A capsule wardrobe is a collection of pieces that match each other easily and save you from tearing hair off your head in the mornings when you go through piles of clothes in search of a passable outfit. The size of the collection is very individual, but every piece in your capsule wardrobe must have a job to complement other items and make you look well-put-together. Follow these 10 steps to build it.
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1. Start with a clear-out
Things that you don’t like, that don’t fit, are not worn much have to go. Donate or sell them without regret. Think about it as a necessary measure for your fashion detox.
2. Take a step back
Who What Wear recommends giving yourself some breathing room before you venture into buying new things. What you already have might be enough if you look at it creatively. Analyse your wardrobe, pair and match, and learn more about your actual style. Just see what it feels like to live with less clothing.
3. Run a test
Try a 5-day challenge. Pick 10 pieces out of your existing clothing and wear only them for the next 5 days. See how it makes you feel.
4. Invest in solid basics
Once you are ready, start shopping for basics, unless you already have them. These can include a white t-shirt, a shirt, a pair of trousers, jeans, a blazer, loafers, white trainers and other essentials. Your wardrobe doesn't have to centre around them, but they will support your more characterful pieces.
Influencer Jessica Skye recommends investing in a good quality white T-shirt that you know will last season after season, and opt for not-so-trend-led pieces that stand the test of time such as a trench coat, and a good pair of jeans and a white shirt.
It’s worth saying that quality basic pieces are worth splurging a little more on, as they are the ones to last and be worn a lot.
5. Spice up with accessories
The right accessories can be game-changers. Scarves, hats, bags, belts, and jewellery don't take much space but have the power to turn any outfit around.
6. Let the capsule match your lifestyle
If you do the office job, you’ll naturally lean towards smart wear, if you are on your feet the whole day, you might well prefer going full comfy. Let your capsule wardrobe support your needs. And don’t let special occasions wear take too much space in your wardrobe. These evening gowns can always be rented.
7. Make it your own
Influencer Anna Cascarina says that the biggest assumption that people make about a capsule wardrobe is that it has to be minimal and neutral. Not at all! It needs to reflect your unique style. It can absolutely include lots of colours and prints. Just ensure that your clothing can be mixed and matched and is not too trend-led.
8. Trends come and go but style stays
If a trend speaks to you and feels intrinsic to your personal style, embrace it. If you can see yourself still loving and wearing this particular trend or item in two years, then it might be a good fit.
9. A capsule wardrobe for different seasons
Consider creating at least two capsule collections - one for the warmer months, and one for the colder ones. It doesn't have to be done from scratch, but should reflect the change in the weather you'll have to deal with. Assembling a holiday capsule wardrobe is also worth looking at.
10. Embrace the imperfections
A capsule wardrobe is not that picture-perfect clothes rail with a few items thrown on it and a stylish woman who looks like she 100% nailed it. Being your own stylist and curating your collection is a journey, not a destination. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Embrace the imperfect, the gaps, and the learning curves.
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