WINTER FASHION: CABLE KNIT SWEATER DRESS

MY #1 SHOPPING RULE TO MAXIMIZE YOUR WARDROBE

DRESS | SIMILAR BOOTIES | HAT | MONOGRAM NECKLACE | SIMILAR COAT (MINE IS VINTAGE)

File this under I did not use the Rule of 5 before purchasing this “dress”. Technically, I bought this tunic with the intention of it being a dress and doing a front tuck with pants for an oversized sweater look. But the way these hips and backside are set up my under shorts showed at any turn so this didn’t work out as a dress irl. I wore this sweater for 15 minutes while I took these photos as this would determine if it was long enough to actually wear as a dress, it was a no-go as numerous people saw my undershorts. While I absolutely NEVER buy anything for photos then return, I mean you can look at my photos and see I restyle the same pieces over again, I had to return this. I wanted to love it so  bad but the length just wouldn’t let me be great.

I didn’t use the Rule of 5 on this hat either but it was $15 and a fun accessory for Fall and Winter so I gave myself a pass. While I’m a firm believer in maximizing your wardrobe with the Rule of 5 it’s totally cool to let an inexpensive piece slide in from time to time especially if you’re experimenting with new styles. Personally, I don’t experiment with anything over $20. IJS

If you follow me on Instagram (go do that!) or check out my website regularly you know I’ve styled both this coat and booties at least 10 times and that’s just in photos. & this clutch as been styled more than 20 ways. Point being, yes, the Rule of 5 was implemented on this pieces before purchasing.

If you’re new here the Rule of 5 is a shopping rule I created 5 years ago when I had to create a wardrobe starting from scratch while on a limited budget. Essentially, before purchasing a new item you have to think of 5 looks you can create with the new piece you want with items already in your closet.

By doing this you ensure YOU’LL ACTUALLY WEAR IT!!!

If you can create 5 looks with items already in your closet that means …

1. It’s your personal style
2. It fits into your lifestyle
3. It’s something you’re comfortable wearing
4. You’re not purchasing “just in case you go somewhere you have no actual plans on going”
5. YOU WON’T THROW YOUR MONEY AWAY on something you’ll only wear once.