When you’re a mom, it can be super easy to slip into the habit of wearing whatever is in reach, whatever is comfortable, and not always what we wish we were wearing. There is a simple fix to the wardrobe nightmare that you might be experiencing, and that is a perfect capsule wardrobe.
A few things to make your clothing stand the test of time first:
Avoid fast fashion – it doesn’t last and is based on trends, not classics
Keep your tumble dryer and washing machine in good order, book an appliance repair asap if not
Quick Navigation
Simplicity is key
First off, let’s talk about what a capsule wardrobe is, and why you need one. A good capsule wardrobe will have around 30-40 pieces. That includes jackets and shoes, but not lounge wear, accessories or things like swimsuits. In today's world, we all suffer from the paradox of choice – we have so much, we don’t know what to choose. Thus giving ourselves a more difficult job every day, and causing us to pick the same thing repeatedly OR spend far too long searching.
A perfect capsule wardrobe is excellent because you own less, and possessing less means less cleaning, less washing and less space being taken up by things you don’t use or need.
Is there a bunch of complicated rules? No.
It helps if you are truthful and practical when it comes to curating your wardrobe. If you are a soccer-mom, running from one match to the next, the chances are “dresses and heels” aren’t what is going to work for you.
Step One
Sort out what you already have. If you wear something a lot, it should automatically hit the keep pile. If you haven’t worn those bright pink disco pants ever – they need to go.
Step Two
Narrow it down, and see if there are any colors that make a regular appearance. This is what you should be kind of aiming for:
3 t-shirts short sleeved
3 long sleeve t-shirts
2 vests
3 jumpers – varying weights
2 shirts
4 trouser bottoms (jean/trouser/legging/casual)
2 skirts
2 boots
1 trainer
1 formal shoe
1 night out dress
1 day dress
1 cardigan
1 light jacket
1 thicker jacket
These items will be your ‘base’ wardrobe. Out of that, you can create countless outfits for all occasions. From a lunch meeting to a dinner date you’ve got it sorted in a couple of minutes.
Step Three
Fill in the gaps. If you find you were jumper heavy but lacking in t-shirts, then it is time to grab yourself a couple. Buy hosiery, belts, scarves and socks. Or organize your own, so they are easy to access.
Step Four
Have a play around with your new slimmed down clothing collection. See what type of outfits you can make, and which shoe will work with which trouser.
So there you have it, 4 quick steps to getting rid of clothing clutter and creating the perfect space (and time) saving wardrobe. And, don’t worry if you don’t think you have any style – it will all be apparent once you see what items you are left with!