I finally went through my stash of clothes that haven't fit me for more than a decade. I'm never going to be a size 10 again and that's ok lol. A huge bag full of things that don't suit my current lifestyle anyway. Now I have to whittle down the enormous pile of 20 year old tshirts that I sleep in to ones that don't have holes or stains. I was raised to be thrifty and it makes it hard to get rid of stuff, even absolute rubbish.
This was fantastic for the commentary alone. You are hilarious! But I really do appreciate the way you decided to keep or not keep things. There were so many times something looked great but you didn't feel good in it. Good example of the way the camera says one thing and the fit says another! Now I'm inspired to go thru my closet, especially because my husband made a comment the other day asking just how many clothes I really need . . . ugh. Guilt, common sense, practicality, sentiment, FEELINGS. Sometimes it's good to watch someone else go thru their closet and be inspired by the freedom they have to pick and choose. That whole no rules thing? Yes please. I'm always getting such good video ideas from you. This is a really smart thing to do at the beginning of the year! Well done you! ❤️
I never berate myself for a mistake, unless I repeat it. First time is always 'the cost of doing business', whether it be buying fabric and patterns that don't make me feel good, or items for my home etc. I think that all the inexpensive stash that you talked about in your last video, brought you to this level, so it is all a learning curve, and be happy that you got to a place you like more :) Now here you are with an analysis to help us all out, and it is much more compelling because you lived through it.
I do hope that you work in some tops that are bright multi colors because every time you put one of those on you said this is me and your face just lit up because you felt so comfortable in those bright colors. You can always wear those with one of your neutral pants and it suits you so well. Really enjoyed your video
Thanks Diane. I’m not sure I feel totally comfy in them certainly not out on the street but they definitely speak to my personality! Glad you liked the video
You made me laugh. There are times I try on all my clothes and get rid of items and purchase others. I've sewn since I was a child off and on again. But more recently I decided that I wanted to have an all me made wardrobe. With that said I plan on replacing RTW clothes I own with what I will be making and I'm excited. Thanks for all you do and the motivation.
You did so well!!!! Yeaaaaaaaaa!!! I just donated a bunch of things. I have a pile of "to be copied" from RTW. Some also went into the bin. As I sift through photos of makes on pattern websites I am learning more about what I like....and don't like and why. Now I have to hope my fabric purchases will support my final garment quality. I am thankful to be working along side you. You know as you spoke, you showed me just how much you learned about fabric, fit and options in your learning curve with clothing. So none of your time or money were wasted. So proud of you and all your effort! :)
I laughed out loud several times in response to your commentary whilst sitting in the laundromat. Thank you, Clare! Keepin’ it real as always. So refreshing! You are just lovely! God bless.
I come from a family with 7 kids. We wore hand me down clothes and clothes donated to us. Only for birthdays and Christmas did we get new clothes. Ever since I became an adult, I won't wear anything with a hole in it. I do shop garage sales and taught my kids to do that. Brands don't matter to me or them. Now my goal is to have a mostly memade wardrobe. I also sew for my daughter, granddaughter, husband, son, and even my daughter's fiance. I love seeing them wearing things I made.
I can only imagine large families prioritizing housing and food over new clothes for all kids. Especially because kids outgrow their clothes so fast. Brands matter only as far as the quality goes. Fast fashion brands have the lowest quality of fabric and labor, and many times the garments are ill fitting. And usually the tshirts will twist after a few washes, because they're not cut on grain. Even some high end brands make poor quality clothes :( Buying 2nd hand and making your own clothes means you can have good fitting and quality items. well done in teaching your children the same.
@@deebuettner8017 I know. ;) i wasn't judging. My family was a pretty low income one, and so not everything i owned was new. And we had no brands here for at least the first half of my life, which is odd to say because i don't feel my age - and i certainly don't really look nor act my age. but it's ok ;)
I enjoy your humor and honesty. It sure makes a difference doesn’t it when we have a few years sewing experience and can look at finished garment measurements to gauge a pattern. Love Notions has rarely let me down. Girl Charlie has often let me down. I won’t buy from them. I’m learning that I’m really liking to sew from fewer patterns and perfecting fit on those so I can then splurge on good fabric. I also learned a new British word, rail. 😉. We might call that a rolling rack or if in a closet, a rod. Keep up the great content. ❤️🇺🇸🌵
Thank you for the roundup! Great effort! I'm in my first season of trying a capsule wardrobe. Basically I just picked my colour base and picked my favourites in those colours. I haven't decluttered yet - but it's REALLY HELPED me focus on what's lacking and what I need to Sew up. It's great to have direction. I'm planning on changing my colour Combo every season. I'll only declutter in the future if they don't get worn, not every season. But this FIRST PURGE will be the biggest!!! I've decided not to wear black as a neutral anymore.... so I also will have a lot of gaps and a lot of sewing to do. But I'm excited for the direction it's giving me. I'm keen to see how yours will go 👍👍😁😁👏
I go thru my clothes twice a year as the temps change to put the former season’s clothes away. Mostly this applies for winter and summer clothes so I’ve got room in my closet for current wears. I appreciated seeing you try on your makes with the specific purpose of what works and what you are ready to find a new home for. It’s a lot of work but definitely worth it! Thanks for pushing thru and sharing!
I completely agree with you @WendyPearce. Claire, the square neckline was beautiful on you! Congratulations on your purge and I look forward to seeing you rebuild your capsule wardrobe with pieces that inspire and encourage you to continue being the authentic 2021 version of you. 😚
Great closet declutter to prep for your new capsule. I recently did a purge and it definitely felt good to unload some things. Looking forward to what you make.
Goodness! I got tired just watching you! I admire your determination, Claire. I understand about sleep rhythms. I’m coming out of an autoimmune flare. We’ll get through this!
You look great in wrap style tops, the laundry day tee and that black dress with the flowers. 😍 Looking forward to see how you will complete your wardrobe. I have decluttered my wardrobe last week, it feels really good and I can get on making more useful clothing. I have re-used some odd fitting jersey shirts to make me some very colourful undies. It really makes me happy 😆
I love the way the cowl neckline looks on that Adrianne top much better than without it. The cowl frames your wonderful face. You are so funny, I love your sense of humor.
