How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe (And The Term Explained)

We’ve all been there. Searching through item after item in an overpacked closet feeling like you don’t have anything to wear even though a hundred items staring you right in the face tells another story.

But if you are tired of experiencing one clothing crisis after another there might be a perfect solution for you. And that solution is called a capsule wardrobe.

What you’ll find in this article

What is a Capsule Wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a small, carefully curated collection of clothing and accessories that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. The goal of a capsule wardrobe is to streamline your closet, making it easier to get dressed in the morning and simplifying your clothing choices.

One of the key benefits is that it allows you to focus on quality over quantity. Instead of owning a large number of cheap, fast fashion items, you invest in a smaller number of high-quality, classic pieces that will last for years. This not only saves you money in the long run, but it also reduces waste and is more environmentally friendly.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of building a capsule wardrobe, don’t worry – this guide will help you.

The history behind the Capsule Wardrobe

The concept of the capsule wardrobe can be traced back to the 1960s and 1970s when it was popularized by London boutique owner Susie Faux and fashion writer Susannah Constantine. The idea behind a capsule wardrobe is to curate a selection of high-quality, versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a range of outfits.

This approach to dressing aims to streamline the wardrobe and make it easier to get dressed each day, as well as save time and money by reducing the need to constantly shop for new clothes.

Faux and Constantine’s idea of the capsule wardrobe was based on the concept of “uniform dressing,” which involves wearing a consistent, cohesive outfit each day to streamline the dressing process and save time. This approach was popularized by fashion icons such as Coco Chanel, who famously wore a simple black dress and pearls every day.

In the 1980s, designer Donna Karan introduced the concept of the “seven easy pieces,” which were seven high-quality, versatile items that could be mixed and matched to create a range of outfits. This approach was a precursor to the modern capsule wardrobe and inspired many people to curate their own collections of timeless, versatile pieces.

Today, the concept of the capsule wardrobe has evolved and become more popular than ever, with many people seeking to streamline their wardrobes and focus on quality over quantity. The rise of sustainable fashion has also contributed to the popularity of the capsule wardrobe, as it encourages people to invest in a few high-quality, long-lasting pieces rather than constantly buying new, fast fashion items.

The benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe

There are a lot of benefits to creating a capsule wardrobe – both personal and environmental. Down below are just a few of the advantages of a capsule wardrobe that will convince you that it is a concept you should try!

Saves time and money

One of the main benefits of a capsule wardrobe is that it can save you time and money. With a smaller selection of clothes to choose from, you’ll spend less time deciding what to wear each day, and you’ll be less likely to make impulsive unnecessary purchases.

Reduces clutter

A capsule wardrobe can also help you declutter your closet and get rid of clothes that don’t fit or that you don’t wear. This can make getting dressed each day a lot easier and more enjoyable, as you’ll be able to easily see and access all of your clothes. If you find some items you no longer wear remember to give them new life either by selling them, donating them, or hosting a clothes-swap event with your friends!

Encourages mindful consumption

A capsule wardrobe can also help you become more mindful of your consumption habits. By focusing on quality over quantity, you’ll be more likely to invest in high-quality, long-lasting pieces that will stand the test of time. This can help reduce waste and support sustainable fashion practices.

Increases versatility

Another benefit of this type of wardrobe is that it can increase the versatility of your clothes. By choosing a few high-quality, timeless pieces, you’ll be able to mix and match them to create a range of different outfits, allowing you to get more use out of each item.

Enhances personal style

Finally, it can help you enhance your personal style by allowing you to focus on the pieces that truly reflect your unique sense of fashion. With a curated selection of clothes that you love and feel confident in, you’ll be able to create outfits that showcase your style and personality.

12 tips to create a capsule wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a carefully curated selection of clothing and accessories that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. It’s a way to streamline your wardrobe and make getting dressed in the morning a breeze.

If you’re considering building a capsule wardrobe, here are some things to consider:

1. Start by decluttering your closet. Take out any clothes that you haven’t worn in the past year, or that don’t fit well. Be ruthless – the goal is to create a wardrobe that is functional and easy to manage.

2. Determine your personal style. It is all about simplifying your clothing choices, so it’s important to identify the styles and silhouettes that you feel most comfortable and confident in.

3. Choose a color palette. Choose a small number of neutral colors, such as black, white, and grey, as well as a few pops of color. Choose colors that you love and that work well together. By creating a wardrobe built on the principle of minimalist fashion you will make it easier for yourself to mix and match your favorite clothing items.

4. Select a mix of tops, bottoms, and dresses. Aim for a balance of casual and dressy pieces, and consider including a few statement pieces that can be dressed up or down.

5. Accessorize wisely. A few well-chosen accessories can add interest to your outfits and help you get more mileage out of your capsule wardrobe. Consider adding a statement necklace, a scarf, or a belt to your collection.

6. Invest in quality. While a capsule wardrobe is designed to be budget-friendly, it’s worth investing in a few high-quality pieces that will last for years. Look for well-made, classic styles that will stand the test of time.

7. Plan and mix and match. Once you’ve assembled your capsule wardrobe, take some time to plan out your outfits and see how many different combinations you can create. This will help you get the most out of your wardrobe and ensure that you always have something to wear.

8. Don’t be afraid to experiment. As you build your capsule wardrobe, don’t be afraid to try out new styles and trends. This can help you discover new pieces that you love and that work well with your existing wardrobe.

9. Consider your daily activities. When selecting items for your capsule wardrobe, think about the types of activities you’ll be doing on a daily basis. For example, if you work in a more formal office environment, you’ll want to include more professional pieces in your capsule. On the other hand, if you have a more laid-back lifestyle, you can focus on more casual items.

10. Consider the season. It’s important to consider the season when building your capsule wardrobe. For example, if you live in a place with cold winters, you’ll want to include warm jackets, coats, and boots in your capsule. On the other hand, if you live in a warm climate, you’ll want to focus on lightweight, breathable items.

11. Don’t forget about shoes. Shoes are an important part of any capsule wardrobe, as they can completely change the look and feel of an outfit. Choose a few pairs of high-quality, versatile shoes that can be dressed up or down, such as ankle boots, ballet flats, and sneakers.

12. Keep an inspiration board. As you create your capsule wardrobe, it can be helpful to keep an inspiration board or folder with images of outfits and pieces that you love. This can help you stay focused and motivated as you curate your wardrobe.

Sustainable brands to help you create a capsule wardrobe

Check out these amazing, sustainable brands that will help you create a beautiful capsule wardrobe

---

---

---

---

Building a capsule wardrobe can be a fun and rewarding process. By simplifying your clothing choices, you can save time and money, and feel more confident and put-together every day. Give it a try and have fun with it!