Christmas Outfit Collection: Tips for Combining Winter Fashion
Wiki Article
I am a frequent online shopper of clothing, especially around the holidays when making my yearly collection of clothes like others online, creating a Christmas collection of outfits that not only fits my style, but allows for multiple styles to be combined into one complete collection. However, as I've continued my journey of collecting clothes through the years, I've created my own tried-and-true method of building an ensemble with the best combinations of clothing that can create an outfit that looks good on anyone and many occasions, especially during the holiday season.
Collection Foundation: Capsule Wardrobe Principles
Purchasing an abundance of "statement" pieces before creating a "foundation" wardrobe is a commonly made error by novice collectors. I created my Christmas collection by following the same principles of a capsule wardrobe, where 70% of my wardrobe consists of basic items and 30% consists of statement pieces.
Examples of my basic clothing items:
- Black, White, or Cream Turtleneck Sweaters (these three neutral colors can go with anything)
- Black Tailored Pants and Navy Tailored Pants
- Camel or Grey Wool Blazer (of high quality)
- Wool or Tweed, Midi Length Skirts.
Prior to purchasing the items for my Christmas collection, I utilized the AI-powered site VISBOOM, which allows me to upload photos of all my garments and "wear" them in a virtual setting to assess if the basics I chose match my body type. I verified if specific styles of blazers fit my body shape, if the lengths of the midi skirts fit well, and for any additional aspects that may affect my comfort level while wearing the pieces.
Mix and Match Strategy: The 10x10 Formula
Here's the secret to my efficient collection: with 10 strategic items, I can create 30+ different outfit combinations. This formula saves closet space and shopping budget.
10-item categories:
- 3 tops (sweater, blouse, turtleneck)
- 2 bottoms (pants, skirt)
- 2 outerwear (blazer, coat)
- 2 dresses
- 1 jumpsuit
The success of my collection is dependent on creating a color scheme that has a clear and cohesive feel. I will be working in a Christmas collection that includes burgundy, navy, cream, and gold color palettes and will only be purchasing items that can be combined into at least three other existing items.
With Visboom, I have the ability to try on different items before I pay for them. With this feature, I can upload a picture of myself, and "try" on a variety of items to see which colors and styles work together. This means that I won't make any impulse purchases because I won't be able to use them with what I already have in my closet.
Smart Investment: Prioritizing Quality for Key Pieces
As a collector, I divide my budget with a 60:40 ratio. 60% for investment pieces that will last 5+ years, 40% for seasonal trendy items.
Investment pieces I prioritize:
- High-quality wool coat (I chose a timeless camel coat)
- Genuine leather boots
- Structured bag in neutral color
- Premium cashmere or wool blend knitwear
When it comes to investment pieces, I take extra precautions to make sure that I don't purchase pieces that don't work for me. Simply looking at product images will not provide me with enough information. I use the try-on feature in VISBOOM to look at details such as how the coat falls on the shoulders, whether the length of the coat is proportional, and how the silhouette of the coat fits from various angles. Since investment pieces are generally very high-ticket items, being able to use this technology will save me hundreds or thousands of dollars in mistakes.
Layering Technique: The Art of Layers for Versatility
Layering is the theme of the Christmas Season. By using proper layering techniques, the same base outfit can be worn with significantly different looks. For example, I layer a basic outfit with a turtleneck, a sweater vest/cardigan, an outer layer to complete the look (such as a blazer or coat), and then add accessories like a scarf or belt. The total number of different looks can be multiplied by the number of possibilities for each layer combination.
My layering formula consists of a variety of different sweater vest/cardigans. Each of the different textures of my sweater vests/cardigans creates a different ambiance. I have chunky knits when I want to look more casual and cozier, ribbed when I want to look more modern and sleeker, and cable knits for when I want to appear classic and preppy.
Prior to purchasing any new layering item for my collection, I always preview the possibilities of how each of the items will fit together, using visual artificial intelligence technology (AI), so I never make the mistake of purchasing something that may not fit my layering look properly; for example, I use VISBOOM to visualize how different layers look when paired together, whether the combination looks bulky, or if it has appropriate balance in proportions and colors, or whether I'm buying a cardigan that is just too bulky for layering with my favorite coat.
Accessories: Details That Elevate the Collection
A collection isn't complete without strategic accessories. I collect:
- Scarves in various materials (silk, wool, cashmere)
- Statement belts to define the waistline
- Jewelry in gold and silver for versatility
- Quality Collection vs Quantity
From five accumulated years of Christmas kits, I’ve discovered that it’s not about the size of the collection so much as how carefully curated it is. Aided by AI tech, like VISBOOM and its try-on function, I’ve put together a 40-item collection that makes 100-plus outfits.
There is a place for every item in my closet. No sweepings, no regrets. That's a proper collection, functional, beautiful and properly mine.