Issue 35. Project 333 (Week 9)
including why this time has been so successful, after a failed attempt back in 2022
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.
WEEK NINE
How did you feel about the challenge this week?
I am confident that I will continue to keep a highly edited (~30 pieces of clothing) closet after the official three months are up. Having a smaller wardrobe, which started from necessity (a lot of my clothing no longer fitting) now brings me a sense of clarity and calm.
I actually attempted Project 333 back in 2022 and didn’t make it through the process. At the time, I had way more clothing options and the restriction just didn’t feel necessary: it felt wasteful to not wear perfectly good clothing that I liked. I say this for any readers who are perfectly content with a larger wardrobe - this challenge may not be for you! But, if you’ve been looking for permission to simplify your closet and part with things that don’t resonate with you anymore, just know I’m on your side.
The biggest difference this time trying Project 333 is that today, everything in my closet is interchangeable. I basically had to start my wardrobe from scratch over the last few years due to size changes1. When I’ve needed to get something in a new size, I’ve intentionally stuck within specific silhouettes and colors that I had come to enjoy over time. As a result, I can essentially wear any combination, from top to bottom. Here are a few examples:
I can also riff on the concept of a white tee by swapping in a strapless white top, a sleeveless tank, a white collared sweater, or really any version of a white top. Someone talk me out of this blouse from Nation LTD.
See, it just all works! No fuss, a lot of variety with very simple garments. Sure, I don’t think I’d win any awards for “most innovative” closet, but what I sacrifice in innovative I make up for with peace of mind and self-expression. Because a simple, clean, coordinated look is exactly what I’m seeking.
TAKEAWAY: I love having a color palette, a favorite silhouette, and creating options within a general framework.
What was your favorite outfit this week?
Last week I mentioned getting a new raincoat and being unsure if I’d keep it. Well, rain was on the forecast today and I tried on the new raincoat while I was getting dressed to go to the office, and loved the options I came up with.
I ended up wearing my raincoat over a jumpsuit for the day and then over my workout clothes after work, worked great for both!
TAKEAWAY: It feels great to have a raincoat that respects my body, after trying to force myself to keep wearing one that didn’t fit comfortably.
What was your least successful outfit this week?
none :)
Biggest challenge this week?
Bummed that the cowboy boots I was hoping to gift myself for Christmas ended up selling out in my size. However, I can tell that these were more of a “want” than a “need,” so I can take my time looking for an alternative, ideally secondhand.
TAKEAWAY: Having a clear sense of what I need helps me let go of “want” purchases more easily.
Any key changes to the capsule for next week?
SUBTRACTIONS
None
ADDITIONS
Second pair of Lululemon flare leggings (on sale) after I was constantly reaching for the first pair. I already wore them and feel great about the purchase.
Officially keeping the raincoat!
Let me know if you’re considering trying Project 333 in the new year!
Best,
MM
Have you happened to see that style of video “What I’d repurchase if I lost everything?” - I should do a version of this, considering I’ve been through it!
It’s so encouraging to see how much this challenge is working for you! Also, I fear I’m not the one to talk you out of that white blouse, it’s very cute 🫢