7 Day Challenge: First Test Of A Minimalist Wardrobe
How Oliver Charles redefines staple pieces for your wardrobe.
7 Day Challenge: Testing Yak Wool And Decluttering My Closet
How Oliver Charles redefines staple pieces for your wardrobe.
January 30, 2025
By Ashley Wall
It’s Time To Declutter
Introducing the first blog in my 3-part blog series about capsule wardrobes and their impact on happiness.
This blog is about my 7 Day Challenge, where I document the functionality and flexibility of my Oliver Charles Winter Cable Knit Sweater.
- 7 Day Sweater Challenge
- Capture Your Capsule
- Seasonal Minimalism Is Out
The Sweater That Simplifies Life
What if one sweater could replace your cluttered wardrobe, handle unpredictable weather, and keep you stylish every day?
Enter the Oliver Charles Winter Cable Knit sweater—made from 100% yak wool and designed to thrive in any season.
I wasn’t convinced at first, but after taking the 7 Day Challenge, this sweater proved its unmatched versatility, sustainability, and comfort.
Here’s how it won me over.
Discovering The Magic Of Yak Wool
When I first stumbled across Oliver Charles, I was skeptical. A sweater that people are wearing for 7 to 30 Days straight? That’s bold.
Yak wool, they said, is nature’s miracle fiber—soft as cashmere, more breathable than merino, warmer than alpaca, and odor-resistant like nothing else.
Still, I had questions: Could it truly handle the wild swings of New England weather? Would it stay comfortable and fresh after days of wear?
The moment my Navy Blue Winter Cable Knit sweater arrived, I knew I was in for something different.
Packaged in a reusable canvas bag (now my go-to farmer’s market tote), the sweater felt impossibly soft to the touch. The seamless 3D-knit design was another pleasant surprise. No scratchy seams, no awkward fit—just smooth, luxurious comfort.
The 7 Day Challenge: Putting Yak Wool To The Test
Could I really wear the same sweater for 7 days straight? There was only one way to find out. I put on my sweater and bravely started the clock...
Day 1, The Cozy Kickoff: My challenge began on a cool, work-from-home morning. The sweater’s lightweight warmth was perfect as I sipped my coffee, and by my afternoon walk, the sun was shining.
Despite the temperature shift, I stayed completely comfortable. Yak wool’s thermoregulating properties lived up to the hype.
Day 2, Effortlessly Stylish: A dinner with friends gave me a chance to dress it up. Pairing the sweater with dark jeans and boots, I was ready for a night out. Not only did I feel great, but the compliments came pouring in. One friend couldn’t believe how soft it felt, and another ordered her own! I think I deserve a kickback!
Day 3, Active Comfort: I took the sweater on a small hike, expecting it to feel heavy or hot by the end. To my surprise, it moved with me and wicked away sweat. Yak wool’s breathability is a game changer for anyone who loves both adventure and comfort.
Days 4 & 5, Travel Tested: For a weekend getaway in New England, this sweater became my MVP. Whether exploring the coast, lounging in a chilly hotel lobby, or dining out, it adapted beautifully. Packing light was a breeze—just one sweater for all my activities.
Days 6 & 7, Back to Routine: By the final days, I realized how much mental space I’d saved. No more stressing about what to wear—my sweater had it covered. And despite wearing it for nearly a week straight, it remained odor-free and looked as fresh as day one. The yak wool’s natural odor resistance is practically magic.
Why This 3D-Knit Yak Wool Sweater Was Worth It
The 7 Day Challenge wasn’t just about testing a sweater; it was about building a better relationship with clothes. At the heart of it all was gaining a deeper appreciation for the materials and construction of the items I purchase and give real estate in my closet. Here’s what sets yak wool and 3D-knitting apart:
- Unmatched Versatility: Yak wool kept me warm in the cold and cool in the heat. Yak wool is a very flexible material.
- Odor Resistance: Yak wool is naturally antibacterial, meaning no stink, even after days of wear. I didn't fully understand this magic until I tried it, but wow, it's something else.
- Eco-Friendly: Yak wool is sourced sustainably, unlike its destructive rival, cashmere. It is also biodegradable, and the Oliver Charles yak wool, sourced from the Shokay COOP, supports nomadic herders and grassland conservation.
- Seamless Comfort: Oliver Charles sweaters are 3D-knit and it makes a big difference. The 3D-knit design eliminates irritating seams and ensures a comfortable fit.
- Zero Waste: Oliver Charles sweaters are made on-demand without inventory or fabric waste. This is just a little extra icing on top.
The Takeaway: Simplify Your Wardrobe
Reflecting on my week, I’m convinced: the Oliver Charles Winter Cable Knit sweater is more than clothing, it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Seriously, I already feel like it's made my morning routine simpler and days more enjoyable.
It’s for anyone tired of fast fashion, looking to own fewer, better pieces, and ready to embrace natural, sustainable materials. Whether you’re lounging at home, exploring the great outdoors, or heading to dinner, this sweater can do it all.
Are you ready to take the 7 Day Challenge? Try it for yourself and see how one sweater can transform your wardrobe.
If you believe that every good wardrobe starts with owning less and owning better, consider buying yourself an OLIVER CHARLES sweater.
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