For those of us living in the north, we’re all saying we’ve had enough of this winter. (At my house, we got another 10 inches or so of ❄️snow last night!). So this morning, I… More
20 pieces over 31 days – Capsule Wardrobe Recap
Over the last 31 days, I made my “outfit of the day” selection choosing only from 20 pieces that I brought along on my month-long trip to Arizona. I was testing out using a capsule wardrobe of only 20 pieces of clothing. Yep, I wore just 20 pieces in 31 days!
The 20 pieces included four tank tops, three t-shirts, a cute long vest, three skorts, a skirt, four pair of pants and leggings,  a hoodie and 3 long-sleeve tops. I tried to do the math on how many outfits these 20 pieces might represent but I’ll admit that I wasn’t able to come up with an answer other than, “it’s a lot.”
Here are just four pictures from this month of the various outfits I was able to put together with these 20 pieces.
After testing out a capsule wardrobe for a month, here are my takeaways:
- Each morning, I found choosing what to wear was much simpler. I would choose a skort or a legging and then pick out a top to go with it. It was usually a quick decision.
- I didn’t feel like I wore the same thing over and over. I was careful to select 20 pieces in my capsule that had colors in common and I felt that it was easy to use these pieces to mix and match in different ways. I don’t think that I wore the same exact outfit twice during the month. (My plain black skort was probably worn the most of all the items I brought.)
- I even had clothes that I didn’t wear this month! Specifically, I wore the Spruce Green t-shirt home on the plane but I didn’t wear it during the month. It was too long to wear with the skorts and I guess I never selected it when I wore leggings.
PS: It’s always fun as a Ruby Ribbon stylist to dig into my samples to get “new clothes” when I feel a whim. I did pull one item from the new Spring Collection to wear for the launch event.
After thinking more about it, I would definitely try a capsule wardrobe again. When I got home and dressed for work this week, I realized how many clothes I do have in my closet, and I’ll admit that many of those items rarely get worn. For sure when I’m packing for even a short trip, I think I will be able to use what I learned with this trial to maximize my wardrobe pieces and minimize the size of my suitcase.
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If you are interested in learning more about a capsule wardrobe, consider signing up for my free Capsule Wardrobe Mini Course , where I provide guidance on how to use a 1o-piece Capsule Wardrobe to create more than 40 outfits. This mini course is delivered to you over a 4-day period and takes only about five minutes a day to complete.
#capsulewardrobe #outfits #recap #just20pieces #stylewithchar #oldfavorites #rubyribbon #pants #tops #leggings #tunics #mixandmatch #maximize #wardrobe #trial #minicourse #31 days #20pieces31days
Ruby Ribbon delivers on “comfortable and pretty”
CEO Anna Zornosa often says she set out with Ruby Ribbon  to make shapewear products that were both comfortable and pretty and she definitely hit it out of the park with the new Sheer Demiette and matching Sheer Shaping Briefs. Both are comfortable enough for Saturday errands but also sexy enough for Saturday night.
Sheer Demiette
Like our other two demiettes, this new Sheer Demiette delivers! It provides all the definition and support of an underwire bra, but also all the comfort of our famous camis. We find some women just prefer the more “bralike” option that our demiettes provide.
Here are some of the key characteristics of the new Sheer Demiette:
- Wire-free support for all cup sizes B and above
- Sexy sheer panel neckline
- Straps can be worn straight or racerback
- Wicking fabric keeps you cool and dry
- Stays put with our invisible gripper edge
- Offered in three colors – black, pale and a gorgeous Plum option
- Comfortable and pretty
Sheer Brief
While we’re talking about new shapewear, let’s not forget our beautiful relaunched Sheer Brief, as well. Offered in both black and pale (to match the Sheer Demiette, obviously), the Sheer Briefs feature Ruby Ribbon’s signature tummy control panels. They also have sheer panels on the sides and a sheer fabric in back. The ruching in back will give you a little lift there too.
These Sheer Briefs are making a comeback and I can tell you, when we had them a few years ago, they were my personal favorite for the Ruby Ribbon briefs. I liked them because they were cut a little higher in the leg, making them fit me a bit better. They are worn at your natural waist and have a pretty picot-edged waistband.
