A capsule wardrobe is a thoughtfully selected collection of clothing that fits you and your lifestyle and is easily mixable to maximize your outfit options for a certain period of time. For example: capsules can be specifically crafted for a warm weather season, cool weather, and work dress codes. A capsule wardrobe can be created to suit any lifestyle whether you are employed full-time in a corporate setting, work part-time, are an entrepreneur, or a stay at home/work at home mother. A capsule is a picture album of who you are and how you live your life. It is highly personal and flexible in its structure and use.

Benefits of a capsule wardrobe:

• Simple ease of dressing for any occasion.
• Financial savings from fewer, higher quality purchases that last longer.
• Time savings with fewer (less stressful), more rewarding shopping.
• Clothing that fits perfectly and is appropriate to the weather.
•  A style so “you”, in colors that make you sparkle!
• Greater confidence from always looking your best!
• Many mix and match options to increase outfit choices.

As you can see I am sold on the capsule wardrobe concept! There are many books, blogs, and Pinterest ideas on how to compile capsule wardrobes of different sizes, styles, and for various needs. Through these venues I began to study this theory of wardrobe building and quickly became more and more fascinated.

Admittedly, I was skeptical as to how it would function in real life so I continued to read books, watch YouTube tutorials and inch my way closer and closer to having a capsule wardrobe. First, I started with learning about myself. What styles did I like? What proportions looked good on me? What kinds of clothing did I need and how much? What colors were best for my skin tone, eyes, and hair color? And where to begin?! Over time I noticed commonly suggested approaches to creating a capsule wardrobe; the list below is how I chose to begin this journey.

Steps to Creating a Capsule Wardrobe:

1. Determine your personal style.
2. Discover your body shape and proportions to find the most flattering cuts.
3. Find your “outfit formulas”. The “go to” looks/pieces you resort to look and feel your best.
4. Evaluate your lifestyle needs.
5. Know your best colors – to make you shine! A guideline to understanding how to use color.

I knew from reading testimonials and watching rather convincing wardrobe makeovers that I wanted to at least try this capsule idea… I began by viewing my closet, what I chose to wear, and my shopping habits as a case study. How fascinating this has proven to be! I’ve learned so much about myself and am able to make better decisions. Imagine knowing that you prefer v-neck cardigans, or that you always choose a linen blend over a pure linen blouse. Knowing that ¾ sleeves are a flattering cut for you, or that you look taller in a pencil skirt with wedge heels…

But I’m getting a bit ahead of myself. First off, I knew I had to begin by cutting out all the excess “noise” from my overstuffed closet. I easily see how my closet had gotten out of hand without a plan or goal in mind. Imagine for a moment that you were to compare your closet to the pantry, for instance, and clothes shopping to buying groceries. Then picture how silly it would be to go to the store without a menu plan, or even a list, to then spend your grocery money on completely random items. Over the course of the next few days you would quickly become frustrated and hungry since nothing would go together to create yummy, satisfying meals!

Creating a capsule wardrobe is like a menu plan. It is intentional. It is cohesive. It all works together and offers a suitable variety of complementary outfits. Shopping is easy, saving you time and money. The more thought you put into your wardrobe, the more satisfying, and fun it will be! I invite you to follow along with me as we learn to create that photo album reflecting who you are and how you desire to thrive in your unique life.

What intrigues you about the capsule concept? Have you begun your journey towards a capsule and hit a wall? What are your tips and tricks for creating an intentional wardrobe? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this! Please leave your comments and questions in the box below. I look forward to getting to know you better!