Here’s the thing. That area of your body absorbs more than almost anywhere else. So whatever fabric you’re wearing against it all day is kind of just... there. All day.

Here’s what synthetic fabrics actually do:

• They trap heat and moisture, which creates the perfect environment for bacteria and yeast

• They’re often treated with chemical dyes and finishes that sit against your skin all day

• They don’t breathe, so irritation and sensitivity are way more common than people realize

• Many contain PFAS, which are chemicals that accumulate in your body over time

• Polyester is essentially plastic. You’re wearing plastic in your most sensitive area. All day. Every day.

So I started slowly transitioning (I’m not perfect, I bought a 12 pack of my fave Calvin Klein polyester undies on black friday, ugh)

So far, I love. It breathes, it doesn’t trap heat, and it’s not loaded with the same chemical treatments.

These are the brands I’ve actually tried and like:

My personal ones:

• Oddobody - suppper organic

• La Coochie - cute and actually feminine

• Coucou Intimates - very good options

• Pact - fun colors

Other ones worth trying:

• Subset - really good quality, great cuts

• Organic Basics - the most affordable option

• Huha - has minerals! so cool

You don’t have to overhaul everything at once. Just start swapping as things wear out. Small change, big difference!!

I feel like somewhere in my late 20s, I stopped wanting more clothes and started wanting better versions of the things I already loved.

Not necessarily more expensive everything. Just being a little pickier. Better fabrics, shoes that actually finish an outfit, jeans that fit exactly how I want them to, and even upgrading the things I wear around the house.

These are the seven little upgrades that made the biggest difference in how I dress and truly just make me feel better day to day!

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1. Elevated Basics

I used to buy cheap crop tops and basics in volume because they were “just basics.” Now I kind of think the opposite.

If I’m going to wear a white tee 50 times, that’s the thing I want to spend a little more on.

I started paying attention to fabric, fit, how something washes, and whether I can picture myself still reaching for it years from now. I’d much rather have one amazing white tee than six mediocre ones taking up space in my drawer.

Some of my favorites:

More affordable: Madewell, Everlane, Aritzia
Worth the splurge: COS, Still Here, DISSH, TOTEME

2. Staple Jewelry

We are done with the earrings that turn our ears green lol.

I used to buy so much inexpensive jewelry because I wanted options, but I’ve realized I’d rather have a little collection of pieces that I basically never take off.

A good pair of earrings, a few rings, a simple necklace, a bracelet you wear every day. They become part of your look, and even a white tee and jeans suddenly feel more finished.

If you’re not ready to invest in solid gold, look for gold-filled over gold-plated. It’ll generally hold up much better.

My everyday favorites: Shop Vasilea, Aurate

3. Polished Shoes

We were all victims of the frat platform heels that were trashed with frat floor mud.

This might be one of the upgrades that changed my outfits the most. You can be wearing the simplest outfit ever, but a sleek pointed boot, a good loafer, or a minimal strappy heel immediately makes it feel intentional.

I also stopped buying a million random trendy shoes and started thinking about the few silhouettes I actually wear. Give me a sleek black strappy, pointed boot, good loafer, and simple slingback and I’m pretty much covered.

Some of my affordable favorites: Tony Bianco, Dolce Vita, Schutz

4. Lounge + PJ Sets

Gone are the days of the sorority sweatshirt (although verrry cozy)

I am a HUGE comfort person (a true Taurus), so upgrading what I wear at home has brought me so much joy. A cozy matching set or an actual pair of pajamas makes lounging feel a little more luxurious, even when I’m doing absolutely nothing.

And no, I’m not saying you need to look chic to sit on your couch. I just genuinely feel better in a matching set than an ancient T-shirt and mystery sweatpants.

Some of my favorites: Eberjey, Negative Underwear, NUUDS, Aritzia

5. Really Good Denim

I am talking butttery delicious denim that fits you to perfection. You know that feeling.

Jeans are another category where I stopped caring about having a million different pairs. Find the cuts that make you feel GOOD and wear the hell out of them.

A great straight leg, a relaxed pair, maybe a vintage Levi’s. That’s really all I need. Good denim also gets better the more you wear it, which makes the price per wear so worth it to me.

Some of my favorites: Still Here, Everlane, vintage Levi’s, AGOLDE, FRAME

6. Everyday Sneakers

I used to think of sneakers as purely gym. Now they’re very much part of the outfit.

I want a pair that I can actually walk around in all day, but that also looks cute with jeans, trousers, shorts, whatever. Something crisp and not just reserved for a treadmill.

Basically, the goal is no longer “gym shoe.” It’s an everyday shoe that happens to be comfortable.

Some of my favorites: Salomon, Adidas, Gola, Larroudé

7. Hair Accessories

This one is tiny but makes SUCH a difference.

Retire the sad hair tie hanging on by a thread and get yourself a good claw clip, French pin, barrette, scrunchie, whatever feels like you.

I think of hair accessories almost the same way I think about jewelry now. They’re a finishing touch. Even if my hair is going up because I am overstimmmyy, a pretty claw somehow makes the whole thing look intentional.

Some of my favorites: UNDO Hairware, LELET NY, Emi Jay

The Point Isn’t to Replace Everything

Also, please do not read this and suddenly decide you need to throw out your entire closet and buy the “grown-up” version of everything. 😂

For me, these upgrades happened slowly. When something wore out or I realized I was constantly reaching for a certain category, I started replacing it with a version I genuinely loved.