I love your vlogs Claire, you are so funny and natural! I remember a lot of the garments you’ve shown! The Sheona tops were big favourites! I am looking forward to seeing the next episode! 😍❤️
What a fun video! Felt like it was just us girlfriends in your closet! I think you should sell the coat. I bet someone here would fit it. Thanks for all your hard work!
Thanks so much for trying all these on and letting us know pattern names. I know that took a lot of time. I definitely have different taste in fabric. Not the pattern but the content. I don't like anything clingy or scratchy. I love some of those patterns. I am capably of sewing my own clothes but I haven't thought about it for years. But Jan 18 is my 65th Birthday and I hate old lady clothes. I grew up sewing my clothes in the 70s so I'm going to go for an "Old Lady" Hippie Capsule Wardrobe. I'm a widow so I'm the only one I care about seeing me in my clothes so I'm going to start dressing for ME! I love your sense of humor and I think I'm on your same sleep schedule. Sleep when I'm tired, get up when I wake up. No more alarm clocks every day for me. (My younger days when I was slim and trim I was married to a man who always thought I needed to lose weight so I always felt self conscious even when I could wear my skinny clothes. I married a wonderful man later who loved me any way I was and thought looking comfortable was sexy. I wish he would have hung on longer. He was 8 years younger than me and was a hunk so I thought I had it made. But he died 2 days after I turned 60. Nobody will ever measure up to him so I'll do what I want now I guess. I've never lived alone but I will one of these days when my kids find apartments so I think I might like it. (less dishes to wash). Sorry to carry on so. lol
Your words are very true Claire , keeping a garment because it’s liked ,I am guilty of that fact , it doesn’t fit , but it might one day mmmm haha, I need to declutter too and yes be realistic , well done with being firm with yourself , a good job done , I just need to go and follow that advice , thankyou for sharing as always 🌈
So refreshing to see you trying on these clothes and critiquing them. We are much the same size so easy to relate how it would look on me. I follow Linda Lee from The Sewing Workshop because I took her class at an expo but her patterns look good on her and not flattering on me. Thanks so much for what you do!
Love the Adrienne sweater with the cowl. So nice for cooler weather. I have such a hard time letting of clothes that bring back nice memories. On the other hand I don’t like having a cluttered closet that I’m constantly hunting through. I started putting clothes that don’t into a separate closet one-two years later if I still can’t in them, they have to go. I also have problems with circadian rhythm. Autoimmune thyroid, to bed at 5am and woke up at 2 pm. Will work to get back on “sun” time this week. Can be annoying when you can’t make plans, but not doing that now anyway with Covid. I’ve been known to garden a night with a headlamp🤣
Luv the mosaic bright print top on you. I always add 2"-5" to the CB tapering to 1"-2" beyond the side seams depending on the style of the skirt, you might want to get a skirt hem marker with a chalk powder applicator (a hem should be marked up from the floor); also I always wash my clothes on the wrong side. Congrats on the decluterring just starting takes courage. Looking forward to your journey to the new capsule wardrobe best of luck.
You really suited the plain burgundy colour and the striped hemlock t shirt. Also the wrap top and square neckline are good styles. I’ve learnt that buying little, in plain fabrics with natural fibres and not buying poor quality fabric is best for me. But I still get bargain eyes and buy an inexpensive remnant and then think why why why........
Claire, I have a a rule of thumb for wardrobe ‘fine tuning’ or new purchases. It is 3Fs: fit, flatter and quality fabric. Sometimes something slips in if it makes me feel fabulous. I am learning to identify shades and tones color and which work together and styles that work best for my figure. I aim to create a mini capsule in Eileen Fisher style for going out, and another linen, not quite lagenlook, for casual occasions. I enjoy following Jacque Cieslak for her body positivity, knitting and soon to be sewing design. Can’t wait to see your capsule evolve.
I love the bright geometric patterned top! I highly recommend Carol Tuttle's Dressing Your Truth system. It's helped me figure out why an item "just isn't me" (design line, fabric type, color tints, tones or shades, etc) and helped me create my own style. Anyway...I enjoy your videos very much.
I love your fashion show! It reminded me of when I'd make something and show my mum like I was a model, lol. We have such different styles - your tanks are my ideal top! I was taking notes because some of the items you are donating are the exact comfy clothes I live in (the tanks, that bf fit cardi, and the hoodie style top) so those are going in my capsule wardrobe.
Thank you for including us in your capsule wardrobe adventure. You are so thoughtful, yet fun at the same time! Very lovely combination. I only just recently found your channel. Actually, I heard Karina recommend it. I’m glad I checked it out. I have been sewing a long time, but no formal training. Just figuring out myself or from videos like yours. And I mostly just sew for other people, mainly my mom. I’d like to try making some things for myself, but I just don’t know where to start. Maybe your capsule adventure will give me some clarity on where to begin.
Hi Debra, welcome! It can be hard knowing where to start tbh. Do check out my other capsule video (link in description) as there is a free download attached which offers some guidance on where to start. I’ll talk more about this in my next video too.
My weight has been up and down for decades. So I have clothes in 6different sizes stashed everywhere,(new stuff too I’d bought on clearance years ago thinking I’ll lose the weight and get there someday.)Doingketo last year I lost 60 pounds. I still need to lose lots more but I’ve decided I am not keeping those bigger sizes, I am not going back to that! And I love a variety of colours etc in clothing so won’t be boxed in that way. As a child,I had hand me downs for clothes. I could care less now about what’s in style, if I like it and it fits, I’m wearing it! Life’s too short to be dictated by others! .
@@Penguinandpear I run a non-profit sewing studio near Washington DC. You are an exceptional teacher. I also purchase used sewing machines to give to deserving students. Many schools in US no longer teach sewing in the public schools.
