“Fashions fade, style is eternal,” – Yves Saint Laurent

The idea behind capsule wardrobes typically bores down to a sustainability movement, pushing for a “quality over quantity” approach to cloth shopping – as a better alternative to the many cheap, fast fashion brands on the market. 

What is a Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is the curation of about 15 – 30 looks, from a few essential clothing pieces, mixed and matched to create your own personal style. While the general rule when curating a capsule wardrobe is to stick with neutral colors, it’s important to explore more colours alongside when thinking of the best way to be more stylish. 

Here’s what to explore when curating a capsule wardrobe

1. Get rid of the overflowing wardrobe with non-essentials – items that don’t fit, those out of your style or the one time wears 

2. Try various styles! Then pick the best that suits you  – Sporty, Casual, Minimal, Classy or Earthy

3. Switch out black, grey and white neutrals for blue, green or brown monochromes OR variations of warm and cool colours you like.

4. Make sure every new cloth you buy, matches with 5 items in your wardrobe

5. Build out your style with patterns/textures and variety – Go for denim, checkered, polka dot and flowery clothes. And attires with V or square necks, satin/sheer material, high and low trouser lengths and on/off shoulder tops.

Now let’s explore how to curate more timeless and stylish looks from your capsule wardrobe essentials

2 Basic T-Shirts & Tank tops

Basic T-shirts and tanks are the first basics you must add to your wardrobe. These looks are often easy to pair with all kinds of bottoms. Whether you’re going for a formal friday attire or everyday looks, t shirts and tanks will come to your rescue.

Sleeves, Blouses or Sweat Shirt

Business-casual fashion styles are the thing! Having a set of long and short sleeves shirts, satin blouses and even cadigans (which are great for layering) lets you play around being professional and relaxed. A style like this fits well in the day-to-day quite well.

A Variation of Bottoms

Having at least 5 sets of bottoms that work well with every occassion is a classic – jeans, trouser, skirt, shorts, leggings, makes cloth pairing very simple. A wardrobe with all sorts of bottoms allows you explore your style with various outfit combinations.

Dinner & Casual Dresses

Two dresses – one for dinners and the other for your casual day to day, is a great way of simplifying your wardrobe. You don’t have to worry about over wearing as you can elevate the style with scarfs and other accessories each time you are out for a dinner. It also doesn’t hurt to have the same attire in a few colors or patterns.

A denim Jacket & Blazer

Climates in Africa can often prevent many people from adding on a jacket or blazer to their fits. Good thing its not summer all year round. So dont be afraid to explore more outer wear looks when the weather calls for it.

Three (3) pairs of shoes

1 sneaker, sandal and a set of heels is all you need to complement your outfits. These are good for all occassions as well

A Neutral Color purse or backpack

Having a good leather bag is a non-negotiable. Handy purses and backpacks are practical for day to day activities. Whilst other big purses are essential -since they provide space to carry more, better for work over all.

Accessories
Shades
Belt
Jewelry
Scarfs

Creating a capsule wardrobe is about selecting versatile, timeless pieces that reflect your personal style while ensuring functionality across various occasions. Use this curated list of essentials to build a foundational wardrobe for yourself.