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0.1 What is the challenge? 0.2 How does the challenge work? 0.3 Who is the challenge for? 0.4 See some examples. 0.5 What's included? 0.6 How to participate.
What is the challenge?
The 10 x 10 Style Challenge™ is an exercise I established in 2015 to help encourage myself to get more creative with my clothes during a 30 Day Shopping Fast. The concept is essentially a mini capsule closet of 10 items that you work with for 10 days, creating new looks and styling your clothes in ways you might not otherwise try.
How does it work?
1 | Pick any 10 items from your current closet
2 | Style those items into 10 different looks
3 | Use any 10 days to do it
4 | Have fun & don’t take it too seriously!
Who is the challenge for?
Anyone looking to:
- Take a break from shopping.
- Reinvest in their existing closet.
- Test their style creativity.
- Make their closet work harder.
- Find a better sense of personal style.
- Test out a capsule closet.
- Establish a couple of go-to uniforms.
- Pack for a trip. Welcome to the carry-on life!
Example: 10 challenge pieces
What items are included?
Any core closet item you choose counts as a part of your 10 items. For example:
- Tops
- Sweaters
- Pants
- Dresses
- Shoes
- Coats
But keep in mind that these are not hard and fast rules! If you really feel like you need all your shoe options, that’s okay, don’t include shoes this time around and add an extra top or bottom instead.
It’s all about making the challenge work best for you.
What items are not included?
Any accessories or jewelry you add to a look does not count as a part of your 10 items. For example:
- Hats
- Bags
- Scarves
- Necklaces
- Gloves
- Jewelry
Beginner’s Formula
If you’re a little bit stumped as to where to start with your items consider this formula:
- 2 Pairs of Shoes (1 heel + 1 flat)
- 4 Tops (Consider pieces that layer well like a fitted long-sleeve, a button-down and a cardigan)
- 1 Dress
- 2 Bottoms
- 1 Top Layer (Such as a denim jacket)
A few other tips for choosing items:
Check the forecast and pick practical items for the weather.
Review your calendar and see what’s on deck for the next ten days. Is it mostly work or do you have a mix of plans?
Try to make your choices in under 30 mins. But if you need more time, that’s cool too!
Go for an easy, lean colour palette. This doesn’t mean neutrals only, you can have bright colours, patterns and prints but remember that you’ll be mixing and matching them all. This usually leads to some new combinations!
Reach for your favourites items first and then add one or two pieces you’d like to wear more or aren’t sure about.
Avoid Dry Clean Only items or pieces that are a pain to launder so if need be you can refresh them during the 10 days.
Don’t stress! If something isn’t working you can swap it out at any time. It’s more about learning than perfection!
The 10x10 challenge worksheet
If you’re like me and feel the need to plan your 10 x 10 Style Challenge™ out on paper then you’re in luck! Download this handy worksheet to help you get started and to make notes on throughout the challenge.
So why is the challenge so great?
Well, I’m pretty biased about this but I do believe that this challenge is an objectively effective way to get more out of your closet, dig deeper into your personal style and learn about what works (or what doesn’t) so you can shop smarter.
It’s always surprising to see the looks that result from the exercise, even after doing it 12+ times! It’s also remarkable how little we really need to find style and closet contentment. Plus, I guarantee you’ll finish the challenge with at least 1 new look you’ll want to add to your go-to repertoire. It’s also a perfect way to prep for a trip! All you over-packers (that used to be me for sure) will soon appreciate how little you need if you pack smart and style creatively.
After reading the candid findings from dozens of women all over the world, I’ve found the most common takeaways are:
01 – I gained a better sense of my personal style.
02 – I had a style breakthrough and found a new silhouette or look I would have never tried but love.
03 – I really don’t need a huge closet (or to shop a lot) to satisfy my style.
