How to build a capsule wardrobe

by Dideka Njemla

The term capsule wardrobe is a term that became trendy on the streets of YouTube from fashion content creators.

While many can not define what the term capsule wardrobe means or which pieces it entails, many of us however can spot someone who owns one as it is visible in the manner in which they curate their comfortable, minimalistic and all rounded collection.

The owners of these wardrobes do not own unnecessary items but do however ensure that the few stylish items that they do have are versatile and can curate many outfits for various occasions without owning too many clothes.

This form of wardrobe is one of the many ways where people simplify their lives and get them in order by reducing overflowing wardrobes.

According to Harper’s Bazaar – an American based women’s fashion magazine – this wardrobe is composed of items that complement one another with majority of its pieces being “mutual hues” and coordinates.

Modern Minimalism – a minimalism lifestyle blog – states these interchangeable items are meant to maximize the number 0f looks one can achieve.  It is further explained that the objective of this form of wardrobe is to “create a variety of different looks with a small selection of clothes.”

Here are a few benefits of capsule wardrobes as advised by Modern Minimalism:

  • It reduces the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
  • You will be less indecisive when it comes to choosing outfits.
  • You can invest in owning less expensive items that are great quality.
  • Decluttering your wardrobe and getting rid of anything you no longer wear and need.

South African YouTuber and digital content creator Onke Khumalo shows us a few looks that she achieves from a capsule wardrobe. These looks can be styled to fit any occasion to always maintain an elegant look.

Here are a few examples shared on her Instagram profile:

Outfit 1

Outfit 2

Outfit 3

Declutter your wardrobe and begin to invest in your capsule wardrobe. This way you can still keep your favorite items and style them in numerous ways. The ultimate goal is to shop smarter and not harder.

Also see: NY Fashion Week selects Rooibos Pantone among ten spring colours