Perfecting Your Capsule Wardrobe

Posted on: 06/09/2023

While the exact 'rules' of a capsule wardrobe are debated, the basic premise is to help you get more wear out of your wardrobe. But how do you achieve that?

A capsule wardrobe champions having a small collection of curated clothes, shoes and accessories that can be styled well together and used for multiple occasions, be that a formal soirée or lunch with a friend. Here are some things to consider when building your own. 

You don't have to stick to neutrals

Capsule wardrobes don’t have to be grey and drab. While neutrals can be great for versatile styling, don’t iron out your personality. Think about pops of colour that work for you and incorporate these with selective pieces.

The most important part is to integrate items that make you look and feel great. It may be tempting to replicate what you think a capsule wardrobe 'looks like', which according to a large proportion of videos online, revolves around black, white and beige clothing. But the truth is that the formula will work differently for everyone.

Think about silhouettes and proportions

 Silhouettes are commonly spoken about when it comes to styling. Using trousers as an example, do you prefer skinny, wide-leg or boot-cut shapes? Similarly, do you gravitate towards high-waisted or mid-rise trousers? This mindset will help you to compile the core items for your capsule wardrobe.

Being in tune with your personal style is a key part of this. A structured blazer might be favoured over a soft knitted cardigan and the choice should be made based on what you'll get more wear out of. Think about your lifestyle and whether certain clothes are better suited to your capsule wardrobe. If you work from home, you might choose looser, more comfortable items than if you're office-based with regular face-to-face meetings.

Consider the seasons

Being realistic about the weather is important. Does your vision match the weather you're likely to be out and about in? Pairing style with practicality is key. When it comes to the changing seasons, it's sensible to have your capsule wardrobe on rotation so that certain items don't take up space without being worn. 

As the seasons come and go, you can put certain things away and bring out pieces that have been in storage. That means swapping jumpers for shorts in the summertime and vice versa. Make sure that your core collection can be worn all year round, but also consider those key seasonal pieces.

Have jewellery fit for any occasion

Jewellery is one of your most powerful tools when it comes to crafting capsule wardrobes. It can put a new spin on outfit combinations. Whether you go for hoop earrings, stacking rings or a staple bracelet, choose what makes you feel good. It’s also handy to have some special pieces for formal occasions. 

Again, this comes down to understanding your personal style, as it allows you to add your unique stamp to an outfit. That might look like wearing a special piece of diamond jewellery or chopping and changing your look with colourful gems.

Don't forget about shoes

Shoes are often the hardest part of an outfit. You might have a spectacular get-up, but your shoes might look a little off. This is where it's important to align your personal style with the types of clothing and silhouettes you'll be primarily wearing. 

Having pairs that go seamlessly with a good proportion of your wardrobe is key. Rather than having endless pairs of the same type of shoe, consider a small number of quality pairs that can be mixed and matched across your capsule wardrobe.

Get help from F.Hinds

Need some jewellery to enhance your capsule wardrobe? Our experts in-store can help you select pieces that work in harmony with the clothes you love to wear. Alternatively, you can browse online to see whether anything catches your eye.

We're proud members of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) and have plenty of accreditations. We take pride in offering jewellery that meets ethical and social standards within the industry.