How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe
The internet is divided into two groups: The Capsule Wardrobe Lovers and The Capsule Wardrobe Haters. What if I told you that there’s a common middle ground where both could co-exist stylishly? Stick around it gets good.
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
According to Merriam-Webster, a capsule wardrobe is a selection of clothing items that can be styled in a variety of configurations for many occasions, thereby reducing the number of items needed overall.
So simple yet still so ambiguous, many women are downloading generic capsule wardrobe checklists and are still so lost. The concept of the capsule was mainstreamed in the 70s by Susan Faux as a foundation for building a wardrobe. The modernized definition is an assortment of 12-15 garments: tops, bottoms, jackets, shoes that can be worn interchangeably.
A wardrobe, just like a house, you need a foundation or else anything built on it will crumble. The beauty in architecture is the possibilities of what type of buildings you can create from the same foundation. Two women can start with the same 12-15 piece capsule and end up with completely different wardrobes, because the foundation isn't the style. Your style language is.
A Capsule Wardrobe is the Blueprint
The drama around the capsule wardrobe is the interpretation of it. The capsule was created to be an outline that’s filled. It’s the groundwork for a wardrobe that works for you. You create a house using a blueprint, but the materials differentiate one house from the next.
I am going to tell you that a capsule wardrobe is a must-have; however, your unique style language is what you fill your wardrobe with. Style Language is the blueprint that guides you to curate a wardrobe that fits your personal style. I wrote an e-book that teaches you how to discover yours here Style Language.
Capsule Wardrobe Rules
Style identity trumps any style trend guide. This is the key ingredient missing from the great capsule wardrobe debate. Somewhere along the line, these misconceptions were birthed:
Capsules can only contain these colors: (gray, beige, black & white)
You have to have every item in that capsule wardrobe Pinterest checklist
If the item isn’t capsule wardrobe specific, you can never wear it
I’m not sure how these rumors started or, better yet, why they are being followed so religiously, but I am here to tell you that those “rules” are not required.
You are free to incorporate as little or as much of the capsule wardrobe as you desire. Style should be fluid, not militant. So if you have sensory sensitivities, you do not have to buy a turtleneck; do not buy it. There will be no fines assessed if you don’t abide by the capsule code of conduct (scout’s honor✌🏽).
The Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe
Nearly a decade as a personal stylist, it’s my sworn duty to keep the capsule wardrobe propaganda alive and well, but only because it’s such a beneficial tool when utilized correctly.
We are currently in a decision fatigue epidemic; between capitalism and social media, our brains are in overdrive. This is the leading cause of closet meltdowns and shopping meltdowns; it’s just too many damn choices. For the executives I work with, it shows up as survival mode dressing, typically cosplaying a safer, muted version of themselves. A capsule wardrobe can eliminate that.
When I am curating capsules for my clients, my ultimate goal is to create a wardrobe that is functional and cohesive. When the items in your closet are complementary to one another, you always have something to wear.
And a capsule wardrobe does just that. Having an item that can be worn with several removes the “I have nothing to wear” dilemma you can just grab and go. This is a necessary arsenal to have when you are time-poor. Less is more when you have quality, timeless garments in your closet that make you happy, fit your lifestyle, and reflect your personal style.
“The capsule works, but only when it’s built on your style language instead of a checklist.”
A capsule wardrobe isn't the enemy, and it isn't the whole answer either. It's the structure. What you build on it, and who you become when you put it on, that's yours to define. If you're ready to stop guessing at what goes in your closet and start dressing like the woman already leading the room, apply to work with me and let's build it together.