I think that’s actually been one of the biggest shifts in my style as I’ve gotten older. Less buying for the sake of buying, more paying attention to what I actually use

I’ll open it up, stare at everything hanging there, and feel the urge to throw everything out. (idk what’s wrong with me, I think it’s a nervous system thing)

Whenever I get to that point, I know it’s time for a closet clean-out.

So if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed every time you get dressed, clear your Sunday afternoon, put on a good playlist, and let’s do this together.

These are the questions I ask myself with every single piece.

1. Is This Actually My Style Anymore?

This is probably the biggest one.

Sometimes we keep clothes simply because we used to love them. But if you haven’t reached for something in forever, you likely outgrew it.

Our style evolves, and our closets should evolve with it.

If you wouldn’t buy it again today, that’s usually a pretty good sign!!

2. Is It Comfortable?

Life is too short for clothes that annoy you.

Maybe the straps constantly fall down.

Maybe the fabric is itchy.

Maybe you’re tugging at it every five minutes.

Maybe it rides up when you walk.

If you’re constantly thinking about the clothing instead of just living your life in it... It’s probably not earning its spot in your closet.

3. Does It Actually Fit Me?

This one can be hard because we all have those “maybe one day” pieces.

But if something is too tight, too big, shrunk in the wash, or just doesn’t fit your body the way you’d like anymore, it’s okay to let it go.

Your closet should fit you, not the other way around.

4. Have I Simply Outgrown It?

This is when I get a little EMO! This doesn’t mean it’s worn out. Sometimes you’ve worn something so much that it just doesn’t excite you anymore. It served you well. You got your money’s worth. And now you’re naturally reaching for other things instead.

Not every piece has to stay forever.

5. Can I Think of Three Ways I’d Wear It?

This is one of my favorite little tests.

Before something stays, I try to think of at least three outfits I’d actually wear with it.

Real outfits I’d happily put on this week.

If I can’t come up with three, chances are it’s just taking up space.

6. Am I Keeping This Out of Guilt?

This one gets me every time.

Maybe it was expensive.

Maybe someone gave it to you.

Maybe you keep telling yourself you’ll wear it eventually.

Clothes don’t deserve a gilt spot. They deserve a spot because you genuinely love wearing them.

One Last Thought

A closet clean-out isn’t about having less for the sake of having less.

It’s about making room for the pieces you actually reach for.

Imagine opening your closet and genuinely loving almost everything inside. Getting dressed becomes so much easier because you’re choosing between things you already know you love instead of sorting through things that don’t feel like you anymore.

That’s always the goal!! Let me know if you give this a try <3

“I’m going this summer! Where should I eat? Which islands are actually worth it?”

So instead of typing out the same recommendations over and over (and inevitably forgetting half of them), I figured I’d finally put everything in one place.

A little context before we dive in, Greece has been a home and a happy place ever since I was born. My mom actually brought me to Greece when I was only four months old, which is kind of wild!! My mom was born in Athens, my dad was born in Thessaloniki, and my parents moved to America as teenagers before having my siblings and me. My yiayia, cousins, and extended family still live there, so we’ve been going back every single summer since I was a baby.

I may be biased, but I genuinely think it’s the most special place in the world. The food, the people, the beaches, the pace of life... I’ve traveled to a lot of places, and nothing has ever come close to the feeling I get when I’m there.

Over the years, I’ve built a running list of restaurants, beaches, hotels, little hidden spots, and random recommendations that I get ridiculously excited to go back to every summer. I get so many DMs asking where to stay, where to eat, which islands are worth visiting, and my friends are constantly asking me to plan their trips too. So I figured I’d finally put everything in one place.

This guide is focused on the Cyclades because that’s where I’ve spent most of my summers. Greece has so many incredible regions, but if it’s your first trip, or you only have a week or two, I almost always recommend the Cyclades. The islands are close enough that you can hop between them by ferry; each one has its own personality, and in my opinion, they’re the perfect summer destination.

Sifnos

Such a hidden gem of an island.

It’s slower, quieter, unbelievably beautiful, and is kind of where the local Greeks spend their summer. Go here if you’re a foody, want authenticity, and want a slower pace.

Where to Eat

⭐ = would book before your trip

⭐⭐⭐ Bostani (my favorite restaurant on the island. Book this one as soon as you know your dates.)

⭐⭐ Stiadi

• Maiolica

• Omega 3

• Manolis Taverna

• Pelicanos

• Tsikali

• Lembesis at Chrisopigi

• Yalos (perfect lunch)

• Café Mosaic (traditional breakfast)

• Cantina

• Kafeneio Drakakis

• NOS

• Loggia Wine Bar (go around sunset for the view)

Read more

• COS white tee

• Still Here jeans

• TKEES flip flops

• Prada oval sunnies

• Zara white tank

• Aritzia linen pants

• V-neck tee

• cuts long tshirt

Living in Miami I feel like I’ve truly tried it all, including the years I was ordering from Shein and Amazon trying to save a buck. We’ve all been there. But I’ve learned that swimwear is one of those things actually worth investing in. The right suit holds up summer after summer.

