A Beginner’s Guide to Creating a Sustainable Capsule Wardrobe

If this is your first time hearing the term, a capsule wardrobe is essentially a collection of clothing that will never go out of fashion – like jackets, coats, skirts and a pair of shoes – and thus can be worn no matter what the occasion. It is about creating a wardrobe based on things you love, prioritizing sustainability, and filtering out the distractions caused by changes in trends.

The goal of a capsule wardrobe is simple: to minimize your clothing expenses. Fast fashion is seen as one of the fundamental causes of many sustainable issues the industry faces. Every year, more than 15 million tons of textile waste is generated in the U.S. alone, which is twice as much as 20 years ago. To combat this there are plenty of American sustainable brands for you to choose from, or alternatively you can build a capsule wardrobe.

Here is a guide to help you get started.

Revisit your closet

Maybe it’s time to revisit your closet and go through what you already have. Instead of shopping, spend an afternoon to find new ways to mix and match what you already own. Segregate it into three piles: for keeping, for mending, and for passing on. The Spruce notes that if you have not worn it in a year, then maybe it is a sign that you no longer need it.

Watch out for recurring themes

Now that you have revisited your closet, you must have realized that you prefer certain pieces of clothing more than others. Maybe you’ve discovered a favorite color or a certain style like long dresses, or sleeveless blouses. Use these themes to guide your future purchases, and avoid spending money on clothes you are never going to use.

Buy what you need

Every year, the average American spends around $2,000 on clothing alone – which is not what you want to be doing. The rule of thumb is to buy timeless and versatile clothing that can you see yourself using on multiple occasions. The selection of dresses on Woman Within come in a variety of designs and sizes – which is what you generally want to look for. Whenever you see a piece of clothing that you like, ask yourself: “Do I feel good in this?”, “Can I wear this more than once?” and “Will this look good with anything I already have?” Really think about it before you purchase.

Quality not quantity

Another thing to note when shopping for new clothing is to always choose natural fibers over synthetic ones as much as possible. Choose quality labels, check the seams – you have the right (and the duty) to be picky. The collection of activewear on Groceries Apparel is designed to be comfortable, fill you with confidence and eco-friendly. An extra tip is to choose clothing that is easy to clean; not only will you be more encouraged to use them, they’ll also last longer.

Clothes are an integral part of life, so there is nothing wrong with wanting to look your best. This can be accomplished in so many ways that doesn’t have to involve hoarding or mindlessly shopping for new clothes. Having a sustainable capsule wardrobe will not only save you money, but will give you a better understanding of who you are, and the things you truly value.