How To Create a Capsule Wardrobe (With What You Already Own)
In a world brimming with trends that change faster than you can say "runway," there's an art to curating a timeless and functional wardrobe that stands the test of time. Enter the capsule wardrobe — a game-changer for those yearning to declutter their closets, simplify their mornings, and redefine their personal style.
From selecting versatile pieces to mastering the art of mix and match, I’m sharing principles, strategies, and secrets that will empower you to create your very own capsule wardrobe. Let’s dive into the world of intentional fashion that will revolutionize your closet and transform your life.
Ready to start your own capsule wardrobe? Here’s everything you need to know about getting started. Say goodbye to those “I have nothing to wear” days and hello to unlimited outfit options!
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What is a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a minimalist approach to fashion, where the focus is on a small collection of versatile and high-quality items that can be easily mixed and matched. The concept revolves around curating a limited number of timeless pieces that reflect one's personal style and are suitable for multiple occasions.
In short, a capsule wardrobe is a curated wardrobe made up of versatile pieces that you love to wear. These clothing items should be versatile enough to mix and match for numerous outfit ideas that work for every occasion. So basically, you’ll never have to wonder what to wear again!
What are the benefits of a capsule wardrobe?
When it comes to streamlined living, a capsule wardrobe is your ticket to a more optimized closet. Here's why it's such a game-changer:
Getting ready is a quicker, simpler process - Say goodbye to overwhelming mornings spent in front of a crammed closet. A capsule wardrobe's limited, cohesive selection makes getting dressed a breeze.
It’s eco-friendly - By focusing on fewer, high-quality pieces, you contribute to sustainable living. It's a stylish step towards reducing waste and environmental impact.
It’s cost effective - Investing in versatile, timeless pieces means spending less over time. Quality over quantity pays off!
It helps you get clear on your personal style - A capsule wardrobe forces you to really consider what you love to wear, honing your personal style and boosting confidence.
It creates space and clarity - A decluttered closet leads to a decluttered mind. The minimalist approach of a capsule wardrobe can bring a surprising sense of calm and order to your life.
You’ll shop less - With a focused wardrobe, you're less likely to make impulsive, trend-driven purchases, leading to more thoughtful shopping habits.
By investing in fewer, but better-quality items, a capsule wardrobe offers a practical and stylish solution for a more conscious and streamlined approach to dressing. A capsule wardrobe isn't just about clothes though — it's a lifestyle choice that promotes mindfulness, sustainability, and a sense of personal style!
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What to include in a capsule wardrobe
Creating a capsule wardrobe is all about selecting versatile, timeless pieces that reflect your personal style and lifestyle needs. Here's a basic guide to get you started:
Neutral basics
Start with foundational pieces in neutral colors. Think white tees, black trousers, and simple blouses. These items are your wardrobe style staples that can be easily mixed and matched.
Quality denim
A pair of well-fitting jeans in a classic cut is essential. Choose a style that flatters your body and can be dressed up or down.
Looking for quality denim? Check out this post: My Favorite Abercrombie Denim Jeans
Layering pieces
Cardigans, blazers, and lightweight jackets are key for transitioning between seasons and adding depth to your outfits.
Statement items
Include a few pieces that showcase your personal flair, like a patterned skirt or a unique jacket. These items should still be versatile but add a pop to your wardrobe.
Dress up and down
A little black dress or a tailored jumpsuit can be a lifesaver for both formal and casual occasions.
Comfortable, stylish shoes
Focus on quality footwear that can be worn all day. A pair of sneakers, classic flats, and versatile boots or heels are great choices.
Accessories
Minimal, classic accessories like a leather belt, a simple watch, or a scarf can elevate your look without overpowering it.
Remember, the key to creating a capsule wardrobe is to choose items that you love and that work well together. This means your closet will consist of more pieces that will stand the test of time and can be worn for years, and less of the trendy pieces will only last until a new trend comes along the following season.
Once you master the art of creating a starter capsule wardrobe, you can then go on to create more curated wardrobes that can be worn from season to season. This will make it easier when it comes time to pack up and swap your clothing out for the next season.
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How to create your own capsule wardrobe
Wondering how to create a capsule wardrobe using items you already own? I’m sharing the best tips on how to get started that are Marie Kondo approved!
