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What is a capsule wardrobe?

8 Mar 2023

What is a capsule wardrobe

“Capsule wardrobes” are a bit of a sustainability buzzword. If you’re even just low-key interested in sustainable fashion, and maybe even if you’re not, you might have come across the phrase “capsule wardrobe”. What is a capsule wardrobe? Is it right for you? And are capsule wardrobes the future of fashion? Let’s dive in.

What is a capsule wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a minimalist and sustainable approach to fashion. It’s the idea that you reduce your wardrobe down to a select number of items that are curated to be flexible, timeless and easy to style. Many people who opt for capsule wardrobes stick to certain colour palettes and classic styles as the idea is that you should be able to pair each item with any other item in your wardrobe. That being said, there are lots of ways you could build your own capsule wardrobe and it's very much more of an approach you can adopt, rather than a rule book you have to follow.

How many clothes should be in a capsule wardrobe?

If you are looking for guidance on how to create a capsule wardrobe, it’s suggested that you have around 30-40 items that can be easily mixed and matched. Your collection should include: tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, and shoes. Other items like: workout clothes, jewellery, accessories, purses, swimsuits, pyjamas/loungewear and underwear do not need to be included in your capsule wardrobe as they serve a different purpose. Some even go as far as attempting the 10x10 challenge which involves reducing your wardrobe down to 10 items that can easily be styled into 10 different outfits.

History of the capsule wardrobe

As we increasingly discuss the impact of fashion on the environment in the media, lots of us are exploring ways we can make personal, positive changes. Capsule wardrobes are at the beating heart of the “buy less, buy better” movement in fashion. They encourage you to take a mindful approach to your wardrobe and select items that you will wear for years to come. If you really think about it, they nod back to a time (not so long ago) where clothes weren’t as readily available and people had to be more forward thinking and less trend led with their style.

Whilst the term “capsule wardrobe” might be new to you, it’s actually been around for some time. They were first popularised in the 1940s when American publications encouraged people to purchase “small collections of garments designed to be worn together which harmonise in colour and line.”. They were then revived by Susie Faux (a boutique owner) in the 1970s who offered collections of clothing that could be mixed and matched. Faux suggested that a woman's capsule wardrobe contain at least "2 pairs of trousers, a dress or a skirt, a jacket, a coat, a knit, two pairs of shoes and two bags".

Donna Karen then brought the concept up again in 1985 with the “7 Easy Pieces'' collection which was designed with the working woman in mind. She showcased a group of women in bodysuits, and then demonstrated how they could swap items to create different looks, including wrap skirts, trousers and dresses.

Throughout the 00s and the last decade, we’ve also seen the word “capsule wardrobe” gain more traction with references on TV in shows like What Not To Wear and encouragement from stylist Gok Wan. Nowadays, the capsule wardrobe is often included in sustainable fashion tips from major fashion magazines like Marie Claire and even Vogue.

Why should you have a capsule wardrobe?

The big hit of a capsule wardrobe is that it saves you time. If you only have a select number of items that all pair well with each other, then it’s very easy to pull together an outfit in the morning. This also means you can feel less stress about getting dressed.

Capsule wardrobes can also save you money in the long run. Because there is a focus on buying less, many people who have a capsule wardrobe tend to take a very mindful and curative approach to buying. They invest in items they feel comfortable will last physically because of their high quality, but also last the test of time because of their classic style. This can help you avoid spending money on trend-led pieces of clothing.

Lastly, a capsule wardrobe can be a more sustainable option if done mindfully. If you’re able to reduce your wardrobe down to the right pieces, you will be more clear about what it is you want to buy. By buying less, there may be more room to support independent and sustainable makers, or look for excellent second hand pieces. It's a great way to steer clear of clothes that have been made in less than great conditions with poor quality.

Can I wear trend-led pieces and still have a capsule wardrobe?

We’re all about leaving it up to you to find what works best for you here at Reskinned. We’re never going to say “you must do” this or that. The concept of a capsule wardrobe does rest on the idea that you move away from trend led fashion. That said, we reckon there is still a way to adopt trend pieces into your wardrobe. You just need to always be asking yourself how well each piece fits in with your other items, how much you really, genuinely want it and whether you feel you could get at least 30 wears out of it. The best approach would probably be to pick one or two items that bring some joy rather than randomly chucking “in-season” pieces into the mix that don’t necessarily make much sense with the rest of your wardrobe.

It’s all about what your wardrobe consists of, rather than specifically how many items. Look for good quality clothes you can genuinely see yourself wearing in years to come, and always make sure they are easily styled with things you already own.

How do you build a capsule wardrobe?

Right, first things first, do not just go through and clear out everything in your wardrobe. Sit with the idea for some time and really explore what sort of capsule wardrobe you want to curate. Is it led by colour? Is there a style that you really feel reflect your personality (eg. tailored / practical etc.)?

It’s time to do an audit of your current wardrobe. Once you have an idea of the sort of capsule wardrobe you want, follow our wardrobe clear out guide. When you have reduced your wardrobe down to items that make sense and can be easily mixed and matched, write a list of items that you feel are needed in your wardrobe. Use this as your guide when adding to your wardrobe, and take your time. Look at preloved sites like Reskinned, and support smaller brands who have a commitment to quality and sustainability.

Remember, a capsule wardrobe really thrives when you take care of your clothes and make them last a long time. We’ve got some great tips on how to make your clothes last longer.

What do you do with your old clothes?

If you’re cleared out your wardrobe and removed items that don’t fit in your new capsule wardrobe, send them to Reskinned as part of our takeback scheme. We’ll rehome or recycle items depending on their condition. Nothing ever goes to landfill. There are also other options out there for your old clothes including donation and swapping.

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