19 Most Frequently Asked Capsule Wardrobe Questions

Capsule wardrobes are becoming increasingly popular, which also raises many questions about the concept. The most basic questions like “what is it”, “what are the benefits”, “what and how many items are included” and “how to build one” are answered in my Capsule Wardrobe 101: The Ultimate Guide.

However, I found out that for some other questions, it can be more convenient to simply put them below each other. Therefore, here are the answers to the 19 most frequently asked capsule wardrobe questions.

Clothing rack with jackets

What are the key items that should be in a capsule wardrobe?

The key elements of a capsule wardrobe are versatile, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits.

Ideally, you can put together a minimum of 3 outfits with each item. These items include a classic white shirt, well-fitting jeans, a little black dress, a blazer, a trench coat, and comfortable shoes such as flats or sneakers.

How do you choose which items to include in a capsule wardrobe?

When selecting items, it is important to consider your personal style, lifestyle, and the climate you live in. But also look for colors that go well with your skin/hair/eyes and fits that best suit your figure.

Choose versatile, timeless pieces that can be worn in multiple ways and mix and match well with other items in your wardrobe.

How do you choose the right colors for your capsule wardrobe?

When choosing colors, it’s important to look for colors that complement your skin tone and go well together.

Neutral colors such as black, white, gray, and navy blue are always a good choice because they are easy to combine. You can also add a few accent colors to match your personal style and complement your skin tone.

Related article: Capsule Wardrobe 101: The Ultimate Guide

How do you know if a piece belongs in your capsule wardrobe? 

To find out if a piece belongs in your capsule wardrobe, you can ask yourself the following questions:

  • Does the item fit well and flatter my body?
  • Is it a versatile piece that can be worn in multiple ways? (at least in 3 combinations)
  • Does it match my personal style and the color palette of my wardrobe?
  • Does it make me happy?

If the answer is “yes” to all these questions, it’s a good piece to include.

Can a capsule wardrobe work for different body types and sizes?

Yes, a capsule wardrobe is definitely suitable for different body types and sizes. The most important thing is to choose items that fit well and emphasize the body parts that you are happy with.

Also, try experimenting with different styles and silhouettes to find what suits you best.

Can a capsule wardrobe help with sustainability?

Yes, because a capsule wardrobe encourages you to buy fewer items (and of higher quality), it helps with sustainability. The higher quality products also last longer, so they need to be replaced less quickly.

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How much does it cost to build a capsule wardrobe?

How much does it cost to build a capsule wardrobe? It’s not possible to just name a number.

Depending on personal style, lifestyle and budget, the cost of building a capsule wardrobe can vary a lot from person to person. The key is to focus on high-quality pieces that will last longer, rather than buying cheap, trendy items that need to be replaced every season.

It’s also important to invest in versatile pieces that can be worn in multiple ways, rather than pieces that are only suitable for one specific occasion.

How do you create a capsule wardrobe on a budget?

Creating a capsule wardrobe on a budget is definitely possible! Whether this is because you have a limited budget, do not want to spend a lot of money on fashion, or because you first want to see if a capsule wardrobe is something for you.

For example, you can replenish the items that are already in your closet by shopping at (online) thrift stores and marketplaces, or organize a clothing swap with friends.

You can also choose to purchase cheaper pieces of lower quality first and replace them over time with high-quality pieces.

Some people are against this as it is less sustainable and usually not ethical fashion, but at the end of the day, I believe it’s about what works for you.

Remember that building a capsule wardrobe takes time, so don’t feel like you have to get everything perfect right away.

Can you have a capsule wardrobe for a professional work setting?

Yes, you can certainly have a capsule wardrobe that is suitable for a professional setting.

Choose classic, timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. For example, a well-fitting suit can be worn in different ways by changing the shirt, shoes, and accessories.

Related article: My In-Between Seasons Savior: Capsule Wardrobe

Can you have more than one capsule wardrobe?

