“Oh no, there’s just way too many options! I don’t have anything to wear!”
Does this sound like you? It’s called decision fatigue. Spending a lot of time and energy every day combing through your closet just to get more confused about what to wear. And although you have piles and piles of clothes, you still feel as if you don't have enough of them to wear.
Did we get the dilemma right to a tee? (Pun intended!)
If this sounds like you, then consider building a capsule wardrobe to solve the problem.
With a capsule wardrobe, not only do you eliminate the burden of choosing from a million possible options, but you can also save a lot of time by eliminating unnecessary wardrobe shopping.
Here, we'll show you how to build a capsule wardrobe – but first, let's talk about what it is.
What is a capsule wardrobe?
With the growing sustainability movement, capsule wardrobes have become a buzzword recently.
Minimalist living is also becoming popular, so individuals around the world are adopting capsule wardrobes as a means of getting things in order and following a more simple, sustainable lifestyle.
A capsule wardrobe, in a nutshell, is a simplified version of your wardrobe that features more essential pieces that transcend seasons and trends.
It’s a collection of versatile pieces that you love wearing and plan on keeping long term vs short term fast fashion pieces.
The capsule wardrobe collection consists of items that are more of your style, that can be mixed and matched with the rest of your wardrobe for maximum versatility and variety.
Benefits of a capsule wardrobe
First and foremost, it saves you money. With a versatile wardrobe staple that is stylish and functional, you don't need to buy a lot of clothes.
Secondly, it saves you time. No more decision fatigue. With just a curated collection, you can pick, mix and match, and go on with your day in a breeze. Less stress too!
Lastly, it saves the earth. You can get rid of the fast-fashion black hole and be more intentional with your shopping.
How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe
Keep in mind that there is no right or wrong way to build a capsule wardrobe!
It’s your style, so ultimately it’s your call. But following these steps will surely help you get started.
1. Check your fashion and lifestyle.
Before starting anything, you should have a good sense of your fashion style, routines, and needs. This will dictate how you choose your clothes daily.
Ask yourself what your style is, and analyze your everyday fashion activities. Check your color palettes and your fabrics of preference.
2. Get it out!
Make an audit of your current wardrobe, pull them all out and pile them in a single space, Marie Kondo style.
This lets you see how many clothes you own and gives you an idea of how many are not essential and actually don’t need anymore. For example, if you haven’t worn it in over a year, it’s probably not essential.
3. Do the edit.
Check the pieces one by one and pick out only those that “spark joy.” You should get rid of the pieces that don't fit you, that you no longer desire, and the clothes you didn’t wear for years.
Remember: You don’t need to throw them away, you can sell them or donate them.
4. Plan your way!
Create a plan for your closet wardrobe. Determine the number of pieces you retain and the types of clothing, fabric, and style that will become your new collection.
According to Caroline Rector of Un-Fancy, the sweet spot is 37 pieces of clothes. But it all depends on you! Just make sure you won’t find yourself again in the rabbit hole of wardrobe choices.
Pro tip: Start with your base wardrobe.
Need help? Take a look at our lookbook here for guidance and inspiration!
5. Categorize them.
Now that you’ve planned them out, it’s time to organize your collection in a way that makes sense for you. Here are a few examples:
- Everyday wear
- Per seasons (winter, spring, summer, fall)
- Formal wear
- Fitness/Sports
- Mix and match and add-ons
6. Think neutrals.
Neutral clothing is the most versatile one and never goes out of style. More so, they pair well together. With neutral colors in your wardrobe staple, you can surely make the most of your closet.
Think khaki trench coats, cream sweaters, and black suit pants. You can look well put together and classy without all the stressful closet-rummaging mornings.
7. Quality over quantity mantra.
Choose clothing pieces that stand the test of time and seasons. These are the clothes you can wear time and time again. Remember fabric quality and construction are important factors to consider - especially if you want your clothes to last.
Avoid clothes that quickly go out of style. Think back to how many times you need to go shopping because of your need to replace worn-out clothes.
Quality pieces go beyond regular wear and tear and save you money in the long run.
8. Wear, re-wear, repeat.
No…this doesn’t mean wearing the same boring outfit every day! It means letting your creative self shine by mixing and matching wardrobe pieces. When you carry yourself with confidence and class, people won’t even notice – or care – that you’re wearing the same tank top.
Rewearing clothing pieces also establishes your fashion and eye for style.
9. Shop intentionally.
Once you’ve started creating and building your capsule wardrobe from scratch, create a wishlist of the missing pieces of your collection and shop intentionally.
Of course, you’re allowed to go shopping, but this time, you have to ask yourself if the clothing pieces you buy are really something you need.
Sustainability should also be included in your intentions when shopping! Since this is a revamp of your wardrobe, consider options that are kinder to the planet and to the people.
Here are our eco-friendly, ethically made, and comfy & pretty pieces to help complete your capsule!
10. Cut the bandwagon!
Just because it looks good on someone on Instagram doesn’t mean you have to buy it. We all fall into this trap from time to time, and most of the time to our detriment.
Cut the bandwagon lifestyle by being loyal to your unique style, and not swayed by the ever-changing fast trends.
You look good as you are, with your style and with your unique self! No need to be someone else.
Wrapping Up the Capsule
Now that you’ve learned about these 10 steps to create your personal capsule wardrobe, it’s time to get to started!
Let the idea of simple living and saving mother earth inspire you to move and transform your life into a more streamlined, intentional, and fashionable direction.
Less is always more, so they say, and with a purposeful wardrobe cleansing, you’re well on your way to a resourceful, guilt-free, and stylish living.
Get ready to build that capsule!
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