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The Importance of a Capsule Wardrobe and How it Drives Sustainable Fashion

Mention the term “capsule wardrobe” and immediately thoughts go to a pokey closet with a few items of clothing hanging on sparse rails. 

In essence, a capsule wardrobe is hard to maintain. If you don’t have imagination and are short on creativity, it might not be for you. 

What do I wear with polka dots? Is faux leather still a thing? What about my cable knit jumper? I have all these dresses, what now?

But once you’ve mastered your style and know exactly what you want, well, that’s a whole new level you’ve just unlocked. 

Many women only consider investing in a capsule wardrobe in their thirties. By then, they’re mature enough to recognize that trends come and go. They’re comfortable with their body shape. They understand what works and what doesn’t.

Porterist woman fashion website recommends a simple satin dress. Because of the classic design and flattering fit, it can be dressed up or down. With a few adjustments, the dress can be worn every season.

That right there is an example of an essential item in your capsule wardrobe that can be styled in different ways. It’s as simple as that.

In this article, we’ll expand on the basics of a capsule wardrobe and how it contributes to sustainable fashion.

The Basics

Never mind what’s in fashion or what’s trending. Every item you purchase for your capsule wardrobe is classic and will forever remain on-trend. 

It might take months or even years until you’re completely happy with your haul. And so be it. You’re allowed to change your mind and taste in clothing. But like every fashion editor will tell you, start with the basics; your core pieces.

Harper’s Bazaar’s Jessica Davis is a strong believer in investing in pieces that will stand the test of time.  Versatility should also be considered. For instance, a midi or maxi skirt can transform everyday looks into timeless statements.

When Donna Karan released her Original “Seven Easy Pieces” in 1986, the collection was an all-black ensemble. It comprised a classic white T-shirt, tailored blazer, blue jeans and a cashmere sweater, among other items.

Today, fashion experts swear by her capsule wardrobe and include these essentials in their edits.  Keep in mind that not all capsule wardrobes look the same. You get to decide what goes and what stays.

Find Your Inspiration

You don’t need to search far to be inspired. From TikTok to Instagram to Pinterest, there are many fashion takes to get you excited about embarking on this new style journey.

TV characters and movies provide a constant source of motivation. Who can forget Olivia Pope’s effortless style in the popular TV series Scandal? She exuded confidence and sophistication with simple key items like tailored pants and classic trench coats.

Sofia Richie’s style has also evolved into her quiet luxury era. Who Wore What reported that her stylist Liat Baruch has a gift for putting together well-curated looks that are easy to replicate.

The Sustainable Choice

According to Earth.org, the fashion industry is the second-largest industrial polluter. Fast fashion feeds into the problem because they are cheap, clothes are poor quality and quickly thrown away. 

The ethical implications include workers not being paid a proper wage and unfair working conditions. 

Fast fashion has no place in a capsule wardrobe. Why? Because you will always choose quality over quantity. The result is your clothing lasting for decades and could be handed down to the next generation. 

Here’s also where the sustainable angle comes in. With sustainability leading the charge, women are becoming more mindful and considerate of their fashion choices. They’re making more effort to put their consumer power behind established brands with a good track record in sustainable fashion.

Celebrities are doing their part by choosing to wear iconic vintage pieces on the red carpet. Known as archival fashion, it’s not uncommon to spot the likes of Dua Lipa dressed in vintage Dior or Chanel.

Out With the Old, In With the New

Personal stylist Lakyn Carlton has a few tips for those who don’t know where to start. Don’t get rid of everything to start over from scratch, she advised while chatting to Haper’s Bazaar. Go through your wardrobe and keep the items you wear a lot. Tackle it like a wardrobe detox.

Vogue has a handy hack as well. Turn all your hangers to face the same way. When you wear something, turn the hanger around. Within a few weeks, you’ll get a sense of what your favorite dress is.

If the thought of transforming your entire wardrobe scares you, start with baby steps. As we mentioned, it could take months or years to settle on a capsule wardrobe that truly represents your style.

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