THE ULTIMATE GUIDE: HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE
Want a minimalist capsule wardrobe? Then this guide is perfect for beginners and will teach you how to build a capsule wardrobe in a few easy steps. If you’re new to the concept then you may be wondering what is a capsule wardrobe? A capsule wardrobe is simply a collection of clothing composed of thoughtfully curated, easily interchangeable items designed to maximise the number of outfits you can create!
Less decision fatigue: Everyone is always worried that having fewer clothes would feel too limiting, however, having fewer options makes it significantly easier to decide what to wear. Having a capsule wardrobe allows you to get more creative with your wardrobe compared to having hundreds of unnecessary items hanging in your closet.
Capsule wardrobes are better for the planet: Purchasing fewer items of clothes also means that you are contributing to less fashion waste every year. Less clothing means fewer chemicals in our water and oceans, less clothing in landfill and smaller carbon footprint
You can afford nicer stuff: When you stop purchasing clothes that you don’t need, you have more money to invest in timeless, high-quality pieces that will last multiple wears and seasons.
You’ll reduce unnecessary stress and overwhelm: Clutter increases cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. By downsizing your wardrobe, you clear your physical clutter from your home, and your wardrobe suddenly becomes a more open and calming environment. Also, getting dressed is stress free and fun when you have a capsule wardrobe.
Benefits of a capsule wardrobe
How to build a capsule wardrobe: Your simple 3-step guide
Step 1: Declutter your wardrobe
The first step in building your minimalist capsule wardrobe is throwing things out of your current wardrobe that you know you are ready to part with. In doing this you are able to clear the clutter from your wardrobe so that you can focus on building your capsule wardrobe full of piece that you love. Donate, sell or recycle things that you are removing from your wardrobe and then clear some space in your closet and organise what’s left into categories.
Step 2: Choose your core capsule pieces
When choosing what pieces to add into your capsule wardrobe look for quality basics that are both functional and versatile. A functional piece of clothing is practical, useful and suits your current lifestyle. A versatile piece of clothing is one that easily pairs with other clothes and can be styled in multiple different ways and worn in a variety of different contexts.
Tips for choosing bottoms for your capsule wardrobe
Bottoms are the foundation of an outfit. They are the easiest starting point whether you’re building a capsule wardrobe or a simple outfit. Choose bottoms that fit well, are comfortable and can be worn with multiple tops, sweaters, jackets and tees. Neutrals are always more versatile than bold bright prints so you definitely want to build your basics first. While most bottoms can be worn all year round you will probably need bottoms for different seasons. For example more flowy trousers during warmer seasons and heavier trousers during winter seasons. Some key capsule bottoms to consider include black seasonal trousers, cotton or linen shorts, knee-length skirt, midi skirt or maxi skirt and light coloured trousers. See below for some of our top capsule wardrobe bottom options.
Tips for choosing denim for your capsule wardrobe
Denim is another key foundation of your capsule wardrobe. Make sure to have a few different washes for example dark wash, medium wash, light wash, black or white. Neutral colour will give you maximum versatility and allow you to dress up or down the tops you pair them with. Make sure to find brands and styles that fit you best. Some denim options to consider include skinny jeans or straight-leg denim jeans, medium-wash mom jeans, light-wash wide-leg or destroyed denim and 1-2 pairs of denim shorts. If you don’t have pairs of denim jeans that you love, I highly recommend trying the following options hand picked by us!
Tips for choosing tops & blouses for your capsule wardrobe
Good neutral tops & blouses are another capsule wardrobe essential. Look for tops that can be worn alone and layered under tops or jackets. Short sleeves are generally more versatile since they can be worn all year round and layered under other items during cooler months however a long sleeve top is essential during the cooler seasons. Knit tops are another crowd favourite, seriously trending right now knit tops are a perfect addition to your capsule wardrobe especially if they come in neutral colours.
Keep reading for Step 3….
Tips for choosing dresses & jumpsuits for your capsule wardrobe
There are two categories left, don’t quit now! Look for neutral dresses that are either sleeveless or short-sleeved, and that can be layered under a cardigan, blazer or jacket. You’ll get the most use out of these since they can be worn throughout all seasons! Floral and fun print can also earn a spot in your capsule wardrobe if it can be worn a few different ways. Length is also an important factor when choosing capsule wardrobe dress pieces. I love midi-length dresses because they are flattering and can be easily dresses up or down. However everybody has to own a little black dress or a gorgeous flowy maxi dress. Knit dresses are also a great option as they can be worn for any occasion. We love a good jumpsuit when you are feeling a little over dresses. Opt for a dressy jumpsuit piece to be worn for events or a more casual style jumpsuit that can be dresses up with heels when the event arises. Some of our top dress and jumpsuit picks are seen below.
