Using Capsule Wardrobes to Give Your Closet a Fresh Start

 Have you heard about capsule wardrobes? That’s the term coined by Susie Faux that describes a carefully selected collection of garments that work interchangeably to create multiple looks. These items are generally essentials that are timeless and are high-quality items of clothing that have excellent wearability and versatility.

The idea of a capsule wardrobe has always fascinated me; however, I am attracted to crazy patterns, colors, and unique clothing items. I enjoy making some of my own clothes and playing with different fabrics and textures. But, my closets are full! It's time to pare down and have a fresh look at what I decide to keep, wear, and donate.

 A capsule wardrobe can help you reduce the clutter in your closet and make getting dressed easier. By focusing on fewer pieces that work well together, there is less worry about what matches what and whether something is on-trend.

 Here are some essentials in a capsule wardrobe:

• Three pairs of denim - different washes and silhouettes like boot cut, skinny, straight
• Classic trousers
• Short-sleeve, long-sleeve, tank style - basic tees
• Silk blouse, mixed-material blouse
• Timeless pullover
• Cardigan
• Classic blazer
• Trench coat, rain jacket, denim jacket
• Sheath dress, fit-n-flare dress, shift dress
• Pencil skirt, full skirt

 You can add or delete pieces that make the most sense for you and your lifestyle. Perhaps you want more pants options like cargo pants or joggers. Maybe you want some patterns or stripes. The key is to pick pieces that are timeless, high-quality, and universal so they match well with other pieces. This is important...high-quality, universal, and pieces that coordinate with the other pieces in your wardrobe.

 Once you have your basics, usually up to 30 pieces, you can add character and on-trend elements with your jewelry and accessories. This is an excellent way to play with trends without paying a lot of money. A fun scarf or necklace in the latest styles can easily be replaced when the trend is over. I find that scarves are a great way to add the color and patterns I'm drawn to.

 Shoes are another way to stay on-trend and timeless, depending on your vibe. I have learned the importance of having good shoes that support my feet. I also use my shoes as a wardrobe accessory with color and patterns, but having a solid selection of shoes for any occasion that matches your capsule wardrobe is easier than you think.

 Consider these options:

• Sneakers
• Over-the-calf boots
• Booties
• Sandals
• Flip-Flops
• Flats
• Kitten heels
• High heels
• Wedges

 Note: Having a capsule wardrobe can make travel and packing effortless as well. Having mix-n-match options means you won’t have to shop for special items when you need to be getting packed and ready to go.

 Social media platforms like Pinterest and blogs like BargainBabe.com are a great resource for understanding and propagating a capsule wardrobe. Why not take a trip to the library and look through some fashion magazines. Take a discovery trip to your favorite stores and look for color trends. It can be fun to make a visual journal of the wardrobe pieces you like and the outfits that coordinate. Another fun activity is the Capsule Wardrobe Challenge, Project 333 which is a minimalist strategy of dressing with 33 items or less for 3 months. According to bemorewithless.com, there are five things you'll gain from a capsule wardrobe: money, time, space, clarity, and freedom.  Enjoy exploring and making your closet over for a fresh start. You can read more with The Curated Closet (this is my affiliate link).

Cheers!

Lisa

P.S. When you clean out your closets, why not donate what no longer serves you to your local charity shop or organize an exchange party and invite your friends to participate.