A new thing I’ve been doing this year is writing down seasonal wish lists at the beginning of each new season. It’s not so much about accountability – I do buy things that aren’t on the list if they are consistent with my current aesthetic – as it is about giving myself an opportunity to be intentional about where I focus my shopping energy, and later to reflect on what lessons are to be learned from how it all plays out. As we are moving into winter now, it’s time for a check-in to re-evaluate and update my shopping goals.

Here were the pieces that I had identified as “key” additions to my fall wardrobe this year.

White baby tee
I got this early on and it proved to be a great choice. I’ve worn it at least 6 or 7 times already, and can see that continuing through the winter and into next year. Next to my black turtleneck, this is one of the best layering pieces to increase the versatility of my closet.

Black floral slip dress
I haven’t quite stopped looking for this, but it has slipped lower and lower on my list of priorities. I think the 90s revival aesthetic is more of a warm-season thing for me, so I am not using it as often these days as I did during the early months of fall. I still haven’t found a dress that meets my specifications, either at the thrifts or on Poshmark, so I continue to look as I would prefer a vintage version over buying current retail.

Vintage Coach bag
This is a special success story! A blog reader saw my last post and reached out to offer a trade: one of her mom’s vintage Coach bags for one of my embroidery hoops. I love trading art but this exchange was also meaningful in its own way. I adore my new-to-me bag, and will treasure it especially because of its origin story. The bag is classic British tan, which was the colour I had most hoped to find – I didn’t already have a bag in that shade of brown, and it would go very well with my wardrobe palette.

Mary Janes
In my original post, I wrote that this was not a high priority because my platform loafers worked well with the 90s revival vibe so I didn’t really need the Mary Janes. I did see a couple of options at Winners, but didn’t love them enough to commit. And my platform loafers have, indeed, met my outfit needs. Now that we are past fall and into winter, this may be an item that I drop from the list until next year.

Ralph Lauren Polo bear sweater

Still. Looking. Still refusing to pay $250+ for one.

RL fair isle sweater vests
Still looking for this as well, but not especially hard. I have enough vests so this is not a key priority. But it’s one of those items that, if I come across it for the right price, I will always buy.

Black or grey tiered tulle skirt
I wore my pink tulle skirt quite a bit this fall, and now I REALLY want a black or grey one. I found the black version of my pink tulle skirt on Poshmark weeks ago, and the price was decent but I dithered and cheaped out, and lost it to another buyer. Now I am kicking myself for it because I’ve decided that only this specific skirt will suffice. I can find it on eBay but for a lot more money, so I am back to waiting and hoping.

Full velvet skirt
I have not found this and, truth be told, I haven’t really missed it from my wardrobe. I have so many other amazing fall skirts, I don’t have enough time to wear them all as it is. So this isn’t a key priority anymore either.

Did other key fall pieces pop up on my radar since September? Not really. Other than a few of the pieces I talked about above, my fall wardrobe felt pretty complete and I had a great time putting together outfits. If anything, the season didn’t feel long enough for me to wear all the outfits I had planned. I suppose that just means I have a lot to look forward to come spring. But, first … what about winter? Here are some key pieces I’ve been thinking about adding:

Metallic silver bag/shoes

I’ve been influenced by Trinny, who wears a lot of silver (and sequins!) and has some amazing silver bags and shoes. I am looking for a mirrored metallic finish specifically — a small bag, some kitten-heel shoes, and maybe even a pair of ankle boots. I am keeping my eye on Zara pieces on Poshmark, specifically, as I think they do a lot of metallics in their collections and these are not items I want to spend too much money on. If I find a higher quality version at the thrifts, all the better.

Sequin or rhinestone mesh layering top

This is a trend I’ve been seeing in a few places, and I am very drawn to. You guys know that I am a magpie at heart! I think a sparkly base layer would be a super fun addition to my winter wardrobe, especially around the holidays. I have seen some versions at the mall (H&M, Zara, and Simons) but was not impressed with the quality at that price point. So I am waiting for the right piece to turn up secondhand.