The thing is, there’s no one-size-fits-all here. It really comes down to your personal style, your cut, your vibe. So I put together my favorite brands by category, ones I genuinely wear and love, and hopefully somewhere in here you find the one that makes you feel amazing this summer

More Affordable

Swim is pricey in general, but if you want to stick to a budget, these are cute, wearable, and won’t make you cry at checkout.

• Bright Swimwear : $40-70 (so many fun patterns and cuts for everyone)

• Triangl : $70-100 (OG but still so good and high quality, runs small size up!)

• Skatie : $60-90 (tons of options and comfy)

• Vetchy : $80-120 (good coverage & great for my bigger tatas girls)

Fun Patterns:

This category is for the girls who treat swimwear like an outfit.

• Cincin : $80-130 (colorful, elevated euro summer vibes)

• Aqua Bendita : $150-220 (beaded stunnning, reversible patterns)

• Oseree : $200-350 (glitz, unique, if you want to pop)

• Baobab: $200 (sick colors, matching sets)

• Oceanus : $200+ (super special pieces for birthday or bridal)

• Bydee : $80-130 (beaded, sick patterns)

Long Term Staples: the ones you’ll still be reaching for in five years

Simple, more solid colors holds up. These are my never getting rid of these brands.

• Monday Swim : $90-150 (staple colors and inclusive shapes)

• Hunza G : $150-200 (SO comfy, great for pregnancy or stretch, have forever)

Worth The Splurge

If you’re ready to invest, these are where I’d point you. The quality is just different, the fabric, the fit, the way they hold up. Worth every penny.

• Montce : $150-250 (patterns but still elevated, quality is a 10)

• Ancora : $280 (fun patterns, very elegant)

• Vix : $300 (unique, you can feel the quality)

• Sommer Swim : $180-300 (cheekier, sexier, really well made)

If You Like Coverage

I hateeee my butt is legit out, or I’m afraid of a nip slip in front of my in-laws, so here are some for full coverage occasions

• Hunza G: $250 (good old reliable, great coverage)

• Montce: $150-$250 (they have cut options for every pattern)

• Devon Windsor: $250 (elevated, cool prints)

This list will keep growing as I find new favorites. And if there’s a brand you love that I missed, reply and tell me, I’m always looking.

Most clothes are plastic.

Like actually plastic. And once you realize it, you start checking every tag and judging everything a little harder.

So this is the simple breakdown I use now. No overthinking, just what’s worth it, what’s not, and what to look for instead.

The “Try to Avoid” Zone

Polyester
This is why your clothes feel hot, weird, and off.

• pills fast

• doesn’t breathe

• feels plastic-y (because it is)

If something looks cute online but feels off in person, check the tag; it’s probably this.

Acrylic
This is the reason sweaters look old after like 2 wears.

• pills instantly

• traps heat

• gets static-y

If you’ve ever had a sweater that looked destroyed way too fast, this is why.

Rayon / Viscose
These are tricky because they feel nice at first.

• drapey, soft, looks elevated

• then shrinks, stretches, wrinkles

They’re fine, just not reliable. I don’t invest here.

The “It Has a Place” Zone

Nylon
Not luxurious, but useful.

• strong, stretchy

• good for activewear

Not something you need in your everyday outfits, but it makes sense for certain pieces.

Spandex
This one isn’t bad; it just needs to be used right.

• adds stretch

• keeps things from losing shape

1–5% is perfect. More than that and things start feeling clingy.

The “You Want More Of This” Zone

Cotton
Your everyday staple.

• breathable

• easy

• just works

The only downside is it can shrink, so look for better quality or pre-shrunk.

Linen
Spring and summer in fabric form.

• light, breathable

• looks expensive without trying

Yes it wrinkles!! Be careful drying it. But so chic and lux

Tencel / Lyocell
The upgraded version of those “silky” fabrics.

• soft

• drapes really nicely

• actually holds up

• great for pjs

If you like that flowy look but hate how viscose wears, this is what you want instead.

Wool
Not just for winter, but especially good then.

• warm but breathable

• lasts forever

If it feels itchy, go for merino or blends.

Silk
This is what brands are trying to copy with “satin.”

• naturally luxe

• temperature regulating

• just looks expensive

It does need a little care, but it’s worth it.

Cashmere
The best of the best.

• soft, lightweight, warm

• feels expensive because it is

This is where I’d actually invest instead of buying multiple cheaper sweaters.

The Way I Actually Shop Now

I’m not perfect about this, but I always:

• check the tag before I buy

• avoid anything that’s mostly polyester

• choose natural fabrics when I can

That alone will upgrade your entire wardrobe without buying more.

The Quick Cheat Sheet

Worst → Best:

polyester → acrylic → rayon → viscose → nylon → spandex → cotton → linen → tencel/lyocell → wool → silk → cashmere

The Shift

You don’t need to throw everything out.

Just start noticing.

Because once you know what fabrics feel like, you stop falling for things that look good online but don’t actually wear well in real life!

Which, honestly, is kind of the dream. When your closet is working, you’re not constantly trying to reinvent the wheel every morning. You just have a few formulas that always feel good and make getting dressed really easy.

These are the three outfits I keep wearing on repeat lately. Nothing complicated, just really good basics that work every time.

Outfit 1: My Everyday Uniform

This has basically become my default outfit lately. It’s simple but somehow always feels put together.

Blue jeans, a white tee, loafers, slim black sunnies, and some kind of light layer if I need it.

