Capsule Wardrobes — The Backstory
How I Stumbled Upon Capsules
I’ve been in this minimalist niche since 2011 and over the last few years, capsule closets have gained wild popularity. I first discovered Courtney Carver’s book “Soulful Simplicity,” which documented her journey from high-stress, autoimmune ridden, corporate exec, to drastically simplifying her lifestyle thanks to minimalism. One of her famous experiments, Project 333, later became a sustainable style movement. The guidelines are simple: choose 33 items for 3 months (not including jewelry, lounge, PJs, the things you never take off). I’ve hosted a handful of capsule challenges, helped dozens of clients minimize their closets, and carefully curated my own capsule as well. One thing I’ve found is that no one notices when you repeat outfits, so go ahead wear it again, and again, and again.
My go-to momiform: a straight leg pair of secondhand Agolde denim, crewneck tee + sweater over my shoulders. Simple + comfy, but elevated.
The Capsule Roots
Rewind a few decades back to its roots, 1970s London shop owner (Wardrobe) Susie Faux. Her shop featured a few basic, timeless, pieces that you can carry though each season. In 1985, young designer at the time Donna Karan’s infamous “Seven Easy Pieces” collection hit the runway and thus a capsule was born. The collection featured 7 interchangeable, mostly black items that could take you from day to night, office to party. The items: bodysuit, skirt, tailored jacket, dress, something leather, white shirt, cashmere sweater. Ok — re-reading this list, SO good. Her timeless collection still applies today! Is there anything more classic than a crisp white button up or tailored jacket?
Is A Capsule For You?
If you’re loving everything you’ve read so far about capsules and like ‘YES’ I’m so ready to:
pair down,
own fewer, but better items,
get dressed with ease,
dress for my body and lifestyle,
have endless options and versatility,
save time and remove the guesswork,
AND…experience all the benefits that a capsule closet provides, keep scrolling because I’m giving you a high-level task list to get started on your closet in my next post:
