5 piece French wardrobe overview 2016
If you’re a fairly new reader, you probably don’t know that I have been planning my purchases according to the 5 piece French wardrobe for many years now (I wrote about it here when I just started blogging). It has proven to be an excellent way of keeping my spending habits under control and to be honest, I even enjoy the process of carefully selecting new additions to my wardrobe. But I have to admit, I’m not looking forward to writing this years 5 piece French wardrobe overview post because the list of purchases seems never-ending. However, the best remedy to overspending and mindless consumption is to come clean and be honest (which seems a rare thing on blogs nowadays. It’s mostly about presenting a perfect image). So here goes.
Main goal of 2016
Since 2010/2011 I have been building my wardrobe according to this principle. I was finally able to splurge on the occasional designer item when I kept my spending habits in check. The excitement of that one Acne Studios cardigan that I bought on sale was much more fulfilling than those three bags of H&M goodies that I used to come home with. As the years passed, I was buying less and less and finally my main goal for 2016 was to limit my purchases to ten pieces including basics and replacements. But unfortunately 2016 came with a few struggles…
5 piece French wardrobe struggles
The main reason I struggled with the 5PFW was my weight loss. For years I knew I was slightly overweight but it wasn’t until May that I actively started to work on it. I dropped three pants sizes and didn’t have much choice but to spend money on new clothes. The process of losing weight also meant I didn’t want to invest a lot of money on things I needed because chances were they weren’t going to fit me in the long run. So instead of following my resolution to only buy into slow fashion, I ended up at Zara etc. I also felt happy with my progress and I guess buying things felt like a new start. I’m not proud of it but this way I was able to bridge the gap between my old situation and the new in an affordable way and quickly build a (temporary) wardrobe.
The first six months
Topshop Jamie skinny jeans
&Other Stories silk blouse
Samsoe & Samsoe silk camisole
Massimo Dutti chelsea boots
A.P.C. wool Polska scarf
Adidas Stan Smith sneakers
Mango high waisted linen trousers
Isabel Marant trench coat
The first six months started off pretty well as usual. In January I bought two items on sale that I had my eyes on for quite a while; a black A.P.C. wool scarf and a pair of black leather chelsea boots. Both are currently on rotation again now that it’s winter. The Stan Smith sneakers are a variation on the ones that I usually wear. To be honest, I go through them at the same pace Taylor Swift goes through men but what can I say, they’re super comfortable. The &Other Stories silk blouse is a replacement because I had an accident with the previous one (a large fat stain that was sadly impossible to remove). This is one of my go-to options whenever I don’t have time to iron.
The camisole and linen trousers are the result of my summer wardrobe planning post. I still wear the former underneath sweaters and blouses but the trousers won’t come out until summer (will need to get those altered). The Isabel Marant trench coat is safely hanging in my closet as a backup for my current one. I don’t usually buy the same thing twice but it seemed like a smart move when I found it on Vestiaire Collective in mint condition because it’s from the 2010 collection and I have yet to come across another trench coat that fits me so well.
The last six months
Topshop straight jeans
H&M black trousers
Levi’s wedgie jeans
Uniqlo merino wool cardigan
H&M wool blazer
Zara rain coat
Isabel Marant Deyissa boots
Zara star body
H&M cashmere jumper
Asos jumpsuit
Now onto the second half of last year. At this point I was in desperate need of new, well-fitting clothes. Hence the numerous pairs of trousers and tops. A rain coat was on my list for quite a while but it’s one of those things you never get around to actually buy. But apparantly these were pretty trendy last year and I managed to find one that doesn’t make me look like a grandma. It immediately proved itself useful when I visited the Lowlands festival the day after I purchased it.
