The fashion industry is a multi-billion dollar industry that is constantly evolving and expanding. However, with the rise of fast fashion, the industry has come under scrutiny for its negative impact on the environment and the people who work in it. Consumers are becoming more aware of the impact their fashion choices have on the planet and are looking for ways to consume fashion more consciously. One way to do this is by building a capsule wardrobe.
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of essential clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. The idea is to have a smaller collection of high-quality pieces that can be worn for a long time, rather than a large collection of cheap, trendy items that may only be worn a few times before being discarded. Here are some steps to help you build a capsule wardrobe and consume fashion more consciously:
1. Assess Your Current Wardrobe
Before you start building your capsule wardrobe, take a look at what you already have. Go through your closet and assess each item of clothing. Ask yourself if you wear it often, if it’s in good condition, and if it fits well. You will be surprised at how many things you actually own. Most likely, you will find some gems in your wardrobe that you had totally forgotten about!
Anything that doesn’t fit these criteria should be altered to fit you better, donated or recycled. You could also throw a clothing-swap party with your friends!
2. Define Your Personal Style
The next step is to define your personal style. What colors, patterns, and silhouettes do you feel most comfortable in? What types of clothing do you wear the most? These are important questions to ask yourself when building a capsule wardrobe because you want to make sure that you’re investing in items that you will actually wear.
We dive deeper into how to find your personal style here.
3. Make a List of Essential Items
Once you’ve defined your personal style, make a list of essential items that you need in your wardrobe. Think about what you will wear often! These will vary depending on your lifestyle and personal preferences, but some examples include:
- A versatile coat
- Jeans that fit well
- A classic white shirt
- Comfortable shoes
- A black dress
- A classic t-shirt
- A statement piece
4. Invest in High-Quality Pieces
When building a capsule wardrobe, it’s important to invest in high-quality pieces that will last for a long time. Look for items made from natural and sustainable materials like organic cotton, lyocell TENCEL™, organic wool, and recycled fibers. These materials are better for the environment and will also last longer than synthetic materials.
5. Shop Second-Hand or from Sustainable Brands
To consume fashion more consciously, consider shopping second-hand or from sustainable brands. Second-hand shopping is a great way to find items at a lower cost, while also reducing waste. Sustainable brands are also a good option because they prioritize ethical and sustainable practices.
The Slow Label has a good selection of wardrobe staples that can become the building blocks of your capsule wardrobe!
6. Mix and Match
The beauty of a capsule wardrobe is that you can mix and match the items to create multiple outfits. Experiment with different combinations to see what works best for you. You can also add in accessories like scarves, jewelry, and hats to change up your look.
We would recommend taking photos of those combinations and saving those in a folder on your phone. That way you can easily put together outfits in the morning!
7. Care for Your Clothes
To make your capsule wardrobe last as long as possible, it’s important to take care of your clothes. Follow the care instructions on the label and wash items as needed. Avoid using the dryer, as it can damage clothes and cause them to shrink.
You can find our selection of high-quality care tools for your clothes, like steamers and fabric shavers, here.
In conclusion, building a capsule wardrobe is a great way to consume fashion more consciously. By investing in high-quality, essential items and shopping more consciously, you can reduce your impact on the environment and create a wardrobe that reflects your personal style. Remember to mix and match and take care of your clothes to make them last as long as possible.
