What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of clothing, shoes, accessories, etc. It’s being able to have classic items in your closet to mix and match with items that fit your style and you are able to add in new pieces or seasonal pieces. Having a capsule wardrobe is great if you want to live a minimalist lifestyle, be organized, or just to help simplify your life.
Is a capsule wardrobe worth it?
Personally, I couldn’t do it but, I applaud anyone who can! This is a hard question, I would say yes and no. This makes styling outfits so much easier, saves you time and money. If you’re someone who wants to start having a minimalist lifestyle or if you have anxiety, I would recommend it. A lot of people are doing a capsule wardrobe because they are trying not to but fast fashion. Fast fashion is inexpensive clothing that is produced quickly by mass-market retailers of the latest trends. These are pieces that usually are not kept long and they are usually created in factories where the working conditions are not that great. This is why I say no, it may put pressure and/or guilt on you to only have these items in your closet and not to buy anything new. Or you may feel guilty from other people. I mean it’s your money, your closet, you do your thing!
How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe?
When I was doing some research I found it a bit confusing and complicated when it comes to the “rules” of building your closet. Your capsule can be 20-50 items, from what I have seen 35-37 pieces as a good range.
Start off with emptying out your closet and keep only the pieces you love. It’s important to have the basic, timeless pieces in your wardrobe no matter what and then build your wardrobe around it. Now add your personal style whether it’s prints, texture, statement pieces or trends to your collection. Next, add shoes and accessories.
Depending on where you live and what you like to wear, depends on what type of capsule you have. For example, if you live in a location that always warm like Florida you don’t need 50 coats like someone who lives in Canda would. Make sure to base your wardrobe on what you like and feel comfortable wearing!
I’ve seen some people that do and don’t include Swimwear, Outerwear (coats, scarfs, rain boots), Underwear, PJs, Special Occasion outfits (cocktail dresses, suits), Workout wear, Jewelry, or Accessories (sunglasses, bags, etc.) in their capsule. It’s your closet so it’s up to you! Your wardrobe can also change depending on the season.
Most of the wardrobes I’ve seen only have black, white, gray, and denim items. I say you can add more “neutral colors” like red, navy, blush, burgundy, leopard print, plaid, and stripes.
For someone who has A LOT of clothing and accessories, I am going to do my best in creating a capsule wardrobe.
My Capsule Collection:
How do you feel about a Capsule Wardrobe? Is this something that you want to do? Let me know in the comment section!
Peace & Love- Joniamac
I never knew about a capsule wardrobe so this was a fun and informative read! I love the idea and I appreciate having more reliable “classics” in the closet to rely on. You also make great points about the environmental impacts and short lifespan of fast fashion. All in all, awesome article, Jonia!
Author
Thank you so much, Steve!
I think a capsule wardrobe is def worth it. It’s something I’ve been trying to get into over the years. It saves money and time. This was very informative in helping build one.
Author
I’m glad you found this helpful! 😀
Great for people who work outside the home.
Author
Totally agree!
I love the idea of capsule wordrobe! It’s good to have a collection of classics. Great post. Thank You!
Author
Thank you! Classic pieces will never go out of style.
I’ve often wondered if a capsule wardrobe might be for me. I seem to end up wearing the same things over and over anyway. I appreciate your tips and especially your example. I just might try it!
Author
Thank you so much! Let me know how it goes!
Love this! I’m trying so hard to be mire minimalistic but I love clothes…
Author
haha, same! You got this tho!
I am minimizing my wardrobe overall and I guess it’s kind of capsule-ish but no strict numbers as of yet! I’m trying to minimize things overall to keep things simple. I love that you wrote about this. Are those pieces in the capsule actually yours or an example of your ideal??
XX Jen
Author
It’s just an example, I am nowhere close to being minimal lol. Good luck, purging through all your stuff. I hope you and your family are doing well.