I wasn’t going to do a romantic capsule wardrobe today, I was actually still working on my minimalist series but the pieces kept finding me giving inspiration. I also rewatched Lidia Poët before the second series came out tonight and the clothes on there are so feminine and beautiful.
Since I was not going all the way back to the 1880s with this wardrobe, I went forward a few decades to the 1930s and 40s, taking inspiration from the silver screen stars of that time.
My inspiration went more in the direction of the wide-leg slacks, blouses, and sweaters route than the bias cut dresses and grand eveningwear.
It is an understated romantic not overt. Something more simple and more accessible that I can see myself wearing.
A subtle romantic style that combines feminine elements with soft, cozy layers without being overly ornate.
The look is understated yet elegant, while still incorporating delicate details that reflect a romantic feel.
And while romantic is not one of my style adjectives, I do like to add romantic elements to my look that give it a touch of the unexpected.
Like my antique silk and lace bed jacket.
Style isn’t all or nothing.
You can dabble in different styles, mixing them to make something that is uniquely you.
That’s what personal style is.
So if the romantic style aesthetic is something that you have never thought of wearing, maybe take a step back and analyze your closet because you probably already have pieces but aren’t aware.
A touch of velvet, silk, a ruffle here and there, maybe you like a full midi skirt, or a strappy, heeled mary jane.
All of these elements on their own might not feel overtly feminine or romantic-esque but depending on how you wear them, you may be pleasantly surprised how easy it is to make them that way.
So today I am going to give a quick overview of elements that can help you to achieve a romantic vibe effortlessly.
First off I will start with the pieces that I am including in this winter capsule wardrobe. There are 12 items of clothing as the base. Then I add in shoes and accessories to build different looks.
A 12 Piece Romantic Winter Capsule Wardrobe
Turtleneck | Jeans | Knee High Boots | LV Bag | Coat | Vintage Brooch | Brown Boots | Green Blouse | Wrap Shirt | Oxfords | Clutch | Skirt | Check Pants | Cloche Hat | Off The Shoulder Sweater | Pendant Necklace | Tie Waist Sweater | Taupe Trousers | Gloves | Heeled Loafers | Mauve Tote | Bow Earrings | Green Cardigan | Mauve Blouse | Mary Janes
Elements to Help You Build a Romantic Style Wardrobe
The Silhouette: If we are thinking of the 1930s romantic style then it was a decade known for its beautifully defined yet draped silhouettes.
Bias-Cut Dresses & Skirts: One of the hallmarks of a romantic fit is the bias cut, which creates a figure-flattering drape while maintaining movement.
Look for dresses and skirts with a slight flare, often with hemlines that reach mid-calf or graze the ankle. Opt for heavier fabrics like velvet or wool blends to keep you warm during the winter months.
High-Waisted Trousers: Channel the sophisticated vibe of a pair of high-waisted, wide-leg trousers. Pair them with cozy turtlenecks, blouses, or cropped knit sweaters.
Wool or tweed fabrics not only provide warmth but also add a vintage texture to your ensemble.
Fitted Waistlines: Pieces that cinch at the waist offer that classic hourglass shape. Opt for belted coats or dresses that come with a built-in sash or a separate belt. I also included a sweater that has a removable belt
The Palette: Soft, Warm, and Romantic. To maintain the romantic aesthetic, incorporate a palette that is warm yet soft.
Start with neutrals like creams, ivory, soft greys, and light browns as ideal base colours. These will provide a versatile foundation for your winter wardrobe.
Add in the romantic hues. These are the delicate shades like dusty rose, deep burgundy, muted teal, and forest green to bring warmth and richness to the winter season while maintaining a vintage feel.
Then come the earthy tones like camel, chocolate brown, and olive which offer a cozy yet refined touch that pairs well with romantic details like lace or ruffles.
The Fabrics: Luxurious, Soft, and Layered. This aesthetic calls for fabrics that feel rich yet comfortable.
Velvet is great because this luxurious fabric not only adds warmth but also exudes a regal, vintage vibe. Consider velvet dresses, skirts, and blazers for a variety.
Boden has some great velvet trousers and blazers. I also love this one from J.Crew, the colour is perfect.
Silk and Satin Blouses are an integral part and you can pair them with high-waisted skirts or trousers for the romantic look but you can truly pair them with anything.
I love a silk blouse paired with some slouchy jeans and boots for a juxtaposed look.
When selecting pieces, choose long-sleeved versions with delicate details like lace trim, pearl buttons, or gathered sleeves to enhance the romantic appeal.