Wear the Sheer Briefs under high-waisted pants and any of our Ruby Ribbon leggings for no panty lines and a smooth silhouette. They will leave you feeling both comfortable and pretty.
Make a Set! Did you know… You can add a Sheer Brief for $10 OFF for every Cami or Demiette you purchase?
#sheer #demiette #shapingbrief #brief #underwear #panties #stylewithchar #bodypositive #rubyribbon #sheerbeauty #brafee #spring2019 #cinch #black #plum #pale #wearwithleggings #sexy #sizzle #comfort #ruching #pretty #spring #supercute #SeeEverythingFromSpring #joinmystyletribeÂ
Cinch and Lace-up!
So, with that headline, you may not actually get what you were expecting. I’d like to introduce you to a fun outfit featuring two of the newest Ruby Ribbon items from Spring 2019. Pair the Side Cinch Tunic in ice heather with the black Lace-Up Leggings for a great spring look. Accent this outfit with colorful jewelry or an oblong patterned scarf.
Side Cinch Tunic
When you add this new Side Cinch Tunic to your wardrobe, you’ll find yourself wearing it in a variety of ways. It’s a great layering piece with a jacket, and can be worn in a super casual way with jeans too. It’s sleeveless with a crew neck and is made from a super soft fabric that mimics that well worn and “oh so soft” tee.
One unique thing about this tunic is the side ties that allow you to cinch the top at a tunic length or shorter if you prefer. This cinching will give you a ruched looked that is always flattering. I’m finding my clients need to size up in this tunic for the fit they’re looking for. (You probably also want your Ruby Ribbon Bye Bye Bra cami under it.)
Lace-Up Leggings
With the lace-up accent on the sides of each leg, these are a dressed up version of your favorite ankle leggings. The laces are made of faux suede and they lace up in great looking metal grommets.
You can wear these lace-up leggings with any of your favorites tops or tunics. To make sure you show off the sassy lace-up detail, pair them with flats now and with sandals later this spring. Like all our Ruby Ribbon leggings, these also have the “skinny band” at the waist.
This outfit isn’t the only thing in the 2019 Spring collection. Check out all the new items in the 2019 Spring Capsule in this post.
#cinch #sidecinchtunic #iceheather #ice #laceupleggings#tunic #wearwithleggings #leggings #sizzle #stylewithchar #ruching #OOTD #outfit #rubyribbon#spring #spring2019 #supercute #SeeEverythingFromSpring #mystyletribe
Hang Out and Lounge About!
What could be a better than a day to just hang out and lounge about? How about a new few new pieces of the comfiest and coziest “lay on the couch for a movie” kind of clothes? Two of the newest pieces in the 2019 Spring collection are the Lounge About Tunic and the Hang Out Hoodie.
Lounge About Tunic
In a soft shade of pink, the Lounge About Tunic has a deep v-neckline with a unique but pretty cutout detail. It’s super lux to lounge in; feel free to push up the long dolman sleeves for a soft and casual look. This tunic has a losse fit that tapers slightly at the hem, and it’s a versatile length that can be worn longer or shorter. The fabric is a super soft t-shirt fabric with a touch of stretch.
To wear the Lounge About Tunic and stay comfy, pair them with your favorite Ankle Leggings, or maybe a pair with a little bit of sizzle like the Lace-Up Leggings (still comfortable but kicked up a notch!). Or, for a trip outside and off the couch, pair this tunic with our Denim Leggings (either black or dark blue will do) and you can even try wearing the tunic backwards for a completely different look.
Hangout Hoodie
Hey, if you’re not lounging about, maybe it’s time to just hang out? You can do that in the new color for the Hang Out Hoodie – a pretty navy fleck. This hoodie came out last year in a black pattern that sold out in weeks. Let’s hope we had a bit more of a stock up this time! Who knew it would be so popular?
One way that this new Hangout Hoodie is different is that in addition to a great long length for extra coverage, it also has thumbholes at the wrist. The seams are slimming and you’ll love the side pockets. Think style and comfort all in a sport hoodie that you’ll wear ALL THE TIME.
