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The Capsule Wardrobe
words by
KRISTA WOHLSTADT // orchard lane
Say goodbye to those ‘I have nothing to wear’ moments, and say hello to the chic and stylish capsule wardrobe!
A capsule wardrobe is a limited selection of interchangeable clothing pieces that complement each other.
With classic pieces that never go out of style and are primarily composed of neutral colours, a capsule wardrobe allows you to create a variety of different outfits with a small selection of clothes.
The benefits to a capsule wardrobe? Less decision fatigue, more space in the wardrobe, as well as less impact on the environment!
Whether you’re looking for methods to make the most of your existing wardrobe, needing guidance on how to pull off certain pieces, or thinking of buying more versatile ensembles, we have all the tips you need to learn the ways of the capsule.
Winter is a great place to begin, with layering at its peak and many different outfit options. Read on!
1 - Audit, declutter and reorganise your wardrobe
The first step to creating a capsule wardrobe is to go through your closet and perform an audit. Do you wear everything that’s hanging up or folded away?
Do a lot of pieces work together or is it an erratic mix? Consider donating, selling or recycling things that don’t fit, you’ve outgrown, or don’t work with your skin tone or body type.
Once you have some space clear, organise what’s left into categories, such as the following:
- Bottoms (non-denim trousers/pants, skirts, and non-denim shorts).
- Denim (long and short).
- Tees and tanks.
- Tops and blouses.
- Sweaters.
- Dresses and jumpsuits.
- Coats and jackets.
While you’re condensing your wardrobe, consider what your personal style might be. What colours you love that work with your skin tone, as well as what works for your body type.
This will help you with the next step.
2 - Plan and create your capsule wardrobe
Choose a colour scheme, with tones and colours that not only suit your skin tone but can be easily matched and interchanged with other items of clothing in your wardrobe.
Black, white, navy, cream, and caramel tones all work together well. You can then add a few accent colours that you love and will match your skin tone and neutral colour scheme.
When creating your capsule wardrobe, begin with the basics.
Bottoms
The bottoms are the foundation for every outfit, as well as the easiest starting point. Choose items that fit well, are comfortable, and can be worn with multiple tops, sweaters, jackets and T-shirts. Neutral tones will be more versatile than bright colours or prints. Consider black pants, as well as light shades such as white, taupe, and caramel. A maxi skirt is also a great piece to dress up an outfit.
Denim
Denim trends come and go, but one style is forever – the straight leg jean. Able to be seamlessly styled for both dressed up and casual moments, the straight leg is the new essential. Find a few different washes – dark, medium, light, as well as a black and neutral pair. This will allow you to dress them up or down with the tops you pair them with.
Basic tees and tanks for layering
Tees are a capsule essential. Look for T-shirts that can be worn both alone and layered under tops, sweaters, coats and jackets. Consider white, cream and black tees, as well as a classic white graphic tee. Match these with tanks in the same shades.
Footwear
Every capsule wardrobe needs a pair of boots, sneakers and sandals. Look for footwear in black, white, tan, and neutral colours. A pop of khaki will also add some colour without breaking the capsule code.
The Staple Sweater
Whether it’s a turtleneck or cropped crewneck, you’ll know this knit is for you when you see it. The sweater you can wear on its own, layer under a coat or blazer, tuck into high waisted jeans or wear over leggings. For a sweater you’ll wear forever, look for cream, caramel or a nautical stripe for maximum wearability.
The Trench
A trench coat is one of those foundational wardrobe staples that you can wear now and forever, never going out of style. Structured and timeless, the trench coat is the perfect addition to the capsule wardrobe.
Coats and Jackets
Having the right coats and jackets will carry you from season to season, as well as add a layer of interest to what you’re wearing. A versatile blazer, denim jacket, leather jacket, winter coat and neutral lightweight jacket are all essential items to carry you through the seasons. This is another item where sticking to neutral colours is ideal for maximum mix and match.
Most importantly, enjoy the process! The idea of a capsule wardrobe is creating outfits and finding timeless pieces and outfits that will make a home in your wardrobe for years to come. Enjoy discovering more about your personal style and taste, while creating your very own curated wardrobe.
