Your Guide To Building A Modest Capsule Wardrobe 2024

Vanshika Bainsla June 1, 2024

Creating a capsule wardrobe is an excellent solution for those looking to minimize closet clutter while maximizing outfit options. If you’re seeking to simplify and declutter your wardrobe, building a capsule wardrobe could be the perfect step. However, knowing where to start can be confusing. This article is your guide on how to build your capsule wardrobe in 2024. We’ll walk you through the process, from evaluating your existing clothing to selecting versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. We’ll also share tips on maintaining your capsule wardrobe once it’s established, ensuring you get the most out of your streamlined collection.

Who should get a capsule wardrobe?

If you are a minimalist, a capsule wardrobe allows you to style a limited number of clothes in multiple ways, matching your desire for simplicity. For frequent travelers, a capsule wardrobe is convenient and easy to pack, eliminating the hassle of carrying excess clothing. If you’re on a tight budget but still want a fresh wardrobe, a capsule wardrobe helps you create new outfits by mixing and matching a few versatile pieces, making it a cost-effective solution.

Environmentalists can benefit from a capsule wardrobe as it reduces the need for frequent clothing purchases, thereby minimizing the environmental impact of the fashion industry. With a few carefully chosen items, you can create various looks without contributing to excessive waste and pollution. Not just this, if you have transitioned into a big change like a new job, building a modest capsule wardrobe for work will help you be more confident.

Pants

Start with a pair of basic denims which can be blue or black. While blue denims are a classic, black denims can be an elegant addition to your outfit. These colors fit well in almost all kinds of aesthetics and color palettes. 

You also do not need to stick to denims to build a capsule wardrobe, you can buy a pair of trousers that look good in a lot of colours. Generally, beige, brown, pinstriped, black or dark blue trousers can be matched with a lot of colours and be worn in different settings.

WIDE LEG TROUSERS
ASOS|UK
BASIC HIGH RISE MOM JEANS
BOOHOO|UK

 Shirt

A classic white and black shirt is a must. These shirts go well with denim, trousers or skirts. They can easily be included in modest outfits. Shirts can also be worn over or under dresses to make up a casual summer outfit. A classic white shirt can help you transition from a formal setting to a casual laidback one with just a few changes. 

OVERSIZED LINEN BLEND SHIRT
H&M|UK
LOOSE FITTED COLLAR SHIRT
ZARA|UK

Trench coats

Trench coats are another staple piece that everybody should have in their wardrobe. Whether you are heading to your office or going for an evening stroll, trench coats somehow seem to fit every occasion. Getting a trench coat in sand brown, black or off-white colour may be a smart choice because these colours also tend to fit with other colours. 

LINEN BLEND CREAM TRENCH COAT
H&M|UK
LONG BELTED TRENCH COAT
ASOS|UK

T Shirts or blouses

Now this choice can depend upon your daily aesthetic. If you love to dress up in a more feminine and formal manner, blouses may be the right choice but if you like to dress up casually daily, t-shirts may be perfect for you. The key here is to buy clothes that aren’t too opposite in aesthetic to the ones that are already in your wardrobe. Be mindful while selecting new pieces and make sure that you buy something that can be paired up with as many other pieces as possible. 

COWL NECK SATIN BLOUSE
H&M|UK
V-NECK FLORAL

Additional tips: 

Generally modest wardrobes should consist of comfortable, flowy clothes. A modest capsule wardrobe should consist of neutral or pastel colors as they are easier to mix and match.  

Loud colors, prints, or fabrics tend to only fit a certain aesthetic. Whereas, if we take classic light blue jeans as an example, they can be paired up with almost all kinds of colours and patterns. 

Besides this, making a capsule wardrobe is all about being mindful of your clothing choices. Buy simple patterns, be it tops or bottoms. 

Try to keep a few statement pieces if you can. Building a capsule wardrobe doesn’t necessarily mean that you need boring clothes. A leather jacket may seem extra but it also fits various aesthetics and can be styled just as easily.