How to Craft the Perfect Capsule Wardrobe for the New Year

The beginning of a new year brings the promise of a fresh start, a new year, a new you! And what better way to start fresh than by creating the perfect capsule wardrobe, one that actually suits your unique lifestyle?  A capsule wardrobe takes the guesswork out of getting dressed in the morning and instead offers you a versatile collection of clothing that you can mix and match to create endless outfit possibilities, and it's the perfect way to streamline your wardrobe whilst getting dressed in the morning. 

But before you start stocking up on new clothes, it's important to first consider a few different factors. Throughout this blog, we’ll detail the important points to consider so that you can be well-dressed and less stressed this 2023.

Consider Your Lifestyle

When it comes to style, there is no one size fits all approach. Everyone has different factors to consider, with lifestyle being one of the most important. Are you a busy working professional who needs a collection of polished, office-appropriate attire? Or maybe you're a mum who wants a mix of comfy, casual pieces for classes and social commitments. Understanding your lifestyle is key to making smart choices about what types of clothing to include in your capsule wardrobe.

And don't worry, this isn't about trying to fit into a certain "personality" mould. This is all about what works for you and your daily routine. Bonus points if the pieces you purchase can be worn across multiple different parts of your life. For example, a classic pair of suit pants would fit perfectly amongst the lifestyle of a young professional but can double as after-hours dinner attire when paired with different accessories, so swap out the work loafer for a strappy sandal, and switch the button-down for a sparkly top and you’ve got two completely different outfits. 

Remember Cost-Per-Wear

Another key principle of a capsule wardrobe is the "cost-per-wear" analysis. This means considering how often you'll wear a piece of clothing and how much you're willing to spend on it. For example, investing in a high-quality, versatile jacket that you'll wear frequently may be a better choice than buying a low-cost, trendy top that you'll only wear a few times. Remember, a capsule wardrobe is all about simplicity, versatility, and quality, so if something is that little bit more pricey but has the potential to be worn several different ways, and is well made enough to make it through a wash cycle without completely losing its shape, then allow yourself a little indulgence. In addition, by investing in quality, you’re likely to end up saving money in the long run as you don’t have to continue repurchasing items that deteriorate quickly. 

It’s also important to consider the previous point of your lifestyle when contemplating whether you should purchase an item. Whilst items of high quality may fit within your wardrobe, perhaps swap the white silk blouse for a deeper shade in a more durable fabric if you’re the mother of little ones with messy hands. This will help your item stay beautiful for longer, whilst ensuring you’re getting the best value. 

Don’t Be Afraid Of Trends

Whilst a capsule wardrobe is mainly about classic pieces, it’s ok to throw a trendy item into the mix as well if it fits your personal style, this will also stop you from getting tired of your go-to pieces, as it adds a little bit of fun to your rotation. If you’re feeling a little bit intimidated by the idea of trends, there are a few ways you can approach them. Incorporating a trendy item into your capsule wardrobe can be a great way to add some freshness and personality to your outfits. One strategy is to purchase a classic item, such as a pair of jeans, but opt for a more trendy colour or cut. This way, you can stay true to the timeless and versatile nature of a capsule wardrobe while still incorporating current trends. 

Another approach is to find a trendy accessory, such as a scarf or an item of jewellery, that can be worn in a variety of ways. This way, you can add a pop of trendiness to your outfits without committing to a full piece of clothing. For example, you could purchase a trendy scarf in a neutral colour that can be worn as a necktie, a belt, or even added to a handbag. By being strategic about how you incorporate trendy items at your disposal, you'll be able to stay on-trend without sacrificing the versatility that makes a capsule wardrobe so effective.

Have A Clear Style Reference 

Having a clear style reference when curating a capsule wardrobe can be extremely beneficial for a variety of reasons. It helps to focus your shopping efforts and ensures that you are only purchasing items that align with your personal style and aesthetic. This can save you time and money, as you will be less likely to impulse buy items that don't fit in with your overall look. Additionally, having a clear style reference makes it easier to mix and match items within your wardrobe, as everything will have a cohesive look and feel. This can lead to a more polished and put-together appearance, as your outfits will be more cohesive and intentional.

By having a style reference to refer back to, you’re able to easily identify gaps in your wardrobe, making it easier to pinpoint the specific pieces that you need to purchase to round out your capsule collection. Overall, having reference when curating your 2023 capsule wardrobe will assist you during the purchasing process resulting in a wardrobe that truly reflects your personal style and makes getting dressed and looking put together in the morning a breeze.

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Crafting the perfect capsule wardrobe for the new year is all about finding the right balance of timeless and versatile pieces with a touch of current trends. By investing in quality items, and having a clear style reference, you'll be able to create a wardrobe that not only saves you time and money but also makes getting dressed in the morning a simple task. Remember to consider your lifestyle and have some fun with accessories to make it your own. With a little planning and a lot of style, you can kick off the new year with a wardrobe that you love and that works for you.