Project 333 was one of my first introductions to the idea of a minimal wardrobe, or a capsule wardrobe. I read the project guidelines and started going through my clothing and accessories and when I was done, I was excited that I had even less than 33 pieces. I had already done a lot of decluttering in my home of possessions, but clothing had not been one of the areas. Project 333 was a fresh perspective that I needed in my quest for more minimalism in my life. Two years later, I am still using the capsule wardrobe and minimalist principles Courtney outlines and my current summer wardrobe (featured below) includes just a few carefully selected pieces that I enjoy wearing.
There are so many benefits to living with an intentional, smaller wardrobe, but what I have found to be the most beneficial to me are the following:
-I spend less money on clothing = fewer, but higher quality pieces
-I have less laundry to do = more personal time and less cost for detergents
-Getting dressed is simple and I always feel like I look great
-Traveling is a breeze, I only take a carry on bag now anywhere I go
-I have found that I focus less on others’ outward appearances and value the inner person more
Although I don’t consider myself anywhere near the expert Courtney is on minimal wardrobes, I have picked up a few things that have greatly helped me as I change my wardrobe with the seasons. Some of the great things I’ve learned from Project 333 and some of my own experiences include-
-Use an intentional color palette based on what looks good on you, so all of your clothing matches, no matter which top or bottom you put together. If you are like me, and mixing and matching doesn’t come as easily, grab some free paint swatches from a local hardware store of different complimentary palettes and take them with you while shopping.
-Buy clothing that can be layered during most of the seasons. Fall, winter and spring are the easiest seasons to layer clothing that will work through all weather for me. Summer, depending on where you live, may need it’s own separate 33 pieces. I’m in Georgia, and this definitely applies here.
-Limit patterns, accessorize instead. I am naturally a more conservative dresser, but sometimes I do like an extra pop in my outfits. I try to buy almost all solid clothing, and when I feel like dressing it up or adding some color, I’ll add different kinds of accessories. They take up much less space and can really change the whole look of an outfit.
Project 333 as well as Courtney’s blog has been such an inspiration in my personal journey towards minimalism, simplicity and feeling more whole in my life. Not only am I benefiting from simple living and a simple wardrobe, my three children, ages 8, 10 and 12 have excitedly embraced it as well (Still working on my hubby). Our family has seen so many benefits from decreasing our wardrobes and our possessions, the main one being an increase in available time to spend with each other and focus on our relationships with each other.
To learn more about Project333 or purchase the course, visit Project 333 Dress with Less Course and don’t forget to stop by BeMoreWithLess.
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