what you will be wearing. Full stop.
Step 1: Find your top 5 favorite stand-out amazing pieces that you would like to wear for the next 6 weeks. We're talking just the top 5 pieces, so forget about the basics for a minute.
Step 2: Using your top 5 pieces as style direction, fill in the gaps. Your aim is to pull together 7 tops and 4 bottoms that mix and match together, not counting accessories. Seven tops times four bottoms equals 28 outfit variations! (By the way, a dress counts as one top plus one bottom.)
Step 3: Now think about accessories and outerwear. Pull out the pieces that finish the looks.
Step 4: You've done your homework, so now you've become crystal clear about what pieces you may need to shop for to update your mini-collection or just to pull it together. Then and only then do you shop. Try using the Bottoms Up! technique.
Still not sure how to dress for the transitional weather? Here are some ideas for 2010:
- Military jacket
- Trench coat
- Light and supple leather jacket
- Classic blazer
- Long cardigan
- Ankle booties: Peep toe, lace up, military, or basic
- Round toe platform pumps
- Leopard accessories
- Snakeskin accessories
- Jewel tone color
- Camel
- Handbag: Messenger, Hobo, or Top-Handle
- Necklace: Long pendant, tangled edgy, or everyday basic
Word of warning: If you feel you need to shop a lot to fill in the gaps, don't stress. Just cut your collection down. It can be 5 tops and 3 bottoms, for example. That's still 15 outfits! And then just relax for the next 6 weeks!
Reader Comments (8)
Autumn is such a beautiful season - changing nature, beautiful fabrics and the ability dine al fresco without melting. Fashion-wise, I'm a mess! Either my clothes are too summery and I freeze, or I look like I'm having hot flushes 20+ years too early!
Your list greatly helps - thanks a bunch! Jewel tone colour sounds heavenly. After wearing red, anything is possible! Just where would I be without your expertise!?
You'd still be as chic as ever, Milla! I know...I've seen pictures. You look amazing in red! (Wait a minute, isn't that a cheesy 80s song? Oh no, that's Lady in Red...not Amazing in Red...)
Anyway, this time of year is such a challlege, yes. Lightweight jackets are the answer, I think.
Thank you!!!
Kate, thanks a million for making the next six weeks so easy!! Should I take off my gladiator sandals now?
; )
Kate - Thanks so much. I just went shopping and bought my 5 and 3 (plus a beautiful leopard print scarf and some new sunglasses). I may return 2 items and have a 4 and 2 - we shall see. Either way - this was great advice and made shopping so much easier. I have really been in need of inspiration. You are amazing - as always!
SLA, OMG! You're so EGC!! I'm soooo excited for you!! I wanna see, I wanna see!
Aw, thanks!!
xoxo
Thanks, Kellina! By all means, keep those gladiators on--it's still summer! :)
Kate - Thanks. And, I am glad to know that I can still wear my sandals for a little while longer. I hate to put them away - and I love to show off my pedicure! Keep up the great work. I need you. ;-)
AW, Shucks. Thanks, SLA!!