How To Create A Capsule Wardrobe

You know when you’re getting ready for a simple dinner out with friends and you end up trying on six different tops, two pairs of jeans, change bras and underwear only to end up wearing the very first outfit you tried on out of pure frustration and exhaustion? It’s such a time suck, but there’s good news…

It’s avoidable.

Items purchased with the intention to work when mixed and matched is one of fashion’s greatest secrets.

This concept of creating a capsule wardrobe makes for getting ready a hell of a lot easier, faster, and more efficient. It’s about sticking to the basics with timeless, good quality pieces.

I am not saying to throw away your sequin tops and one of a kind pieces. Oh hell no, don’t do that. Keep that sh*t.

I’m saying for an everyday on-the-go wardrobe, get a capsule down so your life can be streamlined and you won’t waste time staring at a sea of clothing. You want pieces that you know fit well and work well together.

Capsule wardrobing will also help you stay mindful of your budget and consumption, which is good for your bank account and our planet.

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Here’s how this works.

• First, consider thinning out your closet. Go ahead and donate anything taking up space.
• If you haven’t worn it the last two seasons, it’s time to say sayonara. I know how hard this can be to do, but get it done. Someone out there will cherish what no longer serves you.
• Try using the Skimm hanger trick.
• Once you have cleaned out your closet, consider your palette. I love creams, blacks, earth tones, grays, and denim. What hues match your vibe and personality?
• Time to choose the type of basics you want. The trick here is to think, layering.
• Conceptualize the type of ensembles you admire. Create a file/board on Instagram or Pinterest for inspiration.
• Keep in mind you don’t have to capsule your entire wardrobe. You can do this strictly for work attire or travel wear.
• Buy a belt. It helps tie everything together. It’s the finishing touch. The Gap has nice belts and always major sales. 
• When perusing the items below, imagine how they can be worn with one another. Trust when I tell you, you will where the hell out of a good cami, blazer, and pair of pants.
• Shop around! Work with your budget. Buy one piece a month and build. You do not need to do this all in one shopping trip. Hell to the no.
• Use accessories to personalize your creation. Think your grandma’s cocktail jewerly, some diamonds, or a killer headband. Maybe like Michelle, glasses are your thing. The best part of this method is it’s easy, fast, and you get to create!
• The even better part – you may already be doing all of this!

How many items:

9 Tops

5 Bottoms

5 Shoes

 

Most of the options below come in a plethora of colors. Choose what best suits your desired color scheme.

 

1. Camisole / Aritzia ($58)  2.  Power Blazer / Aritzia ($198) 3. Denim Pencil Skirt / Everlane ($65) 4. Drappy Popover Shirt / Madewell ($59)    5. Modern Crew Neck T-Shirt / Gap ($12) 6. Khaki Trousers / Topshop ($75) 7. Leopard Print Silk Slip Skirt / Aritzia ($110) 8. Power Blouse / Aritzia ($98) 9. Micro Rib Turtleneck / Everlane ($35) 10. High Rise Jeggings / Gap ($61) 11.Paperbag Pant / J.Crew ($128) 12. V-Neck Cashmere Sweater / Nordstrom ($49) 13. Whisper Cotton V-Neck / Madewell ($19)  14. Crop Cardigan / Everlane ($98)

Imagine mixing and matching these bits and pieces.

Don’t forget about your footwear.

1. Starland Loafer / Franco Sarto ($99) 2.Linnie Bit Mule / Sam Edelman ($120) 3.Felicia Wedge Bootie / Nordstrom ($120) 4.Square Toe Bootie / Vince Camuto ($80) 5.The Editor Heel / Everlane ($165) 6. Bea Embroidered Suede Bootie / Madewell ($210)

 

Honorable Mentions

Gap Crew Neck T-Shirt / This is hands down the best t-shirt I have ever worn. It washes and wears exceptionally well. It comes in white, gray, black, and navy.

Aritzia Blouse / Here is a blouse that is both feminine and comfortable. It lays perfectly whether it’s tucked in or free flowing. You can dress it up or down. I bought it for my mom’s funeral  and although it took me a good few months to put it back on again, it’s now a main piece and I want it in every freaking color.

Everlane / Everlane is all about creating capsule pieces the ethical way. Another core belief is full transparency, so they let consumers in on how much it actully costs to make their clothes. More on their mission here. 

So, what are your thoughts on capsule  wardrobes? Do you already do it, will you be planning one? We want to hear from you! Tell us what you think in the comments below.