Just Relaxed Blog

Blog

The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe for Every Season
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe for Every Season

Introduction

Tired of staring into a closet full of clothes, yet feeling like you have nothing to wear? You’re not alone. The average person wears only 20% of their wardrobe 80% of the time. Enter the capsule wardrobe: a curated collection of versatile, high-quality pieces that can be mixed and matched to create countless outfits.

Building a capsule wardrobe simplifies your life, saves you time and money, and reduces decision fatigue. This guide will walk you through creating a capsule wardrobe for every season, ensuring you’re stylishly prepared year-round.

Understanding the Capsule Wardrobe Concept

A capsule wardrobe is all about intentionality. It’s about choosing pieces you love, that fit well, and that can be styled in multiple ways. Here are the key principles:
- Quality over quantity: Invest in fewer, higher-quality items that will last longer.
- Versatility is key: Choose pieces that can be dressed up or down and paired with other items in your wardrobe.
- Neutral base: Start with a foundation of neutral colors like black, white, gray, navy, and beige. These colors are easy to mix and match.
- Add pops of personality: Incorporate a few statement pieces in your favorite colors or patterns.
- Seasonal adjustments: Swap out a few key pieces each season to adapt to the weather.
Building Your Seasonal Capsule Wardrobes

Now, let’s dive into creating capsule wardrobes for each season. Remember, these are just guidelines; adjust them to fit your lifestyle, climate, and personal style.

Spring Capsule Wardrobe Essentials

Spring is a time for fresh starts and lighter layers. Here’s what to include:
1. Lightweight Jackets: Denim jacket, utility jacket, blazer.
2. Tops: T-shirts, blouses, button-down shirts.
3. Bottoms: Jeans, chinos, skirts, flowy pants.
4. Dresses: Floral midi dress, wrap dress, casual sundress.
5. Shoes: Sneakers, flats, sandals.
6. Accessories: Scarves, sunglasses, light jewelry.
March 13, 2025
Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What the Latest Work Trend Really Means
Explore the nuances of ‘quiet quitting,’ its connection to boundary-setting, and why this trend is sparking important conversations about work-life balance.

The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“

The term “quiet quitting” has taken the internet by storm, sparking heated debates and countless think pieces. But is it really a new phenomenon, or just a trendy name for an age-old struggle?

At its core, quiet quitting refers to the act of doing the bare minimum at work. It’s about fulfilling your job description without going above and beyond, setting clear boundaries between your professional and personal life.

Understanding the Quiet Quitting Context

To understand this trend, we need to consider the context in which it emerged. The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a significant shift in how we view work. Remote work blurred the lines between professional and personal life, often leading to longer hours and burnout.

Simultaneously, a growing movement advocating for work-life balance, mental health, and employee well-being gained momentum. People started questioning the expectation of constantly going the extra mile, particularly when it came at the expense of their personal lives.

Quiet Quitting or Healthy Boundaries?

The term “quiet quitting” itself is somewhat problematic. It implies a sense of laziness or disengagement, which isn’t necessarily the case. For many, it’s simply about establishing healthy boundaries.

Here’s why framing it as setting boundaries is more accurate:
- Respecting Your Time: Everyone deserves personal time, and setting boundaries ensures work doesn’t consume your life.
- Prioritizing Well-being: Overworking leads to burnout and negatively impacts mental and physical health. Boundaries protect your well-being.
- Clear Expectations: Defining what you are and aren’t willing to do prevents misunderstandings and resentment.
Rethinking Quiet Quitting: A Personal Perspective

While I understand the negative connotations associated with “quiet quitting,” I believe the heart of this trend is about reclaiming control. It’s about recognizing that work is just one aspect of life, not the entirety of it.

Setting boundaries isn’t about shirking responsibility. It’s about being more intentional with your time and energy, both at work and in your personal life. It’s about performing your job effectively within a sustainable framework that supports your well-being.

Quiet Quitting and The Future of Work

The “quiet quitting” conversation highlights a larger issue: the need for a healthier work-life balance. It’s a call for employers to re-evaluate expectations and prioritize employee well-being.