Two things that are quite out of the ordinary for me are the star printed body and jumpsuit. Both were bought for special occasions; the body for Christmas and the jumpsuit for my wedding. Yes, you read that right. I got married in August and I could’t see myself getting married in a dress. So I opted for a chic black jumpsuit instead. And last but not least, the Isabel Marant Deyissa boots. I was already looking into the Deyis boots last year but I couldn’t get over the brown heel. So when they released an all black pair, I decided to go for it. My shoe size sells out pretty quick and I didn’t want to take the risk of them selling out. To compensate for the number of shoes bought, I plan to sell some older pairs that I no longer wear but are still in good condition.
Final thoughts on the 5 piece French wardrobe
I will continue the 5 piece French wardrobe approach when it comes to shopping and wardrobe building, albeit a lot more strict than last year. I would still like to lose some extra pounds but that most likely won’t influence my current wardrobe. In fact, my wardrobe has even grown a bit as I’m able to fit some older things that I held onto like an Isabel Marant jacket that I bought on Ebay a few years ago. I’m pleased to see my style has remained cohesive over the years. I’m able to easily mix newly acquired items with older things that I haven’t worn for a long time. Although the things that I bought last year pretty much function as a wardrobe on its own. So I’m looking to sell quite a few things that have either become too large or are no longer pieces of interest.
Now that I feel happier in my skin, I do feel like experimenting a little more. Nothing too crazy but looking back on the last two to three years I do notice a pattern of wanting to dress safe and boring, mainly to go unnoticed. So in conclusion, I didn’t do so well regarding the 5 piece French wardrobe but mentally and physically I’m doing great. Therefore I’m not going to be too hard on myself (which is quite surprising coming from me, haha) and will just look forward to another year of wardrobe planning. I hope you guys will stick with me throughout the process.
Congratulations on your weight loss and wedding. I love the idea of the jumpsuit vs dress. Sometimes I think if I see ANOTHER white strapless wedding dress I want to just scream. A j-suit seems so (Yves) Saint Laurent (the man himself) approved.
Thanks P. We kept it really small, just 10 people so it would have been a bit strange to show up in an extravagant wedding dress, haha. But that’s not my style anyway.
Congrats!!
Where did you buy the acne on sale? And the apc polska scarf? Thanks!
Oh the cardigan was bought on sale many years ago. It was merely an example. Sorry if that wasn’t clear 🙂 The Polska scarf usually goes on sale on the A.P.C. website. But you can also check MyTheresa and Net a porter.
Wat een fijne post! Ik kan zo veel van je leren wat betreft wardrobe planning. Dus waar jij dit misschien niet ziet als je beste 5 Piece jaar, vind ik het nog steeds erg inspirerend 🙂 Ik plan dit jaar – net als ieder jaar – in februari weer een no-buy month, maar meestal plak ik daar maart nog aan vast. Ik ben net als jij aardig wat afgevallen (18 kg om precies te zijn, yay!) en herken het opeens snakken naar passende kleding. Ik ben compleet overboord gegaan, waar ik het jaar 2016 begon wat betreft (niet-)kopen. Compleet 5-piecen is het niet voor mij, maar ik wil het dit jaar zeker (alweer..) wat meer als een richtlijn gaan inzetten. Te beginnen met een grote clean out ivm de IJ-hallen deze maand, haha.
En gefeliciteerd met je huwelijk! Ik vind een jumpsuit juist een hele toffe keuze! Ik weet ook niet of ik mezelf ooit in een poofy dress zie..
x
Lief, dankjewel! En ook onwijs knap zeg, 18 kg. Ja, ik herken het. Opeens zie je allerlei mogelijkheden, dingen die je eerst niet zo zag zitten, kunnen dan opeens wel heel leuk staan etc. Hopelijk blijft het bij deze uitspatting. Haha, ik ging even terugzoeken en we hadden het destijds al over de 5PFW in 2010, bizar 🙂
That’s a really well rounded way of looking at your purchases for the year. Congratulations on the wedding, and I’m glad to hear you’re becoming more comfortable in your skin. As for the purchases being “safe”, I see them more as functional. I always find your purchase reviews pretty inspiring in terms of their mix and match potential, and I don’t know if they would be as versatile if your style was more out there. I guess we’ll see as time goes on?