Heavy-duty winter parka

This is a tentative one. I don’t own a heavy parka at the moment and, generally speaking, that is a must when you live in Edmonton. But I am not sure how much I actually need it because I don’t spend a ton of time outside when it’s really cold. Like, there are probably only a handful of times when I legitimately need something substantial — such as when we take the kids skiing, and even then, I spend most of my time in the chalet. I could easily find something at the thrifts but the reason I’m not sure I will pull the trigger is storage. I have a lot of coats already and I don’t know if I have room for another bulky one. So until I decide just how necessary it is, I’ll hold off.

If you’ve been keeping a seasonal wish list, how did you fare this fall? And what are you hoping to find this winter? Tell me all in the comments.

Details: Lewit sweater (swap), tulle skirt (thrift), Silverado jacket (gift), BR belt (thrift), Ralph Lauren bag (Poshmark), Laredo boots (consignment)

Thoughts: I am so happy to have found this tulle skirt because the colour is gorgeous and it opens up a world of possibilities in my closet. This outfit being a case in point. While I prefer fluffier tulle skirts in general, this more streamlined style makes this skirt a lot more “everyday” wearable. I loved the tonality of this outfit, and this shade of blue is so soothing.

Details: Frank & Oak turtleneck (swap), Everlane sweater (thrift), Ralph Lauren skirt (Poshmark), Chelsea Crew shoes (thrift)

Thoughts: I chose this outfit based on a colour palette inspired by the skirt. It’s nice but in retrospect, feels a bit too muted for me. I am going to brainstorm some ideas for a brighter/more contrast-y pairing for this skirt.

Details: Wilfred sweater (retail), Ralph Lauren blazer (Poshmark), Fossil belt, Twik pants (both thrifted), J. Crew shoes (retail)

Thoughts: I am obsessed with this outfit. It’s a lot of brown, and I know brown isn’t for everyone. But I am loving it right now. Does it suit my colouring? I am not sure it does. I think I look better in colours that contrast more with my hair, but that could be a personal bias. (I am still not sold on seasonal analysis/colour theory, lol!) That being said, I will wear colours I enjoy regardless; I tend to simply wear them away from my face, but clearly that isn’t a rule set in stone either. Break the rules!

Details: Tommy Hilfiger vest, J. Crew blazer, Esprit belt, ASOS shoes (all thrifted), Banana Republic jeans (retail), Picasso tote (consignment)

Thoughts: A very simple but satisfying combination. This knit vest slash sleeveless mock-neck top was a strategic buy, and I’m thrilled to have found it because it suits my purposes perfectly. Basically, I have been wearing my ivory cable knit sweater a lot, and find it super versatile … but it can be bit too bulky to wear under some of my blazers. I decided a sleeveless version would be useful to have on hand. And this piece is perfect! The mock neck gives it of a cozy-looking vibe, but it’s actually 100% cotton so great for layering in all kinds of different situations (not too hot, not too cold). If I need arm coverage, I wear my white H&M long-sleeve pima cotton top underneath (remember that purchase?), and the combination is great.

Details: Tabi sweater, Chichwish skirt (both thrifted), Zara boots (retail)

Thoughts: A chunky sweater with a “chunky” tulle skirt, what’s not to love? I added chunky boots to keep the vibe a bit more punky than twee.

Details: Toni T dickie, Gap sweater, Higher State dress, petticoat (all thrifted), Laredo boots (consignment), Coach bag (eBay)

Thoughts: Jo March meets après-ski. That’s it, no notes.

Details: mushroom sweater, Kimchi Blue pants, Office London shoes (all thrifted), Coach bag (eBay)

Thoughts: This is some rando brand dupe for a Zara sweater I had eyed on Poshmark a couple of years ago. It’s cute. It’s so cute, in fact, that my daughter has already claimed it. I guess it’s communal property now. To be honest, I’m not mad about it. This sweater doesn’t really align with my current aesthetic — it’s a bit too whimsical — although that could change; in the meantime, it’s still gonna get some wears.

