How to get a capsule wardrobe.

A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of essential, high-quality clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. But with so much in our wardrobes (much of it unused) how do we determine how to create a capsule wardrobe and how do we begin to put it together?

Step 1: Define Your Style

The first step in building a capsule wardrobe is to define your personal style. It’s essential to choose items that suit your tastes and preferences. Start by assessing your current wardrobe and identifying the clothing items you love and wear regularly.

Think about the colours you are most comfortable in, and if you have patterned items will they work with other items you have selected? Choose the items with cuts that flatter your body type and complement your skin tone. This step will help you determine the foundation of your capsule wardrobe.

Step 2: Assess Your Needs

The next step is to assess your lifestyle and the types of events you attend regularly. Consider your job, hobbies, and social activities, and identify the types of clothing you’ll need for these occasions. For example, if you work in a corporate environment, you may need formal attire, whereas if you’re a stay-at-home parent, comfortable and casual clothing may be more suitable.

Step 3: Pare Down Your Current Wardrobe

A great opportunity to start de-cluttering and sorting out what you need and what you don’t! This step may be challenging, but it’s essential. Start by removing any clothing items that you haven’t worn in the past year, don’t fit you well, or don’t suit your style. Sell or donate the items that are in good condition, and discard the ones that are damaged or worn out. Be ruthless, if you have allowed a whole year to pass without wearing it, then it’s time to say goodbye.

Step 4: Choose Your Essential Items

Once you’ve pared down your wardrobe, the next step is to identify the essential items you’ll need for your capsule wardrobe. These items should be versatile, high-quality, and timeless. Some essential items you may consider include:

– A well-fitted blazer or jacket

– A pair of tailored trousers or jeans

– A versatile dress or skirt

– A classic white shirt or blouse

– A cozy sweater or cardigan

– A comfortable pair of flats or trainers

– A pair of neutral-coloured heels or boots

– A functional handbag (or two!)

Step 5: Add Colour and Patterns

While a capsule wardrobe is primarily based on neutrals, you can add pops of colour and pattern to your outfits. However, don’t overdo it. Stick to a colour palette that complements your skin tone and hair colour, and choose patterns that are easy to mix and match. For example, you could add a patterned scarf or a colourful belt to a plain outfit, or even a coloured handbag.

Step 6: Purchase High-Quality Pieces

When building a capsule wardrobe, it’s essential to invest in high-quality pieces that will last you for years to come. This step may require a significant initial investment (if you buy new), but it will save you money in the long run, so the best way to do this is by buying preloved. Look for clothing items made from natural fibres like cotton, wool, and silk, and choose items that are well-constructed and meant to last.

Summary

In conclusion, building a capsule wardrobe is a process that takes time, effort, and careful consideration. Follow these steps, define your personal style, assess your needs, pare down your current wardrobe, choose your essential items, add colour and pattern, and invest in high-quality pieces. With a well-curated capsule wardrobe, you’ll have a versatile and timeless collection of clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. And for all those items you don’t need you can sell them and earn some money!

Why not join the Dress community of savvy shoppers and sellers? You can sign up with us here and start recycling your unwanted items, whilst finding those unique, classic items for your all new capsule wardrobe at a fraction of their original price.

Happy decluttering!
Christine x