How To Create A Core Capsule Wardrobe

I’ve been creating capsule wardrobes since back in the early 2000s when I used to own two shops, so I know a thing or two about how to create a core capsule wardrobe. I had a group of clients who would come in to the shops each season and ask me to put together a selection of pieces that would create multiple outfits for them.

This was something I loved to do and in fact was how I curated the collections I sold in the shops. During buying season I would visit multiple suppliers and brands carefully choosing the right accessories, bags and shoes to work with the clothing items I had selected. As we are based near Ascot, I also had a supplier who would come in and design fascinators to perfectly match client’s Royal Ascot outfits.

Once I took my business online it seemed like a great idea to create capsule wardrobes virtually for clients too and I’ve been doing just that since around 2011, serving around 200 women.

So why have so many women trusted me to create a capsule wardrobe for them? Well first we need to determine what I think a capsule wardrobe is…

What is a Capsule Wardrobe?

While I agree that a capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits, I don’t agree that it has to be a certain number of items or include specific items. So many capsule wardrobe lists you see insist you must have a white shirt, black trousers, trench coat etc. But if these items don’t suit you either physically or personality wise, you won’t wear them. To me a capsule wardrobe is individual to each person. Both in how many items it includes and what they are.

I do also agree that it makes sense to have a core capsule wardrobe of pieces that work as the foundation of your wardrobe. For example we would all find a great pair of trousers useful, that work for the office with a blouse, dressed down with a knit for the weekend and perhaps up with a sparkly top for the evening. Camisole tops that layer under shirts and knits or can be worn alone in the summer months, our version of casual trousers, whether that be jeans or chinos, perhaps a jersey or T-shirt style dress that can again be dressed up or down.

The concept of a capsule wardrobe, popularised by Susie Faux, aims to solve the common dilemma of having a wardrobe full of clothes but nothing to wear. By focusing on versatile pieces that complement each other, you can streamline your wardrobe and make getting dressed simpler and more enjoyable.

However, I also believe that we need to add in those pieces that are unique to us. What I call the personality pieces – jewellery, accessories and of course colour and prints. These are what give your wardrobe a spark and make it interesting and exciting to get dressed, as well as being uniquely yours.

Why Do You Need a Capsule Wardrobe?

1. Versatility and Variety: With a well-planned capsule wardrobe, you can create numerous outfits from a limited number of pieces. This reduces the feeling of monotony and ensures you always have something suitable to wear.
2. Intentional Shopping: A capsule wardrobe encourages you to buy quality pieces that last, rather than accumulating numerous items you rarely wear. This approach saves money in the long run and promotes a more sustainable fashion choice.
3. Effortless Style: By having a cohesive collection, you can effortlessly put together stylish outfits without spending much time deciding what to wear. This is especially useful for those unexpected events or last-minute plans.

How to Create a Core Capsule Wardrobe

1. Understand Your Needs

Consider your lifestyle, personal style, and the types of activities you engage in. Your core capsule wardrobe should reflect your daily needs, remember this core capsule is not your complete wardrobe. This collection is the foundation around which you will build your wardrobe. These pieces will always give you something to wear.

2. Your Core Collection

Begin with a core set of basics that can be worn year-round. This might include:

• 3-5 tops including casual and smarter items such as T-shirts, shirts and a pretty blouse for dressier events
• 3 knits, perhaps a couple of sweaters and a cardigan
• 3 jackets or coats including a smarter option and a casual option, such as a blazer, denim or cargo style jacket and a coat that works over anything
• 3-4 bottoms – skirts or trousers depending on your preference – both smarter and a casual pair which could be jeans or chinos if you prefer
• 2-3 dresses (if you wear them) – a jersey, t-shirt dress or jumper dress are great options, a shirt dress and one that could be dressed up for evenings or occasions
• 3 pairs of shoes – casual perhaps trainers, flats and a smarter pair
• 3 bags – most useful are a tote or shoulder bag, cross body and one that could be used for day or evening
• 3 accessories – scarves and jewellery and perhaps a hat if that suits your personality

3. Incorporate Your Colour Preferences and Prints

While you will get the most use out of items that are in neutrals*, tailor these to suit you. You certainly don’t have to include black, instead you might prefer navy, grey or taupe with some cream or white depending on what works for your colouring. You might like me, love chocolate brown or Olive Green and prefer to have those as the foundation neutrals for your wardrobe.

*neutrals are colours that work with lots of other colours to give you more options.

4. Shop with Intention

For this core capsule wardrobe, invest in high-quality pieces that will stand the test of time. This doesn’t always mean expensive; focus on the fabric, construction, and overall durability.

When you expand your wardrobe with items that aren’t part of this core capsule with on trend items or seasonal pieces, you can opt for more budget-friendly options, but ensure they still offer good value.

5. Personalize Your Capsule

Your capsule wardrobe should be unique to you. Consider your body shape, color preferences, and lifestyle when selecting pieces. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula; tailor what you choose for your wardrobe to meet your individual needs.

I’ve recommended smarter and more casual items, but if your lifestyle involves one smart event per year, it’s pointless buying an expensive blazer and dress for that one occasion. Instead you could create a smarter outfit with a blouse that can be worn with your jeans and a pair of trousers that you wear with a sweater and trainers the rest of the time.

7. Maintain and Evolve

With a core capsule wardrobe you will find most of the items can be worn year round, making them earn their cost per wear. However, when you do wear your clothes more, you also need to make sure you maintain them and update them when they are getting worn or tatty. Add new pieces that refresh your collection while maintaining the versatility of your core items. Always aim to keep your wardrobe intentional and cohesive.

More Resources

If you want more help including how to your own capsule wardrobe, determine your personalised colour palette, how to dress your personality and much more you will love The Capsule wardrobe Course

If you liked this how to post you may also enjoy this post on How to Declutter Your Wardrobe Step by Step.