Issue 31. Project 333 (Week 8)

Wearing my new Everlane pants on repeat, and trying a new haircut.

This is part of a series about my experience with minimalist style challenge, project 333 - selecting ~33 articles of clothing to wear for three months. To read why I’m doing this and what I’ve included in my wardrobe, check out the first installment.

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WEEK EIGHT

How did you feel about the challenge this week?

If I’m honest, I didn’t think about the challenge much this week! I had other things on my mind, namely, work being busy and trying to see friends and enjoy the holidays. So, I’d say that’s actually a big success; I love clothing, I love getting dressed, but I would like my physical appearance to take up less *space* in my brain and my life. This week, I definitely accomplished that.

TAKEAWAY: Caring about style and fashion is just one part of my identity, and this project helps me balance a need to look / feel put-together, without requiring a ton of effort.

What was your favorite outfit this week?

I loved wearing my new ecru pants from Everlane. I like that they’re a little cropped so the silhouette is a bit dressier. I wore them multiple days in a row. They stretch out a bit after wearing, but after washing I threw them in the dryer and they went back to shape without shrinking. A true miracle!

TAKEAWAY: I am a happy outfit repeater.

What was your least successful outfit this week?

Not the end of the world, but I did try on the new ecru pants with a sneaker and my long coat for a trip into SF, and disliked the overall look. I ended up switching into a low-heeled bootie, instead, and felt a bit high-maintenance for the weekend. I think I’ll prioritize full-length pants on the weekend this time of year, and probably enjoy these pants more with sandals come the season.

Biggest challenge this week?

Striving for body neutrality after seeing a few photos of myself I didn’t like taken by loved ones. I’m used to seeing myself in a particular way (namely - in a few specific mirrors around my house) so seeing myself from someone else’s perspective can be jarring. This piece by Esther Studio helped.

Let's all call a truce with our bodies

TAKEAWAY: I’m already good enough, regardless of what my body looks like.

Any key changes to the capsule for next week?

SUBTRACTIONS

• Removed the beanie I picked up at my clothing swap. I realized I didn’t like it enough to replace the other beanie and wool headband I have, and three feels like more than I need.

• Removed a navy baseball cap I bought on a whim in New York this September. I liked how it looked with my navy jumpsuit but haven’t worn it once since. (I may have requested a taupe baseball cap for Christmas after I tried it on in-store and wished to wear it on multiple occasions since.)

ADDITIONS

• Rains raincoat to replace the one I sold last week. I love the pale blue color and the fit is comfortable, but without rain on the forecast it’s hard to evaluate. I’ll wait until a rainy day and if I want to wear it, I will. If not, I’ll return it.

Otherwise, I got my hair cut this week and tried a style I’ve never done before: curtain bangs! They’re a bit high-maintenance with being in my face all the time, but it feels good to be brave and try something new, and they’re particularly cute with my hair clipped back.

fresh haircut and a glimpse of my office aka my living room

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Let me know if you’re considering trying Project 333 in the new year!

Best,

MM