The jeans I’ve been wearing nonstop are my Still Here jeans. They’re definitely an investment piece, but I genuinely think they’re worth it. The fit is so good and they somehow make even the simplest outfit look elevated.

And my white tee is the COS one I’m always talking about. Truly my favorite white t-shirt ever.

What I’m wearing

Still Here jeans
COS white t-shirt
Tony Bianco loafers
black sunglasses
Optional layer: leather jacket or sweater over shoulders

Outfit 2: My Miami Heat Outfit

When it’s hot here in Miami, I want something that feels breezy but still polished.

I’ve been loving a relaxed white button-down with linen pants and simple flip flops. It’s effortless but still feels intentional.

Sometimes I’ll wear the shirt slightly open with a tank underneath, or do a loose tuck into the linen pants.

It’s one of those outfits that works for coffee, errands, lunch… basically anything.

What I’m wearing

Cotton button-down shirt (optional tank)
Linen pants
Simple flip flops

Outfit 3: My Easy Dinner Outfit

This one is what I throw on when I want something a little more elevated but still simple.

It’s one of those outfits that feels very classic and always works for dinner or drinks without feeling overdressed.

What I’m wearing

Trousers
Fitted tank/nice blouse
Optional blazer/leather
Strappy black heels

A Little Reminder

You don’t need endless options. Just a few really good pieces that you can mix and match, and you actually want to wear again and again!!!

You don’t need as much and honestly the best outfits are usually the simplest ones.

This is the little capsule I come back to every year, pieces that just work, mix together easily, and make getting dressed feel very low effort but still put together.

The Spring Capsule

• a really good white tee

• a simple tank

• a lightweight button-down

• a light layer (blazer or jacket)

• great fitting jeans

• linen or relaxed trousers

• denim shorts

• an easy, throw-on dress

• a lightweight sweater

• loafers

• simple sandals

• an everyday bag

• sunglasses

How to Think About It

Everything should:

• go with everything

• feel light and easy

• be something you’d actually reach for on a random Tuesday

If you have pieces that only work for one specific outfit, they’re probably not capsule.

The Vibe

Think:

• lighter colors

• softer fabrics

• simple silhouettes

Nothing too complicated, nothing too styled, just clean, easy outfits that always look good.

A Few Easy Outfit Combos

• white tee + jeans + loafers + sweater over shoulders

• tank + linen pants + sandals

• button-down + denim shorts + sneakers or sandals

• easy dress + flat sandal + simple bag

• tee + relaxed trousers + blazer

Let me know what combos you come up with for this capsule! <3

Windows open, fresh air, lighter clothes… and suddenly your closet just needs a reset.

Not a full overhaul, not a spiral, just a really good clean-out so everything you do have feels easy again.

Here’s exactly how to do it.

1. Winter Pieces You’re Ready to Let Go Of

Start here, it’s the easiest.

Pull anything that:

• you didn’t wear once this winter

• feels worn out or overused

• doesn’t excite you anymore

• you already know you wouldn’t buy again

If you didn’t reach for it this year, you probably won’t next year.

2. Overworn or Low-Quality Basics

These are the sneaky ones.

Things you wore a lot but:

• have lost their shape

• feel thin, stretched, or tired

• don’t look as elevated anymore

This is your sign to upgrade, not hold onto them.

3. Spring Pieces That Didn’t Make the Cut Last Year

Think back to last spring.

Pull anything that:

• you kept skipping over

• didn’t feel like “you” anymore

• felt hard to style

• you overwore

If it didn’t work last year, it’s probably not going to magically work this year.

4. Anything That No Longer Fits Your Style

This is the biggest one.

Your style evolves, and your closet should reflect that.

Let go of pieces that:

• feel like a past version of you

• don’t align with how you want to dress now

• you keep trying to “make work”

If it feels forced, it’s out.

5. Fit Check Everything

Quick but important.

Try on pieces you’re unsure about and ask:

• does this fit well right now?

• do I feel good in it?

• would I actually wear this out of the house?

If the answer isn’t yes, it’s not staying.

6. What You’re Left With = Your Real Closet

After this, what’s left should feel:

• easy

• wearable

• aligned with your current style

This is the foundation for your spring wardrobe.

Spring cleaning your closet isn’t about getting rid of everything.

It’s about making space for what you actually want to wear.

And when you do that, getting dressed becomes really easy again!!!

Time for summer planning, happy hour, and shedding our layers weeeee!

I used to feel lost on how to transition into the warmer weather outfits from the winter grunge, so here are some tips.

1. Start With Color (This Is the Biggest One)

This is where everything starts to feel like spring.

Start pulling back on:

• black

• burgundy

• maroon

• deep browns

And bring in:

• creams + whites

• light denim

• soft neutrals

• pastels

• or a pop of color (red, baby blue, a soft yellow)

Even something small, like a sweater over your shoulders or a brighter bag, instantly makes your outfit feel more spring.

Colors that I feel we will be seeing everywhere this spring - brick red, baby blue, chartreuse, butter yellow, powder blue, cobalt, lime green

2. Swap Your Fabrics (Underrated But Changes Everything)

You can wear almost the same outfits, just in lighter fabrics.

Start switching:

• heavy knits → cotton

• structured trousers → linen or relaxed fabrics

• puffer coats → leather, denim jackets

This is what makes outfits feel effortless instead of heavy and also helps your core temp lol

3. Lighten the Way You Layer

Spring layering is way less serious.