The pineapple top is cute. Get rid of the coat. Love the black and white floral dress. Love the bright colors on the t-shirt that matches your personality. Sorry to see it go. Love the Harper cardigan on you. I want the blue cotton lawn floral! I don't like pinafores. The Gertie dress doesn't look like you. The Fiona jacket doesn't suit you. Yes, make it longer. I like the ruffle blouse. Skip the tanks. You look good in the Antrim dress. Like the animal print. The blouse after that looks good. Burgundy looks good on you. You could use the tanks for pajamas. I like the RTW top. Like the little over blouse. Cami's could also be pajamas. Willow wrap top looks good. Keep it until you make a new one. White hemlock toile isn't good, but the striped shirt looks great. The Harper cardigan remnant looks too small. Donate the skirts. I love the pants. Pajama pants would be good for the red gingham. You did a good job decluttering your wardrobe. You are strong! Now you can make lots of fun new things. Thanks for the inspiration!
I love the geometric top and I didn't see your warm plaid top either. I think you can keep both of those as well as that beautiful animal print. I think the point of a capsule wardrobe is to have items that will go with anything which should leave room for a few fun items as well.
Thank you for trying everything on it must have been a long night!!! I’ve just done stage 1 and taken a massive crate to goodwill. One more stage to go. Great points you made about doing capsules your own way. I’ve got an art studio so great place to use makes that get too old etc. Has to be comfy though. I loved the wrap dresses and tops on you. loved the pineapple one. I remember when u made the Sapporo, it really lit up your face when you put it on. Oh loved red on you too Mickey Mouse top. But the stuff you have been saying for a while about the quality fabrics resonates.
I wasn’t on TH-cam when I made my Sapporo so perhaps you’re thinking of someone else? I did do a video about it later but that was a long time (years) after making it. Good luck on your next stage.
Very interesting. It's great to see someone actually getting rud of stuff as I have watched a few if these where people keep almost everything. So much scope now for you to make the wardrobe of your dreams, with lovely fabric and garments you'll wear again and again. Think I will bite the bullet and clear out a few tops that just don't work for me. Am also making scrunchies so plenty of scope for recycling.
Keep that RTW square neck top, it is so flattering on you. Even if it doesn’t go with the capsule keep it if you like it. I like the Willow wrap on you. I need full biceps adjustments, too, but just for one arm ( lymphedema). I like to haunt thrift shops and consignment shops and have found many things I love. However, since many of my favorite things are too tight on that arm I have been doing a purge, lately. Thank you for the effort you put in to do this video, I know how this wears you out. Get some rest now.
This was so helpful and inspiring! I need to go through my wardrobe and this is the same kind of self-talk I need to do to get through it (I just won’t have an audience for it!) And I think I need one of those 🤔 faces to follow me around for when shirts slip!
I just want to mention a couple of things that struck me during this video. In no particular order and in hopes it helps sew garments you will keep. So much easier to see issues on someone else. 1. Necklines: I noted a couple of garments that I felt didn't sit well just because the neckline was too wide though not to low. Narrower necklines will stay in place better and the fit will look better. I think your shoulders are a smaller size or two than your bust and it would be helpful to grade down at shoulders. Also your ready to wear top had a square neck in a good width and was super flattering. 2. Skirts- I thought a couple were really cute, but you noted they rode up in back. I don't know how to do this myself, but if we can adjust for a fuller butt in pants, which I often do, it must be possible in a skirt. I don't think it's just sizing up. 3. I realize some things didn't fit as they were older makes and, you know, Covid. Going forward if you make note of the minimum circumference around key areas, including ease needed, you can quickly measure those areas of the pattern and know if you need to make changes before you cut. Also, I've been adopting a habit from my time working in a university costume shop and using 1 inch seam allowances, even 1.5 at center back. I admire your determination to construct a new capsule which suits your current taste and lifestyle better. Can't wait to see next video. You can do this!!
Thank you. Yes many of these are old makes from before I was able to fit. Small shoulder and large bottom adjustments are two of the main adjustments I regularly perform on garments now. And honestly a lot of this fabric is cheap and has done weird things esp where the necklines have stretched out. I hope your comment will be helpful to others who are not as far along in their fitting journey. There’s lots of fitting adjustment demos on my pattern review videos.
I watched this last night on my tv and now at my computer feel I must leave a comment. What a good idea to review all your makes - the proof of the choices we make is whether we actually wear them and they hold up! I was interested that so many of your knit fabrics haven't worn well, I also found the same but put it down to buying charity shop fabric of dubious provenance. I think you did a great job at letting go of the ho-hums and look forward to seeing what you make to replace them :)
Thanks Debs. My jersey fabrics have all been poor quality. The girl Charlee fabrics esp and they were not cheap. I have started investing in higher quality fabrics now.
My fabrics Germany sell good quality plain jersey viscose or cotton lycra jersey. Avoid anything with a dark coloured pattern printed on white jersey. The dye is just floating on top.
How did your capsule wardrobe do this year? Do you like having less clothes? Working on figuring out a transition to handmade, and typically land on about 40 pieces total for my year round wardrobe. Not sure I actually have quite that many right now, but like the idea of the 10 item wardrobe....
I was looking for something to watch and pay attention to during the cat's nap in my lap - this was perfect, thanks! My wardrobe is FULL of the clothes I loved when I was working, but I've been retired for 5 years now and I live in jeans and casual tops. I've been trying to convince myself to purge the dresses and suits, but seriously, I LOVED them and paid well for a few. Maybe I can convert a dress or two into a tunic or shorter top, but I really need some bottoms! I just haven't had any luck finding a pattern/fabric combination that works yet. Who makes the Pietra pants?
I’ve been meaning to go through my closet, I think I’ll have to do that once I’m through my finals in a couple of weeks. I know I’ve got a couple of things that just really need to find a new home. I’m much like you style wasn’t something I ever paid attention to and I’m much more about comfort and function(pockets!!) than how good it looks or if it’s in trend. I will probably be doing a lot of experimental sewing for a bit just to see if I like certain styles and things like the culottes and pinafore. Never been able to find them in my size here so I’ll make them and go from there 🤷♀️
You gave me a giggle and I’m really pleased I downloaded the Laundry Day Tee as they did look good on you so I’m hoping they will have the same effect on me when I get round to making one .... you look worn out now!