Ultimately, this trend isn’t about quitting on work, but rather, quitting on the idea that work has to come at the cost of everything else. It’s about fostering a work environment where people can thrive both professionally and personally.
March 13, 2025
The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

The Unexpected Life Lessons I Learned from a Houseplant

My Brown Thumb Gets a Green Roommate

Let’s be honest, I’m not exactly known for my green thumb. In fact, my thumbs are more of a “wilted brown” when it comes to keeping plants alive. So, when my well-meaning friend gifted me a sprightly peace lily, I accepted it with a mixture of cautious optimism and impending doom. I named him Percy (because, obviously) and placed him on my windowsill, bracing myself for the inevitable plant funeral.

Percy and I got off to a rocky start. I overwatered him, underwatered him, and even managed to scorch a few of his leaves with too much direct sunlight. He was drooping, browning, and frankly, looked ready to give up the ghost. Feeling like a plant-murderer in the making, I was ready to toss him in the compost bin. But then, a glimmer of hope appeared. A single, tiny leaf unfurled, a vibrant green beacon against the brown.

Something shifted within me. If Percy could rally after my less-than-stellar care, couldn’t I do the same in my own life? We all have moments where we feel wilted and defeated, but Percy reminded me that even in the face of adversity, the potential for growth and renewal remains. From then on, I vowed to be more attentive to Percy’s needs (and downloaded a plant care app—no shame!).

Lesson #2: Patience: A Plant’s Pace of Growth

As Percy slowly began to recover, I found myself impatiently waiting for him to flourish. I wanted to see lush leaves, vibrant blooms, the whole shebang! But Percy, in his infinite wisdom, had other plans. He took his sweet, green time. Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and still, there were no dramatic transformations.

Then, one morning, while watering him (on schedule, thanks to my app!), I noticed something magical. A single, elegant bloom had emerged, its white spathe unfurling like a delicate flag of victory. It was a subtle change, easily missed if I wasn’t paying attention. And that was the lesson. Real growth, true transformation, rarely happens overnight. It’s the small, incremental changes, the subtle shifts in perspective and effort, that ultimately lead to the most beautiful outcomes.

March 13, 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe for Every Season
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe for Every Season

Introduction

Tired of staring into a closet full of clothes and still feeling like you have nothing to wear? You’re not alone. The average American woman owns over 300 garments but only wears about 20% of them regularly. This is where the beauty of a capsule wardrobe comes in.

A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of essential clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits for any occasion. It’s about investing in quality over quantity, choosing versatile pieces, and embracing a more mindful approach to fashion.

Building Your Seasonal Capsule Wardrobe

While the concept of a capsule wardrobe remains consistent, the specific pieces will vary depending on your lifestyle, climate, and personal style. Here’s a breakdown of essential categories to guide you:

1. Core Pieces

These are the foundation of your capsule wardrobe, designed to be timeless, versatile, and easily layered. Aim for neutral colors like black, white, navy, gray, and beige for maximum mix-and-match potential.
- Tops (6-8):
- Bottoms (4-6):
- Dresses (2-3):
- Outerwear (2-3):
2. Seasonal Additions

These are the pieces that inject personality and trend-focused elements into your capsule wardrobe. Consider your local climate and the activities you enjoy.

Spring Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
- Flowy dresses in floral prints
- Lightweight cardigans or kimonos
- A statement raincoat
Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What the Latest Workplace Trend Really Means
The Rise of “Quiet Quitting“: What Does It Really Mean?

The term “quiet quitting” has exploded across the internet, sparking debates among CEOs and employees alike. But what does this buzzword really signify? Is it a symptom of a disengaged workforce or a natural reaction to demanding work environments? Let’s unpack this phenomenon and its implications.

Contextualizing “Quiet Quitting“: A Post-Pandemic Phenomenon

Emerging in the wake of the Great Resignation, “quiet quitting” is often linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. This period of global upheaval prompted many to re-evaluate their work-life balance and priorities. Facing burnout and craving autonomy, employees began redefining their relationship with work.

“Quiet quitting” became a way for employees to reclaim control. It’s about fulfilling job requirements without subscribing to the hustle culture of overworking, prioritizing personal time over exceeding employer expectations.