Here are a couple ways to style the Hang Out Hoodie:
- Toss it on over your workout gear as you’re heading to the gym
- Wear it over a tee with your jeans for a classically casual look
- Pair it with black leggings or white capris with the black Dual Tank or white Lace Extender (This is my favorite way to wear the Hang Out Hoodie)
These two loungy items weren’t the only things in the 2019 Spring collection. Check out all the new items in the 2019 Spring Capsule in this post.
#hangout #hoodie #pink #loungeabout #tunic #wearwithleggings #loungeabouttunic #comfy #stylewithchar #cozy #rubyribbon #flowy #layonthe count #spring #spring2019 #feminine #supercute #SeeEverythingFromSpring #navy #flex #thumbholes #pockets #mystyletribeÂ
Meadow Blouse is flowy and feminine
In a flowery print of burgundy and a deep cream color with navy accents, this Meadow Blouse is a flowy and feminine tunic. It will look great tucked in like you often wear a blouse, or more breezy as a tunic with leggings or a skirt. The hem is even high/low, meaning it’s longer in the back.
It’s a fun new piece in the 2019 Spring Collection that is different from what Ruby Ribbon has brought to us in the past. It features a ruffle collar with a v-neckline and a cute tie at the neckline. The long sleeves can easily easily be pushed up, especially because they have a rule elastic at the wrist.
Made of poly crepe, this top also will be new-looking for a long period of time. It also dries easily and resists wrinkles.
Wondering how to style the Meadow Blouse?
- For a traditional “poet” look, pair it with our Denim Leggings in either black or dark denim
- Live a little with your own style – try pairing it with the eggplant colored Velvet Leggings
- Super cute with Slim Leg Pants or Flare Leg Pants in sapphire
Check out all the new items in the 2019 Spring Capsule in this post.
#meadowbloouse #blouse #meadow #poetlook #tunic #leggings #burgundy #wearwithleggings #stylewithchar #polycrepe #rubyribbon #flowy #spring #spring2019 #feminine #supercute #SeeEverythingFromSpring #breezy #ruffle #mystyletribeÂ
2019- New Year, New YOU
Whether it is the Paleo, Keto or WHOLE30, detox and diet combinations are in full force for us all to find the right combination of better health in 2019. Are you doing a new health plan this year? If so, which one? Please share what you like about it, what results you have seen and do you recommend it?
Or are you vowing to exercise more instead? Or a combination of new food plan and exercise? I’m believe a new year, heck evenaa new day, is always a NEW opportunity to do better and be better. As they say… “you have to take care of yourself, before you can care for anyone properly. Please join me! Let’s be the best self we can be! Â
My friend, Cassi, is doing the Whole 30 program. She did it last year at the beginning of 2018 and jump started a healthier version of herself in the new year. She told me it was very hard but she felt so good after 30 days that she is doing it again this month in 2019. She had clearer skin, healthier hair, less inflammation in her body, and lost inches/weight as well. Most importantly she gained knowledge on reading labels, shopping organically more, drinking more water, drinking black coffee (she hasn’t had a caramel latte since December 2017) and avoiding all that sugar she didn’t realize she had been consuming! She made huge changes in less dairy (as it causes inflammation in her body), more vegetables and fruits, less candy/sugar and less bread throughout the year, etc after doing the whole 30.  She swears it is a great way to reset your body, and especially after these rich holidays.
Also- if it’s exercising you want to do more of, our new Spring 2019 Collection has just what you need to help you feel confident and comfortable while at the gym. We added to our entire Activewear collection with two new workout tanks and two additional activewear leggings. I’ve already shared about the magenta-colored Laser Cut Tank and the super special Laser Cut Leggings.
But we also launched this beautiful blue Mesh Tank with matching Sheer Panel Crop Leggings. The tank features fine mesh detailing on the neck and back and it’s body skimming for a nice silhouette. It’s also designed to fit correctly over our Sport Demiette.
The leggings have cooling mesh cutouts strategically placed to slim and elongate your legs. It also has a back zip pocket for your carrying your phone or keys when you’re on your run (or walk or yoga class, or whatever your jive is). Both the leggings and the tank are made with durable fabrics with wicking qualities.
