If you’re looking to build a collection of designer pieces that won’t go out of style, a capsule wardrobe is what you need.
Filled with trusty designer pieces and a few jazzy extras, you’ll never have to ask a friend, “what should I wear?”
Here’s your timeless wardrobe guide.
Table of Contents
What is a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is when all items in your collection can be mixed and matched to create different looks for nearly every occasion.
Many people think it has to be simple and understated, but this isn’t the case. It can represent you, feature your favourite colours, and include coveted designers.
One of the key features of this way of dressing is to invest in good quality pieces that will last more than a season.
How to start a capsule wardrobe
Before you go buying any new items, you need to figure out what your most worn items are out of your current collection.
If you don’t have too many clothes, this will be easy to do, but if you can’t resist a shopping trip, this may be more difficult.
Don’t worry, though, as there are multiple ways you can identify key pieces in your wardrobe:
- The coat hanger method
Put all your clothes in your wardrobe with the hanger facing forward. When an item has been worn, turn the hanger facing the other way.
After 6-12 months, sell, donate, or recycle any items you haven’t worn.
This doesn’t include occasionwear, like dresses, suits, or anything sparkly that only comes out for special events.
- Try on time
If the coat hanger method sounds a bit longwinded for you, there’s only one thing for it. Turn the music up loud and pretend you’re in a makeover montage in a film.
Try on EVERYTHING – from basics to not-so-basics.
Firstly, make sure everything fits. If it’s uncomfortable, too tight, or too big, put it in the donate pile.
Secondly – will you wear it? If you are guilty of buying trend-led pieces, and no longer reach for your cargos, low-waisted jeans, or loafers, put them in the donate pile, too.
Buy what you need, not what you want
Being a trend-led industry, fashion is all about encouraging people to buy new, shiny things they often don’t need.
Before you press ‘order’ on that online shop, make sure to ask yourself, “do I really need this?”
This way, you won’t end up with an overcrowded wardrobe.
Make a list of what’s missing from your wardrobe before you go searching for new bits. Is it the perfect white tee? Would a leather jacket be the ideal transitional piece? Are you yearning for a pair of chunky boots?
Whatever it is, make a note and begin your search.
Designer wardrobe staples
Everyone is different when it comes to what they want to wear.
If you’re not sure which items you ‘need’ in your collection, here’s a nudge in the right direction.
Trusty jackets
Coats. Jackets. Blazers. Car coats. Fleeces.
Whatever you think of when you hear ‘outerwear’, it’s good to have a simple collection for work, date nights, nights out, and the colder months.
When shopping for jackets and coats, opt for neutral tones that can be worn with most of your wardrobe.
If you’re on the hunt for a coat brand you can trust, Sandbanks is the go-to for stylish yet practical winter coats – you won’t be disappointed.
Timeless shapes
While new and interesting cuts are great to switch things up, shapes and styles that won’t go out of fashion are a must.
Think classic jeans in a flattering cut and colour – nothing too obnoxious or printed that you only wear once in a blue moon.
Opt for t-shirts in a heavy-duty material with a flattering sleeve length for your arms and shoulders. Whether you like skin-tight, oversized, or somewhere in the middle, get a nice collection of tops you can rely on.
Make sure to think about your shoe choices before you buy. Pops of colour are a great option, but will you get enough wear out of them or will they be an impulse buy you’ll regret?
Don’t forget to have some fun
Not every day is the same, so every wardrobe shouldn’t be, either.
If you can’t survive with just one colour scheme in your closet, add pops of visual interest using accessories and shoes.
Whether it’s a bold scarf, head-turning bag, or striking boots keeping your accessories game up, you don’t have to worry about getting bored of your capsule collection.
Seasonal changes
If you have the room, make seasonal capsule wardrobes.
Put any jumpers and coats in a suitcase and lock them up in the summer months. Then, when a frost starts to appear in the air, hang up your bikinis.
This also gives you an indication of what to buy next season if something is missing. If, when you’re putting your clothes away, you think you could have benefited from a red scarf, beach bag, or mini skirt, make a note so you know what to add when the season comes back around.