To be fair I’m always worn out as I have ME but yes that was work lol. Just be mindful of the arms on that pattern if you have big arms you may need to adjust the pattern.
@@Penguinandpear oooo thank you, I will need to be careful ... I found that on the Plantain and the Mandy boat neck ... sorry to hear about MS, and hope I didn’t offend 😕
You should copy the neckline of the ready to wear top you are keeping. That sort of square neck looks really good on you. Can't wait to see what you are going to make, what are your favorite patterns? That is a big undertaking 😊
Thank you, I do want to create that neckline. Maybe I’ll turn it into a dress. My favourite pattern is always my most recent lol. I’ll talk about the patterns I’m going to use in my next video.
Claire, you must be shattered after that video - it was really interesting but am concerned you are pushing yourself too much and you need to take care of yourself. I’ve watched your other videos and this was a great follow on. It’s certainly something I need to do with my clothes. I have several bags to go to the charity shops already when they reopen but probably won’t be anytime soon. I certainly find certain colours uplift my mood. I get what your saying about muted colours but do have some of your bright colours they really suit you.
Thank you Alison, I appreciate your concern. Yes I have been pushing myself but I get 2-3 bed days a week so it balances out. It’s so frustrating as I need to earn a living but I can only do what i can do. At least it’s better than working 9-5! Good luck with your declutter. Even though the charity shops are shut you can send them out with the recycling when the council collect. Look on your councils website to see what they do with them.
Loved this. I have a love-hate relationship with my arms. I want to cover. But then there is a pretty pattern and it is hot out. But I don’t wear the sleeveless Note to self- do not make sleeveless.
I’ve tried at least a dozen diets with no success, but found “Eat like a Bear” and have been losing a pound every day or two and I’m so excited I’m telling everyone! It’s so easy!
Eat Like a Bear is a diet that actually works! I’ve tried dozens that don’t work. I lose about a pound a day! Basically it’s keto and intermittent fasting. Not hungry, no cravings, feel great, and lose weight, look then up online.
So far, I haven't come across a capsule wardrobe that fits where I live. Summer temperatures run 80° to 100° F. It requires bursts of drenching rain as well as sweltering heat. Winter temperatures run 32° to 75° F. You later on clothes in the morning and evening and peel the layers off and back on during the day. There are drenching rains with extremely hard wind. Other times, there is sunny weather. No, that's a challenge to making a capsule wardrobe!
Thanks for the fashion show. It was fun to see what you had on your rail. I didn’t see the green cropped cardigan you had said was your favorite in a previous video. Take care
Also, I like the cowl neck sweater. I've recently starting to make turtle necks and wondered how I could make a cowl neck like you did. Could we get a video on how you did that?
You have inspired me to go through my closet very soon. Since i have started sewing I am not wearing the fast fashion pieces I have purchased in the past. the fabrics are just not nice enough compared to what I can make. Of course I have ordered fabrics that I do not like as it is difficult on line. I love your channel and your personality. However I would suggest that you so not put ANY of your crafted clothing into a dryer and wash on cool and on gentle. I did not own a dryer all of my life and I am 80. I simply hang things up out of the washer. Yours are showing too much wear.
Happy I have inspired you. I wish to expand on my earlier comment. I don’t own a dryer and never have. They are simply too expensive to run. My mum had one when I was little and it would eat electricity. My clothes are not showing wear, I can assure you of that. Because not only do I not own a dryer, many fabrics have hardly been worn. The problem you witnessed I think is poor quality fabrics. I’ve mostly purchased cheap fabric that doesn’t last more than a couple of washes. That’s something I’m addressing with my capsule wardrobe.
![เปิดบ้าน นาราเครปกระเทย 1 ไร่ ขายขาดทุนหลัก10ล้าน เอามาใช้หนี้!!! l [Nickynachat]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/0jz84VFWVP4/mqdefault.jpg)
I finally went through my stash of clothes that haven't fit me for more than a decade. I'm never going to be a size 10 again and that's ok lol. A huge bag full of things that don't suit my current lifestyle anyway. Now I have to whittle down the enormous pile of 20 year old tshirts that I sleep in to ones that don't have holes or stains. I was raised to be thrifty and it makes it hard to get rid of stuff, even absolute rubbish.
Yes!!! Me too!!!
This was fantastic for the commentary alone. You are hilarious! But I really do appreciate the way you decided to keep or not keep things. There were so many times something looked great but you didn't feel good in it. Good example of the way the camera says one thing and the fit says another! Now I'm inspired to go thru my closet, especially because my husband made a comment the other day asking just how many clothes I really need . . . ugh. Guilt, common sense, practicality, sentiment, FEELINGS. Sometimes it's good to watch someone else go thru their closet and be inspired by the freedom they have to pick and choose. That whole no rules thing? Yes please.
I'm always getting such good video ideas from you. This is a really smart thing to do at the beginning of the year! Well done you! ❤️
Another great video Claire. Love your sense of humour. Thank you. xx
I never berate myself for a mistake, unless I repeat it. First time is always 'the cost of doing business', whether it be buying fabric and patterns that don't make me feel good, or items for my home etc. I think that all the inexpensive stash that you talked about in your last video, brought you to this level, so it is all a learning curve, and be happy that you got to a place you like more :) Now here you are with an analysis to help us all out, and it is much more compelling because you lived through it.
Totally! No berating was intended in my video. It’s all a journey I’m just entering a different stage now.
I do hope that you work in some tops that are bright multi colors because every time you put one of those on you said this is me and your face just lit up because you felt so comfortable in those bright colors. You can always wear those with one of your neutral pants and it suits you so well. Really enjoyed your video
Thanks Diane. I’m not sure I feel totally comfy in them certainly not out on the street but they definitely speak to my personality! Glad you liked the video
You made me laugh. There are times I try on all my clothes and get rid of items and purchase others. I've sewn since I was a child off and on again. But more recently I decided that I wanted to have an all me made wardrobe. With that said I plan on replacing RTW clothes I own with what I will be making and I'm excited. Thanks for all you do and the motivation.