Quiet Quitting vs. Boundary Setting: Decoding the Difference

The discourse around “quiet quitting” often hinges on its interpretation. Some perceive it negatively, indicating a lack of commitment and work ethic, potentially fostering mediocrity and hindering productivity. Conversely, others view it as self-preservation, a necessary response to unrealistic expectations and exploitative work environments.

Reframing “quiet quitting” as “boundary setting” offers a more positive perspective. Setting boundaries is crucial for work-life balance, preventing burnout, and protecting mental health. It involves defining personal limits and communicating them effectively to employers.

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
- Quiet Quitting (Disengagement): Marked by apathy, minimal effort, declining work quality, often stemming from feeling undervalued and disillusioned.
- Boundary Setting: Involves clear communication about work limits, prioritizing well-being, maintaining a sustainable workload, reflecting a proactive approach to time and energy management.
March 13, 2025
The Joy of Missing Out (And Why You Might Love It Too)
missing-out –>The Joy of Missing Out (And Why You Might Love It Too)

From FOMO to “Namaste in My Pajamas“

Remember that time everyone went to that thing and posted about it endlessly on social media? Yeah, I stayed home. In my pajamas. With a cup of tea and a good book. And you know what? It was glorious.

For years, I was the queen of FOMO. Fear of Missing Out ruled my life. If everyone was doing it, I had to be there. Concert on a Tuesday? Present! Three-hour brunch with questionable eggs benedict? Count me in! This led to a lot of late nights, questionable life choices, and a constant feeling of being utterly exhausted.
time was my own, and I could choose to spend it however I pleased.

Embracing My Inner Homebody (Without Apology)

Since then, I’ve been on a mission to embrace JOMO, and let me tell you, it’s been life-changing. Here are a few unexpected benefits I’ve experienced:
- Decreased anxiety and stress: No more frantic rushing, last-minute outfit changes, or social exhaustion. JOMO means saying “yes” to peace and quiet.
- Increased productivity and creativity: Remember all that time I wasted feeling jealous of other people’s curated lives? I now channel that energy into pursuing my own passions and hobbies.
- Deeper connections with loved ones: Instead of shallow interactions at crowded events, I now prioritize quality time with people I genuinely care about.
March 13, 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Digital Decluttering: Reclaim Your Time and Focus
Introduction

In today’s digital age, we’re bombarded with a constant influx of information, notifications, and distractions. Our devices, once tools for productivity, can quickly become sources of stress and overwhelm. This is where digital decluttering comes in. Just like tidying up your physical space, digital decluttering involves organizing and optimizing your digital life to reduce stress and improve focus.

Why Digital Decluttering Matters

A cluttered digital life can have a significant impact on our well-being. Here are some compelling reasons to embrace digital minimalism:
- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: A cluttered inbox, overflowing notifications, and endless social media feeds contribute to feelings of overwhelm and anxiety.
- Improved Focus and Productivity: Digital distractions constantly compete for our attention, making it challenging to concentrate on tasks and be productive.
- Increased Time for What Matters: By minimizing digital distractions, you reclaim valuable time to spend on things you enjoy, like hobbies, relationships, and personal growth.
- Better Sleep: The blue light emitted from our devices can interfere with sleep patterns. Reducing screen time before bed promotes better sleep quality.
Practical Steps to Digital Declutter

Ready to embark on your digital decluttering journey? Follow these practical steps to streamline your digital life:

1. Declutter Your Devices
1. Start with Your Phone: Delete unused apps, organize your home screen, and disable unnecessary notifications.
2. Tackle Your Inbox: Unsubscribe from unwanted emails, create folders to organize important messages, and consider using email filters to manage incoming mail.
3. Organize Your Computer: Create a folder system for documents, delete unnecessary files, and clear your desktop for a cleaner workspace.
4. Streamline Social Media: Unfollow accounts that don’t inspire you or add value to your life. Set time limits for social media usage to avoid mindless scrolling.
March 13, 2025
Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What’s Healthy and What’s Not in Today’s Workplace

Quiet Quitting or Setting Boundaries? What’s Healthy and What’s Not in Today’s Workplace

The Rise of Quiet Quitting: A Symptom of Poor Boundaries?

