When it comes to fashion in the past few years, nothing has garnered as much buzz as the concept of the capsule wardrobe. It has caused division among men and women and inspired thousands of think pieces online, but public opinion remains divided. Some feel a capsule wardrobe is too restrictive and way too boring, while others feel that it gives them the structure and organisation they need in their lives. If you are new to this concept and want to form your own opinion, read on.
What is a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of clothing that has been thoughtfully curated and can be easily interchangeable. Ideally, clothing in a capsule wardrobe.
Capsule wardrobes are great for the environmentally conscious who do not want to participate in overconsumption. They are also suitable for people who do not care much about fashion but still want to look presentable and put-together. Finally, they are great for minimalists who prefer to own less despite enjoying fashion.
Are capsule wardrobes for everyone?
Even though there is a lot of hype for capsule wardrobes, they are not for everyone, and it is understandable. For example, if you are a maximalist and you love to collect clothing, then you most certainly will not find it pleasurable to be confined only to a few core pieces in your wardrobe.
On top of that, it is also important to realise that there is no one way to build a capsule wardrobe. Online, people like to recommend incorporating classic pieces in neutral colours and cuttings. But if that is not who you are, you are free to ditch that thought.
How to build a capsule wardrobe you will actually like
That said, if you are nevertheless keen to start your own collection of carefully curated clothing, below are a few considerations you can keep in mind.
Capsule wardrobe 101 – Consider function
If you are determined to own a small collection of clothes, you need to make sure they will fit your lifestyle. Your clothes should be functional for the person you are and your daily activities. For example, if you are an office worker who works in a professional industry with a strict dress code, your capsule wardrobe should reflect this. You may own lots of blouses in white and dress pants in black, plus a few more relaxed pieces for weekends.
The number one reason why people are not content with their capsule wardrobe is that the clothes they have chosen are not functional. They may have chosen clothes that fit their ‘aspirational selves’ based on what they think they would look good in. However, the reality is that we must live our lives. If you live in a big city where you walk five blocks to get to the subway station every morning, a pair of stilettos is likely not the appropriate daily shoe.
Choose a colour palette you enjoy
Just because you do not own many pieces of clothing does not mean they have to be neutrals. Even though the widespread belief is that people should only wear neutrals, that’s not the case.
If you are someone who loves to mix and match prints and patterns, afraid to incorporate bold pieces into your wardrobe, do it! Of course, it may be wise to include one or two ‘easily changeable items or a more neutral bag that can go with your outfits. But, there is no hard rule on what you can or cannot include in your wardrobe. At the end of the day, you are the one wearing these clothes, and they should make you happy.
Buy slightly higher quality clothes
Not everyone can afford cashmere, wool, silk, and other natural fibres. However, for a capsule wardrobe to work, you should choose slightly higher-quality clothing.
Having good quality clothing you enjoy can also make getting dressed in the morning a much more pleasurable experience.
Finally: think before you buy!
Curating a capsule wardrobe is one thing. Actually wearing the clothes and sticking to them for months and years is another. If you are interested in doing the latter, you should start thinking carefully before you buy. This means asking yourself questions like – do I need this? Why do I want this? Can I wear it with the pieces I already own? Does it look like something I already have? It is comfortable and is it flattering? Part of succeeding at having a capsule wardrobe is not being tempted to buy new clothes every season. It does not mean you can never buy new clothes. But it is important to know what you have already got in your closet and learn how to be content.