You did so well!!!! Yeaaaaaaaaa!!! I just donated a bunch of things. I have a pile of "to be copied" from RTW. Some also went into the bin. As I sift through photos of makes on pattern websites I am learning more about what I like....and don't like and why. Now I have to hope my fabric purchases will support my final garment quality.
I am thankful to be working along side you. You know as you spoke, you showed me just how much you learned about fabric, fit and options in your learning curve with clothing. So none of your time or money were wasted. So proud of you and all your effort! :)
Thank you Milli
I love how real you are and the sense of humor you have. You really make my day.
I know you are worn out after trying on all those clothes! I Thank You for going the extra mile for us! Rest now. Hope to see another video soon. 👍👍
You absolutely crack me up 😂! I love your honesty and sense of humour. You’ve actually inspired me to hit my closet and do the same thing.
I laughed out loud several times in response to your commentary whilst sitting in the laundromat. Thank you, Clare! Keepin’ it real as always. So refreshing! You are just lovely! God bless.
I come from a family with 7 kids. We wore hand me down clothes and clothes donated to us. Only for birthdays and Christmas did we get new clothes. Ever since I became an adult, I won't wear anything with a hole in it. I do shop garage sales and taught my kids to do that. Brands don't matter to me or them. Now my goal is to have a mostly memade wardrobe. I also sew for my daughter, granddaughter, husband, son, and even my daughter's fiance. I love seeing them wearing things I made.
I can only imagine large families prioritizing housing and food over new clothes for all kids. Especially because kids outgrow their clothes so fast.
Brands matter only as far as the quality goes. Fast fashion brands have the lowest quality of fabric and labor, and many times the garments are ill fitting. And usually the tshirts will twist after a few washes, because they're not cut on grain. Even some high end brands make poor quality clothes :(
Buying 2nd hand and making your own clothes means you can have good fitting and quality items. well done in teaching your children the same.
@@sapphirecamui6447 They did the best they could.
@@deebuettner8017 I know. ;) i wasn't judging. My family was a pretty low income one, and so not everything i owned was new. And we had no brands here for at least the first half of my life, which is odd to say because i don't feel my age - and i certainly don't really look nor act my age. but it's ok ;)
Thanks for giving me some good laughs. You are inspiring me to start going through my things.
I enjoy your humor and honesty. It sure makes a difference doesn’t it when we have a few years sewing experience and can look at finished garment measurements to gauge a pattern. Love Notions has rarely let me down. Girl Charlie has often let me down. I won’t buy from them. I’m learning that I’m really liking to sew from fewer patterns and perfecting fit on those so I can then splurge on good fabric. I also learned a new British word, rail. 😉. We might call that a rolling rack or if in a closet, a rod. Keep up the great content. ❤️🇺🇸🌵
Ahh that explains things regarding the clothing rail.
Thank you for the roundup! Great effort! I'm in my first season of trying a capsule wardrobe. Basically I just picked my colour base and picked my favourites in those colours. I haven't decluttered yet - but it's REALLY HELPED me focus on what's lacking and what I need to Sew up. It's great to have direction. I'm planning on changing my colour Combo every season. I'll only declutter in the future if they don't get worn, not every season. But this FIRST PURGE will be the biggest!!! I've decided not to wear black as a neutral anymore.... so I also will have a lot of gaps and a lot of sewing to do. But I'm excited for the direction it's giving me. I'm keen to see how yours will go 👍👍😁😁👏
I go thru my clothes twice a year as the temps change to put the former season’s clothes away. Mostly this applies for winter and summer clothes so I’ve got room in my closet for current wears. I appreciated seeing you try on your makes with the specific purpose of what works and what you are ready to find a new home for. It’s a lot of work but definitely worth it! Thanks for pushing thru and sharing!
Square neckline suits you so much.
I completely agree with you @WendyPearce. Claire, the square neckline was beautiful on you! Congratulations on your purge and I look forward to seeing you rebuild your capsule wardrobe with pieces that inspire and encourage you to continue being the authentic 2021 version of you. 😚
Thank you for just being you. You made me laugh and I'm now inspired to go through my wardrobe too.
Great closet declutter to prep for your new capsule. I recently did a purge and it definitely felt good to unload some things. Looking forward to what you make.
Thanks Natieda! It feels so good doesn’t it!
The wrap style looks so good on you!
I loved it! And love your sense of humor
Lol
Goodness! I got tired just watching you! I admire your determination, Claire. I understand about sleep rhythms. I’m coming out of an autoimmune flare. We’ll get through this!
Hi Gwen, sorry to hear you also have sleep issues. It was a task lol but one I really needed to do. Hope you’re feeling better from your flare.
You look great in wrap style tops, the laundry day tee and that black dress with the flowers. 😍 Looking forward to see how you will complete your wardrobe. I have decluttered my wardrobe last week, it feels really good and I can get on making more useful clothing. I have re-used some odd fitting jersey shirts to make me some very colourful undies. It really makes me happy 😆
I love the way the cowl neckline looks on that Adrianne top much better than without it. The cowl frames your wonderful face. You are so funny, I love your sense of humor.
I love you. Your videos are fun. Keep it up.
Thank you!
Gosh you were brave! Its given me a great incentive to do similar. thank you very much x
I love your wedding dress 💕🤗💕
Keep the colorful top. Looks great on camera and on you !!! Even if the back of the hem drops I think it would look adorable with leggings !!
It’s too tight Michelle thank you though
@@Penguinandpear :(.
Laughed out loud the entire video I'm so happy to have found you ❤️
Welcome!!
LOVE the pineapple dress. Such a flattering style on you💕
I love your vlogs Claire, you are so funny and natural! I remember a lot of the garments you’ve shown! The Sheona tops were big favourites! I am looking forward to seeing the next episode! 😍❤️
Thanks Lynne! I made lots of those lol
What a fun video! Felt like it was just us girlfriends in your closet! I think you should sell the coat. I bet someone here would fit it. Thanks for all your hard work!
Thank you!
