How to Build a Successful Capsule Wardrobe
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a thoughtful collection of men's must have items curated for timelessness and comfort — it’s involves a collection of well-rounded pieces, for every situation, including relaxed everyday outings to more formal type of events.
It focuses on easy to mix-and-match pieces in simple, understated colors. This creates a refined and cohesive wardrobe, limiting any stress that comes with trying to create the right outfits.
By focusing on versatile, high-quality pieces, you not only save time, energy, and money, but also reduce decision fatigue and take part in a more sustainable way of getting dressed.
As your style develops, you can eventually introduce more bold items that’ll work best for your individual circumstances.
How Many Items Are in a Capsule Wardrobe?
Usually, a capsule wardrobes holds anywhere from 25 to 50 pieces including clothing, shoes, and accessories.
Keep in mind though, this number is influenced by different factors such as your geographic location and individualized requirements.
For instance, if you live in a region with four distinct seasons, you’ll most likely want a more substantial collection to a cater to range of climates you encounter, compared to those living in more year-round warmer climates.
Common Capsule Wardrobe Mistakes To Avoid
1. Not Tailoring
It may be hard to believe, but most clothing off the rack isn’t designed to fit your you. This is the reason why a tailor is so important.
Finding the right tailor to alter both your casual and formal attire will instantly elevate your appearance, and in turn, significantly boost how you feel in what you wear.
2. Going Cheap
For a capsule wardrobe, avoid picking low-quality items. Then again, there’s no need to invest lots of money on high-end / designer garments either. I’m more so talking about incorporating quality pieces that will last season after season. And that doesn’t necessarily mean big names or high end designers.
Invest in things like leather shoes and outerwear since they not only give you more comfort and durability, but save you money long term.
3. Not Knowing What You Need
Before going all in, take the time to carefully assess your wardrobe needs. Understand the specific requirements of your job since this is what the majority of your wardrobe will revolve around – establish if it leans towards dressier or more casual attire. This is really important when building out your capsule wardrobe to best coincidence with your lifestyle needs.
Prioritize items worn frequently and rid yourself of non-purposeful / rarely used ones.
Maybe you find yourself wearing more dress shirts rather than casual t-shirts. If that’s the case, stock up on what you wear regularly, but less of what seldom makes it out your closet.
4. Not Using Professional Guidance
Many men believe that creating outfits in neutral shades is a simple.
The reality is, they often end up settling for ill-fitting or poorly made pieces that deteriorate very quickly.
Understanding the proper fit for your body and identifying where to get those high-quality essentials should always be top of mind when creating your capsule wardrobe.
5. Being Unsure of How to Dress for the Occassion
When creating your daily looks, consider the following key factors ...
What kind of event will you be attending?
What’s the current weather like?
What are the tasks will you be involved in?
Taking all of these factors into account will help to create versatile capsule outfits that’ll harmonize together and help you look and feel your ultimate best.
Capsule Wardrobe Items You’ll Need to Have
2 Jackets (1 Dressy, 1 Casual)
Dressy:
Sport Coat or Blazer
Casual:
Bomber
Denim/Trucker
Harrington
Utility
8-12 Tops (a mixture of shirts and sweaters)
Shirts:
Polo Shirts - Navy, Black
Oxford Button Down Dress Shirt - White, Light Blue
Semi-Spread Collar Dress Shirt - White, Light Blue
Work Shirt/Flannel
Sweaters:
Crewneck Sweater
V-Neck Sweater
Sweatshirt
Hoodie
2-6 Pants (1-2 Casual, 1 Dressy)
Jeans - Dark Wash (Indigo)
Chino Pants - Navy, Sand, or Khaki
Joggers - Navy, Black, or Charcoal
Wool Trousers
4 Flat Front Chino Shorts
2 Navy
1 Sand or Khaki
1 Gray
2 Pairs of Shoes (1 Casual, 1 Dressy)
White Leather Sneakers
Pair of Oxford Dress Shoes (Medium Brown or Black)
2 x Boots
Lace-Up Boots - Medium Brown Leather
Chukka Boots/Chelsea Boots - Medium Brown Leather
8 Pairs of Underwear
8 Pairs of Socks
2 Pairs of Each Color —
Black
Dark Gray
Brown
Accessories
Belts - Leather (1 Black, 1 Brown)
Sunglasses or Opticals (1 Black, 1 Brown/ Tortoiseshell)
Bags (1 Backpack/Briefcase)
Luggage (1 Weekender, 1 Roller Bag)
Watches (1 Casual, 1 Dressy)
Casual: Metal Bracelet - White or Blue face/dail
Dressy: Black or Dark Brown Leather Strap, White face/dial
Wallet (1 Leather or Leather Substitute) - Black or Brown
Hats (2 Casual, 1 Dressy)
Baseball Cap - Navy Blue small or no logo
Beanie - Navy, Black, or Charcoal
Weather Condition or Event-Specific
Suit (1 Gray or Navy)
Heavy Jacket - Navy, Gray or Black,
Overcoat
Peacoat
Parka
Wool Scarf (1 Black, Gray, or Navy)
Lace-Up Boots (Rain, Snow, Cold weather)
Ties (1 Navy, 1 Black)
Workout Clothes
Capsule Outfit Inspiration Boards
Brandi is a personal stylist with over 10 years of experience helping men feel confident in their clothing. She offers tailored style solutions to solve your fashion issues, ensuring you look and feel great for any occasion.