Last week we talked about outfit building blocks; this week, we are moving on to outfit formulas. What are outfit formulas? Think of them as templates rather than recipes – the individual elements are somewhat interchangeable. By keeping the overall architecture the same, but changing up the pieces, we can create different outfits quickly and with relatively little planning. What constitutes a successful outfit formula will depend on you. Your preferences – for specific types of clothing, for certain colours or patterns, for particular trends or aesthetics – inform how you like to get dressed. Some combinations will check off more boxes (or check them off in a more satisfying way) than others. I can’t give you an exhaustive list of outfit formulas and even if I could, it wouldn’t be worth much. You can’t know if an outfit formula works for you until you try it. A certain amount of “workshopping” is necessary. But here are some things to consider.

The Third Piece

What makes clothes into an outfit? Often, it’s the third piece. That might be a coat, a blazer, a vest. Maybe a skirt over a pair of pants if the thought of revisiting the 00s intrigues you. Or a shirt layered over a tee, worn with jeans (shades of Papa Ralph). There are many different ways of incorporating a third piece into an outfit, and doing so adds a sense of intentionality to the overall look. If a third piece is not feasible – for weather-related reasons or otherwise – and you have to work with a two-piece outfit, consider either (i) making one of the pieces a statement, or (ii) adding a statement accessory.

A statement (clothing) piece can be something in a bright colour, or a bold pattern, or a more unusual texture like leather or metallic fabric. These types of pieces can supply enough visual interest and “drama” to make up for the missing third piece. A statement accessory is something that stands out and draws attention; think an oversized or highly patterned scarf, a chunky necklace, or a colourful bag or shoes. Such accessories can basically take the place of a third piece.

Now, of course, you are never limited to only 3 pieces. The more components to an outfit, the more stylized it will appear. This can look impressive, but it can also appear “fussy” especially in a casual setting. I don’t believe that you should always dress for the lowest common denominator – I’m all about marching to the beat of one’s own drum – but I think it’s helpful to be aware of the impact that your fashion expression may have on others. With a 3-piece outfit, you’ll rarely run of risk of being underdressed or overdressed.

Depth, Texture, Contrast

When picking outfit building blocks to slot into your formula, think about the visual impact. Impact can be created through the use of colour and pattern, but that is only the start. Depth, texture, and contrast also create the impression of intentionality. Depth can be achieved through layers and the use of different shades of the same colour, for example. Texture can be achieved by pairing different types of fabrics and materials. Contrast can be achieved through colour and texture but also juxtaposition – think a men’s shirt paired with a full skirt, or a satin slip dress with combat boots. I aim to have at least one of these elements present in each outfit.

Under and Over

The strategic use of layers can transform an outfit. For example, one of my favourite styling “tricks” is to layer a longer skirt under a (full) shorter one to elongate the vertical line and/or create more volume on the bottom half of the outfit. This also maximizes the versatility of each individual item of clothing.

A similar “trick” is layering a dress or tunic over pants. This isn’t something that works for everyone — some people are still traumatized by the 00s version of this, and it tends to suit more niche aesthetics anyway. But something to consider.

I also love adding lightweight base layers to transition summer pieces into the colder seasons. My favourite “tools” for this are a black turtleneck; a white tee; a mesh turtleneck; and a white collar dickie.

The key thing is that these pieces are lightweight and fitted, so they don’t add extra bulk; and cotton, if possible, so they are also breathable and soft against the skin.

I must also give an honourable mention to another favourite styling “hack” which is layering a shirt or sweater over a dress to create the illusion of separates. Cropped tops are best for this, but you can also use a belt to create the same effect with a faux tuck. A wide belt is required for this, but keep in mind that you only need to tuck an inch or so of your top and then simply fold over the extra material.

Old Favourites

I said I wouldn’t be able to give you an exhaustive list of outfit formulas, but it seems unfair to not at least share some of my favourites.

Shirt + vest + blazer + pants

Long skirt + top + topper

Short skirt + top + long topper

Sweater + pants + statement coat

Crop top + high waist bottom + topper

Dress + vest

The last formula is a good example of how I “style up” a 2-piece outfit so that it looks intentional. A belt or large necklace are my usual go-tos.

I hope these examples give you some ideas to explore in your own outfit-building, but remember the most important consideration of all: have fun!