Three Simple Steps to Build a Timeless Capsule Wardrobe

Creating a capsule wardrobe can be a daunting task. To begin, it’s not something you typically embark on from scratch unless you’ve recently returned from a nudist community. Chances are, your closet is already brimming with clothes and accessories.

Secondly, it can be extremely overwhelming to take inventory of anything in your life. Our style is constantly evolving, and with social media consistently bombarding us with new products to make our lives so much better, it can be very easy to accumulate a closet full of things we don’t even like.

There is a simple solution to fashion that allows you to always have something to wear and experiment with trends without breaking the bank. It’s called A Capsule Wardrobe.

What is A Capsule Wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a minimalist collection of clothes that can be put together in different ways to cover a variety of outfits and occasions. The aim is to have an outfit suitable for any occasion without owning excessive items of clothing.

In a world overflowing with fast fashion and fleeting trends, the concept of a capsule wardrobe is a refreshing approach to shopping, especially in 2024 when micro trends are everywhere. Adopting a capsule wardrobe will give you a number of versatile and high-quality pieces, making it easier to create stylish and cohesive outfits without the daily hassle of decision-making.

How Do You Build A Capsule Wardrobe?

Surprisingly, building a capsule wardrobe isn’t as difficult as it might first appear. If assembled step by step in the correct order. It can be an enjoyable and easy task.

Below I map out the exact formula I took to build my capsule wardrobe. I break everything down, from cost and purchasing order to the best items currently on the market that will remain relevant and durable for multiple seasons and years.

The Benefit of a Capsule Wardrobe

The best thing about a capsule wardrobe? It’s all about keeping things simple and stress-free. You spend less time styling outfits, and it’s a great way to shop more sustainably—totally in line with today’s eco-friendly vibes. Financially, it’s a smart move too. By investing in quality pieces that last longer, you save money in the long run, avoiding the trap of fast fashion.

12 Reasons Why You Should Build a Capsule Wardrobe

1. Define Your Style: A capsule wardrobe takes care of your everyday essentials, so you can focus your time and budget on the standout pieces that truly define your style.
2. Style on Autopilot: This process eliminates the ‘nothing to wear’ dilemma by filling your closet with easy to style outfits.
3. Stress-Free Mornings: With a beautifully organized closet full of everyday basics, you can quickly put together outfits for any occasion, making your mornings so much easier.
4. Ooze Confidence: When every piece in your closet is a guaranteed win, it’s like an instant confidence boost—because you know you’re looking chic.
5. Streamlined Wardrobe, Streamlined Life: A capsule wardrobe cuts the clutter, bringing a sense of order to your life (and your budget!).
6. Savvy Spending: It promotes thoughtful purchases, focusing on quality over quantity, which can lead to long-term savings.
7. Sustainable Fashion Choices: Don’t be part of the problem. Ditch the impulse buys and invest in quality pieces that last— doing your part for a more eco-friendly fashion cycle.
8. Wardrobe Versatility: With a capsule wardrobe, you’re always event-ready, whether it’s a coffee run or a weekend getaway — no outfit panic required!
9. Makes Travel a Breeze: Say goodbye to overpacking — with a capsule wardrobe, every piece pulls double duty, so you’re covered without the suitcase overflow!
10. Shopping with Purpose: With all your basics covered, you can shop for more one-of-a-kind pieces that define your style — sure to get you that subtle nod of fashion approval.
11. Less Wardrobe Drama: With your style locked in, you free up brainpower for bigger and better things — what to wear becomes second nature.
12. Long-term Style Investment: Investing in timeless pieces keeps your wardrobe fresh and on point, season after season – it’s giving Old Money.

By embracing the concept of a capsule wardrobe, you’re not only defining your sense of style but also adopting a lifestyle that values quality, simplicity, and sustainability – kinda fucking cool.

Sooo, Do you want to build a capsule wardrobe?! If so, let me show you how.

