Creating your capsule wardrobe should be a statement of your personal style. A capsule wardrobe consists of a set of tops, bottoms, dresses, shoes, accessories etc that can be easily mixed and matched together and dressed up or down. When a wardrobe is considered ‘capsule’, it should be a streamlined edit of items that all work well together, pieces that complement one other. This helps you to ensure that nothing goes unused or unworn. Consider how to style what is already loved in your wardrobe, and only invest in something new if it’s going to help you wear these more.
It is perfect for the busy modern woman and the goal is to reduce decision fatigue and cut down on time spent putting together outfits. Minimum effort for maximum effect.
Capsule wardrobes are often considered to be an eco-friendlier approach to dressing because you’re buying fewer but better quality and trend-proof pieces that you’ll wear for longer.
Your wardrobe capsule should include:
- The neutral tones – These tend to be the whites/off-whites, creams, navy, brown, black, grey tones. Use these to form the solid items in your wardrobe ie your pants, jackets, basic shirts etc. Think uniform for work – setting the palette.
- The bold tones – the stronger, rich colours/patterns– should form the highlighting items. ie a dramatic coloured shirt, a vest, a scarf, accessories. Think going out.
- The softer tones – the items that surround your face – ie shirts, dresses, scarves. Think everyday wear.
- Remember to add some texture and print to your wardrobe to give it dynamics. Textures include denim, lace, velvet, linen, etc. Always include some denim, both blue and black jeans as a minimum. Prints and stripes can then be used to accentuate features and minimise flaws.
- Don’t forget the basics! These are your staple items that you will need and that never go out of fashion. Invest your money in these – it is worthwhile paying more for a staple that will wear well and stand the test of time! These are things like a great pair of jeans, a well cut jacket, a good quality coat; then pants, skirt, jumper, belts and your little black dress.
- Add in the extras…these are your personality items. They might be a floral dress, a lacy top, a fringe vest, whatever expresses your style. Additionally, avoid trend pieces where possible because you are trying to build a capsule that will stand the test of time and you don’t want to waste money on items that will fade quickly.
- Shoe basics. The basics for shoes are white sneakers, black ballet flats, nude heels, tan sandals, black sandals, and black heeled boots. Additionally, you can add in some personality in one of your dramatic colours if you want!
- And finally, make it all pop with Accessories! Your accessories pull it all together and take your outfit from okay to WOW. Choose carefully. You want them to fit your style and personality. A classic black handbag and sunglasses is your starting point.
I hope this helps you to create the perfect wardrobe for you!