The green blouse I included has delicate pleating and a strong vintage feel. It also comes in cream.
Wool and tweed are classic winter fabrics that maintain warmth while echoing the textures of different decades.
Look for tweed coats, wool trousers, and skirts that offer structure and timeless charm.
The Knitwear: Incorporate soft, fine-gauge knitwear like cashmere or merino wool. Opt for cardigans or sweaters with feminine details like puffed sleeves, pearl buttons, or subtle ruffles.
I chose a belted rollneck sweater with wide sleeves, an off-the-shoulder style, and a cardigan with puffy sleeves and a strong vintage feel.
The Coats: Elegant and Feminine Outerwear is an essential part of a romantic winter wardrobe, and there are always a huge selection of coats every season in both new and secondhand options.
A classic belted wool coat in a neutral shade (camel, grey, or navy) is both practical and refined. The coat I included also has a removable fringe scarf that is a perfect added touch to take it from basic belted coat, to something more unique.
For a luxurious touch, choose coats with faux fur collars or cuffs. This nods to the vintage style without compromising on modern sensibilities.
Capes are huge this year thanks to Chloe but they were also a popular choice in the 1930s, offering a romantic silhouette perfect for layering over dresses and skirts.
The Dresses and Skirts: Feminine, Flowy, Full. Dresses and skirts are central to the romantic style. There are a lot of versatile options that you can choose that both have this vibe and work well in a small wardrobe.
Opt for long-sleeved versions in warm fabrics like wool or heavier cotton. Add vintage details like pleats, lace collars, or covered buttons to enhance the retro look.
A classic shape is a tea dress which offer a flattering fit with an elegant, feminine silhouette. Look for winter versions in floral prints, soft velvets, or warm wool blends.
Choose dresses that can be dressed up with a faux fur stole or vintage-style brooch for evenings and worn with cardigans or capes for daytime elegance.
Skirts should be knee, midi, or tea length. In winter look for heavier fabrics and fuller cuts. I chose a navy blue wool skirt because navy is a great alternative to black but is much softer.
It pairs well as a neutral and is very versatile.
The Accessories: The Perfect Vintage Finish to add the final, defining touches to a romantic 1930s-inspired winter wardrobe.
Hats like berets in wool or felt, cloche hats, or wide-brimmed wool hats that echo the glamour of the 1930s while keeping you warm.
Long leather gloves in rich hues or classic wool gloves offer both warmth and elegance.
Opt for silk scarves that can be tied around the neck or wool scarves that add warmth without compromising on sophistication.
I was going to add this scarf but took it out last minute. I do think a scarf is an easy way to add that perfect final touch though.
For jewellery look for pearls, brooches, and delicate drop earrings are ideal. Look for vintage-style pieces with subtle detailing like filigree, cameos, or art deco patterns. These are so easy to find secondhand and add some much personality to a wardrobe.
Handbags are also a great way to showcase this style. The vintage Louis Vuitton Deauville bag is a style that I own and was drawn to because of its distinct vintage feel. You can see me with it here.
It is a great bag and easy to find secondhand for a fraction of what other LV bags go for.
The other styles I selected are a clutch that has a 30s Art Deco feel, and a tote in a dusty rose with a vintage style print.
The Footwear: Practical Yet Romantic. We want shoes that are both elegant and functional, making them perfect for winter.
Like ankle boots in leather or suede.
For a more feminine touch, try heeled Mary Jane shoes in darker shades to add sophistication while remaining practical with thicker tights.
Oxfords or brogues are great for more casual days, consider vintage-inspired brogues or Oxfords in classic leather or tweed accents.
To sum it up, creating a romantic winter wardrobe with a 1930s influence is about combining feminine silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and timeless accessories that evoke the elegance of the era.
Focus on soft, warm palettes, classic drapes, and rich textures that create a cozy yet sophisticated feel.
By including some of these elements, you can easily transform your winter wardrobe to something that not only keeps you warm but transports you to a world of vintage glamour and romance.
I suggest watching some old movies to help get the creativity flowing. It is one of my favourite ways to get wardrobe inspiration.
Romantic Outfit Ideas for Winter
Turtleneck | Jeans | Knee High Boots | LV Bag | Coat | Vintage Brooch | Brown Boots | Green Blouse | Wrap Shirt | Oxfords | Clutch | Skirt | Check Pants | Cloche Hat | Off The Shoulder Sweater | Pendant Necklace | Tie Waist Sweater | Taupe Trousers | Gloves | Heeled Loafers | Mauve Tote | Bow Earrings | Green Cardigan | Mauve Blouse | Mary Janes
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