Capsule Wardrobe 101
“I don’t know what to wear!” — if this is you all the time even with a whole closet filled with all kinds of clothes then hold off on the shopping for a second!
We are here to offer you a whole new option: capsule wardrobes.
What is a capsule wardrobe?
Building a capsule wardrobe means to simplify and minimise your wardrobe which includes tops, bottoms, accessories and shoes into no more than 35 items in a season. The clothing should be classic and minimalist so that the limited clothing items will match with each other to create a winning combo every single time.
What makes a capsule wardrobe a special are the benefits it brings which include:
Saving time
It reduces time spent on choosing what to wear everyday. It is a hassle when you are in a hurry but still have to choose which garments will make a good outfit. Having a capsule wardrobe can help you decide on the day’s outfit just within a few seconds because everything will match!
Reduces money spent on clothes
You won’t have to spend money shopping for more clothes. With a capsule wardrobe, you only need a maximum of 35 items. This will help save lots of money, especially for students who have a monthly budget.
Minimising storage needed
As you have fewer items of clothing, it will save lots of place for storage. This is useful for those who live in a dorm or rented room to avoid clutter.
How to create a capsule wardrobe?
Image by Jiaqi Li
Step 1: Clear out
Take out all your clothes and empty your wardrobe. Lay the clothing out in front of you for the next step.
Step 2: Make categories
Sort your clothes, shoes, bags and accessories into categories. Keep the items that you like and will definitely wear. Hang or fold these items by colour. For items that didn’t make that pile, place those you are not really fond of, but do wear sometimes, in boxes for the occasion but be resolute and throw away or donate those you won’t wear even if it hurts your heart to do so. Then, sort them according to the season.
Step 3: Make combinations
Choose a maximum of 35 essential items and put them into your wardrobe for each season. For example, this might include six tops, six bottoms, four coats, three suits, four pairs of shoes and other twelve accessories including scarves, sunglasses, hats and bags. Ensure that the colours remain within the same colour scheme and are minimalist enough to match each other.
Step 4: Invent your style
Discover your own style. Create a style of outfit for each season so that all your clothes will easily be matched.
Looking for great pieces to fill your capsule wardrobe?
Ideally, we’re looking at basics for your capsule wardrobe. Stores like Uniqlo, H&M, and Cotton On are perhaps your best choices for all basic items (tops, bottoms, accessories, shoes) and are relatively inexpensive. And once you’ve gotten into the habit of using a capsule wardrobe, getting ready will no longer be a chore!
This story was produced by Media and Communication students at Trinity College Foundation Studies as part of Meld’s community newsroom collaboration. Education institutions, student clubs/societies and community groups interested in being involved can get in touch with us via meld@meldmagazine.com.au.