Less is more. The minimalist lifestyle has been increasing over the years. Many people have a whole wardrobe of clothes, yet still feel like they have nothing to wear or are overwhelmed by the number of options available to them. If you feel like this, you’re not alone and a capsule wardrobe might be something that can make your life easier.
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Background:
A capsule wardrobe consists of a few basic clothing pieces that can be used to create a variety of outfits. The term “capsule wardrobe” was established by boutique owner Susie Faux in London during the 1970’s. It was used to describe mix and match basics. Her goal was to create minimalistic clothing for women that made them feel confident. The concept was introduced to an American audience in 1985 by designer Donna Karen who created a seven easy pieces line. During her fashion show, she showcased the models wearing the pieces in a variety of outfits, resulting in an increased awareness of a minimal wardrobe.
A capsule wardrobe consists of essential clothing items that work well with each other. Typically, these wardrobes consist of around 35 clothing pieces. Every item in a capsule wardrobe should be something you love to wear. Color palettes for capsule wardrobes heavily rely on neutral colors such as brown, black, grey, and white.
Benefits:
A capsule wardrobe means less decision fatigue when choosing an outfit to wear. Fewer items that you love mean you won't have to worry about picking an outfit you don’t like. Also, this will help you save time because you don’t have to look through piles of clothes in your closet to find the right piece. Since the items are timeless, you won’t have to worry about the clothing pieces going out of style; this results in less time shopping for new clothes, which is great for your wallet and the environment. Many people with a capsule wardrobe avoid buying trendy pieces from fast-fashion retailers.
Starting:
Do an audit of your current wardrobe. Figure out which pieces you like and which pieces can be sold or donated. If you haven't worn a piece in months, there is a high chance you don’t love that item. Also, think about your current lifestyle and the clothing pieces you need. If you work a professional 9-5 job, you’ll need more appropriate business attire. You may find out that you like v-neck shirts and loose-fitting trousers or that you tend to gravitate more towards grey/black clothing items. Make sure to pay attention to the fabric that feels the best on you, too. Synthetic and natural fabrics can feel different on the skin.
To start a capsule wardrobe, you do not have to get rid of all your clothes. It’s important to find a wardrobe that works for you.
Helpful Tips:
Keep your closet to 40 items or less
Wear only items in your wardrobe for a month
Shop at the end of each season (4 times a year)
Only buy items you love that will work with your current wardrobe
Less is more
Invest in high-quality pieces
Essential Items:
T-shirts are simple and can be worn with a variety of bottoms. Buy 3 shirts in varying neutral tones.
Outerwear is a staple for your wardrobe. A denim jacket pairs well with casual looks, and a classic trench coat never goes out of style.
Button-up shirts may not be worn every day if you don’t have a professional job, but it’s important to have at least one in your wardrobe. These shirts can also be worn with casual outfits.
Denim is an essential part of a capsule wardrobe. A simple pair of jeans can be dressed up or down. Try on a variety of fits, so you can find the right pair. Once you determine what fit you like buy one denim pair and another in black.
Shoes are essential for completing the outfit. Three pairs of shoes are necessary for a capsule wardrobe. A white sneaker will go with most casual outfits and make a dressier item more casual. A nude/black heel can be used to dress up a casual outfit or pair with an evening dress. Flats are nice to have when you don’t want to wear sneakers/heels.
A basic black dress can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Look for a silhouette that will work for many different occasions, such as an A-line cut.
Accessories, such as basic hoop earrings and a black purse can be used to accessorize many different outfits.
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