2019- Let’s make it the best year yet! Â
#newyear #newyour #diet #exercise #activewear #leggings #blue #mesh #stylewithchar #fashleisure #athleisure #rubyribbon #tank #spring #spring2019 #activewear #supercute #SeeEverythingFromSpring #workout #results #atthegym #gym #lounge #freestyletribeÂ
Why I cheated on my Capsule Wardrobe
I need to admit something. Today, I cheated on my Capsule Wardrobe.
For the last 12 days, I’ve been testing out a 20-piece Capsule Wardrobe, wearing those same pieces in a variety of mix and match options for the entire month of January. I’ve been infatuated with capsule wardrobes for a while and I wanted to experience a Capsule Wardrobe for myself.
But today, I added a top (just 1 more piece) into the 20-piece mix. Just for today, I promise!
You see, today was the day that I helped launch Ruby Ribbon’s Spring 2019 Capsule, and I thought it was only right that I wear something from the new Spring collection. On Friday, I unpacked the entire collection and added it to my rack. In my size, I had a couple options, but I decided to wear the new Ruffle Top, a wrap top in a poly crepe blend. I paired it with Crop Ponte Trousers in the “dash” print and the Dual Tank, wearing the Ruffle Top open as more of a jacket. The top comes with a matching wrap belt so you can wear it as a top, if you prefer that look.
Key features of this Ruffle Top including 3/4 length ruffled sleeves, a pretty blue bandana print and a tunic length. This top will match any of the Ruby Ribbon sapphire items perfectly.
Here are a few other ways you might wear this Ruffle Top:
- True it with white capri leggings and white sandals for a casual summer look
- Dress it down with a white top underneath and pair it with your favorite dark denim jeans
- Pair it with a black skirt of your choice over a black tank or Ruby Ribbon cami; try this look with a black wedge sandal
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You can learn more about Capsule Wardrobes in my Capsule Wardrobe Mini Course. This course, which takes only about 5 minutes a day over 4 days, will help you understand how to maximize the Capsule Wardrobe concept, saving you time in the morning when you’re getting dressed.
#capsulewardrobe #cheater #outfits #just20pieces #stylewithchar #oldfavorites #pants #tops #leggings #tunics #mixandmatch #maximize #wardrobe #trial #minicourse #ruffle top #leggings #black #rubyribbon #spring #dash #spring2019 #bluebandana #supercute #SeeEverythingFromSpring #lounge #freestyletribe
Work out in the most unique leggings ever!
Ruby Ribbon Activewear line just got better with the launch of these unique Laser Cut Leggings in black.
With laser cutting, garments have clean cuts and sealed fabric edges to prevent fraying. Using laser cutting, Ruby Ribbon’s lead designer accented these leggings with a pattern of different size circles. This detailing adds interest, but also gives a tiny bit of extra ventilation to your workout too.
At your next trip to the gym, feel free to upgrade beyond your basic black legging. (And no one is stopping you from wearing these Laser Cut Leggings somewhere other than the gym. I’m for sure not telling!)
Like all Ruby Ribbon leggings, these feature built-in slimming and smoothing with a tummy-tuck waistband. In a cropped length, this activewear leggings is wicking, movable and durable and includes a hidden waistband pocket where you can tuck your keys for safe keeping.
Wondering what to wear these leggings with? At the gym, they will look great with any one of our three workout tanks. Or, if you’re wearing them for a casual weekend, pair them with the MVP Tunic or the Zip Back Sweatshirt for fashionable lounging.
#activewear #leggings #black #stylewithchar #fashleisure #athleisure #rubyribbon #spring #spring2019 #activewear #lasercut #cuttingedge #supercute #SeeEverythingFromSpring #workout #atthegym #gym #lounge #freestyletribe
My Capsule Wardrobe Trial
I’ve been infatuated with Capsule Wardrobes for a while (possibly years). I’ve always wondered if I have the “chops” to use one successfully. Since I’m away from home for a month right now, I decided to give a Capsule Wardrobe a trial run.
A Capsule Wardrobe is a curated set of clothing items that are designed to work well together in a mix-and-match way. I’m in Arizona so I was able to maximize my Capsule Wardrobe for a warmer climate, although it’s been unseasonable cold here this week and I’m a little bit sorry I didn’t pack jeans in my capsule.
