A capsule wardrobe is a streamlined way to trim the excess in your existing wardrobe, reducing it into something more minimalist, and more importantly, more manageable.
What is a capsule wardrobe?
We’ve all had that moment where we’re staring at a closet full of clothes, with nothing to wear. No matter how many dazzling new items you add to your closet, it’s human nature to return to the few items that you always end up wearing. A capsule wardrobe is an ultimate way to maximize those few items while preventing the purchasing of new clothes that you don’t need.
A capsule wardrobe is a streamlined way to trim the excess in your existing wardrobe, reducing it into something more minimalist, and more importantly, more manageable.
The capsule wardrobe helps you purge unnecessary clothes from your closet by comprising a mini wardrobe, made up of extremely versatile garments that you love wearing. Instead of opting for fast fashion, start seeing things from a new perspective. Getting dressed will become a whole lot easier, and decisions will be less exhausting.
Benefits of a capsule wardrobe
Most of us have the tendency to shop without really seeing what’s necessary for our wardrobe. Minimizing your clothing to a capsule wardrobe can maximize your finances, energy, and time like never before. When you shop just once in a season, you save money and waste less time shopping for frivolous items that don’t last or get tossed to the back of your closet shortly after being purchased.
Additionally, narrowing looks and organizing your closet in this way helps you define and understand your own sense of style further.
How to create a capsule wardrobe
See, sort, and choose! First things first, do a closet overhaul by emptying everything on your bed so that you can see what you own. Then, sort through all the garments in your closet, getting rid of what you don’t wear. If you’re on the fence about some of these items, simply put them in storage.
Finally, choose: make up your base wardrobe with your favorite items.
These garments can be a blend of well-loved clothing you already own, leaving some room for on-trend, quality items that you buy once in a season, This will let you evolve your fashion mood with in-season prints, colors, and trends, while keeping a timeless foundation.
Capsule wardrobe essentials
Button-down silk blouse. This is luxurious but versatile for jeans, soft pants, or even a skirt. You can wear this classic with everything from a blazer to a leather jacket. Just make sure to find an elegant neutral such as blush, black, or navy.
White tee. A well-fitted white tee is the best choice for those days when you just can’t decide what to wear. Pair with jeans and a blazer for fork, or with a cute patterned skirt for a Sunday brunch.
Solid colored blouse. T-shirts are great and all, but sometimes you need a more complex blouse for all those other occasions. Choose between a structured button-down, a peplum silhouette, or a feminine wrap blouse.
Chunky sweater. We prefer knit, but you can choose wool or whatever else is more comfortable. Coziness is necessary in all seasons – you can choose lighter or thicker sweaters based on the climate you live in. Whether it’s with a boyfriend jeans or a maxi dress, chunky sweaters make a look more dynamic while keeping you warm.
Two pairs of jeans. One can be a dark wash, and the other can be a light wash. Make sure that one of these pairs is demure enough to wear to a work event, while the other can be a more relaxed fit such as a boyfriend silhouette.
Two pairs of trousers and two skirts. This is the minimum for both of these garments, and you can play with fit and silhouette based on your lifestyle. We suggest switching up the color for each variation, and experimenting with the length for the skirts.
Blazer. From tailored and corporate to oversized and bright, the blazer has always been a closet
Essential for women. It’s a power move in itself and can be styled to fit both off-duty style and a more professional aesthetic.
Silk slip dress. this is supermodel chic forever and can take you from casual to stunningly elegant in a matter of minutes. You can style a button-down over or under this look, layer a sweater over it, and wear with sneakers or heels. Make sure its self as this will creaseless.
How many items are in a capsule wardrobe?
Many people agree that 37 items should be the ideal number of garments, but this can change according to season.
While some sources abide by the 37-garment rule, others go by 50, and hardcore minimalists swear by 10. This part is up to you and your lifestyle – if you attend many events, work from home or work in a dress-code enforced office, these will all entail drastically different wardrobe options.
However, regardless of all these factors, the number should leave you feeling that you have all the basics, and quality pieces that fit you well.