It’s becoming increasingly easy to simplify or streamline just about every part of your life. From meal kit subscriptions and grocery delivery services to an array of multitasking tech devices that seem to do it all, you have probably already implemented a few of these convenient practices into your regular routine. In addition to these examples, did you know this kind of efficiency can even be applied to your closet? It’s called a capsule wardrobe, and here’s how you can benefit from creating one of your own.
Creating Your Perfect Capsule
A capsule wardrobe is a concise, seasonal collection of clothing that is both versatile and cohesive. Many choose to make the switch to a capsule wardrobe because it saves time when getting ready and packing for travel, and it allows for lots of extra closet space. While the laundry list of capsule wardrobe benefits is explained in more detail below, here are a few items you might like to include in your potential capsule:
Denim: Quality denim is something that is on almost every list of closet must-haves, but it’s especially important for a capsule wardrobe. Go the extra mile to splurge on a couple pairs of high-quality jeans and a denim jacket that fit you well instead of cluttering your closet with five or six lower-quality denim pieces.
A Few Good Shirts: This includes everyday t-shirts as well as polos or button-up options, depending on what you wear the most. Choose three or four of each style, making sure to include colors you like to wear that can be paired with different outfits.
Shorts and Pants: Depending on the season or the weather where you live, you will want to include some casual shorts, chinos, khakis or other options for when jeans aren’t appropriate.
A Suit: Spring for a suit that fits you well and can be worn throughout multiple seasons.
Outerwear: This might include a wool coat or heavy jacket during the colder months, but it’s always good to have a good bomber jacket, a mid-weight sweater and a leather jacket on hand to pair with your outfits.
Shoes and Accessories: Be sure to include a couple of belts, quality socks and underwear, undershirts, dress shoes, sneakers, casual sandals or loafers, men’s swim trunks, a hat and your favorite pair of sunglasses.
These items are a general guide, and you can absolutely customize your capsule wardrobe to fit your lifestyle. Think of it as a definition of your personal style — a practical uniform that fits your daily routine and an exclusive collection of clothing that makes you look and feel great. It gets even better, though, because there is a range of additional benefits to creating your own customized capsule:
1. It’s a Time Saver: It’s no secret that streamlining your wardrobe will undeniably save you a few minutes or more while getting ready to leave the house. Creating a capsule wardrobe makes it easy to choose outfits (no matter how much of a time crunch you might find yourself in) because the items in your capsule will ideally be mix-and-match friendly. This kind of versatility is going to be a lifesaver in time-sensitive situations or when you sleep through your alarm.
2. More Quality, Less Clothing: A huge part of having a capsule wardrobe mindset is investing in high-quality clothing instead of less expensive pieces you might be inclined to buy “just because” or as an impulse buy. In reality, the cheap fabrics used to make these clothes likely won’t hold up for more than a season or two before showing major signs of wear and tear.
Investing in good clothing not only benefits you and allows you to wear pieces for longer, but it also helps the planet. When shopping for new capsule wardrobe pieces, look for sustainable brands that utilize organic materials and recycled products to make their garments. You can find sustainable swimwear, footwear, accessories and more online!
3. Extra Closet Space: Do you ever look in your closet and have a tiny moment of panic because all your clothes are so tightly jammed together? Do you avoid opening your closet door unless absolutely necessary for the same reason? If you answered yes to one or both of those questions, your mind will be put at ease by switching to a capsule wardrobe because it allows for much more room in your closet. This way, you’ll be able to see all of your options clearly and at one time instead of having to sift through untidy stacks of clothing or untangle a clump of hangers each time you want to retrieve a shirt. Printed Suit set
4. A Defined Personal Brand: Since a typical capsule wardrobe only includes about twenty or so items, each piece of clothing you include should reflect your personal style and favorite fit. Having a capsule wardrobe is a great way to express your signature style, strengthen your personal brand and make both of those very clear to yourself and others.