Think:

• button-downs slightly open

• tee shirt with a cardigan or a suede jacket

• sweaters draped over your shoulders instead of worn

It’s a little undone, but in a good way.

5. Bring Back Your Easy Shoes

Boots are going in the back off the closet

Start reaching for:

• loafers

• sandals

• flip flops

• slides

It instantly changes the whole look.

Easy Spring Outfit Formulas (When You Don’t Want to Think)

• white tee + jeans + loafers + sweater over shoulders

• button-down + linen pants + sandals

• tank + oversized blazer + relaxed trousers

• simple dress + sweater over shoulder flat sandal

• white tee + denim shorts + lightweight layer

What to Reach For on Repeat

• great jeans (Still Here are my current obsession)

• a really good white tee (COS forever)

• linen pants

• lightweight button-downs

Less heavy and a little more fun!!!!!

Here are my go to’s when I want my look to give a little bit more chic and luxurious~

1. Try Going Monochrome

Wearing one color head-to-toe always looks chic.

It doesn’t even have to be perfectly matched. In fact, different shades of the same color usually look even better.

Think something like:

all black
all cream
all chocolate brown
all navy

It immediately gives “I have my shi together.”

2. Add Something Structured

Even if the outfit itself is super simple, adding one structured piece can pull everything together.

Think a blazer, a tailored coat, a belt, or even just a structured bag.

Something about the sharp lines elevates an outfit immediately.

3. Mix Your Textures

If everything you’re wearing is the exact same fabric, outfits can sometimes fall a little flat.

Mixing textures adds depth and makes things feel more interesting.

Some easy combos I love:

denim + knit
leather + cotton
suede + denim
silk + wool

Even when the colors are really simple, texture gives the outfit more dimension.

4. Try an All-White Outfit

There’s something about an all-white or cream outfit that always looks expensive.

It’s clean, minimal, and just feels very put together.

Even something as simple as:

white jeans
a white tee
a cream sweater

can look incredibly chic.

5. Keep Accessories Simple

Sometimes less really is more.

Instead of piling on accessories, I usually like picking one or two simple ones that finish the outfit.

Think:

a good pair of sunglasses
simple gold hoops/diamond studs
a great leather bag

It keeps everything feeling clean and elevated.

6. Pay Attention to Fit

This one might be the most important.

Even the nicest pieces won’t look great if the fit feels off. But when something fits well, it instantly makes the whole outfit look more expensive.

Little things like sleeve length, pant hems, or tailoring can make a huge difference.

Between the new show, old paparazzi photos resurfacing, and the constant Pinterest/TikTok rabbit holes, it feels like Carolyn is having another moment.

But here’s the thing that always fascinates me about her:

Her style doesn’t feel like it belongs to any moment.

It feels completely timeless.

And when I look at her wardrobe today, I can’t help but think, this woman was quietly building the ultimate capsule wardrobe before we even had a name for it

Why Carolyn’s Style Still Feels So Modern

In the 90s, fashion was loud. Logos, color, excess, “statement” everything.

And yet Carolyn did the opposite.

She wore:

• simple black trousers
• crisp white shirts
• long wool coats
• slip dresses
• kitten heels
• tailored blazers
• neutral knits

Nothing about her wardrobe screamed for attention.

And somehow that’s exactly why it stood out.

She repeated pieces constantly. She kept her palette tight. She didn’t chase trends.

Sound familiar?

It’s the exact philosophy behind a capsule wardrobe.

The Power of Repetition

One of my favorite things about Carolyn’s style is that if you look through old photos, you’ll see the same pieces again and again.

The same camel coat.

The same black sunglasses.

The same simple sandals.

Today we call that “outfit repeating.”

Back then it was just… getting dressed.

And honestly, it’s a reminder that great style isn’t about having endless options.

It’s about knowing what works for you and wearing it confidently.

Her Formula Was Surprisingly Simple

When you really break it down, Carolyn had a very clear style formula.

tailored piece+ soft or minimal basic+ neutral palette

Think:

Black trousers + white tee + long coat
Slip dress + sandals + sunglasses
Simple knit + straight leg pants + kitten heels

No complicated layering. No trend stacking. Just really good basics that worked together.

Another piece of Carolyn’s allure was how effortless everything around the clothes felt. Her hair was often air-dried and slightly undone, she rarely wore much jewelry, and her accessories were incredibly minimal. Nothing felt overly styled or precious. Even the pieces she wore looked a little lived-in, like they had been part of her wardrobe for years. That ease is such an important part of the look. It wasn’t just the clothes themselves, it was the feeling that she simply threw them on and went about her day.

Why Her Style Feels So Calm

I think the reason people keep coming back to Carolyn’s style is because it feels calm.

It isn’t chaotic. It isn’t trend driven. It isn’t trying too hard.

In a world where fashion moves faster than ever, there’s something really grounding about seeing someone who just… knew what worked and stuck with it.

And honestly, that’s the exact mindset shift I hope people take away when they start building a capsule wardrobe.

The 5 Pieces Carolyn Wore on Repeat

If you look through photos of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, something becomes obvious quickly: her wardrobe was incredibly focused.

She wasn’t constantly introducing new pieces. Instead, she relied on a handful of timeless staples and styled them in slightly different ways.

Here are five pieces she wore constantly, plus a few modern options if you want to recreate the look.

