Capsule Wardrobe: What Is It?
By simple definition, a capsule wardrobe is a defined wardrobe made up of truly versatile pieces you absolutely LOVE to wear.
Susie Faux coined the term in 1970's London. According to Faux, a capsule wardrobe is a collection of a few essential items of clothing that don't go out of fashion, such as skirts, pants, and coats, which can then be augmented with seasonal pieces. In 1985 when Donna Karan released a capsule collection called "Seven Easy Pieces" of interchangeable work wear capsule wardrobes peaked. And with the minimalist lifestyle gaining more and more traction, it's no surprise removing clutter from the closet was the next step.
Capsule wardrobes provide an easy-to-understand framework to make shopping and getting dressed simplified. There is no more worrying if an item will go with another item or if certain things can be worn together because everything works with everything else.
A quick Google search will provide you with a ton of articles all sharing their tips on how to create a capsule wardrobe and the number of items you're allowed or limited to. But I am of the mindset to not limit myself to 12, 25, or 37 items. I want to ensure everything in my closet is versatile, of good quality and can go with everything included in the capsule wardrobe and I'll worry about the final number later.
Your lifestyle - where you work, where you live, your regular activities, etc. - will dictate what items are included in your capsule wardrobe. And while it might look similar to someone else's, I'd like to think that no two capsules are the same. Sleepwear, workout clothes, underwear are considered extras and do not count toward your capsule. The pieces that count are the items you wear day-to-day for work, brunch, date night, etc.
As someone who has used shopping in the past as a quick way to make myself feel better only to feel even more unhappy or sad once I get the bill and the joy from something new has worn off, a capsule wardrobe excites me. I hope it will help me eliminate my impulse purchases and steer me away from fast fashion. Choosing quality over quantity will help improve the longevity of the items in my closet and reduce my carbon footprint.
For inspiration, check out Un-fancy by Caroline Rector. Her style is one I hope emulate, and she provides much needed inspiration when eliminating things from my wardrobe feels too constricting and I want to give up.
Xx,
Linds
