10x10 Mini Capsule: Long Weekend in Paris

Last weekend, while tidying up some shelves and a small bookcase in my living room, I stumbled upon a book I read about seven years ago. It was Lessons from Madame Chic: 20 Stylish Secrets I Learned While Living in Paris by Jennifer L. Scott—a title many of you might already recognize as a little style guide.

I remember buying this book very spontaneously at the airport. I was looking for something enjoyable to read during the summer vacation, and this title got my attention. Back then, I was really into the chic Parisian vibe and wanted to embrace a more thoughtful approach to fashion and effortless style. Also, my first try to create a curated and timeless closet was a total disaster, so I thought this book would help me understand all my mistakes when building my first capsule wardrobe.

Although Lessons from Madame Chic didn't turn out to be a typical fashion guide, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a pleasant read and felt like an invitation to a simple yet more meaningful, joyful, and polite life. It was also the first time I heard about the idea of a 10-item wardrobe and its benefits. So, after returning from my vacation, I felt inspired and fully motivated to try the capsule wardrobe concept again. However, I knew I wanted to approach the challenge slowly and thoughtfully this time. I started from scratch, but after a few months, I noticed positive changes in my wardrobe and personal style.

As I rediscovered Lessons from Madame Chic on my bookshelf, I also found an old bookmark where I had jotted down ten essential fashion items I couldn't live without. Here's what made the list back then:

1. White t-shirt

2. White button-up shirt

3. Grey sweater

4. Black blazer

5. Camel coat

6. Blue jeans

7. White jeans

8. White sneakers

9. Black boots

10. Black purse

I made this list right after finishing the book, and it was super helpful for decluttering and organizing my closet. I finally realized I feel best in simple clothes, neutral colors, and classic silhouettes. Funny enough, seven years later, these are still my go-to items!

Today, I'm continuing the theme of Parisian elegance with a mini capsule from my 10x10 challenge series. I've styled ten items that (at least in my opinion;) capture that chic, timeless Parisian aesthetic.

Minimalist style is all about going back to basics and keeping it simple. But please remember that a minimal wardrobe doesn't have to be 100% neutral! You can always spice things up with bold colors or favorite prints to make a statement. For example—if you don't like black, swap the blazer and top for navy blue. The same with beige and cream—if these colors make you look pale or tired, choose a cardigan in a favorite shade of red, replace the trench coat with something darker, and instead of a dress in a champagne shade, maybe decide on a similar model, but with polka dot or animal print. The capsule will still exude Parisian charm but with a little extra pop.

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My simple list of clothes to pack for a spring weekend trip:

1. Silk Camisole Top: M.M. Lafleur (here)

2. Blue Shirt: Everlane (here)

3. V-Neck Cardigan: COS (here)

4. Blazer: Everlane (here)

5. Light Trench: Everlane (here)

6. Jeans: Everlane (here)

7. Silk Dress: M.M. Lafleur (here, or more casual option here)

Shoes and accessories:

1. Flats: Everlane (here)

2. Slingback Shoes: Jonak (here) - available in many different styles/colors (here, or here).

3. Cream bag: The Curated (here) - you can wear it as a crossbody/shoulder bag, and also as a clutch.

4. Earrings: Mejuri (here)

*This post is not sponsored, but it does contain affiliate links.