Fall is finally here! There’s something about the change from summer to fall that invites a more considered way of dressing. It has a lot to do with the sheer fact you literally add more layers (for warmth) that can create more texture and depth to a look. I’m totally here for it and wanted to give you a handful of ways to make your outfits look and feel more complete.

Swap sandals or even ballet flats and sneakers for a closed-toe shoe with a heel.

The closed toe is a practical choice for cooler temps and also skews more dressy. A kitten to full 2-3 inch heel ups the ante, up-leveling any look. My go-to this fall is the pointed toe mule with a kitten heel. You can layer these with an ankle sock (a la Prada runway style) for a modern take. I also love a suede sock boot.

Add a collar.

You can add a collared shirt, sweater or vest- they all accomplish the same task of adding a little polish to your outfit. I’m obsessed with this blue shirt from With Nothing Underneath. The peak-a-boo blue collar adds the ‘of the moment’ blue to your outfit without looking like you tried to hard.

Cinch it in with a belt.

I feel like we got away from wearing belts (or at least I did) for the past few years, but it’s coming back, and a sure fire way to make your outfit look more considered and complete. You don’t need to match your belt to your shoes or your bag (that rule is definitely outdated), and it’s okay if the gold hardware on your belt doesn’t match your silver earrings. There are new rules for this old standby. One belt that made it’s way into my regular rotation is the Bottega knot belt. It is so classy and yet interesting and different. I wear it with pretty much everything.

When in doubt, add a layer.

I don’t know if it’s the stylist in me, but I honestly feel like every outfit looks better with a jacket. Or a vest. Or a shacket. You get the point. It may have to do with the vertical lines of an open layer that I like, but either way, it’s a great way to add texture, color and shape your silhouette. This bomber jacket is a sleeper that I just keep finding ways to wear and it instantly makes me feel cooler.

Tie one one.

A scarf is an easy and effective way to upgrade your outfit. From the silk square to a thin tie, to an oversized mini blanket- they all add something special. I don’t know if it’s because I am getting older and feel more comfortable in my age, but somehow in this season in my life, a scarf feels like the right addition to an outfit so much of the time. It’s incredible how such a small item can have such a big impact. My husband bought me an Hermes scarf and it is a generational piece that will live on for decades to come.

In this week’s Stylecast I share each of these tips in an outfit so you can see how to upgrade your fall fits with some simple tweaks. As always, everything is linked here. Have a beautiful week, my lovelies! xx Greta

Exciting news! I’m starting a new series here on Substack. Something I’ve been craving and so I think you might enjoy too. I love the idea of a capsule wardrobe, but the truth is, I love clothes to much and find it hard to limit an entire wardrobe to just a few pieces, for months (or even years!) on end. Instead, I want to play with the idea of mini capsules that rotate. Let me explain.

Keep your clothes. Love and celebrate them. And also, limit what’s in front of you at one time. This builds off the ‘rack dressing’ method where you take a stand alone clothing rack and fill it with seasonal pieces to use and wear for a period of time, rather than having to decide what to wear with your entire wardrobe before you each day.

I accidentally used this approach when I was moving houses this summer. I had to wait a couple of months for my closet system to arrive and be installed, so I had my trusty styling rack filled with seasonally appropriate pieces that were in similar or complimenting colors and a handful of shoes and jackets to complete my looks.

The result was actually amazing. Getting dressed was a breeze every day. I never felt overwhelmed or like I didn’t have the right thing. What I saw before me on the rack was just enough, and not too much- the style sweet spot, if you will.

Funnily enough, when I finally did get my whole closet system in place and all my clothes put away, I felt worse. I’ve been thinking a lot about that. Why? I think it’s hard for my mind to process so many options. Even though I love them all, I don’t love seeing them all at the same time. Since then, I’ve been trying to decide how to get to a better place with my wardrobe. One where I can still have and appreciate things (a total closet clear out and minimalist approach felt too extreme) while being able to process what’s in front of me and challenge myself to put looks together with what’s there. It actually gets the creative outfit juices flowing so much more!

So, I’ve decided to try a monthly mini capsule. I check the weather (obvs) and forecast out what I will need material and layer-wise, and select 5 pieces from each category to make up the mini capsule to dress from for the month. The pieces live on my styling rack while the other pieces stay in my full closet system (ready for their chance to be in next month’s mini!).

