The Un-Fancy, a blog devoted to the Capsule Wardrobe, explains the system really well, but the premise is that you have about 30-40 items (including shoes) that you mix and match. These items don't include cocktail dresses, workout clothes, lounge wear, or accessories.
The first step of attaining a capsule wardrobe is to do a massive purge of your closet. Having lived in the same apartment for five years now I definitely was in need of a reason to do this. The author of the blog suggests taking literally everything out of your closet, putting all items on your bed and going through each item one by one. I decided the best time to do this was after a day drinking marathon...not recommended.
So after sleeping on the couch for a night I spent most of the day last Sunday going through all my clothes - anything I loved I put straight back into my closet. Anything I couldn't imagine myself ever wearing again I put in a trash bag to donate. This left items that I either had sentimental feelings for, or pricier items that I feel guilty parting with. Honestly all of these items I put in my new storage bed to deal with later.
Having a nearly empty closet with only my favorite items I was able to clearly see what new items I need, and to get a better sense of my current style. I did some shopping to round out the wardrobe and have come up with pieces that I'm excited to wear for the next few months, until I change out for the summer capsule. Hopefully now I'll spend less time deciding what to war. Another goal with this project is that I'll really only shop four times each year as I figure out my new season's capsule. We'll see how well I stick with that! I also want this to force me to do a better job with accessorizing.
I'm excited to see if this does simplify my life like The Un-Fancy makes such a great case for, or if I stress out that my wardrobe is too limited.
Without further ado, here's what you'll see me wearing for the next two months:
