We’re not sure about you.. but whenever seasons change, we can feel the desire to be shopping for new things to fill our [likely already full] closets! It can be easy to buy items too similar to what we already have, as well as easy to keep things that no longer fit us or our lifestyle. Our closets then overflow with excess! Instead of getting caught up with the urge to spend, we’d recommend first taking an assessment of what you do have and love, and reinventing from there.
A perfectly functioning capsule wardrobe is everyone's dream, but maybe not always realistic for everyone. However, with some tips put into practice, it is indeed doable to capture the essence of ease of a capsule wardrobe, even if you have more than 20 items! The idea is to purge what you don’t wear (think: items that need repair, no longer fit, have outgrown your lifestyle, etc.), and make sure to only purchase pieces that can be worn as a regular item in your rotation of favourites. Bonus if it can work season-to-season!
- First, examine what you currently have. Try things on that you haven’t reached for in a while. Are these simply forgotten favourites, or are they something to pass along? Have two bags set aside, one each for donations and to-be-recycled.
- Once you’ve assessed what you have, consider if you actually still need anything, other than the fast-fashion trends that are persisting! If so, write a prioritized list.
- Define your style according to your needs. Consider your lifestyle, work requirements, and personal preferences. Do you need work-appropriate attire, casual weekend wear, or something versatile that works from kids to the office? Defining your needs will help you choose pieces that have a better chance at staying around.
- Limit the number of items you do purchase, if any. You’ll create ease in keeping your wardrobe organized by paring down.
- Consider choosing a colour palette! Sticking to a cohesive color palette will make it easier to create multiple outfits, even when on-the-go. Neutrals are a great base and can be accented with pops of color that you know you enjoy wearing.
- Prioritize quality over quantity and consider items that will last, rather than inexpensive, fast-fashion pieces that will likely wear out quickly. These days, it’s not too hard to find quality designer pieces at consignment stores, so don’t forget to check at your local shops!
- Better yet, gather your friends and community and host a clothing swap! This can be such a lovely way to mingle and connect. Just be sure to get rid of more than you take home!
- Rotate seasonally! Ok, so some things are strictly seasonal (platform slides, maybe)? Check out our post on Seasonal Storage Hacks to find the best spots for all your summer gear!
A minimalist capsule closet makes it easier to get dressed each day, saves money on unnecessary impulse purchases, and helps you maintain an organized and clutter-free space. By focusing on fewer, higher-quality items (and resisting the urge to buy what’s simply trending), you’ll find that you have more to wear—without the stress of an overflowing closet.
