What is a capsule wardrobe?
It is a collection of clothing items that can be mixed and matched to provide you with various outfit options using core pieces. Typically, these items will be neutral in colour and fit great! Things like your favourite pair of jeans, a blazer, and a white T-shirt! In most cases, you may already be halfway there to your capsule wardrobe. Various items of clothing are required to bump around the conversation of a capsule wardrobe. Though the best number is likely what works best for you.
Is this a trend or something we would consider genuinely sustainable?
The fast fashion industry contributes to 10% of global emissions, and 87% of the fibres used end up incinerated or find their way into a landfill. In contrast, capsule wardrobes are, in practice, quite sustainable, as they utilize items that you already own. Typically, a capsule wardrobe pushes for the investment in higher quality, longer-lasting pieces and urges conscious consumption over mass consumption. And remember, the most sustainable item of clothing is the one already sitting in your closet. This type of wardrobe is different from fast fashion. Taking a step back and not purchasing the newest item available at Zara because it’s trending. This beast of a fashion house is well known throughout the globe for having a 15-day in-store design timeline, adding fuel to the trend cycle.
Still, trying to figure out where to start?
The important thing to remember about capsule wardrobes is that they exist in part to work with your personal style. Steering clear of the trend cycle, which has been compressing at a staggering rate due to social media and TikTok trends, lasts only days. So, what items do you love in your closet? Which items do you reach for weekly? These are great items to keep! Once you have a better idea of what you have, you can identify gaps and items you may need to add to achieve variety in outfit combinations. If you are a reader, project 333 offers a guide to minimalism.
Love to stay up to date with the trends?
Having a capsule wardrobe does not mean you cannot keep up with fashion trends. However, we encourage that if there are trendy items you would like to add to your closet, you consider a rental service first. Companies like Rent the Runway and nuuly offer trendy, high-fashion clothing rentals. A great option to try out the trends before you buy. See if they are an item that you would like to include in your closet long-term or just for an event. Many rental sites now allow you to purchase the clothing item after the rental period to be a part of your forever collection.
As spring cleaning time approaches, consider consolidating your clothes and opting for a capsule wardrobe. This process is kinder on the planet, as we change our relationship with fast fashion and overconsumption, easier on your bank account with lower price per ware on higher quality items in your closet, and easier on the mind. Say goodbye to seeing your entire closet on the floor as you struggle to figure out what to wear.
House Thirty 
Leave a comment