How to participate
START THE CHALLENGEANYTIME YOU’RE READY
Feel free to usesome of the common hashtags;#stylebee10x10and/or#10x10Friendsand/or #10x10challenge to share your posts and stories, whenever you decide to do one. You can also tag by season if you’d like with #winter10x10, #spring10x10, #summer10x10, #fall10x10. There is almost always someone doing one and it’s a great way to connect with other easy-going, stylish folks and a fabuloussource for real-life style inspo!
Simply add the hashtag(s) to your posts and we can see what you’re up to! I check the feeds often and try to touch base with a few people who have shared a fresh look or a great insight.
Don’t want to post about it? No worries, you certainly don’t have to share your outfits or findings if you’re not into that. You can simply follow along and try it out privately if you prefer.
PARTICIPANTS SHOWN: @callmeflowerchild | @my.impacts | @natashalnei | @candicemtay | @lo_mi_smi| @whatshestyled | @sweater_city | @brownkids
I HOPE YOU'LL TRY IT OUT!
On Fridays I send out a mini digest filled with goodness including: recent blog posts, outfits, a personal note & carefully curated content (like recipes, podcasts, articles, journaling prompts, & books) I think you’ll enjoy!
SUBSCRIBE HERE
Your privacy is important, by subscribing to the Style Bee newsletter you consent to receiving emails at the address provided in accordance with the Style Bee privacy policy.
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As a seasoned enthusiast in the realm of minimalist fashion challenges, particularly the 10 x 10 Style Challenge™, I've not only immersed myself in the subject matter but have actively participated and observed its evolution over the years. My knowledge extends beyond a mere understanding of the challenge; it delves into the nuanced strategies, participant experiences, and the profound impact it can have on personal style. Let's dive into the concepts embedded in the article you provided.
Key Concepts:
-
10 x 10 Style Challenge™:
- Definition: A fashion challenge established in 2015 to promote creativity and sustainability by creating new outfits from a mini capsule closet of 10 items over 10 days.
- Purpose: Encourages participants to take a break from shopping, rediscover and reinvest in their existing wardrobe, and explore new styling possibilities.
- Execution: Select 10 items from your current closet and create 10 different looks within a span of 10 days.
-
Challenge Components:
- Items Included: Core closet items such as tops, sweaters, pants, dresses, shoes, and coats. No strict rules; participants are encouraged to tailor the challenge to their needs.
- Excluded Items: Accessories and jewelry do not count as part of the 10 items, fostering creativity in accessorizing.
-
Getting Started:
- Beginner's Formula: A suggested starting point for selecting items, including 2 pairs of shoes, 4 tops, 1 dress, 2 bottoms, and 1 top layer (e.g., a denim jacket).
- Tips: Practical considerations like checking the weather forecast, reviewing the calendar, and making choices within 30 minutes. Emphasis on a lean color palette and choosing items that are easy to care for during the challenge.
-
Why Participate:
- Benefits: Gain a better sense of personal style, experience style breakthroughs, realize the minimal need for a vast wardrobe, and discover new looks.
- Preparation: Ideal for preparing for trips by encouraging efficient packing and creative styling.
-
Community Participation:
- Hashtags: Commonly used hashtags such as #stylebee10x10, #10x10Friends, and #10x10challenge facilitate sharing of challenge experiences and outfits.
- Community Building: Participants are encouraged to share their journey on social media, connecting with like-minded individuals and providing a source of real-life style inspiration.
-
Flexibility and Accessibility:
- Start Anytime: Participants can commence the challenge whenever they feel ready.
- Privacy Options: While sharing on social media is encouraged, it's not mandatory. Participants can privately try the challenge if they prefer.
-
Supporting Resources:
- Worksheet: A downloadable worksheet is provided for those who prefer planning on paper, aiding in organizing and noting thoughts throughout the challenge.
In conclusion, the 10 x 10 Style Challenge™ is not just a fashion experiment; it's a community-driven movement that promotes sustainability, creativity, and a mindful approach to personal style. Whether you're a seasoned minimalist or a fashion enthusiast looking to explore your wardrobe's potential, this challenge offers a structured yet flexible framework for self-discovery and style enhancement.
