Understanding the Capsule Wardrobe
The term ‘capsule wardrobe’ was coined by British Fashion icon, Susie faux in the 1970’s to refer to a limited collection of high quality and versatile clothing that could be worn for multiple seasons. What may have begun as a niche practice, the capsule wardrobe has moved into the mainstream, alongside Marie Kondo’s decluttering guide, and the general minimalist aesthetic.
A capsule wardrobe is a concise, curated selection of timeless and versatile clothing.
Capsule Wardrobes and Sustainability
Capsule wardrobes offer a mindful and sustainable way to think about clothing. Fast fashion may have tricked us into believing that we need to have the most current clothes for the season, buying everything irrespective of whether it works for our personal style, aesthetics, or budget – often leaving us with a closet full of clothes, but with nothing to wear.
Capsule wardrobes offer an alternative, pushing us to think more deeply about whether we truly need the pieces in our closet. Buy less, wear more, and find high quality. Capsule wardrobes are all about practicing mindfulness and intention when it comes to shopping for clothes – when we think about and consider what we need (and how much we need), the process slows down and becomes more conscious.
Buy less, wear more, and find high quality
Thinking about starting a capsule wardrobe?
Building a capsule wardrobe is all about choosing a selection of clothing that you love to wear, but that is also practical and versatile. There’s no right or wrong way to start a capsule wardrobe – and of course a capsule wardrobe doesn’t work for everyone. A capsule wardrobe is simply a tool for each of us to discover and engage with who we are, what we like, and what clothing makes sense in our life.
Also important to remember is that your clothing is a reflection of you. While a capsule wardrobe may seem like it can only include a minimal aesthetic of basics and neutrals, this doesn’t have to be the case – the only rule is that there are no rules.
The 10x10 Challenge
Not ready to completely overhaul your wardrobe? (completely fair) The 10x10 challenge is a helpful start to thinking about a capsule wardrobe. Lee Vosburgh of Style Bee created this challenge in 2015, to encourage herself to get more creative with her clothes during a 30 day clothing fast. The concept is a mini capsule closet of 10 items that you work with over 10 days, creating new looks and styling your clothes in ways you might not otherwise try.
How does it work?
1. Pick any 10 items from your closet
2. Style those items into 10 looks
3. Use any 10 days to do this
4. Have fun!
Follow our Instagram to see Sarojini take on the 10x10 challenge, as she tests out the capsule wardrobe for herself.
