A capsule wardrobe is easily one of the best ways to always have a selection of clothing that you can mix and match, and create a stylish outfit no matter the occasion. Here are a few tips to help you create a chic and timeless capsule wardrobe.
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
In simple terms, a capsule wardrobe is a small collection of different pieces that allow you to create multiple outfits for any season or occasion. They come in different forms, and you can create multiple ones, such as a formal one or a Summer one that has a few women’s dresses.
Where to Start
Starting a capsule wardrobe is fairly simple: sort your clothes by season, and then push aside the pieces you aren’t going to wear for the upcoming season, or wear ever again. At this point, you will have all the clothes you wear regularly or will wear regularly for the next few months.
If you are struggling to decide on which pieces still have space in the wardrobe, use the hangar trick. Place all your hangers facing the same way, and then turn it around when you wear the item. You will quickly notice which items you don’t wear and can be donated or given away.
Know What You’re Missing
Identifying what you’re missing can be tricky, but an easy tip is to simply think about other ways outfits can be put together. If you have a lot of bold shirts and tops, you may need a pair of neutral pants or jeans, for example.
As previously mentioned, a capsule wardrobe is about versatility, and therefore, if you are short on ultra-versatile items, you will end up buying more clothes instead of using what you have.
Trends
It is best to avoid trends when creating a timeless capsule wardrobe because, as you determine from that statement, “trend” and “timeless” are like oil and water. A pair of well-fitted blue jeans will still be in fashion in ten years, whereas super-tight leather pants will not.
Capsule Wardrobe Basics
Now that you know the basics of creating a capsule wardrobe, here are a few items that should be part of it.
White T-Shirt
The humble white T-shirt should be part of every capsule wardrobe simply because it can be worn with almost anything, in any season, for any occasion. You can wear one with jeans and sneakers, with a blazer to work, or to wear while lounging around the house. Considering they are quite affordable, purchase several so you always have one on hand.
Jeans
A pair of well-fitted jeans is another must in any capsule wardrobe, almost for the same reasons as needing white T-shirts. Jeans can be worn for formal and casual wear, day or night, to the office or to brunch, and in every season. Standard blue is always the best choice, but grey and black can also work if that is more your look and style.
Trench Coat
If you live somewhere that gets cold in Fall and Winter, you need a trench coat. There is a reason they haven’t gone out of style since they were first made in the 1820s. They suit almost every body shape and type, come in a variety of styles and colors, and can be worn both formally and casually.
Black Leggings
Leggings are the ultimate comfort item, but also something you can wear with a blazer. You can wear them almost every day of the year, and since they are black, you can use them as the perfect base layer that can be offset with a colorful shirt, heels, sneakers, etc.
Blazer
A blazer is a must if you find yourself working somewhere that requires more formal attire, or if you attend a lot of formal events. A blazer can also easily be worn with leggings, jeans, a T-shirt, etc, depending on the occasion.
Tailored Trousers
Tailored trousers are another must simply because they are often a bit more sophisticated than leggings or jeans. Once again, they are perfect for a formal work outfit, and when you find the perfect pair or two, you will inevitably end up wearing them far more often than first thought.
Button-Up Shirt
To cap off the clothing, a a button-up shirt can be both formal and casual, and when you get one that is a neutral color such as white, beige, or grey, it can easily paired with jeans, leggings, or shorts, worn under a blazer, or just thrown on for the school run or a date.
Shoes
When choosing shoes for your capsule wardrobe, it is up to you, but there are a few things you should remember. You still need to have versatility in mind, and because of this, there are a couple of types of shoes to consider.
Firstly, a pair of white or neutral sneakers will always be a good choice. From there, if you want a more formal-focused wardrobe, a pair of black heels is also a good choice. Finally, a pair of sandals, such as Birkenstocks, is ideal when it is warmer outside or you just need something to put on quickly.
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