My categories are as follows:

• tops (tees, tanks, long sleeve tees, blouses, etc)

• bottoms (jeans, trousers, leggings, etc)

• layers (sweaters, vests, button down shirts/ shackets )

• dresses/ skirts/ one pieces

For now, I’m not limiting my shoes or jackets/ coats. I might do going forward, but I need a little leeway to ease into this. I’m also not limiting accessories (bags, belts, sunglasses, hats, etc). Again, I might do so in future, but not yet.

Here’s the questions- do you want in? Would you be interested in a monthly mini capsule I put together ahead of time that can help give guidance on what pieces to focus on in your wardrobe? And maybe we can even do it together?! Let me know in the comments below. I’ll be starting the monthly mini capsule series Sunday, November 1st. Make sure you’re subscribed if you want to follow along.

Have a beautiful week and check back for the start of this new series in November. xx

September has some of the most glorious days! And, it’s also so all over the place with huge temp swings that make it virtually impossible to leave the house in the morning with an outfit that still works at high noon, and again after the sun sets.

Honestly, beyond layers, I think the key is to have a change of footwear. I swap from closed toed shoes in the morning when the temps are still in the 40s/50s to sandals from 10am - 6pm, then it’s back to covering those toes!

These are some of the looks I leaned into this week with such big daily temperature fluctuations. And I have to say, I did pretty well. I did always swap my shoe and strip town to a tank or tee, but I also appreciated the layers when I needed them.

This is the perfect time of year to get out your mid-weight jackets- including ‘shackets’ and I even brought out my kimono as a perfect layer!

I’m also liking those knit under-layers (tanks and tees) for added warmth and a little polish when you take off your jacket. Go for something thin so it’s still comfortable during the hottest part of the day.

I hope my looks this week help get you through this tricky transition time! Have a beautiful week. xx Greta

Mornings that start in the 30/40s and then heat up to 70+ during the day with sun at high altitude make for some challenging dressing! Truth be told, I usually have to swap my shoes (from closed toed to sandals) and am always donning a tee or tank as my under layer that I can strip down to this time of year. I didn’t get every outfit ‘right’ this week, but I did enjoy dressing for the fluctuations and planning my day to stay comfortable.

And, I even received a compliment on an outfit I thought so basic it wasn’t worth noticing. But that’s real life dressing for you- it’s the everyday outfits that get you through and get noticed by women in real life. Hope you enjoy this week’s post and find some transitional outfit inspiration of your own. xx Greta

PS- if you want more transitional inspo and to hone in on just five pieces to reach for this fall (already in your closet), check out this week’s Stylecast.

Style Tip 1: Crop the Top

Since this is a more voluminous shape that takes up the full bottom half of your outfit, the easiest way to balance it out is to crop your tops. And you can simply tuck in your shirts/tees/sweaters/etc. You can also go for a cropped jacket, which is perfect for fall layering. I’m loving the suede cropped jacket and also a cool cropped bomber jacket. By cropping on top, you are breaking up the outfit and creating a line that your eye can focus on that helps separate all that material on the bottom from the top. Works like a charm!

Style Tip 2: Show Some (Ankle) Skin

Again, because there’s a lot of material involved in the barrel style, by showing a little skin around the ankle, you break up the heaviness and give the eye a relief space to focus on and balance it all out. I particularly like an open-back mule that shows the ankle and your heel. Or, you can go for a loafer or ballet flat that also shows the top of your foot to maximize that skin exposure. If your barrel jeans are on the longer side, try cuffing or rolling them to create that perfect ankle reveal.

Style Tip 3: Add Some Height

Another shoe tip here- choose a heel. Sometimes we want the more casual effect of a mule or sneaker, but if you want to wear your barrels out, go for a heel. And it doesn’t have to be sky high. In fact, I think a 1-2” heel is perfect. It helps to create that narrow point in the outfit we’ve been discussing from style tip 2, and also provides a more polished option. I like a pointed-toe slingback best, but also find an open toe sandal that’s a bit strappy works well. A heeled sock boot is also a great choice! The next time you’re going out to dinner or a local (non-formal) event, try this barrel jean + kitten heel duo and feel the power of a modern combo!

