Hi it’s Mandy of Flora’s Crown! Excuse me while I take over Ang’s platform to talk about something Ang and I often talk about … clothes. So you have probably heard the term “capsule wardrobe” it has been getting quite the buzz with the more is less movement and I couldn’t wait to explore it. So here we go people!
Here is what the “experts” have to say on the theory:
Capsule wardrobe is a term coined in the 1970’s by a boutique owner named Susie Faux. A capsule wardrobe is a collection of a few essential items of clothing that don’t go out of fashion and can be improved with seasonal pieces. The concept of a capsule wardrobe is that each season you clear your closet except for a set number of pieces to be in your capsule wardrobe. Some of the founders of this concept have placed the number of items in your capsule to be between 30-37. Your capsule collection is made up of a combination of items you already own and love to wear, as well as new, quality items that you can shop for once a season. Overall a person’s basic collection of coordinating clothes that can be used to form the basis of outfits for all occasions.
So here is what I am going to take out of it.
I really love the use of the word capsule, it puts a great mindset on what you are trying to achieve from a few aspects. Karl Lagerfeld said “trendy is the last stage before tacky” and this goes to my first point of creating a classic wardrobe that is transitional to current styles. The other aspect is having a wardrobe that will last through time, buying pieces that are quality. It is hard to judge quality based on price as we have all paid for an expensive items that wasn’t particularly well made, which is part of the reason it’s important to know what to look for. Not all clothing is made to last! Here are a few things I tend to do when adding a good wardrobe piece.
•Read the label: FABRIC matters. Fibers extracted from plants and animals such as cotton, wool, linen or silk are going to last the test of time over synthetic such as polyester, acrylic, spandex, rayon, and other manmade fibers spun from plastics and petrochemicals.
•How does it feel: One of the best ways to judge a fabric is to touch it. Does it feel thin and rough? Or does it feel smooth, soft, and substantial? The more fiber there is, the more likely it’s going to last longer. This doesn’t mean it has to be heavy you just want to be sure there is density.
•Hold it to the light: Sometimes touching it isn’t enough. Manufactures can add starch or chemicals to make the clothes feel heavier or smoother. Hold that shirt up and take a look at how far apart the fibers are. Experts say the more tightly spun they appear, the better. Try stretching a small part of the fabric in an inconspicuous spot. It should ideally bounce back to its original shape. If it doesn’t in that moment, it won’t when you wear it either.
Now that I mention these I bet you have found yourself naturally doing these things when you find something you like. I hope now it helps to clarify what you’re looking for. I do want to mention here that clothing swaps and second hand stores are GREAT resources for getting those new items that you may need.
Lastly, when purchasing something new I always ask myself, does this compete with something I already have? Yes. it might be wonderful, on super sale or have the buttons I was looking for but will I ever have to decide between it and another similar item? If so, then it is a no.
Now let’s look at the essentials.
DISCLAIMER: We each have different bodies and lifestyles and we deserve to dress for that unique combination. One perfect capsule wardrobe will not work for everyone. Let it be messy at first, as you figure out what works best for your body, and your lifestyle. I also think it is important to note that your capsule may not have the trendiest things or the most stylish things … but will be your favorite things.
All images by BRZ Photography.
PANTS
Denim: need I say more? I would expand to say a light and dark pair are needed.
Non Denim Pant: My Spanx leggings are always my go to!
Dress pant: structured pant that is outside of the denim family
Seasonal pant: skirt, shorts, jumpsuit (I would be SUCH a hypocrite if jumpsuits didn’t make my list!)
TOPS
Short sleeve T-shirt: a simple t-shirt the ultimate essential.
Long Sleeve Shirt: button or not.
Stripped/Pattern button up shirt: essential for layering
Tank top or short sleeve blouse: stick to a solid neutral color or minimal print
Cardigan: Mid length casual cardigan or long vest. I am almost tempted to encourage two cardigans here…I am an Albertan.
DRESSES
Simple: Sundress/Maxi or t-shirt dress.
Cocktail Dress: think “little black dress” but color is always encouraged!
JACKETS
Jean: dark, light, black – no matter who you are – an essential.
Structured: This can be a blazer, casual jacket or leather.
ACCESSORIES
Hat: brimmed hat
Bag: shoulder bag in a solid color or backpack
Shoes: Black boot/ nude flat / statement sneaker / sandal
Jewelry: Simple necklace / statement necklace / bracelet
See – not bad right? My items are around 23, so this would be a very minimal capsule wardrobe but a good start. What are your thoughts, ready to pull everything out and create yours? If so, start small. Go through one section of your closet at a time an look at what you’ve acquired, what you’ve spent, and what you never wear! If you need motivation remember: Deciding what to wear requires mental energy better spent on other things. Instead of trying on several outfits getting ready in the morning in hopes of finding the perfect thing to wear, curate a small capsule wardrobe. You get to wear your favorite things every day.
There are a couple items I could of placed under accessories but I am going to give them their own spot light.
A properly fitted bra. Can I say this is a game changer. Spend the investment and your clothes will thank you. I have been ordering from Thirdlove and am very happy with the product if you want a place to start but there are some amazing local boutiques that will perk you up!
Secondly, Make-up. Listen, 70% of the time I am with no makeup OR half a face of makeup from the day before (and yes I know that ages me) but when I put on great quality makeup and my favorite pair of jeans I am taking on the world. If you need help with getting some glow to your cheeks whether its for everyday at the office or date night Friday – Mrs. Kayla has your back. Check out kaylasarvus_beauty! She is responsible for the hair and makeup in all the photos we used for this blog, as well as modeled – isn’t she amazing?
So that ends my non hostile take over of BRZ – hope you enjoyed and be sure to tag BRZ Photography and Flora’s Crown when creating your capsules – we would love to watch the progress!
-M
