For many people, living an intentional lifestyle is second nature these days. From issues surrounding sustainability to the simplicity that a minimalist lifestyle can bring, these decisions just make sense. One aspect of living a more intentional lifestyle is steering far away from conventional consumerism and purchasing only items you’ll use often and love. Of course, this trickles to your wardrobe, and many people transition to a more utilitarian or capsule wardrobe after a while. If you’re having trouble figuring out where to start with your capsule wardrobe, keep reading for the only items you’ll ever need.
Just the basics
Did you know that most people wear less than twenty percent of the clothing in their closet? This figure shouldn’t surprise you as you likely have just a couple of “favourite” t-shirts or a “lucky” pair of jeans. When going for a capsule wardrobe, you should fill it only with the basics in which you look and feel great. When you look good, you feel good, so key items like that white designer t-shirt and the same Levi’s you’ve been wearing for a decade are key. The basics are typically in neutral colours that easily match any other items in your wardrobe.
Fine jewellery
When rocking a capsule wardrobe, the phrase “The devil’s in the details” takes on a whole new meaning. Even if you still seek out fast-fashion pieces for the bones of your wardrobe, your jewellery, and other accessories should be of high enough quality that they’ll last a lifetime.
Heirloom pieces like nice gold chains, pearl earrings, luxury watches for women and men, or your wedding band will be in the heaviest rotation. Clear out the cheap costume jewellery and focus on the pieces that are sentimental to you or work with everything. Gold hoop earrings, for example, are never going out of style.
Year rounders
It’s best to focus on pieces of clothing that can be utilized year-round when shopping for or paring down to a capsule wardrobe. A light blazer, for example, can be worn to an event in both summer and fall. A scarf in a mid-weight material can be too.
Shoes are another area where you want to be able to get a year’s use. The iconic white low-top Chuck Taylor sneaker is an excellent example of a shoe that can be worn year-round and looks great with everything from a maxi dress to a suit. By owning fewer items because the ones you own work for various seasons, you’ll save money, not to mention you can kiss decision fatigue goodbye when packing for a trip or getting dressed each day.
Your version of the LBD
The LBD (little black dress) has become an iconic piece of fashion because it will never go out of style! Everyone needs an LBD in their capsule wardrobe, but if you’re not a fan of dresses, you don’t have to own one literally. Find your version of a go-to outfit that can be worn to everything.
Investing in high-quality clothing is critical here, as these pieces will last you for years. Speaking of tailors, it’s a good idea to have one on your phone list when you’ve got a capsule wardrobe. Making your clothing last is about mending, dry cleaning, and anything else that may arise through normal wear and tear.
Fluctuating fits
While it’s a good idea to have pieces that flatter your figure, it’s equally a good idea to have clothing that can still be worn as your body fluctuates. An oversized dress that looks chic, belted or undone, a pair of pull-on joggers that go with everything, and a neutral oversized tee are a great place to start. Capsule wardrobes don’t have to sacrifice comfort on days we crave it!
Individual tastes, body type, and age will influence other items you deem necessary for your capsule wardrobe. Still, the above items are an excellent starting point to getting your closet in the shape you envision.