Are you bored of your current clothes? Let me tell you a secret to loving every piece in your closet — building a capsule wardrobe. Learning how to build a capsule wardrobe is a gamechanger. Here’s three reasons why:
- You’ll have endless outfit options because all or most of your clothes will match
- You’ll be saving money over time by investing in long lasting, quality clothing
- You’ll save room in your closet by only having the necessities and pieces you love
Creating a capsule wardrobe can seem daunting (trust me, I’ve been there). I used to be somewhat of a shopaholic. In high school, my friend group would kill time at the mall and shopping was a hobby. I’d buy anything I liked, which led me to having a closet full of trendy clothing that I didn’t love, never wore or that didn’t flatter my body type.
I felt overwhelmed when creating outfits and it was disheartening when certain pieces didn’t fit or look right. I know we’ve all been there. That’s why I did a closet clean out and started building a capsule wardrobe. Let me preface by saying that you’re not going to build a capsule wardrobe overnight — it takes time and money to curate a collection of pieces you love.
If you’re thinking of making the switch, then this guide on how to build a capsule wardrobe is for you. Keep reading to learn more about the process before starting your closet transformation!
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of thoughtfully curated pieces that mix and match together. A capsule wardrobe typically consists of basics that are high quality and long lasting, and doesn’t include trendy pieces. This allows you to maximize the number of outfits that you can create with the pieces you have.
Typically, a capsule wardrobe will include many neutral pieces. This is because neutrals are easier to mix and match, however, this doesn’t mean that you have to get rid of all your “fun” pieces. Your clothes should reflect your personality, even if you have a capsule wardrobe. Make sure you have all your basics, but also invest in statement pieces.
How to Start a Capsule Wardrobe
Declutter!
The first step to building a capsule wardrobe is decluttering your closet. Go through your closet with a realistic approach. Remove everything you don’t wear, don’t like and that doesn’t fit you. By getting rid of old pieces, you are making room for new pieces that you’ll wear more often. You can either sell or donate the clothes you’ve gotten rid of.
After going through your closet, decide which pieces you’re missing. Is there anything you wish you had that you don’t? What piece of clothing would make styling outfits easier? Make a list of pieces you’d like to collect for your capsule wardrobe.
Choose Your Capsule Wardrobe Staples
Now that you’ve cleaned your closet, it’s time to start collecting capsule wardrobe pieces. The goal for building a capsule wardrobe is to find pieces that are functional yet reflect your personal style.
A versatile capsule wardrobe clothing item can be worn multiple ways with multiple different pieces and in different contexts. For example, a pair of pants that can be worn to the office, on an outing with friends or to the bar is a functional and versatile capsule wardrobe piece.
Remember that style is subjective and your clothing should reflect your style. It’s also important to remember that your capsule wardrobe will vary based on the season. Use this as a basic guideline on what to keep an eye out for while building your capsule wardrobe.
Pants/ Bottoms
The types of pants and bottoms you’ll need in your capsule wardrobe will depend on your lifestyle. No matter what type of pants you’re in the market for, make sure to choose pants that:
- Fit well
- Are comfortable
- And, can be worn with multiple types of tops and jackets
Some key pieces to have include neutral-coloured trousers, denim, a casual skirt, an elevated skirt and casual pants.
I work in an office, so I like to have a few neutral coloured trousers with two or three bright coloured trousers.
When it comes to denim, you don’t need too many pairs. I have three go-to jeans: a black, medium and light wash pair. The style is up to you. I have a mix of straight, skinny and mom jeans.
Not everyone likes skirts, and that’s ok. If it’s not your style, don’t buy it. If you do like skirts, I recommend having go-to casual and fancy skirts. A black satin midi skirt can be dressed up or down, which is why it’s my favourite item to have in my closet.
Tops, Tanks & Sweaters
When shopping for shirts, make sure you aren’t buying similar pieces. You want every top to serve a unique purpose and having too many similar pieces makes styling outfits difficult.
T-shirts are more versatile than long sleeves, as they can be worn all year round, so I recommend having a few different t-shirts in your capsule wardrobe. A black and white t-shirt is a must, as you can dress them up or down. Include a few graphics or coloured shirts for days where you want to show more personality.
You should also have a few long sleeves in your closet for colder days. If you live somewhere that gets really cold in the winter then you may have more long sleeves than someone who lives in a warmer climate. Make sure they are versatile and can be worn in different situations.
For summer, you should have a few basic tank tops that you can wear, whether it’s to the beach, a BBQ or to work. For winter, you should have a selection of warm sweaters that you can style for any occasion.
My essentials are:
- 2-5 t-shirts (oversized, graphic, bodysuits)
- 2-3 casual tank tops
- 1-3 work-appropriate tank tops (wide strap or high neck bodysuits, silk or linen cami, blouse)
- 1-3 blouses
- 2-5 heavy sweaters/ cardigans
Jackets
When it comes to jackets, less is more. You really only need one jacket per season: a warm winter puffer, a raincoat/ windbreaker, a denim jacket and a lightweight fall jacket.
You only need the basics for jackets, which is why I like to buy “fun” jackets to enhance my closet. This could be a stylish alternative to my winter puffer like a peacoat or a fur coat. Think of jackets as more than just practical pieces and use them to complete your outfit.
Dresses
Dresses aren’t for everyone and that’s ok! If you like wearing dresses, here are the pieces you should have in your capsule wardrobe.
Everyone should have a little black dress. It’s a basic, can be worn on many occasions and is immediately elevated when worn with heels. You should also have another type of fancy dress that can be worn for special occasions. A midi or maxi dress is a great option, such as a silk midi dress.
For casual outings, you should have a go-to sundress and a comfy t-shirt dress. These are easy pieces that you can throw on when you’re heading out of the house that make you look effortlessly put together.
Shoes
I have never loved shoe shopping, so it’s safe to say that I only have the essentials in my closet. In your capsule wardrobe, you should have:
- Winter boots
- Ankle boots
- Black or nude heels
- Open-toed and close-toed heels
- Sandals
- Flats/ mules
- Sneakers
What to consider when shopping for a capsule wardrobe
Now you’re ready to start building your capsule wardrobe! Here are a few things to remember while you’re shopping:
- Stay away from trendy pieces that you won’t wear in a few months
- Stay true to your style and don’t buy what you “think” you should buy
- It’s ok to spend more money on a high quality piece
- At the same time, avoid cheaply made pieces that will have to be replaced more often
- If you’re not sure, think on it
Want season-specific capsule wardrobe guides? Here’s how to build a capsule wardrobe for spring!
Leave a Reply