1. The Perfect Black Trouser

Carolyn loved a simple, tailored black pair of trousers with clean lines, slightly relaxed, and incredibly versatile.

Style options

• black trousers + white tee + loafers
• black trousers + silk cami + kitten heels
• black trousers + oversized sweater + sandals

Great options online

Rue Sophie Pant
Aritzia Effortless Pant

Everlane Pant

Dissh Pant

Tailored black trousers have become a modern wardrobe staple because they instantly make even the simplest outfits look polished.

2. The Crisp White Button-Down

Carolyn’s white shirts always looked effortless. Slightly undone, relaxed, and worn with almost everything.

Style options

• white button-down + straight-leg denim + ballet flats
• white button-down + black trousers + belt
• white button-down worn open + tank + trousers

Great options

J.Crew Étienne Oversized Oxford Shirt
Anine Bing
Sold Out NYC

This is one of those pieces that quietly works with almost everything in your closet.

3. The Slip Dress

The 90s slip dress was basically Carolyn’s signature. Minimal, elegant, and surprisingly versatile.

Style options

• slip dress + strappy sandals
• slip dress + oversized blazer + heels
• slip dress + sweater draped over shoulders

Great options

Jenni Kayne Dress
Reformation Dress
Quince Dress

The beauty of a slip dress is that it’s incredibly simple but always looks elegant.

4. The Long Camel Coat

Carolyn understood the power of a great coat. Her long camel coats instantly elevated the simplest outfits.

Style options

• camel coat + black trousers + knit
• camel coat + denim + white tee
• camel coat + slip dress + heels

Great options online

Rue Sophie Coat

Nakedvice Coat

Aritzia Coat

A good coat does half the styling work for you.

5. Minimal Black Sunglasses

Carolyn rarely appeared without sleek black sunglasses. They became part of her signature look.

Style options

• sunglasses + white shirt + denim
• sunglasses + slip dress + sandals
• sunglasses + trench coat + trousers

Great options online

Jimmy Fairley Sunnies

Le Specs Sunnies

Otra Sunnies

Sometimes the smallest accessory is what makes the outfit feel finished.

With Carolyn having such a big moment again right now, it’s easy to feel like we should suddenly start dressing exactly like her. But I actually think the magic of her style was never about copying every single piece she wore. It was more about the philosophy behind it. Simple, timeless basics that she wore over and over again. If you’re taking inspiration from her, I think the goal is to notice what actually resonates with you and leave the rest. For example, she famously wore those simple headbands all the time, and while I love them on her, they’re just not really my style so I wouldn’t add that to my wardrobe. And that’s kind of the point. Take the mindset, not the costume.

They’re comfortable, reliable, always there for us… but also dangerously easy to default into looking a little “I gave up but still had to leave the house.”

The good news is: black leggings aren’t the problem.
The way we auto-style them is.

This is your reset.

First, a little reframe

Black leggings are not an outfit. They’re a base layer, the same way a white tee is.

When leggings feel lazy, it’s usually because everything else in the outfit is also soft and unintentional. Hoodie, leggings, sneakers, messy bun, no structure anywhere. We’ve all done it.

A Few Tips

1. Never pair with low booties, only high! This helps the proportions a ton.

2. If you’re going athleisure, pair with higher socks to cover the ankles.

3. Mix formal with informal, pair them with chunky athletic sneakers & a blazer

4. Pair the leggings with a longer coat or sweater. Heavier top helps proportions.

How to Style

If you’re wearing leggings for a workout

Lean fully into intentional athleisure.

• clean, fitted top or cropped layer

• bomber jacket, cropped zip-up, or crew neck

• chunkier, platform athletic sneaker or sleek, slender ones

• structured tote or belt bag

• optional long wool coat if freezing

• sleek black sunnies

• high socks

This reads “I didn’t just roll out of bed” and “I may be working out or I may be running errands.”

If you’re wearing leggings for work

Yes, leggings can work for work if the rest is polished.

• oversized button-down, blazer, or long knit

• structured shoe (loafer, ballet flat, ankle boot) or high boot

• oversized full sweater or cardigan

• stirrup leggings are all the rage right now if you want to try a trendy look

Think business casual energy, just comfortable.

If you’re wearing leggings for everyday errands

This is where most outfits fall apart.

• add a real long layer (coat, trench, long cardigan, white button down)

• upgrade the shoe: leather sneaker, flat, boot

• use accessories (statement gold earrings, chic sunnies, an elevated fun bag)

Errands look instantly better with structure.

If you’re wearing leggings for travel

Comfort, but make it chic.

• long coat or bomber

• sweatshirt or cozy long layer underneath

• comfy clean sneaker or slip-on shoe

Airplane leggings should look calm and elevated, not chaotic.

If you’re wearing leggings for a casual lunch or coffee

This is the easiest glow-up. You can dress up or down

• leggings + tee or knit + statement outerwear

• dressier - go with a long blazer

• sunglasses always help

• slightly dressier bag than usual

The non-negotiables that make leggings look good

Small things that matter more than you think:

• Fabric matters more than brand
  Thin, shiny, or worn-out leggings instantly read cheap or dated

• Length is everything
  No cropping, it should go all the way down the leg

• One structured element changes the whole outfit
  Coat, bag, or shoe, just pick one.

