Capsule Wardrobes: A Study of Timeless Trends
I love the juxtaposition of the phrase “timeless trends”. Their definitions contradict their core meanings in the perfect way. To be timeless requires something to transcend time. Trends oscillate like great waves of public opinion. Therefore, there are few things as powerful timeless trends.
The final step of our sustainable fashion journey requires dedication. It requires a willingness to sort and sift through piles of trending items to find the one that rings the bells of timelessness. However, I can promise a reward that will last a lifetime and many more: a lifelong wardrobe. So what are capsule wardrobes? Capsule wardrobes were first coined the term in the 1940s to describe a small but mighty collection of clothing that is cohesive, quality, and versatile, ultimately eliminating the need to give into trends and purchase new clothing as often. Creating these wardrobes decreases the chances of buying useless pieces and erases the phrase “I have nothing to wear” from one’s vocabulary.
In creating a capsule wardrobe, you want to focus on only keeping and purchasing pieces that can be mixed and matched, are of high quality, are versatile, and make you feel confident. What is the point of keeping one-time-wear pisces that do not match, tear, and are uncomfortable? Start by going through your closet and picking everything that you love. Make a maybe pile, sift through that making wise decisions, and donate everything else. This will leave the perfect base for you to evaluate your personal style and add on to what is existing as the years progress.
To create a starter wardrobe, here are a few pieces, all from Aritzia, that are must-haves as building blocks for the future: white t-shirt, black long sleeve, solid-colored crewneck, white button-up, sleek going-out tops, wool sweater, blazer, trench-coat, slip dress, leather, denim, and trouser pants, versatile bag, white sneakers, loafers, and a pair of sunglasses.
Style-icons such as Matilda Djerf in her oversized power suits and Swedish summer aesthetic, and Claire Rose Cliteur in her ballet slippers and French mysterious girl aesthetic radiate timelessness while expressing their personal styles. Xenia Adonts also has capsule wardrobes in a chokehold, styling designer basics as the ultimate cool girl.
By actually buying into capsule wardrobes, you are not only making your life easier, but the world greener. Fast fashion retailers will gradually be put out of business and thrift stores will explode with donations. Sustainable brands will adapt and create clothing with their eco-friendly materials that fits perfectly on the body and in our closets. Sustainable fashion does not have to be boring. There are ways to express your inner style with a unique capsule wardrobe. However, the best things in life are often the simplest ones, and by taking this step, our closets are becoming cleaner and greener.
xoxo,
Annie
