Have you ever been intrigued by the idea of a capsule wardrobe? Winter is a wonderful time to consider a capsule wardrobe. Our reasoning is because in winter we are inclined to layer more, so items need to be able to mix and match well. We tend to need quality clothing in the winter to keep us warm, and winter clothes are generally more expensive, so a curated capsule wardrobe where you can create many outfit options from a few well-chosen pieces is ideal!
What is a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of fewer clothes that prioritises quality over quantity. These carefully chosen, versatile pieces can mix and match in different ways, reducing the need to constantly buy new clothes with every new seasonal trend or every time we have an “I’ve got nothing to wear” moment.
With a capsule wardrobe you can learn to create different outfits using a limited number of items. A capsule wardrobe centres around neutral colours with pops of accent colours to suit your mood.
The benefits of a capsule wardrobe
Have no fear; a capsule wardrobe won’t cramp your style. In fact, a capsule wardrobe is one of the best ways to create your personal style, as it doesn’t bow down to trends.
With a capsule wardrobe you can create a number of different outfits for different occasions without breaking the bank.
Fewer clothes also mean you can get rid of wardrobe clutter and create a more organised and tidy wardrobe. This approach ensures you always know where everything is, making morning dressing effortless.
Tips when starting a capsule wardrobe
It may be daunting to start a capsule wardrobe; however, with these few basic tips, you can’t go wrong.
1. Give yourself time
Since a capsule wardrobe focuses on quality over quantity, setting up a capsule wardrobe won’t be an overnight affair. Quality items take time to find. Also take the time to decipher what you love, what you wear often, what flatters your body type and what clothes suit your lifestyle.
2. Choose your base colours
The best place to start is to choose your base colour. From there you can build your colour palette. Capsule wardrobes focus on neutral colours. This is easy in the winter, as many winter clothes are in neutral tones. We often think of neutrals as just black, grey, white and beige. But neutrals are so much more than that. You can get warm neutrals and cool neutrals. Colours such as taupe, camel, navy, and grey-green are also considered neutrals.
3. Stick to the classics
Classic pieces are your capsule wardrobe’s bread and butter. Those timeless items that never go out of style, such as a great pair of jeans, a white shirt, and a denim jacket. Items that stand the test of time.
4. Embrace quality over quantity
Opt for perfect, well-fitted pieces over plenty. This may seem pricey at first, but it will save you loads of money in the long run. In winter, quality is essential. Look at the garment label and take note of its composition. Pure-quality materials, such as cotton, linen, wool, and cashmere, will keep you warm and last. Don’t be tempted to buy an item that has been reduced in a sale that looks like a great staple but doesn’t really fit you perfectly. Fit, quality and versatility are key, especially with fewer clothes.
5. Statement pieces
Statement pieces add zest and personal style to your capsule collection. This could be a bright pair of shoes, a scarf or a chunky necklace. Mix and match the statement pieces with your classic items to create endless options.
6. A cohesive colour palette
Don’t be afraid of colour; however, opt for a cohesive palette of colours that work well together. Neutrals tend to work well with all colours, but some colour combinations are just a match made in heaven. Start with your neutral base colour and look for inspiration of colours that work well with with it.
7. Seasonally savvy
Of course there will be pieces in your wardrobe that are purely seasonal, but remember that the majority of your capsule wardrobe should work throughout the year. A great pair of jeans, a classic white shirt and a pair of chic white sneakers can transcend seasons easily, but with a little thought, so many more of your staple pieces can be styled in different ways to work with each season.
8. Be true to yourself
Your wardrobe should reflect who you are and your lifestyle. If an item is deemed a wardrobe staple but it doesn’t suit your lifestyle or make you feel good, it’s not for you. A capsule wardrobe is about defining your personal style and feeling your best.
A basic guide to creating a winter capsule wardrobe
Keeping the above tips in mind, here is an outline of a winter capsule wardrobe. Many of these pieces can transcend the seasons. But remember to stay true to you and your lifestyle. Once you have the essentials, you can add a new statement piece or keep it simple and classic. Working with a capsule wardrobe is not only a great investment for seasons to come, but it also just makes life easy.
