Creating a Capsule Wardrobe

Using Second Hand Items

Creating a capsule wardrobe using second-hand items is a sustainable and cost-effective approach to building a versatile and stylish wardrobe. A capsule wardrobe, by definition, consists of a curated collection of essential clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create an endless amount of outfits. Our easy step-by-step guide will help you build the perfect capsule wardrobe

1. Assess Your Style and Lifestyle:

   • Start by evaluating your personal style and the activities you engage in regularly. Consider the climate of your location and any specific dress codes for work or events. If you live somewhere with four seasons, considering swapping out styles as seasons change, as well as incorporate styles that can help transition into the next season. 
     Tip: if you enjoy an active lifestyle, see how you can use your workout wear in your daily life as well ie. leggings with big sweaters for the Fall.
     
     

2. Define Your Color Palette:

   • Choose a colour palette that complements your style and skin tone. Neutral colours like black, white, grey, navy, and beige are versatile and can be easily mixed and matched. With that being said, if you are someone who needs a pop of colour in each look consider mixing complimentary colours
     
     • Red and green.
     • Blue and orange.
     • Yellow and purple.
     • Yellow-green and red-purple.
     • Red-orange and blue-green.
       
       

3. Identify Wardrobe Essentials:

   • Make a list of essential clothing items that form the foundation of your wardrobe. These typically include items like:
     • T-shirts
     • Button-down shirts
     • Jeans
     • Trousers
     • Skirts
     • Dresses
     • Blazers
     • Outerwear (e.g., coat or jacket)
     • Shoes (e.g., sneakers, boots, flats)
     • Accessories (e.g., belts, scarves, jewelry)
       
       

4. Set a Budget:

   • Determine how much you're willing to spend on second-hand clothing. Thrift stores, consignment shops, online resale platforms, and clothing swaps are great places to find affordable second-hand items.
     Tip: Use websites such as The Real Real and Far Fetch to find high quality designer items at a fractioned price, these items will last a life time.
     
     

5. Shop Strategically:

   • Visit thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like Poshmark.
     Tip: if you aren't yet comfortable with second hand shopping for your personal style, ask one of our stylists to assist you. We love curating wardrobes based on personal style. 
   • Be patient and open to exploring different stores and sources over time. Thrifting can require patience to find the perfect pieces.
   • Pay attention to fabric quality, fit, and overall condition. Check for any flaws or damages before purchasing. Curated consignment and resale shops do the work for you, so it's a more seamless process. 
   • Consider the seasonality of items and prioritize pieces suitable for your current climate.
     
     

6. Mix and Match:

   • Aim for items that can be mixed and matched easily within your chosen colour palette. Versatile pieces allow you to create numerous outfits.
   • Ensure that the pieces you choose can be dressed up or down to suit different occasions.
     Tip: Create a vision board or Pinterest with different styles and outfits you like and would like to create. When you are feeling uninspired, check back to your board and gain some new inspiration. 
     
     

7. Pay Attention to Fit:

   • If you find a second-hand item that you love but it doesn't fit perfectly, consider alterations. A good tailor can help you achieve a custom fit.
     
     

8. Maintain and Care for Your Wardrobe:

   • Properly care for your second-hand items to ensure they stay in good condition. Follow care instructions on labels, and store them appropriately.
     Tip: Cold water wash, hang to dry - no really. Learning how to properly care for your items will make them go much further in the long run!
     
     

9. Rotate Seasonally:

   • Rotate items in and out of your capsule wardrobe based on the season. Store out-of-season items neatly to make space for current season pieces.
     Tip: Not everyone has the storage space to rotate wardrobe essentials. Try to designate a space for large coats, boots and warm weather items to store as they tend to run a higher price tag than others. 
     
     

10. Refine and Update:

    • Periodically review your capsule wardrobe to identify any gaps or items that need replacing. Gradually add new second-hand pieces as needed.

Creating a capsule wardrobe using second-hand items not only reduces your environmental impact but also allows you to express your personal style while staying within budget. It's a sustainable and mindful approach to fashion that promotes minimalism and conscious consumption.