The bigger takeaway

Black leggings are practical. They’re comfortable. They’re part of real life. The goal isn’t to stop wearing them, it’s about wearing them the right way!

My go-to black leggings

These are the ones I reach for when I want comfort and polish:

• Commando Leggings – for the non-athletic wear, hugs you, elevated

• Aritzia Butter / TNA leggings – soft, flattering, easy everyday option

• Lululemon Align (matte finish) – the ones I use, so soft for travel/long days, just choose length carefully

• Split59 Leggings – go to for workouts and anything active

If you’ve ever stood in front of your closet, surrounded by clothes, and somehow still felt like you had nothing to wear, welcome. You’re in the right place. This post is not about becoming a minimalist, owning 10 beige items, or throwing away your personality. It’s about getting dressed without the mental spiral. That’s it. That’s the goal.

A capsule wardrobe is one of those terms that gets tossed around a lot and somehow feels both confusing and intimidating. So let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense and feels doable.

What the Hell Is a Capsule Wardrobe Anyway?

At its core, a capsule wardrobe is just a smaller collection of clothes that actually work together. No magic number. No strict rules. No requirement to suddenly love trench coats if you hate them.

It’s about owning pieces that mix and match easily, so getting dressed feels simple instead of stressful. Instead of having a million random items that only work with one specific outfit, you have clothes that can be worn multiple ways, multiple times, in real life.

Think of it less as “owning less” and more as “owning smarter.” The kind of wardrobe where you can grab almost anything and trust that it’ll look intentional.

What a Capsule Wardrobe Is Not

Let’s clear this up because this is where people get scared.

A capsule wardrobe is not:

• All neutrals (unless you love that)

• Boring

• Trend-proof

• One-size-fits-all

• About depriving yourself

You can have color. You can follow trends. You can own fun pieces. Your capsule should reflect you, your style, your body, and your lifestyle. Someone who works from home, someone who goes into an office, and someone who’s running errands all day are not going to have the same capsule, and that’s the point.

If it doesn’t feel like you, it’s not a good fit for your closet!

The Real Goal: Getting Dressed Without Overthinking

The real magic of a capsule wardrobe isn’t the clothes themselves, it’s how they make you feel. You stop second-guessing outfits. You stop buying things you never wear. You stop saving clothes for some future version of yourself that may or may not exist.

Instead, you have a closet where:

• Most tops work with most bottoms

• Shoes don’t feel like an afterthought

• You can get dressed quickly and still feel put together

It’s confidence without the chaos.

Step 1: Know Your Actual Life (Not Your Fantasy)

This is the most important step and the one people skip.

Before you think about what looks cute, ask yourself what your life actually looks like right now. Not the life you imagine living, not the one you shop for “just in case,” but your real, day-to-day life.

Ask yourself:

• How do I spend most of my week?

• Am I working from home, going into an office, running errands, going out at night?

• What do I need to feel comfortable and like myself?

We tend to buy clothes for a fantasy version of ourselves and then feel frustrated when our closet doesn’t work. A capsule wardrobe starts with honesty.

Step 2: Pick Your Core Neutrals

Neutrals aren’t just the backbone of your wardrobe. They’re the colors that hold everything together. And no, neutrals don’t have to mean black, white, and beige.

Neutrals can be:

• Brown

• Navy

• Cream

• Denim

• Gray

• Black

The key is choosing two or three core neutrals that you genuinely love wearing together. These are the colors most of your bottoms, layers, and shoes will live in. When your neutrals work together, outfits start building themselves.

Step 3: Build Around Repeatable Basics

Basics don’t mean boring, they mean reliable.

These are the pieces you’d actually wear on a random Tuesday. The tops you reach for without thinking. The bottoms that don’t require mental gymnastics to style. The layers that instantly make an outfit feel finished.

A good rule of thumb: if something only works one very specific way, it’s probably not doing much for your wardrobe. Capsule pieces should earn their spot by being worn often and in multiple outfits.

Step 4: Add Personality Pieces (This Is the Fun Part)

This is where your style really comes through.

Personality pieces are the things that make your outfits feel like you. Maybe that’s statement shoes, interesting textures, a bold top, vintage pieces, or accessories that change the whole vibe.

The key is balance. These pieces don’t have to go with everything, but they should work with at least a few of your core items. A capsule wardrobe should feel intentional, not restrictive.

You should still feel excited getting dressed girls!!

The Closet Audit Mindset Shift

When you’re going through your closet, try shifting the question from “Do I love this?” to “Does this work with my life and my wardrobe right now?”

It’s okay to outgrow clothes. It’s okay for something to no longer fit your lifestyle. Letting go doesn’t mean you made a bad choice, it just means you’re evolving.

Your closet should support who you are now, not who you used to be or who you feel pressured to become.

A capsule wardrobe isn’t something you create in one afternoon and never touch again. It’s a practice. It evolves with your life, your body, and your style.

The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is ease. Getting dressed shouldn’t feel like a daily identity crisis. It should feel supportive, simple, and a little bit fun.

And if this feels overwhelming, start small. One category at a time. One honest question at a time!

I’m on the hunt for the perfect white tees and couldn’t find a good enough full review online, so I decided to do it myself. Let’s get into it!

Clean Cut COS Tee

This one is at the top for a reason. My favorite out of all I tried!