My Capsule Wardrobe Method

The key to building a successful capsule collection is starting with a solid foundation. I use three pillars to establish this foundation. Basics, Investments & Trends. These categories form the overarching structure of your wardrobe, and you’ll allocate a budget to each, focusing on one category at a time—starting with the basics. Let me break it down…

Basics: These make up the core pieces of your wardrobe. They consist of your tops, bottoms & dresses… that’s it. Very Simple.

Investments: These will be the most expensive portion of your wardrobe. They consist of your shoes, outerwear & bags. This is where fashion budgeting plays an important role.

Trends: Here is where your unique style will come into play the most. These items consist of your jewelry, belts, sunglasses, scarves, hats, hair accessories and any of the basic & investment items that don’t fit into a capsule wardrobe. This portion of your wardrobe should undergo the most evolution and change year over year. It’s where you can take risks on the latest trends without jeopardizing your entire wardrobe.

I’ve created a free exclusive checklist that you can download here to kickstart your capsule wardrobe journey – by downloading, you’ll get exclusive access to my newsletter full of insider tips—and hey, if it’s not your vibe, you can unsubscribe anytime, no hard feelings.

Now that you understand the concept, let’s build!

Step One: Buy your Basics

Your basic wardrobe consists of three main categories; Tops, Bottoms, and Dresses. Within each of these primary categories, there are further subdivisions, each playing a vital role in your wardrobe. Below is a chart to help you visualize it.

I recommend 39 basic pieces that I believe every closet should include for a well-rounded capsule wardrobe. You should allocate a budget of $4,000. But, don’t be intimated by that number, this represents the backbone of your wardrobe. Allow yourself time to purchase everything slow and deliberately.

A more detailed breakdown of step one: Building Your Basics

Since step one is so crucial to the success of your capsule wardrobe. I’ve created The Ultimate Basics Checklist That Every Wardrobe Needs, this post breaks down each category and provides a handy checklist, that I created so you can check off your purchased items on your capsule building journey. I recommend reading this post before you move onto step 2 here.

Step Two: Buy your Investment Pieces

Now that you have the base of your wardrobe it’s time to add the investment pieces. Do not rush this part of the process. If you do, you can end up spending way more than anticipated. Below is a chart to help you visualize each category.

I recommend 39 investment pieces that every woman should consider adding to her wardrobe, with a budget of around $8,000. While the number may seem high, each item is selected as a timeless addition—purchase with the intention of keeping them in your closet for 5-10 years (or maybe even passing them down to your daughter one day).

A more detailed breakdown of step Two: Building Your Investments

I have a detailed blog post called The Fashion Investment: From Fast Fashion To Quality Style that breaks down each category further. Check it out for timeless pieces you’ll keep in your closet for years to come.

Step Three Buy your Trend Pieces

Yay! The last step in the Capsule Wardrobe Method and the most fun part! Buying your Trend pieces.

Your Trends consists of Jewelry, Belts, Sunglasses, Scarves, Hats, and Hair Accessories. These are the add ons to your outfits. It’s where you can add your own personal style to a capsule wardrobe.

I also like to think of this section as where I can add some fun/trendy options from the Basics & Investments sections of my wardrobe. Since I already own my core wardrobe items, I know adding these pieces won’t monopolize my closet but enhance it.

There’s no strict formula for when to buy your trend pieces—this is your style, so grab them whenever you find the perfect fit. I recommend setting a yearly fashion budget for your trend section and picking up pieces that catch your eye along the way. For some fresh inspiration, check out our Currently Trending section!

You’ve done it!

At this point in your fashion journey, you will have a strong wardrobe with endless styling options. You will no longer look in your closet and say “I have nothing to wear”. When you come across a particularly cool bag or accessory you will know it’s just the cherry on top of an already fire wardrobe!

Other Posts You May Like

+ How to Build a Work Capsule Wardrobe: Your Guide to Effortless Fall Work Outfits

+ I Started Creating a Weekly Capsule Wardrobe and My Life Improved Drastically!

+ Don’t Be Clueless, Build the Ultimate Digital Fashion Closet

Interested in Outfit Ideas?

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