Gamine Capsule Wardrobe

What is gamine style clothing?

GAMINE /ɡaˈmēn/: The word gamine is a French word originally meaning urchin, waif or playful, mischievous. Kim France & Andrea Linett describe this style as simple and timeless: “Gamine is an intercontinental mix of clean American lines and French insouciance. It’s about the perfect striped shirt, or what makes a trench coat cute instead of unfeminine.”

Creating a signature style helps you pare down what you really really love. Signature pieces define your unique style and capture the YOU in your personality. It’s those distinct textures, colors, patterns, and silhouettes that remind your friends of you! Here are some versatile basics of the gamine style that I love. Each of the pieces in this capsule can be effortlessly mixed and matched. (Most of these items are very affordable. **Warning** Others are just examples of great style to find within your own price range. ) 

Checklist for Gamine Style Clothing

1. Classic Trench: Look for one with simple clean lines to avoid the Inspector Gadget look. (I took out the cuffs off the sleeves).

2. Striped Shirt: A MUST for any gamine wardrobe.

3. Dainty Floral Print Dress. Girlish and flirty. Finding just the right pattern can be a challenge. Tie-collar styles are also sweet.

4. Chambray Shirt: This utilitarian top adds a fun mischievous edge.

5. Tie Skirt: The playful school girl can also be ladylike.

6. Tunic: A striped belted one is also very gamine.

7. Traditional Pea Coat: Find an authentic sailor coat at military stores or your local thrift shop. The more authentic the better.

8. Camel/Neutral Short Sleeve Cardigan. Look for a dolman style-more versatile than you can imagine. Adds instant style to a plain white tee and jeans.

9. Graphic Print Scarf: These spice up the classic neutral solids.

10. Duffle Style Bag: Gamines exude the effortless Chic Parisian look.

11. Dainty Charm Necklaces.  Pick understated, yet whimsical details that emulate your personality.

12. Diver’s Style Watch and Quirky Colored Cuff:
Simple, classic accessories add character to neutral basics.

13. Black Ankle Strap Flats: Gamine signature style must-have! (Ankle straps happen to be trending.)

14. Red Cork-heels: Playful, urchin style to add personality to skinnies or a simple tunic.

15. Fancy Quilted Purse with Chain Strap: Timeless piece to go with the little waif figure.

See more Capsule Wardrobes:
How To Create A Capsule Wardrobe for an Inverted Triangle Shape
How To Create A Capsule Wardrobe for a Pear Shape
Mini Capsule For an Hourglass Shape
Mini Capsule for a Rectangle Shape

Comment of the Week is from Carrie at Curly Crafty Mom talking about 5 Bloggers Share How to Wear Stripes This Fall:

Seriously LOVE these striped looks! That top with the balloon sleeves looks similar to a top I just got at ON recently, except I got a lavender color. I love the color of your flats. You’re a stylist at Stitch Fix? Oh my gosh, my dream job! Ha!! That fur jacket is so, so perfect!

Thanks, Carrie! It’s always so fun to collaborate with other bloggers for fresh ideas! Thanks for popping in!

Please Share: What are your signature pieces?

We are linked up with:Jo Lynne Shane| Fashion Should Be Fun | Shelbee On the Edge |Nancy’s Fashion Style

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