How to Create a Sustainable Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a collection of a limited number of clothes that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. This minimalist approach to fashion allows for a simplified and organized closet, making it easier to get dressed in the morning.

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Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe

One of the main benefits of a capsule wardrobe is the time and money saved by not having to constantly shop for new clothes. With a limited number of pieces, you can focus on investing in high-quality, versatile items that will last for several seasons.

Another advantage is the reduced environmental impact. By owning fewer clothes, you are contributing to a more sustainable fashion industry. Capsule wardrobes also encourage more mindful consumption and prevent over-cluttering of your closet.

With a capsule wardrobe, getting dressed in the morning becomes a breeze. You have a limited number of choices, but still enough to create unique and stylish outfits. Plus, you can feel good about your fashion choices, knowing that they are sustainable, cost-effective, and reflect your personal style.

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How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe

To create your own capsule wardrobe, start by decluttering your existing clothes and getting rid of anything that no longer fits, is damaged, or hasn't been worn in a while. Then, determine your personal style and the core pieces that will form the base of your wardrobe. These could include essentials like a white t-shirt, jeans, and a blazer.

Next, choose a color palette to create a cohesive look and make it easier to mix and match your clothes. The number of items in your capsule wardrobe will vary depending on your lifestyle and personal preferences, but a good rule of thumb is to have around 30-40 pieces for a three-month season.

In addition to core pieces and a color palette, a capsule wardrobe can also include seasonal items, accessories, and outerwear. The key is to have a balanced mix of casual and formal pieces, as well as different fabric textures and patterns.

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Women's Capsule Wardrobe

Every woman should have a few key items in her capsule wardrobe that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. These items might include a pair of black pants, a white t-shirt, a little black dress, a blazer, and a pair of comfortable and versatile shoes. Other essential items to include in a capsule wardrobe might be a statement jacket, a neutral sweater, a versatile skirt, and a pair of jeans that fit well. Additionally, it's important to have a few accessories such as gaiters, jewelry, and handbags that can be used to elevate any outfit.  

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trench coat (neutral colour - beige, black, grey)

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jeans

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coat (neutral colour - beige, black, grey)

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black leggings / trousers

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winter jacket (neutral colour - beige, black, grey)

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simple black dress 

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leather jacket (neutral colour - beige, black, grey)

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variable dress for summer

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jacket + trousers (black / dark blue)

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simple red dress

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cashmere sweater (black, grey, beige) or cardigan 

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universal skirt

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shirts (white)

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trouser belt (black, brown)

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turtleneck

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dress belt

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good quality black t-shirt (or blue if black doesn't suit you)

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Black pumps

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quality long sleeve t-shirt

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White sneakers

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sports shirt white / black / blue

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Slippers - flats

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sports leggings

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Black small handbag

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sweatshirt (grey/black)

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Black large handbag

 

Men's Capsule Wardrobe

Every man should have a selection of versatile and high-quality items in his capsule wardrobe. These might include:

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trench coat (neutral colour - beige, black, grey)

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quality white t-shirt

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coat (neutral colour - beige, black, grey)

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jeans

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winter jacket (neutral colour - beige, black, grey)

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beige trousers for summer 

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leather jacket (neutral colour - beige, black, grey)

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sports shirt white / black / blue

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well cut suit (black)

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sports tank top black/white

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cashmere sweater or cardigan (grey, black, beige)

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sports shorts/pants

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turtleneck

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sweatshirt (grey/black)

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shirts (white/black)

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White sneakers

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polo shirts

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Black half boots

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good quality black t-shirt (or blue if black doesn't suit you)

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Brown shoes

How to Create Your Own Style that Will Work

First, learn to work with a basic capsule wardrobe before you start adding more pieces to it. Then you can start experimenting. If you love bolder pieces, you can add a colorful jacket, belt, or bolder shoes. The key is to use most of the pieces from the capsule wardrobe.

Tip: How to choose the right clothing for golf? You can find out in this article.

How to Choose Clothing for the Capsule Wardrobe

Choose materials that you know are of good quality. Over time, the investment will pay off because quality clothing lasts for several years, some even for decades.

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If you want to save the environment, you can try nanomaterials, which, in addition to being able to regulate body temperature (which is useful in summer weather), are easier to maintain and stay fresh for longer. Nanomaterials save water in maintenance and can eliminate sweating odor, which men will appreciate during hot summer days, but they are also very popular for traveling.

Lucie Konečná, COO, nanoSPACE
Lucie Konečná has been working in the field of nanotechnology for 7 years. She is a co-author of the Czech is Nano project and has been involved in building public awareness of nanotechnology. Lucie has been managing operations of the nanoSPACE e-shop since May 2020.