What is a capsule wardrobe?

cap·sule ward·robe (NOUN)

"a person's basic collection of coordinating clothes that can be used to form the basis of outfits for all occasions."

I typically think of a capsule wardrobe like what you might pack in your suitcase. You only have so much space and need to pack items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits for your vacation. By using this mindset when shaping your wardrobe, you buy items that work well together on a day-to-day basis. You aren't tempted to buy as many trendy pieces that will only be worn once, but rather you can focus on building your closet as a package. It's a way to spend less money, time, and effort on your wardrobe.

Why should I try out a capsule wardrobe?

The purpose of a capsule wardrobe is to eliminate those mornings when you feel like you have nothing to wear, even with a full closet. Instead of sifting through mediocre clothes that might not fit right or be appropriate for specific occasions, you'll be gravitating towards pieces you absolutely love to wear because that's all your closet will consist of!

Transforming your closet into a compact wardrobe will help you shop with purpose and not wander aimlessly around stores getting sucked into buying pieces that are way overpriced and not versatile. It also helps reduce stress when deciding what to wear or pack for trips. You won't have to put much thought into what goes together or what looks good on your figure because capsule wardrobe pieces blend seamlessly. You'll be reaching for go-to clothing items that are comfortable, reliable, and look amazing.

How can I create a capsule wardrobe?

1. Clean out your closet-

Get rid of anything that doesn’t fit, is too worn out, or simply not your style anymore. If you're struggling to decide what you no longer need, try the hanger trick. At the beginning of the year, month, etc. hang all your clothes the same way. Once you wear something, turn the hanger to face the opposite direction. Set a time limit like one month and whatever hangers are still facing the original direction are things you haven't worn and probably aren't worth keeping. Whatever is left after cleaning out your closet will be a good foundation for building your capsule wardrobe. You'll probably start to notice similarities in the items you kept and can start figuring out your style preferences from there.

There's no point in wasting space when you're trying to condense your wardrobe. Plus, having fewer items makes deciding what to wear much easier. Don’t just throw it all away though, places like Plato’s Closet, thrift stores, or even giving it to a friend or family member help, so those items don’t go to waste!

2. Build your foundation-

Kick off your new wardrobe by building it from the bottom up. Start with a couple of pairs of jeans, the ones that fit you the best, in a lighter and darker wash, as well as a good pair of black jeans. Add in any other bottoms like skirts, slacks, shorts, etc. that match your style and preference as well as the season. Then you can start to work on your basic tops to mix and match. Comfy, cotton t-shirts or tank tops in solid colors are always a good way to go. A white and black V-neck pair well with everything and are a definite staple in any capsule wardrobe. Add in some neutral cardigans and jackets for layering, and you've got yourself the perfect foundation. Don't limit yourself to a specific number of pieces, but try not to go overboard. Remember that less is always more.

3. Buy Basics-

From here you can continue to build on top of your base with basics catered to your style. Just remember--simplicity is key. Don’t buy extravagant items that can only be worn on several occasions. Fill your closet with essentials like jeans that fit you right, plain, comfy t-shirts, sweaters, cardigans, etc. And try to get most of those items in a neutral color, so they match as much as possible. You’d be surprised how many outfits can be created around a simple black t-shirt or your favorite pair of jeans.

The idea here is to stick to minimalism. Neutrals are your best friend. Simple patterns like stripes or plaid can be a loophole into making basic pieces more interesting. Clean cuts and classic styles are what you should be looking for to build up your wardrobe. Things that you can keep in your closet for a long time, not just a trend that will come and go.

4. Find your color scheme-

Figure out what vibe you’re looking for. Pick a couple of colors that you can mix and match with neutrals that also pair well together. That way, you never have to worry about if your pieces will go together. One option for a solid color scheme consists of neutrals: black, white, gray, navy, cream, brown, nude and a couple muted colors like light pink, dusty rose, maroon, and olive green (see below). You can tailor this step specifically to your preference and your style and really make your capsule wardrobe feel personalized.

5. Look for ways to layer-

Having a capsule wardrobe means finding ways to make your clothing items work in all types of weather. When buying a new piece, try to envision all the different ways you can wear it. Ask yourself if you can layer it under cardigans or jackets or wear it on top of tank tops and sweaters. Size up or down to compensate for other clothing items being worn under or over the top.

6. Shop for quality-

Trying to shrink your wardrobe into staple pieces means they’ll have to be durable and last you plenty of washes. Don’t get tricked into cheap clothes that won’t hold up. It might be painful to drop $30 on a plain white tee, but that comfy, higher-quality shirt will be a go-to piece that keeps its shape, color, and texture.

7. Find versatile statement pieces-

No, your entire wardrobe doesn’t have to be plain and basic. However, when you do find a bold, unique piece, make sure it can still be incorporated into the rest of your wardrobe. Be sure to buy statement pieces that pair well with your color scheme and can be used to dress an outfit up or down. Try to envision yourself wearing it with several outfits for different occasions, and if it’s only a one-hit wonder, leave it behind in the store.

This step should be tailored completely to your style. If floral is your thing, splurge on a colorful jacket that can be layered over several different colored shirts. If you really like the color red and have a lot of neutral tops, find a pair of scarlet skinny jeans to dress those tops up. Whatever it is--this is the way to spice up all the basic items you own and really have fun with your style.

8. Keep it cohesive-

Capsule wardrobes mean making the most out of the few items you have. Choose things that you can often wear in a variety of situations. Find new pieces that match your color scheme. Just remember to think of your closet as a whole and choose to add new items that compliment what you already have. Buy things because they can serve a purpose for you, not just because they're cute.

9. Don't forget shoes & accessories-

Don't forget how much shoes and accessories can influence an outfit. A casual pair of jeans and a plain white tee might seem laid back, but throw on some bright red lipstick and a pair of adorable black booties, and you've got yourself a whole different look. This is another way you can really let your style shine and really make each outfit your own!

10. Change with the season-

You don't have to keep every piece of clothing year-round. You can keep basic pieces and add or subtract seasonal pieces or colors. During Autumn, add in some Fall colors like dark orange and throw in some boots and cute jackets. Once winter rolls around add in some heavy-duty scarves on top of that. Spring can bring in some pretty floral or pastel pieces and summer allows for more tank tops and light dresses. Give yourself some wiggle room when the weather changes and allow some change. Store the things you aren't wearing and bring them back out again once that season rolls around.