How to Build a Successful Capsule Wardrobe
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
It's a thoughtful collection of men's essential items crafted for timeless style and comfort — a capsule wardrobe a collection of well-rounded pieces for relaxed everyday outings to more formal type of events.
It focuses on timeless easy to mix-and-match pieces in simple, understated colors. This will guarantee a consistently refined and harmonious look, taking any stress away 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 style.
As your individual style develops, you can eventually introduce more bold items that’ll work best for personal tastes.
How Many Items Are in a Capsule Wardrobe?
Typically, 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 bigger collection overall compared to those living in those more year-round warmer climates.
Common Capsule Wardrobe Mistakes
Not Tailoring
It may be hard to believe, but most clothing off the rack isn’t designed to fit your specific needs. This is the reason why a skilled 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 your confidence.
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.
Invest in things like leather shoes and outerwear since they not only give you more comfort and durability, but also yield long-term savings.
Not Determining Needs
Before going all in, take the time to carefully assess your wardrobe needs. Understand the specific requirements of your job since this what the majority of your wardrobe will revolve around – whether it leans towards dressier or more of a casual attire. This is vital when building out your capsule wardrobe to best coincidence with your lifestyle.
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 of your closet.
Not Utilizing 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 sources for those high-quality essentials should always be top of mind when creating your capsule wardrobe.
Putting Together Outfits
When creating your daily looks, consider the following key factors ...
What is the nature of the event?
What’s the current weather like?
What are the tasks will you be involved in?
Taking all of these factors into account will create those versatile capsule looks that will harmonize well and help you look and feel your 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
Outfit Inspiration Boards
Use this valuable information for continued success so you can attract investment from others just as you invest in yourself.
I've provided a comprehensive list of actionable steps that men can take to elevate themselves and become the greatest version they can be — be sure to explore more posts to gain deeper insights.
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Brandi is a personal stylist helping leading men feel more confident in their style. She provides carefully-curated style offerings, dedicated to relieving all your style struggles, so you stay looking and feeling your absolute best.
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