Thank you so much, Cassie 🙂 While 2016 didn’t start out as great as I had hoped, it ended on a good note. So I can’t complain at the moment. Especially now that we’re almost moving into our new house. And I love to read that I’m able to inspire people, even if it’s just the tiniest bit. You’re absolutely right, 99% of my purchases work extremely well together. So maybe that’s why it feels a little safe at times. We’ll see where this years leads me in terms of statement pieces.
First of Jessica, Congratulations on getting married! That is one great accomplishment, along with losing weight! I know I am still working on my weight goal, but like you, have dropped a few pounds, which make me happy and motivated to keep up with the new regimen. As for the wardrobe, I think even though you didn’t do so well, you still did do well enough as you only bought things out of necessities due to your body transitioning weights. So you deserve a pass on that 🙂 And anyway, the most important thing is to be and feel good. There is no need to be so harsh on yourself if you managed to stay happy. Wishing you a very fruitful new year, and a long and happy marriage!
Happy new year to you too! And thank you for your kind words. It’s nice to hear you are also doing well. What is your current regimen? I changed my diet a little (more healthy, smaller portions) and started to walk everywhere. I partially blame my office job because I have never been so inactive until I started to work in an office. So this was a good wakeup call 🙂
I so understand the lack of physical activity due to work. I make it a point to go for a 10 min walk every hour or so at work. My regimen is pretty simple: less sugar and snacking and more real meals. And working out at least 3/4 times a week. Right now looking into starting a new workout regimen. Besides that, I don’t try to restrict too much what I eat, just be more conscious of my food choices. Glad you’ve been able to find a regimen that works for you!
Jessica, congratulations on your wedding! I am dying to see your wedding jumpsuit! Is it possible? I like jumpsuits and think, they are so chic, comfortable and feminine. I have also a black jumpsuit instead of a dress for special occasions and love it! I am glad, that your feel better in your body now, I am sure, that it will influence your wardrobe in a positive way! Looking forward to your new blog posts and wardrobe change! Have a happy NY btw:)
Thank you Julia. And a Happy New Year to you too. Here’s an image of the jumpsuit: https://cdnb.lystit.com/photos/febe-2016/02/28/asos-black-wrap-front-jumpsuit-with-tie-waist-product-2-231117360-normal.jpeg
It’s nothing too fancy but I quite like it.
Congratulations on getting married!
It’s also a big achievement to be lose weight and maintain it. I’d say that’s a good reason to rely on fast fashion for pieces while your body is making that transition! It sounds like it’s been a great year, wardrobe-wise and otherwise.
Thank you so much! It has definitely been a great year but I hope this one will be even better. Happy New Year!
Congratulations on your wedding. I would have liked a weddings likes yours but social pressure got in the way. But cant help admire the ones who do what they desire.
Please dont beat yourself about the number. As long as its not supporting fast fashion retailers and you actually use up what you buy, its a success. I find the number 5 too impersonal. I know plenty of people who will do their buying once in two years and dont think about shopping till they wear out. Some friends of mine dont need to invest by the year because they make enough money to not think about clothing purchases as a big deal. To each, his own.
I have always enjoyed reading your posts on purchase planning. When I am tempted with some random ‘want’, I remember your discipline. And its helps me out.
Thank you for your kind words Archana. I’m always a bit rebellious when it comes to social pressure. Luckily my family is finally aware of that so they pretty much let me do whatever I want haha.
I know the number is a bit lame but it usually works for me. By creating a list I force myself to think about what it is that I really want or need. Which results in me crossing off a lot of things before finally making a smart purchase. But like you said, the each, his own. I love reading about the different approaches people have towards buying new clothes.
Congratulations Jessica on your wedding! Also congratulations on the weight loss! Happy to read that you now feel more comfortable in your skin 🙂 I’m very happy for you. It’s very interesting to read a recap of your spending for the year of 2016. You’re very thorough with the recap and honest about it, it’s always nice to read. I’m looking forward for your wardrobe planning posts as I’m sure a lot of people too!
