Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe

By Rachel Mooreland | December 21, 2019

HOW A FEW STATEMENT PIECES CAN CREATE A MULTITUDE OF OUTFITS THAT NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE

With so many Holiday sales happening around this time of the year, it’s so easy to click “add to cart” and enter promo codes for whatever clothing items I have been eyeing all year. A sequined dress, a leopard print button-down, and an orange teddy coat later, I’m set for the season, right? Unfortunately, not really. While I love to wear trendier pieces for certain occasions, I’ve realized that I only wear them once or twice, and then they sit in my closet until they’re forgotten. When I take a step back and think about what pieces I get the most use out of, and that can stand the test of time, it comes down to a few staples. These items make up my Capsule Wardrobe, and I believe they are crucial to have in every closet.

WHAT’S A “CAPSULE WARDROBE”?

It's a term coined by Susie Faux, the owner of a London boutique called "Wardrobe" in the 1970s. According to Faux, a Capsule Wardrobe is a collection of a few essential clothing items that don't go out of fashion, such as skirts, trousers, and coats, which can then be augmented with seasonal pieces (Wikipedia). There are so many perks of having an established capsule wardrobe, and it's easier to create one than you think!

LET’S TALK ABOUT THE BENEFITS

1. IT HELPS YOU DISCOVER YOUR AESTHETIC

It’s easy to shop based on the latest trends that you see on your Instagram feed, but it can feel like it’s almost impossible to keep up with them. A capsule wardrobe allows you to discover your unique look with pieces that last- whether it’s a specific color palette or structure (tailored, oversized, etc.).

2. IT PUSHES YOU TO GET CREATIVE

When you have fewer pieces to work with, you have to flex your creativity muscle slightly more than usual to create different looks. You may have to step outside of your comfort zone to curate new combinations, but if you step out in confidence, I guarantee you’ll make it work! One of the pieces in my capsule is a White Button-Down Shirt. Now, this may seem like an obvious choice, and that’s because it is! A white button-down is so versatile - you can wear it to work with some lovely Black Trousers, dress it down for a casual day out with a pair of Mom Jeans and simple jewelry, or even use it as a base layer underneath a chic Simple Sweater for dinner with the girls. The combinations are endless!

WORK READY

CASUAL DAY

DINNER CHIC

3. YOU’LL DEVELOP A MINIMALISM MINDSET

Purchasing on-trend pieces may be fun in the moment, but before you know it, you will have a closet full of clothes that are not only out of style but taking up space! Focusing on having fewer, better quality pieces that will forever be in style will drive clarity in your aesthetic (see benefit #1). As a bonus, less clutter will make you feel better! Having an organized capsule wardrobe where you can see all of your pieces will help you save time when it comes to getting ready.