Staple Tops
Basic Tee
A classic t-shirt is probably the most basic capsule wardrobe piece and can be worn year-round, even for layering in winter. Make sure your tee is not too tight or too loose.
Long-sleeve mockneck and/or crewneck tops
In winter it is essential to layer with lightweight long-sleeve tops.
White cotton or linen shirt
A seasonal essential, in winter layer it under a sweater with the collar out.
Sweatshirts
If you are having a casual day, a sweatshirt is comfy and cosy. Pair it with some lovely leggings and sneakers, and you can look stylish and feel comfy all day.
Crewneck and/or turtleneck sweaters
Dress these up or down; sweaters are essential winter capsule wardrobe pieces.
Staple Bottoms
Dark wash denims
Jeans are another capsule wardrobe cornerstone. Jeans are probably the most versatile item of clothing; they can be dressed up or down and work with practically anything.
Faux leather pants
These are new to the ‘staple wardrobe piece scene’, but they are a great alternative to jeans and can be made smart or casual.
Wide-leg trousers
A must-have for more formal occasions.
Black leggings
Perfect for cosy, casual days.
Satin skirts
A satin skirt is a wonderful alternative when you are tired of wearing pants. You can dress it up or down, and it transcends the seasons beautifully.
Staple Outerwear
Casual jacket
A classic denim or leather jacket goes with everything, transcends the seasons and is perfect for the not-so-cold winter days.
Puffer vest
Also a great option on warmer winter days or when you are looking for something less bulky.
Puffer jacket/coat
Us South Africans love our puffer jackets. It is perfect for those more outdoorsy occasions.
Wool Coat
A non-negotiable winter staple piece. South Africans often fall back on a puffer jacket, but it can’t be worn for every occasion. A classic coat is more stylish and can be dressed up or down.
A classic blazer
A very versatile piece that can be used for a more formal occasion or even paired with sneakers and jeans to create a trendy casual look.
Staple Shoes
Black boots
No matter the style, a classic, quality pair of black boots will last you for years and years.
Chelsea boots
These boots have more of an outdoorsy feel. Consider a waterproof option, especially if you are in rainy winter climates.
Sneakers
Most people’s go-to for everyday outfits. They can be worn with almost everything, including a satin skirt.
We are no fashionistas, but the above list is a simple guide to get you started. Think of what you love to wear, what works for you and how these items can be mixed and matched together to create different looks.
Fineline Wardrobe Solutions – the perfect partner to a capsule wardrobe.
A capsule wardrobe is all about versatile elegance. With a well-thought-out capsule wardrobe, you can drastically reduce the clutter in your wardrobe, making it more functional and organised.
Fineline Wardrobe Solutions are the masters at creating functional and organised wardrobe internals that will keep your clothes perfectly organised and in the best condition for years to come.
We at Fineline know the perfect balance between hanging space, shelves and drawers; we also know how to maximise shoe storage. With a Fineline wardrobe, everything will have its place, making mixing and matching your capsule wardrobe a breeze.
Show off your own personal style and finish off your wardrobe with a set of gorgeous sliding wardrobe doors in a finish of your choice, such as mirror, glass, woodgrain or a combination of materials. Your new fabulous and functional capsule wardrobe deserves a quality and elegant home to match it.
We can’t get your capsule wardrobe together for you, but if you are looking for professional help, stylists such as Penny Marriott from Definitely Those, as featured in this article, can help you craft a capsule wardrobe to suit you. However, if you want the gorgeous functionality of a well-designed built-in wardrobe with stylish sliding wardrobe doors, contact us at Fineline Wardrobe Solutions today.
By the way, capsule wardrobes are not just for the ladies! Here is another one of our great articles about creating a capsule wardrobe for a man.
For more creative ideas, visit our trendy blog.
