How to Build your 2021 Capsule Wardrobe (read time: 4:57)

Before getting into how you can start building your capsule wardrobe, do you know what it is?

If yes, scroll down till you see the word STOP, if you're curious keep reading. 

What is a capsule wardrobe? 

Google answer: A capsule wardrobe is a closet of between eighteen (gasp) and thirty-three (better?) curated pieces. Most capsule wardrobes are organized into two seasons, spring/summer and fall/winter bringing in specific pieces that meet the weather needs.

My answer: A wardrobe of intentionally chosen pieces that are versatile, fit your personal style, body and life. 

Meaning if you go to the gym six days a week you have at least six gym outfits, or you enjoy doing laundry every three days. 

Or if you work in an office you have a few more button-downs than I do as someone who works from home with broad shoulders.

Okay....but WHY do I need one?

Google answer: According to Un-Fancy, a capsule wardrobe represents more time, more money, and more energy for the things in life that really matter (i.e., not your clothes). By shopping only once a season, you save money on frivolous items that add up.

My answer: I agree with almost all of this. Except the part about how your clothes don't matter. That you can shut your dirty mouth. 

Clothes matter because they are the tools in which you use to express yourself to the world. They are how you introduce yourself without having to say a word, they represent your identity and therefor should be treated with care. 

Your clothes can change your mood, how you feel about your body, they affect your feelings of self-worth. So yeah, clothes are important GOOGLE *insert eye-roll.*

Shopping with intention does save you time and money though, so that's a plus. 

STOP THE SCROLL!
Here's the how:

Go to your closet and look at it. Really look at it. There are pieces that you don't wear.

And you don't wear them because they don't fit one of these three categories:

• your lifestyle [our lifestyles have changed. it's okay that your clothing needs have also]
• your body [our bodies are designed to change. its okay. clothing is designed not to.]
• your vibe [are you the same person you were in high school? no, because we change. our style is allowed to change with us.]

Pull those garments that no longer serve you out of your closet and put it in the donate pile. 

If you do that and you feel a sick sort of feeling, like there's something weighing on your chest, ask yourself what's making you feel like that? 

Money? You see your clothing pieces as a representation financial value so you feel bad throwing it out. 

"could" or "should" fit into a piece that no longer fits you? in which case you're working with your self-esteem and worthiness. 

Sentimental value? 

If you fight with one of the above, that is brainwork friend. Grab a journal.

Great, so now you've cleared the way for looking for what you NEED. 

This is where we save you money, yes you're shopping, but you're shopping with intention. To fill the gaps instead of, "because it's on sale." or "tik tok girl told me to buy it."

Do you have:

1) a layering piece. 
A layering piece is that piece that you leave in the car, the office, that you throw on to add a little je n'sais quoi. (Showing from left to right, KENNEDY VEST, KATHERINE BOMBER, MILEY CROP)

2) a work piece
Regardless if we're working from home now until the end of time, always a good idea to have a piece in your wardrobe that you can pull for a more professional occasion. The reason is, that we always feel most comfortable in our own clothes. If you're borrowing something from one of your friends for an interview you may find yourself pulling at the hem, feeling like you're wearing a costume. All of this will make you feel more nervous than you need to be. (from left to right, MILEY CROP, RACHEL DRESS, LINDA SKIRT & LEE TOP)

3) outerwear
This is going to be completely based on where you live, the seasons that you go through and the activities you like to do. 

It's when you have five denim jackets that we have to start to worry. 

4) something fancy
|

Something fancy doesn't have to mean a ball-gown, just something you can dress up should the occasion call for it. That and you've been there, trying to buy a fancy dress for a party and suddenly the universe has turned against you and there is not a single fancy dress to be found. 

Did you notice that in look three it's the MILEY CROP from layering & LINDA SKIRT from workwear? with some fancy boots and bomb jewelry. 

(from left to right, LEE TOP,KASS DRESS, MILEY CROP & LINDA SKIRT)

Versatility is key when building out your capsule. Before you buy what you need to fill in the gaps in your closet ask yourself,

• Can I style this piece in 3 different looks?
• Is this a trendy piece or can I wear it in 5 years?
• Will this piece physically last 3 years?

No to any of the above? Why are you buying it?

Any questions about building your own capsule? Send me a DM and lets chat!
Questions about your personal style? Check out our style journal.