These are just a few tips to help you style your barrels this fall. Check out this week’s video for more tips and outfit inspiration. Until next week, have a beautiful one! xx G

Finally the runways are showing us playful proportions, color combos, and lots of texture. 🙌 But all this over-the-top fashion can feel intimidating. In this week’s Stylecast I break down how to bring these style tips into your every day outfits. The result is up-leveled style that’s still wearable.

Be sure to check out my Style Session video this week for LOTS of runway image inspiration coupled with practical tips on how to create the looks with your wardrobe. As always, everything I’m wearing is linked here. Have a beautiful week! xx Greta

What I wore this week is such a nice re-enforcement of exactly what I talked about in my YouTube video this week. It’s all about tweaking your outfits and reusing pieces in different ways and in different combinations to create outfits that feel fresh and fun to wear. You’ll see how I reuse a black cropped graphic tee, a silk print skirt, cropped jean jacket, and a pair of ecru cutoff shorts for my real life outfits in one week.

Gone are the days you need to wear something new every day, but I don’t think that outfit repeating (the exact same outfit) is the answer either. My solution to maximizing your wardrobe while still feeling great in your clothes, is to tweak your outfits. You can hear all about in my Style Session video here, but even glancing at the fits from this week you’ll start to see what I mean. Give it a try and see how many more options open up for you! xx Greta

I’ve been doing some major wardrobe assessing (thanks to the styling course with Ellie Richards) and so I’m really tuned into what I have and what I want to get out as we move into cooler temps. These three pieces made the cut.

The Oversized (Grandpa) Cardigan

It’s so cozy, and because it opens in the front it makes it extremely wearable with so many wardrobe staples. I love pulling one on over a summer dress (short or long). You can also wear it with a midi or maxi skirt, and a pair of jeans or satin straight leg pants works just as well. A cashmere option will see you through into winter, but if you want to start with a cotton one, this one is everything you’ve been dreaming of as far as a flattering oversized fit- plus it has pockets!

Satin/ Silk Pants

This style of pant has been trending for the past few years, and with good reason- they are so darn comfortable. The luxe material instantly upgrades your outfit but is also relaxed enough with the drawstring tie that you can go more casual too. I got mine in black because I have a lot of black in my wardrobe to pair it with, but if you have another color (blue, burgundy, green) I would lean into that because creating a strong monochromatic look with these pants looks (and feels) amazing.

If you don’t have a pair of satin pants, lean into your balloon pants. You can eek out more outfits while the weather is shifting cooler by pairing them with sweaters, jackets, and closed-toe shoes.

Suede Shirt

This is actually a newbie to my wardrobe, but one I instantly said yes to. You all know how much I love my army green shacket. It felt like the right piece to bring into my wardrobe to give me more options when reaching for that in-between layer. I’m still finding all the ways to wear it, but throwing it on over pretty much everything is feeling right so far. :)

And because you subscribe to this newsletter, here are a few bonus in-between pieces to think about pulling into the rotation as temps cool.

1. Oversized Denim Jacket- as a standalone layer it works well with dresses, and is also roomy enough to later a fleece or nano puffer vest underneath for added warmth.

2. Wide Leg Jeans- look great with a sneaker or mule, and can also pair nicely with an ankle boot when the weather calls for it.

3. Cape or Poncho- this one might feel out of left field, but the window to wear them is so short, and NOW is that moment! Pair with jeans, a closed toe slide and a sweater.

To catch all my styling tips and where to wear these looks, tune into this week’s video. Same and similar pieces are linked here for you. Have a beautiful week! xx Greta

Style Method #1: Create Friction

When an outfit feels blah, it’s probably because it’s too same same. You need to inject some friction by changing the texture of one of your pieces (ie: leather + lace), or invoking opposite words for your desired effect (think: tomboy fem- the tomboy piece is more sporty and masculine while the feminine piece is lighter and more whimsical).

For me, this is less about texture, but a feeling I am creating with my words and how the pieces I put together communicate those words. More on that in Style Method #4!

Style Method #2: Play with Proportions

By paying attention to the overall shape of your outfit, you can create a more complete outfit that is pleasing to the eye. As humans, we naturally crave balance, so when you see an all oversized or baggy outfit, your mind reads it as sloppy or unrefined. Simply by swapping the oversized top for something fitted (maybe with an asymmetrical detail or some side ruching!) and leaving your wide leg trouser, you’ll instantly feel the shift. Now the outfit makes sense and feels amazing. There are so many great ways to play with this right now, from balloon pants to oversized blazers. Try it and you will feel the effect of this mindful shift.