In the Capsule Wardrobe Mini Course that I offer, I provide guidance on how to use a 1o-piece Capsule Wardrobe to create more than 40 outfits. As I started packing for my month in Arizona, at first I thought I would bring only 10 pieces, but today I’m admitting that for my first time trying a Capsule Wardrobe, I doubled that number (and of course, I also have the 3 items I wore on the plane the day I left).
Just 2o pieces
Are you curious what I packed in my Capsule Wardrobe? When I jotted down the items, I noticed that it’s a mix of Ruby Ribbon current pieces, plus several Ruby Ribbon “vintage” items from over the last four years. I also did bring a few other of my favorite summer garments. Here is a quick breakdown….
- Dual Tank in black
- Dual Tank in cobalt blue
- Wildflower Top
- Navy tank from ND Tough
- Gray t-shirt from Revelation Ale in Hallock MN
- Navy tee from ND Tough
- Spruce Green tee from ND Tough
- White gauzy top with red embroidery
- MVP Tunic
- Long red vest
- Shirt Dress in Cherry Bomb Paisley
- Hang Out Hoodie
- Denim Leggings in blue
- R&R Pants in black
- Criss Cross Capri Leggings in black
- Crop Stripe Pant
- Flip Skirt
- Black skort
- Gray and black skort
- Multicolored skort
Like I said, I also wore three pieces on the plane including my favorite Jacquard Leggings, a gray tee from ND Tough and the black Judi Cardigan (which I find is one of my travel “go-to” pieces that I often have in my computer bag).
I’ve been here about a week now, and so far, I haven’t been frustrated with this capsule, and that was my main worry. I wondered if it might feel like I was wearing the same thing over and over. But it doesn’t. I am able to mix and match these pieces so that I’m not wearing the exact thing twice. And, hey, that’s really the point of a Capsule Wardrobe, isn’t it. The weather has been chilly so I haven’t even worn the skorts yet. (One morning, it was 3 degrees warmer back home in North Dakota than it was in Arizona!)
A few extras
I also packed a few other things that I didn’t count in my 20-piece wardrobe, including 3 swim suits (I love the Bora Bora swimsuit and brought it in Tropical, Black and Panther), an NDSU t-shirt to wear while watching the championship game, and one outfit for work meetings (Trace of Lace Tunic with Crop Ponte Trouser in Dash, which I will pair with the Judi Cardigan if it’s chilly). I also packed workout leggings and tanks.
Check back later this month to see how this Capsule Wardrobe is fairing as I get a chance to wear it and wear it and wear it. (See, I’m still a little worried, can you tell?) I hope to get a few snapshots and share them in a follow-up blog post. Stay tuned!
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Learn more about Capsule Wardrobes in my Capsule Wardrobe Mini Course. This course, which takes only about 5 minutes a day over 4 days, will help you understand how to maximize the Capsule Wardrobe concept, saving you time in the morning when you’re getting dressed.
#capsulewardrobe #outfits #just20pieces #stylewithchar #oldfavorites #rubyribbon #pants #tops #leggings #tunics #mixandmatch #maximize #wardrobe #trial #minicourse
See the entire Spring 2019 Collection
I’ll use this post to link my blog posts featuring all the items from the Spring 2019 collection from Ruby Ribbon. The complete line will be launched January 8!
- Hang Out Hoodie – hang out and lounge about
- Lace Capris – Relaunched!
- Lace-Up Leggings — Cinch and Lace-Up
- Laser Cut Top – the “cutting edge” of fashion
- Laser Cut Leggings – work out in the most unique leggings ever
- Lounge About Tunic – hang out and lounge about
- Meadow Blouse – flowy and feminine
- Mesh Tank – New Year, New You!
- MVP Tunic – Spring comes early – be the MPV
- Ruffle Top – why I cheated on my Capsule Wardrobe
- Sheer Demiette with matching Sheer Briefs– Ruby Ribbon delivers on comfortable and pretty
- Sheer Mesh Leggings – New Year, New You!
- Side Cinch Tunic – Cinch and Lace-Up
- Check back for more soon!
#tunic #leggings #stylewithchar #fashleisure #athleisure #rubyribbon #spring #spring2019 #activewear #newshapewear #sheer #wearwithleggings #joinmystyletribe #justlaunched #supercute #SeeEverythingFromSpring #fashion #womensclothes