5 minute read
Creating a capsule wardrobe
Curating a minimalist wardrobe has a range of benefits, from simplifying decision-making to saving money and reducing your environmental impact.
If you’re the kind of person who likes to spring clean your closet, you may even go one step further and create a summer capsule wardrobe.
A minimalist capsule wardrobe offers all sorts of perks, from reducing your environmental footprint to streamlining your fashion choices.
WHAT IS A CAPSULE WARDROBE?
A capsule wardrobe is a minimalist collection of clothing that’s carefully curated and easily interchangeable, so that you can mix and match items seamlessly. It allows you to achieve different looks depending on the occasion, with a limited selection of timeless, essential pieces.
One of the key benefits is that a capsule wardrobe makes the decision-making process so much easier when choosing what to wear in the morning. With fewer options, you have more time to focus on the important stuff, like what’s for breakfast or getting on with the day ahead.
A capsule wardrobe also means you’ll save money on buying clothing you don’t really need. Instead, it’s about finding high-quality, timeless pieces that fit well and make you feel confident.
And the biggie – the sustainability factor. By buying fewer garments, you’ll reduce your environmental impact on the planet and contribute less to landfill.
“People choose a minimalist capsule wardrobe for its practicality and sustainability,” said Anabela Mangogna, owner of fashion boutique Bellite. “It reduces decision fatigue, encourages mindful shopping, and often reflects a more intentional and eco-friendly lifestyle.”
Aluma Tirosh, owner of fashion store Best-T, said a capsule wardrobe is very easy to maintain.
“It gives you peace of mind when you dress up in the morning that you’ll know everything works. If clothes or dressing up makes you stressed, I think a capsule wardrobe will be a good solution for you,” she said.
HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE
“Building a capsule wardrobe starts with identifying your personal style and lifestyle needs,” said Ms Mangogna.
“From there, you select a base colour palette, focus on quality over quantity, and choose pieces that are versatile and can be layered or combined easily.”
A good place to start is to clear out what you don’t need.
“If you want to make a capsule wardrobe, I would take out (everything) from your wardrobe, see what you have and then build from this,” said Ms Tirosh.
Focus on neutral colours like black, navy, grey, beige, cream, white and brown. Also consider what colours complement your skin tone the most. If you like brighter colours, incorporate a couple of accent pieces into your capsule collection.
Next, lean towards styles that will be timeless and won’t go out of season. A white blouse, classic black blazer and tailored trousers are more likely to still look fashionable after five years than an out-there geometric print, faux fur emerald jacket and flare jeans. You’ll want to include fabrics and cuts that will be functional and easy to care for in the long run.
When it comes to accessories, make sure they are versatile and can be mixed and matched with different outfit combinations.
“If you want to be creative with accessories, jewellery and bags, a capsule wardrobe is a good base,” said Ms Tirosh.
“It’s a blank canvas that you can add your own personality to.”
It may help to write down the items you want to keep and what you need to purchase to create your ideal capsule wardrobe. Don’t go buying anything new in a hurry – sit with your reduced capsule wardrobe for a while before filling any gaps.
What To Consider For A Capsule Wardrobe In Summer
Make sure you include breathable fabrics in your summer capsule wardrobe. Cottons, linens and bamboo are examples that work well in warmer weather because they are lightweight, moisture-absorbing and breathable.
Choose looser silhouettes that still look feminine but don’t cling to the body too tightly. Examples include tiered dresses, skirts and maybe even a kaftan that can be cinched at the waist for added elegance.
Lighter colours are optimal in summer. A white linen button-down blouse paired with linen trousers can be easily transitioned from day to night, with a simple change of accessories and footwear.
“I would go a little further and add something more summery, like maybe a pattern of relaxed flowers or stripes. In summer you want to go a little bit wild,” said Ms Tirosh.
Don’t forget to accessorise with a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection in the warmer months.
Summer Holiday Capsule Wardrobe Essentials
There are so many advantages to having a minimalist summer capsule wardrobe, especially when you go on holidays. For one, you’ll have less luggage to heave with you.
Experts recommend the following summer holiday capsule wardrobe essentials:
A staple black swimsuit, which can be transformed into a bodysuit at night.
A loose linen shirt, which can double as a beach cover-up.
A white T-shirt, which is perfect for layering and wearing with shorts for a casual look or trousers and accessories for more glam feels.
A sizeable straw bag to carry essentials like beach towels, sandals and your holiday summer read.
A relaxed midi dress or maxi skirt that’s flowing and breezy.
A pair of denim shorts that can work for both casual and dressier occasions.
Comfortable trousers. If you want something a little different, go for classic patterns like pinstripes.
A pair of comfy, chic sandals that will work for cocktail hour and poolside lounging.
For a pop of colour, consider butter yellow. It’s this season’s go-to shade.
BELLITE Shop 16, Camberwell Arcade , 600-606 Burke Rd, Camberwell Phone: 0410 414 642
BEST-T 222 Camberwell Rd, Camberwell Phone: 0405
