How Much Time Do You Spend in Your Closet?
Sitting there, staring at your clothes – again. How many times have you been in that position, sitting in front of your wardrobe looking for something to wear and finding nothing? I dare to say countless (at least that is my experience!). The goal of curating your wardrobe is to spend less time in the closet, not more. Contrary to popular belief, finding an outfit and getting dressed does not have to be complicated or take up your whole morning. By building capsule wardrobe sets, you can assemble new pieces in your wardrobe to make finding an outfit in the morning easy and seamless. Bonus? You choose something you love and feel good in!
What is a capsule wardrobe set?
We’ve all heard the term “capsule wardrobe.” But I reject that concept. Not because it doesn’t work, but because it doesn’t work for enough people. We are dynamic beings that live dynamic lives. Attempting to curate one wardrobe that is supposed to suit every part of our lives turns out to be quite difficult for most people, including myself. That is why I utilize wardrobe sets instead.
Wardrobe sets are mini versions of a capsule wardrobe. At the most basic level, a set includes 3 tops, 2 bottoms, and 1 layering piece that all match. Combined multiple times, this type of set could create 12 separate outfits. Add to the sets with more pieces, and the options are almost limitless. I use “sets” for different areas of my life (professional, going out, casual, etc).
A set can be as small (12 outfits) or as large (900+ outfits) as you’d like. The important element is ensuring every piece matches each other to complete the set.
Where do I start?
To build a set, I recommend choosing a couple colors that you enjoy wearing and that match each other. For example, I recently built out a new work wardrobe and chose to purchase basic items that were rust, beige, cream, and black. I completed the outfits with various accessories including printed shoes, bold, colored jewelry, and lipstick.
Ensure you have the right pieces. You may have a few sets in your wardrobe already and don’t realize it. Chances are, you are missing a few pieces and may need to go shopping to fill in the gaps. That’s okay! If you’re feeling stuck, ask yourself a few clarifying questions:
· Does this top match my bottoms (IE skirt or pants)?
· Does this item coordinate with the other colors in my set?
· How many outfits can I create with this piece based on what I already own?
· Does this item fit with my personal style?
· Do I like it?
· Will it fit my lifestyle?
· Does it fit?
To complete the looks you have created, add fun accessories and shoes. This is where you can get creative, quirky, and bright. Most of these items should match your sets.
Take away
“Adding” more time to our day is always a good thing (we never seem to have enough of it anyway). Building out your closet in such a way that makes you feel good and confident in the outfits you’ve chosen, will not only save time in the mornings but have lasting impact on your self-esteem, confidence, and attitude for your day.