Coined back in the 1970s by Susie Faux, owner a West End boutique, the concept of a capsule wardrobe gained major momentum in 1985 thanks to Donna Karan.
Karan presented a collection called 7 Easy Pieces showcasing the magic of seven versatile pieces against a backdrop of black tights and bodysuits (picture above). By layering separates like wrap skirts and jackets, the designer demonstrated the art of doing more with less with a simple case of mix and match.
Capsule wardrobes haven’t quite left the scene since but they seem to be more relevant now than ever. With the world trying to move towards greener pastures and fashion striving to find ways to a sustainable future, a capsule wardrobe seems to be just the right answer. Other than being environment-friendly, here are three reasons why we are such big fans of the concept:
- Everything lasts longer. Since the idea is to buy fewer pieces, all the pieces you do buy are more thoughtful and better quality. And isn’t there’s something so liberating about owning less?
- You stay true to your personal style. After discovering it, that is! Since a capsule wardrobe is built on versatile classic pieces, you are less likely to get swayed by trends. The result? Classic pieces you will love to wear season after season, always put together in your own signature style.
- Getting dressed is easier. A capsule wardrobe makes outfit creation easy peasy and basically stress free. A color palette that’s versatile, pieces that are made to mix and match with each other, no unnecessary repeats of outfits… getting ready every day is such a breeze.
Building a capsule wardrobe is actually quite simple, start with these steps:
Start with a good closet edit. Discard items you don’t love and keep only those which you like wearing. Then make a list to fill in the gaps. Think about your color palette, silhouettes that work for your body type, quality fabrics and versatility. A good starting point for a summer capsule wardrobe is to include these pieces. Use Le Tote to build a solid wardrobe featuring these basics:
- Tank tops
- Basic tees
- Blouses
- Jeans
- Black Skirt
- Black Dress
- Neutral shoes and bags to go with all of the above.
For more on capsule wardrobes, check out this cool video here!