Credit: Avenue Design Studio | Bedroom Makeover
I had this plan to stay more consistent with posts about my capsule wardrobe experience, but once my trip to Europe started approaching quicker than expected, I sort of got off track with planning. However, I did stick to my planned capsule since September, and with a new year, I am definitely ready to get a few new pieces while continuing to use what I have been!
This being my last post in my mini series, today I’ll be sharing some thoughts and tips for anyone who may be thinking about trying a capsule wardrobe, along with my plans for the upcoming year when it comes to living with less.
If you’re just joining now, check out Creating a Fall Capsule Wardrobe + My Fall Capsule Wardrobe.
Everyone has their own idea of a capsule wardrobe
What a capsule wardrobe means to me, may be completely different than what it means to you. I knew this going into it but it’s something I’d frequently remind myself the last couple of months, especially when seeing how others did it. A capsule wardrobe will depend on the person’s personality, hobbies, career, etc. Some say 35 items or less, some say 50. It really depends on your lifestyle!
I never found myself wanting the clothes I got rid of
There were a lot of pieces in my no pile that I was afraid I’d end up wanting back after donating them. I can honestly say that I don’t regret getting rid of anything, and I don’t even remember half of the things I got rid of. I also put my maybe pile away in storage and haven’t touched it since Labor Day- I’ll be donating those items now too.
Don’t let “rules” dictate your decisions
The whole idea of a capsule wardrobe is living with less and getting rid of what doesn’t bring you joy. I can honestly say I used the same items since September but purchased 2-3 items while in Europe for Christmas Eve dinner and another event I attended. In my personal opinion, I don’t think there should be strict “rules” applied to the capsule wardrobe concept because the truth is, life happens and sometimes I’m going to want something different to wear when it comes to a special holiday/event. Some may call me a cheater, but I call it being realistic! ????
Colors in the summer, neutrals in the winter
When I stuck with basic v-neck tees and neutral colored cardigans or sweaters, I found it easier to layer and mix/match which in return created more outfits. I didn’t want to have only black, white, and gray clothes, so I threw in a few statement/colored pieces and this made it harder to put outfits together.. Vibrant colors are best to limit in your fall/winter wardrobe because they are harder to layer and typically can only be worn by themselves.
I’ve been inspired to use less in other areas of my wardrobe and personal items
After cutting down drastically on my everyday clothing, I was inspired to try it with my pajamas as well. About a month after starting my capsule wardrobe I went through my dresser drawers and got rid of 75 percent of my pajamas. I have always been someone who’s collected t-shirts, sweats, pajama sets, etc. over the years, but when it comes time for bed I always sleep in the same few pieces, ha. So let’s just say that it was time. After cutting down on pajamas, I found myself with twice as much drawer space and was able to organize in a whole new way. I created a loungewear drawer where I separated good quality loungewear from pajamas. It sounds weird, but it’s actually my new favorite drawer and I hope I can share it in a post sometime soon!
What’s Next?
I hope to soon share about different capsules adapted by other women around the world and why these solutions work for them. Whether it’s decor, pajamas, makeup, etc., seeing how others simplify and reuse has become very inspiring to me for some reason. I don’t think I’ll ever be someone who limits my clothes to a certain number, but I will always look where I can get rid of items that don’t bring personal joy or use to my life.
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