Boxy fit, longer sleeve, really nice quality cotton, and you can’t see your bra at all. Yes, $45 for a tee is a bit annoying, but already washed it a few times and it’s held up so well. So, better to invest upfront for logner lasting pieces sometimes!

Madewell 90s Crewneck Tee

This was my favorite tight option. It hit everything for me - thick high-quality tee, cool 3d collar, babydoll sleeves, and a nice stark white.

It layers really well under blazers, cardigans, or sweaters because it’s slim without clinging in a weird way. If you love a tucked-in look that stays put, this one’s a win.

Madewell Vintage Tee

This one sits in that in-between category, not super fitted, not oversized. It’s shorter all around, which gives it more of a vintage vibe, and the texture feels intentionally worn in, not flimsy.

The collar is thick, like thick thick, which I personally love because it makes the tee feel more elevated. This is a great everyday tee if you like something relaxed but still intentional, especially with denim.

Reformation Rowan Tee

This one is definitely boxy. Shorter length, flared sleeves, very cool-girl energy. It’s not trying to be flattering in a traditional way, it’s more about shape.

I like this one for layering because the structure does the work for you. It looks good under jackets or worn loose when you want that effortless, slightly oversized feel without drowning in fabric.

Primark The Edit Tee

This is one of the affordable options. The material is thick, which surprised me for the price, but the collar is thinner compared to some of the others.

It’s shorter in length and easy to throw on. This is a solid everyday tee if you want something budget-friendly that still looks good.

I bought this in store, so I don’t have a link sadly, but it’s from “their edit collection.”

Buck Mason Pima Slim Crew

This one has a thick collar and shorter sleeves, but the fabric is semi-sheer.

I’d wear this one when I want something a little lighter and softer, especially in warmer weather. Just something to note if you prefer a fully opaque tee, this one shows a bit more.

Buck Mason Slub Easy

This tee has more of a worn-in look, like something you’ve owned forever in the best way. The sleeves are short, the fit is relaxed, and it feels very effortless.

This is a great tee if you love that lived-in, vintage feel and don’t want something too structured or stiff.

Oak + Fort Modal Tee

Another affordable option and the only cropped one I’m featuring. This one is super soft and slim-fitting. It hugs the body more than most, but in a comfortable way.

It’s thinner and mixed with modal, which isa super cozy material. Not the best for layering because the collar dips lower.

Agolde Adine Tee

I’ve had this one for years and it’s very different than my others. This tee is relaxed, longer, and great for layering with a sweater to have some white peaking at the bottom. The collar is wider, which makes it feel a little more casual and undone. Really chill fit for a whole different outfit.

Uniqlo AIRism

This is a recommendation I got about 1000 times, and one I was really looking forward to. Sadly, it missed the mark for me. It felt SUPER cheap and thin, the fit was very off, and I didn’t love the slits on the side. Apparently, there is another UNIQLO tee people love, so I may have to try that one next.

Brandy Melville Hailie Top

This one feels luxury. The fabric is super thick, the collar has that almost 3D structured look, and the quality is very obvious the second you put it on.

Its probably the thickest quality out of all the ones I tried so it would be perfect for fall/winter to keep you warm.

If you like tees that feel elevated enough to build an outfit around, this one stands out.

Aritzia InterLock Tee

This is my second fave behind COS. It has a boxy fit, short, thin collar, and 0% see through for any bras underneath.

This is a great everyday tee if you like a more oversized silhouette but still want it to feel polished and intentional.

Madewell Perfect Crewneck

This one is made for shorter torsos/ more petite fit. It’s slim-fitting, the arms are slimmer, and it layers really well and is alittle more thin, better for spring/summer.

I love this style under jackets or sweaters when you don’t want extra fabric bunching. Very clean, very easy.

And that’s a wrap, I feel like there are tons I could still review, so let me know which I missed and what to review next!!

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Capsule Wardrobe Checklist

☐ White t-shirt
☐ Black t-shirt
☐ White tank
☐ Black tank
☐ White long-sleeve top
☐ Black long-sleeve top
☐ Trousers (black, navy, or neutral)
☐ Blue jeans
☐ Black mini skirt
☐ Silk maxi skirt
☐ Sweater
☐ Cardigan
☐ Leather jacket
☐ Blazer
☐ Everyday shoes
☐ Dressier shoes
☐ Everyday bag
☐ Simple belt
☐ Neutral dress or one-piece

How to use this list

This is a simple starting point for building a closet that actually works for you.
You don’t need everything at once — the goal is just to see what you already have and what’s missing.

Use this as a reference, take it one piece at a time, and build slowly.

5 Steps to Start Your Capsule

Step 1: Closet audit
Look at what you actually wear and let go of what you don’t. No pressure to purge everything, just clear out what isn’t serving you anymore.

Step 2: Check your basics
Use the list above to see which basics you already have and which ones you’re missing. Most closets have outfits, not foundations, and this step helps you see the gaps clearly.

Step 3: Dress for your real life
Think about how you actually live. Are you in the office most days? Mostly casual? Going out a lot? Living somewhere warm or cold? Build your wardrobe around that, not a fantasy version of your life.

Step 4: Build outfits first
Before buying anything new, spend some time mixing and matching what you already own. I like to block off a few hours and play around with different pairings, it’s where a lot of clarity comes from.

Step 5: Buy intentionally
When you do shop, go slowly. Start with the basics you’ll wear the most and add one piece at a time. There’s no rush.

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