What is a Capsule Wardrobe? The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide
I imagine you have heard of the term ‘The Capsule Wardrobe’. In this post, I am going to explain what a capsule wardrobe is and how you can build yours.
Everyone has their style and I am currently on my journey towards a sustainable fashion style. For the past three years, I have worked towards shopping secondhand, buying no fast fashion and caring for and repairing the items I own. I have had some ups and downs, I’ve regretted some secondhand purchases but have also found some amazing vintage pieces that I will never get rid of.
But I still wake up in the morning, open my wardrobe and think ‘What the heck am I going to wear today?’ After decluttering my wardrobe, I still don’t find it that easy to find an outfit. I tend to wear the same thing all the time and find it hard to put different items together to create one whole outfit that I love.
If you are in a similar boat to me, I have found out how we can resolve this.
The answer? Start your capsule wardrobe!
What is a Capsule Wardrobe: A Beginner’s Guide
What is a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a small selection of clothing that can be swapped around to form several different outfits. This forms the backbone of your wardrobe.
This concept revolves around having fewer clothes and a curated collection of core items that don’t go out of style. These items can then be mixed and matched to create a variety of looks.
The idea was first started by Susie Faux, owner of the London clothing boutique, ‘Wardrobe’ in the 1970s. She noticed her clients were purchasing too many clothes that lacked quality, comfort and fit. They then needed new clothes for the different seasons which was less than optimal. Her philosophy for the perfect capsule wardrobe is to find your style and purchase high-quality items that last year after year. Designer Donna Karan used this idea to design her first capsule collection Seven Easy Pieces in 1985.
Embracing a capsule wardrobe doesn’t mean sacrificing personal style or adhering to a strict number of items. It’s about creating a thoughtful and personalised collection that supports a more intentional way of living.
Why you should have a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe offers several benefits, both practical and psychological.
Here are some advantages:
Simplicity and Ease
A capsule wardrobe simplifies the process of choosing what to wear, as all the items are carefully selected to work well together. This can save time and reduce decision fatigue in the morning.
Saving you Money
While investing in high-quality pieces for a capsule wardrobe may initially seem expensive, in the long run, it can save money. By focusing on versatile, timeless items, you may find yourself spending less on trendy, fast-fashion pieces that quickly go out of style.
Environmental Impact
Capsule wardrobes promote a more sustainable approach to fashion. By investing in quality items and reducing the frequency of clothing purchases, you contribute to lowering your overall environmental footprint. This approach encourages a reduction in consumption, promoting environmentally friendly shopping habits.
Reduced Clutter
Who doesn’t want less clutter in their wardrobe? This will decrease the stress of getting ready in the morning, not knowing what you are going to wear or where to find it!
Improved Style and Cohesiveness
A capsule wardrobe encourages a more intentional approach to style. With fewer items, you can focus on building a cohesive wardrobe that truly reflects your taste and ensures that everything works well together.
Increased Confidence
Knowing that everything in your wardrobe fits well, suits your style, and can be mixed and matched effectively can boost your confidence.
Saves time
With fewer options in your closet, you spend less time worrying about your outfit choices and more time feeling comfortable and self-assured.
Easier Traveling
Packing for trips becomes simpler with a capsule wardrobe since the items are chosen for their versatility. You can pack fewer items and still have a variety of outfit options.
Mindful Consumption
Adopting a capsule wardrobe encourages a more mindful and intentional approach to shopping. You become more aware of your clothing needs and make purchases with a long-term perspective, reducing impulse buying.
What does a capsule wardrobe consist of?
I don’t think there is a correct answer to this, essentially it’s up to you. Even if you and I both had capsule wardrobes, they would both be very different.
Although a capsule wardrobe usually consists of 10-20 core items, there is no set number of items you need to have. The number of extra seasonal pieces you add to your capsule wardrobe is up to you.
I have seen many pictures online that showcase a minimalist capsule wardrobe with only earthy and neutral tones. Don’t let that put you off, you can have a colourful capsule wardrobe if you want. Concentrate on items that make you look and feel great!
There are different types of capsule wardrobes. For example, I live in the UK where it is most likely going to rain or be cold for most of the year. I will therefore have a different capsule wardrobe than someone who lives in Los Angeles, California where the weather is warm or hot for most of the year.
I am also a stay-at-home mum (SAHM) so my day-to-day with my children will look a lot different to someone who works in an office.
How many clothes should you have?
According to the YouTuber The Style Insider there is no magic number of clothes you need to have a capsule wardrobe. It is up to you and what you are comfortable with.
People usually start with their 10-20 core items as well as some more seasonal pieces that can be swapped in and out as the seasons pass. So that will be around 30-50 pieces (including your core capsule pieces) that you use time and time again.
Just remember to focus on the pieces that work for you, your environment and your lifestyle. I have more colour in my wardrobe but I also love the neutral look.
How do you start a capsule wardrobe?
Starting a capsule wardrobe is a fantastic way to streamline your closet, save a lot of time, and focus on what you truly love without spending too much money.