Style Method #3: Body Informed Dressing

Going down the rabbit hole of ‘body type’ and what you should be wearing or not based on your type is a slippery slope that not only feels dated but can be damaging to our self esteem if not guided correctly. I have a much simpler and effective approach that I recently learned from Ellie Richards. I’m calling it Body Informed Dressing and it comes down to this: is your body naturally hard (straight, long, angular) or soft (curvy, petite, lush)? And then dress the opposite.

For example, I’m hard (a classic rectangle shape) and when I wear straight lines without any waist definition or flow to the pieces, it doesn’t do much for me. BUT, when I wear softer more whimsical pieces they actually accentuate my naturally body informed shape and let it shine. Just try it. It will blow your mind!

Style Method #4: Use Your Style Code (Every Day) to Get Dressed

Most of you have heard of the Three Word Method (thank you Allison Bornstein 🙌) and this method of identifying and applying adjectives to how you get dressed has been around for years. There are different ways to gain clarity on your words, and I do feel I’ve uncovered a really impactful way that allows you to align with your truest self and then communicate that with the world by what you wear. I call my method your Style Code (and you can check out this video to discover yours).

Intentional dressing is having a moment, and for good reason. So many women are ready to go beyond trends, and get off the hamster wheel of constantly updating their wardrobes. When you have clarity and alignment with your style code, you build a forever wardrobe that truly reflects your identity. It is so powerful and feels so good.

Whether you apply just one method or style stack them all- you’ll come away with better outfits that better communicate your sense of style. I visually showcase each of these methods in this week’s video, PLUS I share a bonus style tip at the end that was a game-changer for me! Have a beautiful week! xx Greta

For some time now I have known that my wardrobe was missing something, but because I was so focused on building the Ultimate Capsule Wardrobe (🙌), I completely missed actively adding in those pieces that instantly make an outfit more dressy and event appropriate. I was missing nice tops.

Awareness is the first step, and bringing in some options that are NOT an everyday basic was exactly what I needed. And let me tell you my friends, it has been a game changer.

For any of you who are imagining extreme proportions or crazy design details, relax. The shift is actually really tame and super wearable. It’s just a bit more intentional and dressed up than your usual suspects.

If I had to distill my fashion learnings into bitesized tips, here’s what I’d say to focus on:

1. Look for luxe fabrics. Silk, cashmere knits, sheer fabrics, stiff poplin cotton. All of these are going to translate to an elevated aesthetic.

2. Stay within your color palette. Yeah, yeah- a statement color top can be amazing at times, but I want you to continue to build a capsule wardrobe that really works together and for you. Stay in your lane color-wise and it will open so many more options with your existing wardrobe.

3. Try a trend. I know this feels like I’m negating tip #2, but sometimes a trend comes around and it really works with your body proportions or color-way so lean into it and let it go from trend to tried and a true staple over time.

As you can see from my swaps, it really is more subtle than you’d think and yet it unlocked so many great (and great feeling!) outfits when I was styling these looks. You can check out the full episode here for more styling tips and shop the edit here. Until next time, let me know what dressier top is rocking your world right now. xx Greta

I love a capsule wardrobe, but sometimes you need an infusion of new pieces to help modernize your outfits. In this week’s Style Session I revisit my Cool Mom Style Pinterest board for inspiration and bring the looks to life with five key pieces that will transform your summer outfits.

1. Utility Pant: look for one in a lightweight fabric like linen or cotton to help keep you cool. I love this staple as a transition piece too. It offers more coverage than shorts but still says ‘it’s warm outside.’

2. Ruffle Mini Skirt: I’ve been eyeing these since last summer when I styled one for my video with Lodge & Letter and didn’t take it home with me (and have been kicking myself ever since). The cotton mini skirt has a place in your summer wardrobe, and the ruffles make it that much more approachable- perfect for pairing with a tank or tee.

3. Tube Top: I haven’t worn a tube top since I was in college, but fashion is cyclical and it’s come back around! I love pairing it with the Bermuda short or Jort to modernize the feel. There are some really great ones on the market right now that incorporate pleating and other details to brings things up a notch.

