How to Retain Your Individual Style with a Capsule Wardrobe
How to Retain Your Individual Style with a Capsule Wardrobe
By: Briley Rakow
Despite fashion being controlled by the cycle of trends more than ever, many people have been moving toward implementing simplicity into their wardrobes. Capsule wardrobes consist of staple items, traditionally in neutral colors, and can be reworn and layered to create a variety of outfits with just a few pieces.
Capsule wardrobes are especially popular among those who travel frequently or for extended periods of time. With sustainability as a central concern in the fashion industry, capsule wardrobes are a great way to participate in a minimalist lifestyle and avoid the excess of waste that comes from fast-fashion.
Downsizing your closet can seem like a hefty task, but when you take time to go through each item of clothing, you may be surprised at how much you are willing to part with. Think about what pieces you wear the most, what colors are easy to match and rewear, and if there is anything you can not live without. Once you get rid of anything that does not match your ideal aesthetic, it is much easier to start figuring out how to style different outfits from the pieces you already have.
Start with your staple pieces: basic t-shirts, tank tops, denim, neutral outerwear, and everyday shoes. From these items, it is very likely that you can already create an abundance of outfits. Pair a neutral tank top with jeans, your favorite sneakers, and you are ready to take on the day. Layer it with a sweater when it is chilly, throw on a button-down to add something new, or layer with fun jewelry for an upscale look.
Layering is your best friend when it comes to capsule wardrobes. Any dress or tank top can be made new again for the winter when you add a long-sleeve shirt or turtleneck underneath. Similarly, you can swap jeans for a skirt while leaving on the same top if you want to wear something dressier without the effort of creating a new outfit. Purses, shoes, belts, and jewelry are vital to making your simple outfit look more elevated or sophisticated.
It is easy to fall prey to the constantly changing trends on social media, but having style is not about wearing what everyone else decides is “in” at the moment. Finding pieces you love, that are true to who you are, and make you feel confident is what having real personal style is all about. A capsule wardrobe may not be for everyone, but if you want to focus on finding the core of your fashion identity, it might be a good place to start.
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Images courtesy of Millie Conn and Xenia Minton.