Yes, you can have multiple capsule wardrobes for different seasons, occasions, or lifestyles. For example, a work capsule wardrobe and a casual weekend capsule wardrobe.

Personally, I’m not a fan of this and would only recommend it if the dress guidelines at work are the opposite of your personal style. This is because one of the reasons to use a capsule wardrobe is to minimize your wardrobe.

In that case, I would rather work with one capsule wardrobe and add 5-10 items to it, and combine them to create both work outfits and outfits for your private life.

Can a capsule wardrobe be stylish and fashionable?

Yes, it can be stylish and fashionable for sure. In fact, having a capsule wardrobe can help you define and refine your personal style because you’ll be more mindful about the pieces you choose to incorporate.

Can you still follow fashion trends with a capsule wardrobe?

Yes, you can still follow fashion trends with a capsule wardrobe. The key is to choose trends that fit your personal style and can be incorporated into your capsule wardrobe in a versatile way.

For example, if animal print is a trend for this season, you could add a scarf or a pair of animal print shoes to your capsule wardrobe. Ideally, you take these items with you for the next season.

Can you still have fun with fashion with a capsule wardrobe?

Yes, you can still have fun with fashion. The key is to focus on expressing your personal style through the pieces you choose and how you mix and match them.

You can also have fun with accessories such as scarves, jewelry, and shoes, which can add variety and interest to your outfits.

How can you make your capsule wardrobe more versatile?

Don’t worry, you can still have fun with fashion. Through the pieces you choose and how you mix and match them, you can express your personal style very clearly.

You can also keep experimenting with new combinations, and through that, you might discover new combinations. Especially the use of accessories such as scarves, jewelry, and bags can make your outfit completely different.

How do you incorporate seasonal items?

Seasonal items fit perfectly within a capsule wardrobe because they can stay longer in your closet. Choose pieces that can be layered or worn in multiple ways.

For example, you can easily wear a lightweight sweater in spring, while you put a blazer over it in fall/winter. Change seasonal items as needed and store them separately when not in use.

How do you incorporate accessories?

Accessories are a great way to add variety and interest. Choose versatile accessories, that can be combined in different ways and with different clothes.

For example, a scarf can be worn around your neck, as a belt or even as a headband.

Jewelry, belts, hats, and bags are also great accessories to consider. It is important that the colors match your wardrobe.

How do you maintain your capsule wardrobe over time?

In order for a capsule wardrobe to work for you, it is important to maintain it over time. Start by regularly reviewing your wardrobe and getting rid of pieces that no longer fit or you no longer wear.

You can do this, for example, two weeks before the start of each new season. Consider seasonal changes and adjust your capsule wardrobe if necessary.

To keep your capsule wardrobe fresh, consider adding a few new pieces each season that fit your color palette and personal style.

Finally, take care of your clothes by following the washing instructions on the labels and storing them properly. A capsule wardrobe can last for years as long as you maintain it properly, so take the time to take care of your clothes.

How do you store items that aren’t currently in your capsule wardrobe?

To keep your wardrobe tidy and organized, it’s smart to store the items that aren’t in your capsule wardrobe in a separate closet or storage space. Try to organize it in a convenient way that works for you. For example by type of clothing or by season.

Also, keep in mind that you should be able to pull it out easily when changing your capsule wardrobe (or if the weather unexpectedly calls for warmer/colder pieces).

What to do with items that don’t fit into your capsule wardrobe?

Don’t just throw away clothes that don’t fit in your capsule wardrobe. There are plenty of ways to do something with them.

For example, you can take them to a thrift store or sell them online, and use the money you earn to buy high-quality pieces. Or organize a clothing swap party with friends – maybe they want to get rid of items that you still need.

A third good option is to donate your clothes. Unfortunately, there are still a lot of people who don’t have the money to buy good pieces themselves.

Hopefully, I was able to provide the answers you were looking for. If you still have questions, please let us know in the comments.

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