Thanks so much for trying all these on and letting us know pattern names. I know that took a lot of time. I definitely have different taste in fabric. Not the pattern but the content. I don't like anything clingy or scratchy. I love some of those patterns. I am capably of sewing my own clothes but I haven't thought about it for years. But Jan 18 is my 65th Birthday and I hate old lady clothes. I grew up sewing my clothes in the 70s so I'm going to go for an "Old Lady" Hippie Capsule Wardrobe. I'm a widow so I'm the only one I care about seeing me in my clothes so I'm going to start dressing for ME! I love your sense of humor and I think I'm on your same sleep schedule. Sleep when I'm tired, get up when I wake up. No more alarm clocks every day for me. (My younger days when I was slim and trim I was married to a man who always thought I needed to lose weight so I always felt self conscious even when I could wear my skinny clothes. I married a wonderful man later who loved me any way I was and thought looking comfortable was sexy. I wish he would have hung on longer. He was 8 years younger than me and was a hunk so I thought I had it made. But he died 2 days after I turned 60. Nobody will ever measure up to him so I'll do what I want now I guess. I've never lived alone but I will one of these days when my kids find apartments so I think I might like it. (less dishes to wash). Sorry to carry on so. lol
You are not carrying on. You comment away. Thank you for sharing your story. I am sorry for your loss x
@@Penguinandpear Thank you sew much. :-)
Your words are very true Claire , keeping a garment because it’s liked ,I am guilty of that fact , it doesn’t fit , but it might one day mmmm haha, I need to declutter too and yes be realistic , well done with being firm with yourself , a good job done , I just need to go and follow that advice , thankyou for sharing as always 🌈
So refreshing to see you trying on these clothes and critiquing them. We are much the same size so easy to relate how it would look on me. I follow Linda Lee from The Sewing Workshop because I took her class at an expo but her patterns look good on her and not flattering on me. Thanks so much for what you do!
I may or may not be madly in love with the Sapporo jacket
I bet you are lol 😂
The Remy raglan dress looks amazing on you!
Thank you!
Love the Adrienne sweater with the cowl. So nice for cooler weather. I have such a hard time letting of clothes that bring back nice memories. On the other hand I don’t like having a cluttered closet that I’m constantly hunting through. I started putting clothes that don’t into a separate closet one-two years later if I still can’t in them, they have to go. I also have problems with circadian rhythm. Autoimmune thyroid, to bed at 5am and woke up at 2 pm. Will work to get back on “sun” time this week. Can be annoying when you can’t make plans, but not doing that now anyway with Covid. I’ve been known to garden a night with a headlamp🤣
Lol that made me chuckle! I’m hoping to be back on normal time in the next week. I’ve just bought a light box to see if it will help.
Luv the mosaic bright print top on you. I always add 2"-5" to the CB tapering to 1"-2" beyond the side seams depending on the style of the skirt, you might want to get a skirt hem marker with a chalk powder applicator (a hem should be marked up from the floor); also I always wash my clothes on the wrong side. Congrats on the decluterring just starting takes courage. Looking forward to your journey to the new capsule wardrobe best of luck.
Hi ya. I had one of those chalk markers a few years back. I didn’t rate it so got rid of it. Good call on washing inside out thanks!
You really suited the plain burgundy colour and the striped hemlock t shirt. Also the wrap top and square neckline are good styles. I’ve learnt that buying little, in plain fabrics with natural fibres and not buying poor quality fabric is best for me. But I still get bargain eyes and buy an inexpensive remnant and then think why why why........
Yes to the whole of your comment lol 😂
Claire, I have a a rule of thumb for wardrobe ‘fine tuning’ or new purchases. It is 3Fs: fit, flatter and quality fabric. Sometimes something slips in if it makes me feel fabulous. I am learning to identify shades and tones color and which work together and styles that work best for my figure. I aim to create a mini capsule in Eileen Fisher style for going out, and another linen, not quite lagenlook, for casual occasions. I enjoy following Jacque Cieslak for her body positivity, knitting and soon to be sewing design. Can’t wait to see your capsule evolve.
This all sounds really good!!
Brutal inspiration! I so need to do this. Thanks!
I love the bright geometric patterned top! I highly recommend Carol Tuttle's Dressing Your Truth system. It's helped me figure out why an item "just isn't me" (design line, fabric type, color tints, tones or shades, etc) and helped me create my own style. Anyway...I enjoy your videos very much.
I love your fashion show! It reminded me of when I'd make something and show my mum like I was a model, lol. We have such different styles - your tanks are my ideal top! I was taking notes because some of the items you are donating are the exact comfy clothes I live in (the tanks, that bf fit cardi, and the hoodie style top) so those are going in my capsule wardrobe.
Oh I like some of those styles (not the tank) but for one reason or another I was donating. I’m not against sewing them up again.
Thank you for including us in your capsule wardrobe adventure. You are so thoughtful, yet fun at the same time! Very lovely combination. I only just recently found your channel. Actually, I heard Karina recommend it. I’m glad I checked it out. I have been sewing a long time, but no formal training. Just figuring out myself or from videos like yours. And I mostly just sew for other people, mainly my mom. I’d like to try making some things for myself, but I just don’t know where to start. Maybe your capsule adventure will give me some clarity on where to begin.
Hi Debra, welcome! It can be hard knowing where to start tbh. Do check out my other capsule video (link in description) as there is a free download attached which offers some guidance on where to start. I’ll talk more about this in my next video too.
My weight has been up and down for decades. So I have clothes in 6different sizes stashed everywhere,(new stuff too I’d bought on clearance years ago thinking I’ll lose the weight and get there someday.)Doingketo last year I lost 60 pounds. I still need to lose lots more but I’ve decided I am not keeping those bigger sizes, I am not going back to that! And I love a variety of colours etc in clothing so won’t be boxed in that way. As a child,I had hand me downs for clothes. I could care less now about what’s in style, if I like it and it fits, I’m wearing it! Life’s too short to be dictated by others!
.
I really enjoyed your video, you seem so real❤️
Thank you
My sewing class is going to love this video.
Thank you for sharing it with them!
