The Ultimate Guide to Building a Capsule Wardrobe

Have you heard of a Capsule Wardrobe? Well it just may be the one way you can take the confusion, clutter and cost out of your daily dressing choices. Here are our top tips to creating a successful Capsule Wardrobe that can save you money, time and space!

1. What is a Capsule Wardrobe?

A Capsule Wardrobe is a term used for a collection of personal garments that work back with each other. It is not an extensive collection of clothes, but rather, curated garments that compliment each other in some way, whether it be through layering, colour, fabric or various combinations of each. 

The goal is for each individual item to be mixed and matched which reduces the need to constantly purchase extra pieces, create more space in an ever-cluttered wardrobe and overthink your outfits, every. single. day!

2. What are the benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe?

The biggest benefit of a well-planned Capsule Wardrobe is that by asking yourself what you really want from your wardrobe, you are then able to unlock  your personal style. The thing to remember with a Capsule Wardrobe is that quality reigns over quantity, more is not more and a well curated edit doesn’t happen overnight. 

3. How do I create a Curated Wardrobe? 

The first step is to start from scratch. Remove everything from your wardrobe and reassess, asking yourself these questions: 

• Have I worn this garment in the last six months, or will I wear it in the next? If the answer is no, it needs to go. 

• Does this garment work with my lifestyle? If you’re a busy mum, a bridesmaids gown from a wedding a decade ago may not be something that deserves a place in your current wardrobe. Store it! 

• Is this garment comfortable? If you absolutely love a piece but never wear it due to discomfort, you may need to move on. If altering it is not an option, put it aside. 

• Does this colour suit me? Your skin tone and hair colour may have changed over the years. Ask yourself if the pieces you own still flatter your complexion at this stage in your life. Also look at whether the colour works with other pieces in your wardrobe. This is essential for it to be part of a successful Capsule wardrobe. 

Once you have reassessed your pieces, consider donating the ones you don’t want to charity, or if you have the space and can’t quite give them up, pop them in storage for the time being. 

4. What to consider when creating a Capsule Wardrobe:

Forget trends. Your Capsule Wardrobe must be created around you, your lifestyle, your budget options and your silhouette. The best capsule wardrobes comprise of the essentials, including pants, skirts, dresses, shirts and jackets. But daily must-haves including denim are also great to have in your Capsule Wardrobe as they open them up again and again. 

5. What are the essential silhouettes to include in a Capsule Wardrobe?

• Tops: This can be as simple as some high-quality, white cotton T-shirts or linen shirts that can be worn on high-rotation to take you from day to night with a little layering or accessories. 

• Bottoms: It is so important that your Capsule Wardrobe pants are comfortable and flattering. You will reach for them again and again if they tick these boxes. Always look for high-quality fabrics and if Dry Cleaning is not in your budget, ensure the fabric can be machine washed. 

• Jackets: Flattering silhouettes are key when it comes to Capsule Wardrobe-worthy jackets. Well-cut blazers are the best investment here as they are timeless and can elevate any outfit in no time and a good classic wool coat is a no-brainer for colder months. 

• Skirts: Always opt for skirts at a length you find flattering and can wear confidently. Skirts are not for everybody but they do add an effortless femininity to any season. Choose fabrics like linen that can be worn with sandals in summer or boots and layerings of knits and coats in winter. 

• Accessories: These are your very best friend when it comes to a Capsule Wardrobe as they instantly change up an outfit with very little effort. Whether it’s a scarf, necklace, earrings or brooch, accessories are the most-cost effective way to add new life to your Capsule Wardrobe season to season.

6. What are the essential fabrics to include in a Capsule Wardrobe?

Always high-quality. And this generally lends itself to natural fabrics only, as these are the most durable and free of synthetics and polyesters which not only look cheap, but can lose shape easily and become worn and tired looking fast. At Eva’s Sunday, our fabrics are sustainable and selected for their quality and durability. Look for linen, cotton, wool and naturally-derived blends for a truly sustainable, forever Capsule Wardrobe. 

7. What are the essential colours to include in a Capsule Wardrobe? 

Your core Capsule Wardrobe colours are key to it being a success. Always go for basics to create the platform, such as neutrals like white, black and navy - and when you choose prints, ensure they work back together. The print link could be in a colour they both include or the fabric, but even clashing prints can be layered with neutrals to add life and vibrancy to your Capsule Wardrobe. Colour pops are also an amazing way to instantly add several outfit options to a Capsule Wardrobe with just one piece.

We would love to help you begin your Capsule Wardrobe journey and share tips on the foundation pieces that may work for you now - and well into the future! Visit us at our Fitzroy or Beechworth store or drop us a line on our live chat, DM or facebook / email!