Step 1: Take stock of what you already own & purge the rest
This first step might seem tedious, but it’s the most crucial part in starting a capsule wardrobe. Take stock of each item in your closet, then evaluate which pieces should stay to help you build your capsule wardrobe.
For the pieces that you’ll be purging, I recommend either donating them or selling them. My favorite app to sell clothes on is Poshmark (use my code NICOLENEISSANY to get $10 just for signing up) but you can also go to a local consignment/thrift shop to see what you can get for them!
TIP: If you have a lot of clothes like me, this process can be a bit overwhelming. I recommend starting with your basics first!
Step 2: Sort your items into four groups: love, maybe, no, & seasonal
Love - The pieces in this group should be items you absolutely love and would wear endlessly. They should fit you and your lifestyle. If you’re happy with them, put them back into your closet first.
TIP: Create a “wardrobe database” using a wardrobe planning app, Google sheets, or my favorite free productivity/organizer app: Notion. Take a photo of each item and upload it to your wardrobe database. This database can help you create and plan outfit ideas, take note of which pieces you wear most, and keep you from accidentally buying a duplicate item.
Maybe - These are the pieces that may not fit 100%, have sentimental value, or you just don’t wear often (TIP: If you haven’t worn it more than once, it belongs in this pile). Put all of these items elsewhere (maybe in a box or a different closet). If you find yourself reaching for an item from this group, put it back in your closet, if you haven’t worn it by the end of the season, place it in your no pile to be donated or sold.
No - These are items that either don’t fit or just don’t like any more. Pack these up to donate or sell them.
Seasonal - These are items that can only be worn per season. There’s no reason to keep all of your clothes for each season mixed together, it will create chaos. Move all of your seasonal pieces into storage to swap back in once the time comes, this way you create an intentional closet space that contains only what you need at that time.
Step 3: Evaluate what’s left & what’s missing
Now that you have narrowed your closet down to the core staple pieces that will start your capsule wardrobe you can use this time to evaluate your personal style, find out what’s missing, and what will need to be purchased to complete your wardrobe.
Maybe this means your jacket collection is complete, but you could use a pair of denim that aren’t skinny jeans. Now that you have taken stock of what you have, you can be more selective about what you purchase going forward. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you can never buy trendy pieces again, it just means that when you do purchase them, you’ll be more intentional with your choices and know that they’ll have a place in your capsule wardrobe.
Tip: Use the money from the items you sold from your “No pile” to purchase items that will fill the gaps in your new capsule wardrobe.
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How to maintain a capsule wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe doesn’t have to feel boring or non-personal, and it definitely doesn’t happen overnight (do yourself a favor and don’t blow your money on a whole new closet thinking it will be your new capsule wardrobe #guilty…don’t worry I learned my lesson quickly enough to make returns).
Like I said before, creating a capsule wardrobe is all about selecting versatile, timeless pieces that reflect your personal style and lifestyle needs. This requires making intentional purchases, not impulse buys, and a strategy to create the perfect capsule wardrobe that best represents you.
However, if you’re like me and you just LOVE shopping and having new clothes, whether it be for everyday or an event, I have good news! After years of trying to build and keep my own capsule wardrobe, I have some tips to help you maintain your capsule wardrobe without sacrificing your urge to shop or stay on trend.
Add to cart but DON’T click the buy button! If the impulse shopper in you went on an “add to cart” spree, don’t hit the buy button right away. Give yourself 24 hours, then go back and reflect on your cart to make sure the items are ACTUALLY what you need.
Reflect before you buy. Open your wardrobe database and if the item you’re shopping for is something that you need to add to your capsule wardrobe then buy it, if not, remove it from your cart ASAP!
Buy, swap, and sell! If you went on an impulse shopping spree, don’t beat yourself up, just make sure you actually wear it! If you get to a point where you’re no longer reaching for it, try closet swapping with someone or selling it on a shopping app like Poshmark!
Rent and wear trendy pieces you love, then return when you’re done! (No, I don’t mean buy, wear, and return) There are several shopping platforms where you rent on-trend clothing to wear for a period of time, then return to swap for something new (This is my favorite way to stay on trend without ending up with a closet filled with things I only wore once!).
Creating a capsule wardrobe may take some time to master, but it should be a fun, intentional process that helps you to create a closet you love and wear for all time!