@@Penguinandpear I run a non-profit sewing studio near Washington DC. You are an exceptional teacher. I also purchase used sewing machines to give to deserving students. Many schools in US no longer teach sewing in the public schools.
The pineapple top is cute. Get rid of the coat. Love the black and white floral dress. Love the bright colors on the t-shirt that matches your personality. Sorry to see it go. Love the Harper cardigan on you. I want the blue cotton lawn floral! I don't like pinafores. The Gertie dress doesn't look like you. The Fiona jacket doesn't suit you. Yes, make it longer. I like the ruffle blouse. Skip the tanks. You look good in the Antrim dress. Like the animal print. The blouse after that looks good. Burgundy looks good on you. You could use the tanks for pajamas. I like the RTW top. Like the little over blouse. Cami's could also be pajamas. Willow wrap top looks good. Keep it until you make a new one. White hemlock toile isn't good, but the striped shirt looks great. The Harper cardigan remnant looks too small. Donate the skirts. I love the pants. Pajama pants would be good for the red gingham. You did a good job decluttering your wardrobe. You are strong! Now you can make lots of fun new things. Thanks for the inspiration!
Thanks for your honest but kind feedback, I appreciate that.
I often wear tanks under thin cardigans (both dressy & casual), so you may want to save some of your tanks!
I love the geometric top and I didn't see your warm plaid top either. I think you can keep both of those as well as that beautiful animal print. I think the point of a capsule wardrobe is to have items that will go with anything which should leave room for a few fun items as well.
That was in the wash but that’s gonna go too. That’s the idea for a traditional capsule but mine is different. I wanted to start with a clean slate.
Thank you for trying everything on it must have been a long night!!! I’ve just done stage 1 and taken a massive crate to goodwill. One more stage to go. Great points you made about doing capsules your own way. I’ve got an art studio so great place to use makes that get too old etc. Has to be comfy though. I loved the wrap dresses and tops on you. loved the pineapple one. I remember when u made the Sapporo, it really lit up your face when you put it on. Oh loved red on you too Mickey Mouse top. But the stuff you have been saying for a while about the quality fabrics resonates.
I wasn’t on TH-cam when I made my Sapporo so perhaps you’re thinking of someone else? I did do a video about it later but that was a long time (years) after making it. Good luck on your next stage.
@@Penguinandpear yes it must have been the video later in time! It’s a lovely example of your sewing.
@@thinkerandmaker659 thank you
Very interesting. It's great to see someone actually getting rud of stuff as I have watched a few if these where people keep almost everything. So much scope now for you to make the wardrobe of your dreams, with lovely fabric and garments you'll wear again and again. Think I will bite the bullet and clear out a few tops that just don't work for me. Am also making scrunchies so plenty of scope for recycling.
You know me, I don’t do things by halves!
@@Penguinandpear Haha - true. Go big or go home - love it!
Please do a sew-along when you make the Pietra pants?🤗
Keep that RTW square neck top, it is so flattering on you. Even if it doesn’t go with the capsule keep it if you like it. I like the Willow wrap on you. I need full biceps adjustments, too, but just for one arm ( lymphedema).
I like to haunt thrift shops and consignment shops and have found many things I love. However, since many of my favorite things are too tight on that arm I have been doing a purge, lately.
Thank you for the effort you put in to do this video, I know how this wears you out. Get some rest now.
You could trace the garments you love and adapt one sleeve to fit you better. Good luck.
You're so funny. BTW, those camisoles look amazing, not sure why dispose if you can wear a cardigan or blazer over them.
Good post. Stay safe.
This was so helpful and inspiring! I need to go through my wardrobe and this is the same kind of self-talk I need to do to get through it (I just won’t have an audience for it!)
And I think I need one of those 🤔 faces to follow me around for when shirts slip!
Thank you! Haha lol I’m like this top doesn’t have enough coverage then continue talking while wearing it. My brain had disappeared at that point!!!
I just want to mention a couple of things that struck me during this video. In no particular order and in hopes it helps sew garments you will keep. So much easier to see issues on someone else.
1. Necklines: I noted a couple of garments that I felt didn't sit well just because the neckline was too wide though not to low. Narrower necklines will stay in place better and the fit will look better. I think your shoulders are a smaller size or two than your bust and it would be helpful to grade down at shoulders.
Also your ready to wear top had a square neck in a good width and was super flattering.
2. Skirts- I thought a couple were really cute, but you noted they rode up in back. I don't know how to do this myself, but if we can adjust for a fuller butt in pants, which I often do, it must be possible in a skirt. I don't think it's just sizing up.
3. I realize some things didn't fit as they were older makes and, you know, Covid. Going forward if you make note of the minimum circumference around key areas, including ease needed, you can quickly measure those areas of the pattern and know if you need to make changes before you cut. Also, I've been adopting a habit from my time working in a university costume shop and using 1 inch seam allowances, even 1.5 at center back.
I admire your determination to construct a new capsule which suits your current taste and lifestyle better. Can't wait to see next video. You can do this!!
Thank you. Yes many of these are old makes from before I was able to fit. Small shoulder and large bottom adjustments are two of the main adjustments I regularly perform on garments now. And honestly a lot of this fabric is cheap and has done weird things esp where the necklines have stretched out. I hope your comment will be helpful to others who are not as far along in their fitting journey. There’s lots of fitting adjustment demos on my pattern review videos.
I watched this last night on my tv and now at my computer feel I must leave a comment. What a good idea to review all your makes - the proof of the choices we make is whether we actually wear them and they hold up! I was interested that so many of your knit fabrics haven't worn well, I also found the same but put it down to buying charity shop fabric of dubious provenance. I think you did a great job at letting go of the ho-hums and look forward to seeing what you make to replace them :)
Thanks Debs. My jersey fabrics have all been poor quality. The girl Charlee fabrics esp and they were not cheap. I have started investing in higher quality fabrics now.
My fabrics Germany sell good quality plain jersey viscose or cotton lycra jersey. Avoid anything with a dark coloured pattern printed on white jersey. The dye is just floating on top.
Wednesday is d day for me I’m going for it x
Good luck you can do it!
