Want a minimalist capsule wardrobe? Then this guide is perfect for beginners and will teach you how to build a capsule wardrobe in a few easy steps. If you’re new to the concept then you may be wondering what is a capsule wardrobe? A capsule wardrobe is simply a collection of clothing composed of thoughtfully curated, easily interchangeable items designed to maximise the number of outfits you can create!

1. Less decision fatigue: Everyone is always worried that having fewer clothes would feel too limiting, however, having fewer options makes it significantly easier to decide what to wear. Having a capsule wardrobe allows you to get more creative with your wardrobe compared to having hundreds of unnecessary items hanging in your closet.
   
   
2. Capsule wardrobes are better for the planet: Purchasing fewer items of clothes also means that you are contributing to less fashion waste every year. Less clothing means fewer chemicals in our water and oceans, less clothing in landfill and smaller carbon footprint.
   
   
3. You can afford nicer stuff: When you stop purchasing clothes that you don’t need, you have more money to invest in timeless, high-quality pieces that will last multiple wears and seasons.
   
   
4. You’ll reduce unnecessary stress and overwhelm: Clutter increases cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. By downsizing your wardrobe, you clear your physical clutter from your home, and your wardrobe suddenly becomes a more open and calming environment. Also, getting dressed is stress free and fun when you have a capsule wardrobe.

Step 1: Declutter your wardrobe

The first step in building your minimalist capsule wardrobe is throwing things out of your current wardrobe that you know you are ready to part with. In doing this you are able to clear the clutter from your wardrobe so that you can focus on building your capsule wardrobe full of piece that you love. Donate, sell or recycle things that you are removing from your wardrobe and then clear some space in your closet and organise what’s left into categories.

Step 2: Choose your core capsule pieces

The first step in building your minimalist capsule wardrobe is throwing things out of your current wardrobe that you know you are ready to part with. In doing this you are able to clear the clutter from your wardrobe so that you can focus on building your capsule wardrobe full of piece that you love. Donate, sell or recycle things that you are removing from your wardrobe and then clear some space in your closet and organise what’s left into categories.

Step 3: Choose each piece per category wisely

Tips for choosing bottoms for your capsule wardrobe

Bottoms are the foundation of an outfit. They are the easiest starting point whether you’re building a capsule wardrobe or a simple outfit. Choose bottoms that fit well, are comfortable and can be worn with multiple tops, sweaters, jackets and tees. Neutrals are always more versatile than bold bright prints so you definitely want to build your basics first.

While most bottoms can be worn all year round you will probably need bottoms for different seasons. For example more flowy trousers during warmer seasons and heavier trousers during winter seasons. Some key capsule bottoms to consider include black seasonal trousers, cotton or linen shorts, knee-length skirt, midi skirt or maxi skirt and light coloured trousers. See below for some of our top capsule wardrobe bottom options.

Tips for choosing denim for your capsule wardrobe
 

Denim is another key foundation of your capsule wardrobe. Make sure to have a few different washes for example dark wash, medium wash, light wash, black or white. Neutral colour will give you maximum versatility and allow you to dress up or down the tops you pair them with. Make sure to find brands and styles that fit you best. Some denim options to consider include skinny jeans or straight-leg denim jeans, medium-wash mom jeans, light-wash wide-leg or destroyed denim and 1-2 pairs of denim shorts. If you don’t have pairs of denim jeans that you love, I highly recommend trying the following options hand picked by us!

Tips for choosing tops & blouses for your capsule wardrobe

Good neutral tops & blouses are another capsule wardrobe essential. Look for tops that can be worn alone and layered under tops or jackets. Short sleeves are generally more versatile since they can be worn all year round and layered under other items during cooler months however a long sleeve top is essential during the cooler seasons. Knit tops are another crowd favourite, seriously trending right now knit tops are a perfect addition to your capsule wardrobe especially if they come in neutral colours.

Tips for choosing dresses & jumpsuits for your capsule wardrobe

There are two categories left, don’t quit now! Look for neutral dresses that are either sleeveless or short-sleeved, and that can be layered under a cardigan, blazer or jacket. You’ll get the most use out of these since they can be worn throughout all seasons! Floral and fun print can also earn a spot in your capsule wardrobe if it can be worn a few different ways. Length is also an important factor when choosing capsule wardrobe dress pieces. I love midi-length dresses because they are flattering and can be easily dresses up or down. However everybody has to own a little black dress or a gorgeous flowy maxi dress. Knit dresses are also a great option as they can be worn for any occasion. We love a good jumpsuit when you are feeling a little over dresses. Opt for a dressy jumpsuit piece to be worn for events or a more casual style jumpsuit that can be dresses up with heels when the event arises. Some of our top dress and jumpsuit picks are seen below.

Tips for choosing coats & jackets for your capsule wardrobe

Having the right coats and jackets in your capsule wardrobe will carry you from season to season and add a layer of interest to your outfit. Make sure to identify jackets that you can wear the most and that work in the current season and beyond. When it comes to outwear, weight and colour are very important. Neutrals will always be more versatile than prints and bold colours, although we are in the era or bright bold colour and prints aim to keep this to a minimum if you are aiming for a minimalist wardrobe. Here are some keep capsule wardrobe jackets and coats to consider:

A note on choosing shoes for a capsule wardrobe

When it comes to footwear, there is no need for excessive amounts however having a variety of shoes will allow you to create more outfit options with fewer clothes. Some essential shoes to consider for your capsule wardrobe include:

• Neutral or white sneakers
• Nude heels
• Neutral everyday flats
• Strappy sandals
• Athletic sneakers
• All-weather boots

When your heart is playing matchmaker, your wardrobe should too.