I think your purchases are really thoughtful and they work nicely together. But if you still think that you played too safe last year, always remember that you bought that star body from ZARA 😉
I was also keeping my eyes peeled for the Deyissa boots on deBijenkorf winter sale, but that didn’t happen. Got a bag instead, whoops!
Thanks so much Ellya. It was a long read but apparently a lot of people made it to the end 🙂 Nothing annoys me more than bloggers who aren’t honest. I’m sure I could have kept some of the purchases to myself and no one would ever find out. But as in real life, I’m much too honest and a terrible liar.
Hahaha yes, that star printed body. It’s really nice. I’m wearing it here (I hope you can see it because my account is on private): http://i464.photobucket.com/albums/rr6/jessikaatje/IMG_4818_zpshbsx4f72.jpg
Those Deyissa boots are from the new collection unfortunately. I’m a bit scared they will go on sale in a few weeks/months but who knows, maybe I made the right choice and my size will sell out soon.
I can see it! It looks really nice on! But it’s quite sheer isn’t it. I spy an APC bag in the background :p It was a good decision to buy the shoes because they didn’t go on sale anyway so might as well get them earlier :p Unlike me, I bought the Acne scarf 5 days before the sale started and deBijenkorf won’t do price match 🙁 But it’s worth it anyway, I wear the scarf every single day since!
We need to see this jumpsuit!!
Congratulations on your wedding!
Thank you Amielia 🙂 This is a link to the jumpsuit: https://cdnb.lystit.com/photos/febe-2016/02/28/asos-black-wrap-front-jumpsuit-with-tie-waist-product-2-231117360-normal.jpeg
Hearty congrats on getting married! I really admire your choice to wear a black jumpsuit! Will you do a post on it please? 🙂
Thank you! To be honest, I never thought I would get married (didn’t feel the need) so I also never thought about what to wear. This is a link to the jumpsuit: https://cdnb.lystit.com/photos/febe-2016/02/28/asos-black-wrap-front-jumpsuit-with-tie-waist-product-2-231117360-normal.jpeg
It’s nothing too fancy and I have worn it afterwards on regular days. It would be a shame to buy something for just one day. Unless you want to go all out in a cinderella dress of course.
Congratulations on the wedding 🙂 I think your jumpsuit sounds wonderful and I absolutely understand your thoughts regarding the big white dress.
It’s really interesting to see how you made your wardrobe and shopping strategy work for you during this year and it must be fun to rediscover your wardrobe.
Thank you Kirsten. I hope you have a wonderful 2017 ahead of you 🙂 I’m pretty sure there was a severe lack of strategy last year haha. But I hope to be back on track. And yes, it’s really nice to be able to fit old clothes again. I know it wasn’t very Marie Kondo of me to keep my old clothes around but now I’m glad I did.
Congratulations on the wedding! I love that you did it in a jumpsuit you could wear afterwards, I would ideally do the same (although I am nowhere close to getting married haha). Good to hear the weight loss is working out as well. I guess the 5 piece wardrobe system works well if your life is constant, but if it isn’t (weight loss, new job, travelling etc etc) then it’s fair to cut yourself some slack.
Thanks Jane! I hope you had a lovely trip. Yes, I never thought I would face any ‘problems’ with this system but it’s all good. Life happens.
I just now found your blog and have been reading the first couple of posts.
Congratulations on the weight loss! That’s a huge accomplishment and finding clothing during that transition can definitely be a struggle. I lost 55 pounds over the course of two years. I was constantly shopping at fast fashion and discount retailers during that time, trying to find something to wear at work. Now that I’ve hit a healthy weight, I’m trying to build a complete ethical wardrobe from scratch. It’s definitely tough (and can be pricey!), so I think 5PFW is just the thing for me to try right now.
Wow, 55 pounds is really impressive! Congrats. I would love to know how you’re doing with your ethical wardrobe. I can’t say I’m doing very well myself as I recently purchased some things at H&M and &Other Stories but I’ll keep trying anyway 🙂
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