How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe

With ever-increasing scrutiny of the clothes we buy, where they come from, and how much they cost, building a capsule wardrobe may be one of the best decisions you ever make.

 

Discover how to build a capsule wardrobe and the must-have pieces to elevate your style sustainably.

 

What is a capsule wardrobe? 

 

A capsule wardrobe prioritises quality over quantity to maximise the outfits you can create from a minimal amount of clothes.

 

Capsule wardrobes are a collection of timeless pieces that pair together in colours that won’t go out of style.

 

Capsule wardrobes promote sustainability by minimising the clothes you own while amplifying your style and taking the stress out of building outfits.

 

Investing in high-quality, durable pieces is also much more cost-efficient in the long run.

 

First, have a clear out

 

Before you start buying new pieces to build your outfits around, assess the clothes you currently own.

 

Identify what you wear most often and would like to keep, then what you

want to upgrade.

 

If you struggle with clearing out your wardrobe, think about what you haven't worn recently. If you haven't worn it for a few months, you'll probably never wear it again.

 

Depending on the condition, either sell it or donate it to charity.

 

How to build a capsule wardrobe

 

There’s no set amount of clothes in a capsule wardrobe but between 25 and 50 pieces is recommended, depending on how many staple items you have and in how many you want to invest.

 

Regardless of your style, building a capsule wardrobe means choosing pieces that can be worn all year round, not defined by seasons or trends.

 

It's good to remember that shoes and accessories are not considered part of a capsule wardrobe. Bags, hats and sunglasses are a great way to refresh and add variety to your outfits, without taking up lots of wardrobe space.

 

Building a men’s capsule wardrobe

 

 

To build out your men’s capsule wardrobe, start with classic pieces - staple items of clothing that will always look good. Consider a high-quality white T-shirt, versatile sweatshirt, durable pair of jeans, and a timeless jacket like a Harrington or hooded jacket.

 

Other essentials include shirts, polos, a smart jacket, a pair of chinos, and two pairs of shoes, e.g. white trainers and then a smarter pair, like moccasins.

 

You could also invest in some new knitwear like a lambswool jumper or a merino Roll Neck. These pieces will help to elevate your style for special occasions.

 

Once you've got the high-quality essentials you can start to add more casual pieces like sweats for lazy days and an overshirt or cardigan.

  

What's next?

 

Now you know more about how to build a capsule wardrobe, explore our Lyle Essentials collection.

 

It has everything you need to start building a capsule wardrobe…