4. Sleeveless Blazer/ Vest Top: I honestly think every woman should own one. They bring that something extra to your outfits in an easy yet polished way. You can keep things casual by leaving it unbuttoned or do it up with a pair of matching trousers and a heel and you’re ready for a dressed up occasion.

5. Sheer Midi Skirt: I finally gave this one a go and really liked how it made me feel. It’s definitely more trend-led so if you’re unsure, just rent one to try it first. I love pairing it with something more casual like a graphic tee to balance the prettiness of it. I don’t think this style is going anywhere, so if you’re on the fence you still have time to get one and wear it this summer and fall.

Let me know which look you love the most, and if you’ve already brought any of these staples into your summer capsule. As always, you can shop the full edit here. xx Greta

I had to do a coaching session on the jean short because it brings so much versatility to your wardrobe and just like it’s big sister (jean pants) it can be dressed up or down. If you want the full scoop on how to style these looks, check out this week’s Stylecast on YouTube.

And, as always, you can shop the full edit here. Have a beautiful week! xx Greta

Watch this week’s Stylecast to see how I styled these looks with tips on how you can recreate them. Plus, I share where I would wear them so you can totally steal my outfit for your next outing. xx Greta

Shop the full edit here (affiliate links used to share same and similar styles.

Outfit Forecast: three word method dressing (aka: StyleCode) for classic, cool and casual outfits perfect for everyday activities

Shop same and similar pieces featured in this week’s Stylecast here.

Outfit Forecast: easy casual-smart summer outfits for outdoor family gatherings

Shop this week’s stylecast looks here.

I’ve been in Cabo, Mexico for going on 6 months straight (we kind of got stuck here, but that’s a story for another time) and I feel I’ve become an expert in resort wear. So in this week’s stylecast, I am focusing on some resort capsule staples to include for your next tropical escape, but also how to wear them now- when it is seriously heating up! As always, I will be giving you some outfit add-ons to make these looks (and resort pieces) work for cooler temps. Let’s get dressed!

Outfit Base: I love the idea of a caftan and when you’re on holiday, they really are the perfect thing. Go for one is a lightweight or sheer fabric and a colorful print! Throw over your swimsuit and pair with raffia sandals or slides, and a wide brim hat.

Outfit Add-Ons: Make your coverups work harder by adding a slip underneath and turning them into a dress. Belt it at the waist to create more shape, and add a cropped jacket for more warmth. Swap your sandals for ankle boots if the temps call for it.

Base Outfit: This look is all about the maxi linen skirt. I’m completely obsessed with this one, and while the price tag is high, it has been so worth it. I wear it pretty much weekly. One of my favorite ways to style it is with this one shoulder crop top and a pair of sandals. So simple, and so effortlessly chic.

Outfit Add-Ons: These maxi skirts are seriously having a moment- you’re probably seen them on all your favorite retailer sites. They come in cotton, and bold colors, prints- you name it. Get one, and thank me later. Pair with a t-shirt for that cool mom vibe. Add mesh flats and designer sunglasses to up your game. Or, go for a sneaker and a denim jacket when the air has a cool chill (or rain!) in it.

Outfit Base: This outfit is all about the matching set. Whether you stay tonal or get a true matching print set, it sets you up for a complete and cool look. I like a linen pair of pants with a crop top or tank. But a true print set is a whole other level and totally worth getting. Raffia slides and a cute hair clip add a final touch.

Outfit Add-Ons: If the crop top is too revealing or cold, add a button down as a shacket- leaving it open in the front. I also love a utility jacket in a light or adjacent color to the set you’re wearing. They are always made from a light fabric and can be the perfect in-between layer.

Outfit Base: A good day dress is a great investment for your resort and summer wardrobe. I’ve been loving the return of the strapless style. Add some sandals and sunnies and you are done!

Outfit Add-Ons: Another wardrobe stable is the cropped denim jacket- mid wash or cream/ white are perfect for summer. If the temps cool off in the evening, switch to a ballet flat.

Outfit Base: Nothing says vacation quite like crochet. These pants were a purchase I made when we first started spending time in Cabo and they have been so fun to style in so many different ways. My go-to is with a one piece swimsuit. I like keeping it tonal, it feels chic without trying. Sandals and cat eye sunglasses.