Tips for choosing coats & jackets for your capsule wardrobe
Having the right coats and jackets in your capsule wardrobe will carry you from season to season and add a layer of interest to your outfit. Make sure to identify jackets that you can wear the most and that work in the current season and beyond. When it comes to outwear, weight and colour are very important. Neutrals will always be more versatile than prints and bold colours, although we are in the era or bright bold colour and prints aim to keep this to a minimum if you are aiming for a minimalist wardrobe. Here are some keep capsule wardrobe jackets and coats to consider:
Neutral lightweight jackets
Lined, midweight jacket
Heavier winter coat
A note on choosing shoes for a capsule wardrobe
When it comes to footwear, there is no need for excessive amounts however having a variety of shoes will allow you to create more outfit options with fewer clothes. Some essential shoes to consider for your capsule wardrobe include:
Neutral or white sneakers
Nude heels
Neutral everyday flats
Strappy sandals
Athletic sneakers
All-weather boots
Step 3: Create 10 everyday outfits
Now that you’ve reorganised your wardrobe and picked out your capsule pieces, the next step is to create 10 (or more) everyday outfits with the items you’ve placed back in your wardrobe. Having pre-planned, everyday outfits will put your mind at ease and make you feel more comfortable with your smaller wardrobe as well as save you a whole lot more time when getting dressed.
Tips for creating everyday outfits:
Get inspiration from Pinterest: Pinterest is an awesome source of inspiration as you can search for outfit ideas for the clothes you already own. Pin your favourite looks and if you see something you don’t have aim to substitute it where possible.
Take photos: As you create outfits that you like, document the details through taking a picture for future reference. You can create a “Capsule Wardrobe” folder on our camera roll so that you have easy access to them everyday.
Start with one pair of bottoms: I would recommend starting with one pair of bottoms or denim and seeing how many outfits you can make with your capsule tops, sweaters and jackets.
Don’t forget accessories!: Shoes, jackets, and accessories are a key party of any outfit, make sure to take the time to see what accessory options you have as they can take your outfit to the next level.
The Everygirl’s 2022 Holiday Capsule Wardrobe
The holiday season is inevitably packed with events that involve far more than just the actual day of each holiday. From celebrations with friends to Secret Santa gift exchanges to walking around looking at holiday lights, it really does turn into an entire season of outfits on it’s own - which makes for the perfect capsule wardrobe opportunity, where you can mix and match pieces together to create an endless amount of festive looks for any event that may arise. It’s officially time to make the very most of the 2022 holidays, and we’ve made a list, and checked it twice, and created the ultimate capsule wardrobe that will ensure you celebrate in style!
Outfit ideas for a formal party
You can’t make it through the holiday season without at least one formal event. If you live for dresses then opt for a satin or sequin midi length party dress. Colour is a must this year however we understand that these pieces are not often found in a capsule wardrobe however after a year of the dopamine trend running rampage it’s hard not to have a colourful statement piece waiting to be worn in your wardrobe. A formal occasion is your chance to wear those extra over the top classy dresses that you can’t wear out to any ordinary dinner. It is a given this year sequin or diamante must be a staple in your party season outfits, opt for a clutch, pair of heels or jewellery that lets this trend shine through. It will also elevate your outfit that little bit extra by letting your outfit shine at any event.
Outfit ideas for your office party
Big work event coming up? Dressing for a work party can be complicated. You want to tread that fine line between looking dazzling and presentable enough that you can still look your supervisor in the eye come Monday morning. Opt for a dressy jumpsuit for a work party at a function venue or a classy butterfly sleeve blouse and shorts combo paired with an elegant pair of heels and of course an over the top clutch!
Outfit idea for your significant others family party
The holiday season is stressful enough without the added nerves of going to your S.O’s family party (what do you wear to impress someone’s grandma?) Keep it safe with a smart pair of trousers, a classic off-the-shoulder top or a classic skirt and blouse combo. Opt for a faux leather midi skirt or a fun midi-length loose fitted skirt for warmer weather occasions. Tie it all together with a classic nude heel and clutch combo for the ultimate family gathering fit.
Outfit idea for a festive dinner with friends
For your holiday reservation to celebrate the holidays with friends, opt for a cute matching set or mix and match your basic shorts and tops. Trending this year - bustier corset tops are hotter than ever so we definitely suggest mixing and matching that wardrobe staple and adding your blingy heels and clutch to elevate the look.