Remember the Great Resignation? That wave of resignations highlighted a growing dissatisfaction with toxic workplaces. Now, there’s a new buzzword: “quiet quitting.” But is it really new, or is it just a trendy term for setting boundaries?

From Hustle Culture to Disengagement: Why Boundaries Matter

For years, “hustle culture” glorified overworking. But the pandemic forced many to re-evaluate, prioritizing well-being and life outside work.

Quiet quitting rejects the idea that work should consume us. It’s about doing your job without subscribing to the “above and beyond” mentality that leads to burnout.

March 13, 2025
The Unseen Beauty of a Truly Crappy First Draft

My Love-Hate Relationship with First Drafts

Oh, first drafts. We’ve had a tumultuous relationship, you and I. It usually starts with such promise, a spark of an idea, a blank page full of hope. Then, somewhere between the second paragraph and the sudden urge to reorganize my sock drawer, things go downhill. Fast.

I’m talking about those drafts where the sentences stumble around like toddlers after a sugar rush. Where the plot resembles a tangled ball of Christmas lights after a particularly enthusiastic unpacking. The ones that make you question your sanity, your talent, your very existence as a writer.

first drafts: they’re supposed to be crappy. It’s like giving yourself permission to be bad, to suck, to write without the pressure of perfection. And in that freedom, something magical happens.

Suddenly, it’s not about crafting beautiful sentences or intricate plot twists. It’s about getting the story out of your head and onto the page, no matter how messy or chaotic it may be. It’s about silencing that inner critic and letting the words flow freely, without judgment.

Finding the Diamonds in Your First Draft

Now, I’m not saying that every crappy first draft is a masterpiece in disguise. Some are just plain bad. But within that mess, hidden amongst the awkward phrasing and plot holes the size of Texas, are little gems of brilliance.

It might be a particularly poignant sentence, a character interaction that crackles with energy, or a plot twist that even you didn’t see coming. These are the diamonds in the rough, the nuggets of gold that make sifting through the muck worthwhile.

March 13, 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe for Every Season
The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe for Every Season

Introduction

Tired of staring into a closet full of clothes and feeling like you have nothing to wear? You’re not alone! The average American woman owns 30 outfits—yet, many of us still struggle to put together cohesive looks. The solution? A capsule wardrobe!

A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of essential clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. This minimalist approach to fashion offers numerous benefits, including:
- Reduced Decision Fatigue: Say goodbye to morning outfit stress!
- Increased Versatility: Create countless outfits with fewer pieces.
- Sustainable Style: Promote mindful consumption and reduce textile waste.
- Cost Savings: Spend less money on trendy pieces you’ll only wear a few times.
Ready to embrace a more intentional approach to fashion? This ultimate guide will walk you through the steps of building a capsule wardrobe for every season.

Building Your Base: Essential Pieces for Any Capsule Wardrobe

Before diving into seasonal specifics, let’s establish a foundation with versatile essentials:

Tops
- White T-shirts (2-3): Choose a mix of crew neck, V-neck, and/or scoop neck styles.
- Black T-shirts (2-3): Opt for different sleeve lengths and fits.
- Button-down Shirt (1-2): White or blue are classic choices.
- Sweater (1-2): Cashmere, merino wool, or cotton blends offer year-round versatility.
- Blazer (1): Black, navy, or grey are universally flattering.
Bottoms
- Dark Wash Jeans (1-2): Straight-leg, bootcut, or wide-leg styles are universally flattering.
- Black Pants (1-2): Choose a fabric suitable for your lifestyle (e.g., tailored trousers, chinos, or linen pants).
- Skirt (1-2): A-line, pencil, or midi skirts offer versatile styling options.
Dresses
- Little Black Dress (1): A timeless classic for any occasion.
- Day Dress (1): Choose a comfortable and stylish option in a neutral color or print.
Outerwear
- Denim Jacket (1): A versatile layer for transitional weather.
- Leather Jacket (1): Adds a touch of edge to any outfit.
  
  March 13, 2025