How did your capsule wardrobe do this year? Do you like having less clothes? Working on figuring out a transition to handmade, and typically land on about 40 pieces total for my year round wardrobe. Not sure I actually have quite that many right now, but like the idea of the 10 item wardrobe....
I was looking for something to watch and pay attention to during the cat's nap in my lap - this was perfect, thanks! My wardrobe is FULL of the clothes I loved when I was working, but I've been retired for 5 years now and I live in jeans and casual tops. I've been trying to convince myself to purge the dresses and suits, but seriously, I LOVED them and paid well for a few. Maybe I can convert a dress or two into a tunic or shorter top, but I really need some bottoms! I just haven't had any luck finding a pattern/fabric combination that works yet. Who makes the Pietra pants?
You could upcycle the fabric of your garments. The Peitra pants are by closet core patterns.
I’ve been meaning to go through my closet, I think I’ll have to do that once I’m through my finals in a couple of weeks. I know I’ve got a couple of things that just really need to find a new home.
I’m much like you style wasn’t something I ever paid attention to and I’m much more about comfort and function(pockets!!) than how good it looks or if it’s in trend.
I will probably be doing a lot of experimental sewing for a bit just to see if I like certain styles and things like the culottes and pinafore. Never been able to find them in my size here so I’ll make them and go from there 🤷♀️
Good luck!
You gave me a giggle and I’m really pleased I downloaded the Laundry Day Tee as they did look good on you so I’m hoping they will have the same effect on me when I get round to making one .... you look worn out now!
To be fair I’m always worn out as I have ME but yes that was work lol. Just be mindful of the arms on that pattern if you have big arms you may need to adjust the pattern.
@@Penguinandpear oooo thank you, I will need to be careful ... I found that on the Plantain and the Mandy boat neck ... sorry to hear about MS, and hope I didn’t offend 😕
@@deniseblake6214 no you def did not offend. It’s ME which is chronic fatigue amongst other things. I was def knackered at the end lol.
You should copy the neckline of the ready to wear top you are keeping. That sort of square neck looks really good on you. Can't wait to see what you are going to make, what are your favorite patterns? That is a big undertaking 😊
Thank you, I do want to create that neckline. Maybe I’ll turn it into a dress. My favourite pattern is always my most recent lol. I’ll talk about the patterns I’m going to use in my next video.
The wrap skirt looks good on you, if you lengthen the back. Went through your instagram, Navy blue looks very nice on you, and love your hair color 😃
Thank you!
Claire, you must be shattered after that video - it was really interesting but am concerned you are pushing yourself too much and you need to take care of yourself. I’ve watched your other videos and this was a great follow on. It’s certainly something I need to do with my clothes. I have several bags to go to the charity shops already when they reopen but probably won’t be anytime soon. I certainly find certain colours uplift my mood. I get what your saying about muted colours but do have some of your bright colours they really suit you.
Thank you Alison, I appreciate your concern. Yes I have been pushing myself but I get 2-3 bed days a week so it balances out. It’s so frustrating as I need to earn a living but I can only do what i can do. At least it’s better than working 9-5! Good luck with your declutter. Even though the charity shops are shut you can send them out with the recycling when the council collect. Look on your councils website to see what they do with them.
Loved this. I have a love-hate relationship with my arms. I want to cover. But then there is a pretty pattern and it is hot out. But I don’t wear the sleeveless Note to self- do not make sleeveless.
Yes, this!!
Hi, I'm going to try and sort out my wardrobe, I've gained 2st, so I'm going to try and sort out what fits and what doesn't
Good luck!
I’ve tried at least a dozen diets with no success, but found “Eat like a Bear” and have been losing a pound every day or two and I’m so excited I’m telling everyone! It’s so easy!
@@kathygann7632 what's eat like a bear?
Eat Like a Bear is a diet that actually works! I’ve tried dozens that don’t work. I lose about a pound a day! Basically it’s keto and intermittent fasting. Not hungry, no cravings, feel great, and lose weight, look then up online.
@@kathygann7632 thanks for the Info,
Oh no! keep the one that embodies your personality- even if it doesn't go with you capsule plans!
It doesn’t fit and while the fabric is my personality the garment itself isn’t really.
So far, I haven't come across a capsule wardrobe that fits where I live.
Summer temperatures run 80° to 100° F. It requires bursts of drenching rain as well as sweltering heat.
Winter temperatures run 32° to 75° F. You later on clothes in the morning and evening and peel the layers off and back on during the day. There are drenching rains with extremely hard wind. Other times, there is sunny weather.
No, that's a challenge to making a capsule wardrobe!
Thanks for the fashion show. It was fun to see what you had on your rail. I didn’t see the green cropped cardigan you had said was your favorite in a previous video. Take care
Favourite of my fuller cardigans? I didn’t end up keeping it. I upcycled the fabric into a shirt for my husband.
@@Penguinandpear I think it was a cashmeret pattern. It was such a pretty green knit
Also, I like the cowl neck sweater. I've recently starting to make turtle necks and wondered how I could make a cowl neck like you did. Could we get a video on how you did that?
Why don't you remake the coat into a vest?
Vests are not my thing and it doesn’t fit. I’d rather the coat went to someone else.
You have inspired me to go through my closet very soon. Since i have started sewing I am not wearing the fast fashion pieces I have purchased in the past. the fabrics are just not nice enough compared to what I can make. Of course I have ordered fabrics that I do not like as it is difficult on line. I love your channel and your personality. However I would suggest that you so not put ANY of your crafted clothing into a dryer and wash on cool and on gentle. I did not own a dryer all of my life and I am 80. I simply hang things up out of the washer. Yours are showing too much wear.
I don’t own a dryer!
Happy I have inspired you. I wish to expand on my earlier comment. I don’t own a dryer and never have. They are simply too expensive to run. My mum had one when I was little and it would eat electricity. My clothes are not showing wear, I can assure you of that. Because not only do I not own a dryer, many fabrics have hardly been worn. The problem you witnessed I think is poor quality fabrics. I’ve mostly purchased cheap fabric that doesn’t last more than a couple of washes. That’s something I’m addressing with my capsule wardrobe.