Here are a few ways you can start…
Define Your Style
The first order of business is to define your style, considering individual loves and the most important things in your journey. Identify your personal style preferences. Consider the colours, patterns, and silhouettes that you feel most comfortable and confident in.
Assess Your Lifestyle
Evaluate your daily activities, work requirements, and social commitments. Your wardrobe should cater to your lifestyle and the various occasions you encounter. Like I said before for me it would be a SAHM capsule wardrobe.
Set a Purpose
Determine the purpose of your capsule wardrobe. Whether it’s to simplify your daily routine, embrace a more minimalist lifestyle, or focus on sustainable fashion, having a clear purpose will guide your decisions.
Declutter Your Current Wardrobe
You have to declutter that wardrobe. Begin by decluttering your current clothing pieces, keeping in mind the rule of thumb that high-quality pieces tend to last longer. Take inventory of your existing clothing items. Remove anything that no longer fits, is damaged, or doesn’t align with your style. Donate or responsibly dispose of items you no longer need.
Identify Core Colours
Consider neutral colours like pale blue, black, and white, as they form an excellent base for your capsule wardrobe. You can also add a few accent colours that complement your neutrals. If you’re unsure about colours, consider your skin tone and experiment with a colour scheme that suits you.
Select Essential Basics
Start with foundational pieces such as well-fitting jeans, quality t-shirts, a white button-down shirt, and a versatile jacket. These basics form the backbone of your capsule wardrobe.
Look for versatile pieces from various brands that align with your style, and don’t be afraid to experiment with bright colours or trendy items if they resonate with you.
Remember, there’s no such thing as a magic number when it comes to the set number of items in a capsule wardrobe, so feel free to adapt it to your needs.
How to choose your core items?
Although there is no set number, your capsule wardrobe would usually consist of around 10 to 20 high-quality core items.
Some ways to choose which items to include are:
Neutral colours
Opt for tones like black, white, grey, and navy for maximum versatility.
Classic cuts
Choose simple, timeless designs that remain fashionable over the years.
Comfort
Ensure each piece fits well and feels comfortable to wear.
Some basic core items could include:
Tops
A white T-shirt
White/light-coloured shirt
Silk cami top
Black blazer
Grey jumper
Black dress
Bottoms
Staple pair of jeans
Tailored trousers
Maxi skirt
Shoes
Black leather boots
White trainers
Outerwear
Trench coat
Woollen overcoat
Accessories
Leather belt
Simple scarf
Remember to choose things that you love and will wear a lot.
Consider Seasonal Needs
Assess the climate in your location and include season-appropriate items. Layering pieces and transitional items can help your capsule wardrobe adapt to different weather conditions.
For example, you could bring in a chunky knit jumper for the colder seasons or some more summery items like shorts or cooler fabrics for when the weather gets warmer. You will also have to consider swimwear, hats and underwear.
Add Statement Pieces
Integrate a few statement pieces that add personality to your wardrobe. These could be items like a bold accessory, a unique jacket, or a standout pair of shoes.
Take a hard look at the clothing lines you’ve favoured in the past and identify the best sellers. If you’ve had the wrong colour or regrettable purchase, use it as a learning experience for the future.
For the next season, consider incorporating seasonal trends like a stylish straight-leg jean or a classic sweater dress.
Mindfully Shop for Gaps
Fill in the gaps in your wardrobe with thoughtful and intentional purchases. Focus on quality over quantity and choose items that complement your existing collection.
Keep sustainability in mind, and shop with purpose at various stores. Don’t be swayed by social media influences or the latest denim trends unless they align with your style and preferences.
Your journey towards a more sustainable style is important, and having a capsule wardrobe allows you to make more mindful choices.
Set a Capsule Size
Decide on the number of items you want in your capsule wardrobe. While there’s no strict rule, many people aim for around 20-50 items, including clothing, shoes, and accessories.
Rotate Seasonally
Rotate items in and out of your capsule seasonally to ensure that you are prepared for changing weather and activities.
Experiment and Refine
To ensure your capsule wardrobe remains functional and stylish, regular maintenance is necessary, accompanied by periodic assessments to keep your clothing selection fresh and relevant.
Wear your capsule wardrobe for a while and take note of what works well and what doesn’t. Be open to refining and adjusting your capsule based on your experiences and changing needs.
Is a capsule wardrobe for you?
A capsule wardrobe represents a minimalist approach to fashion, where versatility and simplicity are key. By focusing on quality over quantity, you create a timeless and efficient collection of clothing.
Capsule wardrobes aren’t for everyone. If you love choosing different prints and colours and love experimenting a lot with fashion and can’t resist those trend pieces it might not be the best choice for you.
But if you know your style and have a signature look and love wearing what you own you should give it a go!
This post is a beginner’s guide to building a capsule wardrobe. I hope it was helpful.
Other posts you may like:
STAY AT HOME MUM CAPSULE WARDROBE
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