Keep in mind that there is no universal method for creating a capsule wardrobe.
The approach to building clothing collections is undergoing a significant shift, with more individuals embracing a minimalist perspective, prioritizing quality over quantity, and considering sustainability. This has led to the rise of the capsule wardrobe—a curated selection of interchangeable pieces. The concept is that by streamlining your closet, you can save money, reduce decision fatigue, and optimize your wardrobe space.
Stylist Kenzie Welch points out a common mistake people make in crafting their capsule wardrobes, emphasizing the importance of personalization. In a recent TikTok video, Welch stresses that a one-size-fits-all approach is not suitable, asserting, “Your capsule wardrobe should not look like everyone else’s.” The effectiveness of a capsule wardrobe hinges on featuring items you genuinely enjoy wearing, emphasizing the need for it to align with your personality, preferences, and lifestyle.
Table of Contents
1. Identify Your Style Aesthetic
Welch identifies eight core style aesthetics:
- Boho: Hippie-inspired with flowy fabrics, fringe, layered jewellery, and floral or nature-inspired patterns.
- Classic: Timeless and elegant, featuring simple silhouettes, tailored pieces, and high-quality natural fabrics.
- Casual: Laid-back and effortless, incorporating sneakers or denim jackets with skirts and dresses.
- Edgy: Unconventional and black-heavy, focusing on rugged materials like chunky lug-sole boots and distressed denim.
- Glam: Glitzy and attention-grabbing, with shiny and luxurious fabrics like satin and sequins.
- Minimal: Clean lines and a monochromatic neutral palette, characterized by understated pieces with few patterns.
- Preppy: Ivy league chic, with cable-knit, pastel colours, nautical stripes, and check/plaid or seersucker pieces.
- Romantic: Focused on feminine colours, vintage-inspired silhouettes, and luxe, floaty materials with embroidered detailing.
Welch highlights subcategories, suggesting that those with an edgy style may lean towards streetwear or grunge.
2. Develop Your Capsule Wardrobe Around Your Aesthetic
Once your aesthetic is determined, Welch recommends identifying staple pieces that capture the essence of your style. Consider questions like, “What silhouettes do I frequently reach for?” and “Which colours make me feel the most confident?” For example, a boho style might include graphic tees, flared bottoms, denim shorts, western boots, fringe-lined accessories, and felt-brimmed hats. Alternatively, a minimalist aesthetic might feature blazers, neutral bodysuits, trench coats, white sneakers, and straight-leg jeans.
3. Prioritize Classic Pieces
While personalizing your capsule wardrobe based on your aesthetic, Welch advises incorporating timeless, essential pieces that transcend style trends. She emphasizes the universality of certain items, such as t-shirts, denim, and sweaters, that everyone wears regardless of their style. For instance, a leather jacket or little black dress can complement a minimal, edgy, or casual aesthetic. A solid tailored blazer in a vibrant hue like pink can enhance a preppy, glam, or classic capsule wardrobe.
Summary
Creating a personalized capsule wardrobe involves understanding your unique style aesthetic, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach. Stylist Kenzie Welch identifies eight core aesthetics, from boho to classic, and suggests subcategories within each. To craft a capsule wardrobe, Welch advises choosing staple pieces that align with the essence of your style. While personalization is key, incorporating timeless classics, such as t-shirts and denim, ensures versatility and longevity in your wardrobe.