Outfit Add-Ons: To make these crochet pants more wearable (outside of the resort), pair with an oversized tee. That way you get the coverage you need, and it looks very low key cool. I also like the idea of adding a leaopard print canvas jacket and some open back mules to adjust for cooler temps. The final look is beyond stylish while still feeling easy.

All roads lead to Rome… but actually sometimes your summer plans for a Mediterranean holiday get cancelled (oh life!) and even though you’re not there in body, your style spirit is still yearning for that European escape. Hence, this week’s stylecast is taking the essence of Euro style and applying it to our everyday. If this week feels fancy, that’s because it is (at least by casual American standards). But I think it’s nice to infuse some style influence that asks us to combine pieces in ways we maybe haven’t and to use key accessories (namely footwear) to elevate a look.

This week’s outfits are chalk full of sophisticated ease. If you’re on your way to Europe this summer, here’s your packing list sorted (you’re welcome). If not, try these looks at home and you’re guaranteed to receive a compliment. Okay, let’s get dressed!

Outfit Base: Choosing natural fibers for your clothing is a subtle way to signal luxury. So opting for a silk tank and a pair of pleated linen shorts instantly communicate an elevated outfit. A pair of neutral flat sandals and designer sunglasses seal the deal. I also would add a skinny belt with minimal hardware. I don’t know why, but especially in Europe, every outfit looks more complete with a belt.

Outfit Add-Ons: When you need just a light layer but a jacket it too much, go for a short sleeve cardigan. This is a true summer hero piece, and you only need one in a light hue and one in a dark hue. Watch how so many of your outfits transform seamlessly. If you need more layers still, add a cropped canvas jacket, and swap the shorts for a white pant (extra points if you embrace the balloon or barrel shape), and go for a mesh ballet flat in a neutral color.

Outfit Base: a silk top and matching skirt are a summer savior! So many combinations to try, but also one failsafe look you can rely on. Keep it grounded with a pair of flat raffia sandals or dress it up a bit more with a kitten heel sandal. Cat eye sunnies are always chic.

Outfit Add-Ons: I love using a long button down shirt or even a shirt dress as a layer and leave it open for a breezy shacket effect. If you need a bit more warmth, go for an oversized sweater that you can tie around your shoulders or wear outright. The oversized style looks great with a midi length skirt and help balance the outfit. You can also swap your sandals for a soft suede moccasin or loafer.

Outfit Base: This terrycloth mini dress with a tassel hem is EVERYTHING! So, so cute and also classic. Pair with woven leather flats and a matching top handle bag for a more polished feel. Add a bucket hat and designer sunglasses to finish the look.

Outfit Add-Ons: Swap your sandals for a pair of ballet flats or a soft leather loafer in a light or white hue. Add a classic cable knit cardigan for some extra warmth (this one is vintage from Ralph Lauren and such an iconic staple!).

Outfit Base: When the temps are hot it’s time to pull out the bustier top! I know, I know- we all don’t just have one of these lying around in our closet, but maybe we should… Sandra Weil is the queen of the bustier and you can interchange her pieces so easily. I may have just introduced you to a new wardrobe weakness! Because the top is so Extra we need to pull the outfit back into elegance with a great pair of silk trousers and a classy open-toe wedge sandal. Stack some gold bangles and add drop earrings to complete the look.

Outfit Add-Ons: If the bustier is just not for you, and you want a bit more coverage, go for a silk top with asymetric detail. It feels modern and dressy without being over the top. I like a soft pastel color for summer. You can also change your shoe to a closed toe heel and add an anorak (there’s some rain forecasted) or a light trench to adjust to cooler temps.

Outfit Base: Nothing says summer like an empire waist dress with thin shoulder straps and a full skirt. If you don’t have one in your wardrobe yet, go for a neutral color (you won’t get sick of it as quickly as a print) and choose cotton or silk fabrics. A ballet flat with a full skirt looks classic and cool. Add sunglasses. Done.

Outfit Add-Ons: If you need a layer, go for a button down shirt. I like a lightweight almost sheer version and am leaning into gingham this summer. If the temps dip or you’re anticipating some precipitation (as currently forecasted), choose a mid-weight blazer and swap your shoes for a closed-toe heel. Pro tip: pack an umbrella in your handbag.