What is a capsule wardrobe?
It’s a time you hear a lot today, but the concept of a capsule wardrobe was first introduced in the 1970s. Susie Faux first championed the idea of a compact wardrobe using higher quality, interchangeable pieces. Since then, capsule wardrobes are typically associated with simplifying dressing for busy yet stylish women. More recently, it has been associated with a method of maintaining a sustainable approach to fashion as micro-trends overwhelm women’s fashion.
In this blog, we’re going to share with you five versatile pieces that are the foundations of any capsule wardrobe that are commonly available second hand.
Why build a capsule wardrobe using second hand clothes
A capsule wardrobe encourages intentional buying, over impulse buying which is the backbone of any sustainable wardrobe. By building your capsule wardrobe using second hand clothes over brand new you are creating a wardrobe that reduces demand on natural resources and focuses on keeping quality second hand clothes in circulation.
Moving away from micro-trend led fashion, capsule wardrobes reduce the never ending strive to find clothes to suit the latest styles, giving you and your wardrobe the space to focus on versatile, easy to style pieces that you can depend on for every occasion from work at the office, to a wedding to everything in between.
A blazer that does it all
The impact of finding that blazer can’t be underestimated. A blazer that does it all can become the perfect day to night piece, as well as an easily layering jacket that suits all weathers.
Find a second hand blazer that focuses on quality, look for lined blazers made with natural materials such as linen, cotton, or wool. Avoid synthetic materials that struggle to withstand many wears. Focus on the fit, if needed make fit adjustments to ensure that the blazer that acts as the backbone to your capsule wardrobe works well with any underlayer and bottoms.
Boots for all-year round
The impact of finding that blazer can’t be underestimated. A blazer that does it all can become the perfect day to night piece, as well as an easily layering jacket that suits all weathers.
Find a second hand blazer that focuses on quality, look for lined blazers made with natural materials such as linen, cotton, or wool. Avoid synthetic materials that struggle to withstand many wears. Focus on the fit, if needed make fit adjustments to ensure that the blazer that acts as the backbone to your capsule wardrobe works well with any underlayer and bottoms.
Jeans that fit like a glove
It can’t come as a surprise that jeans make an appearance on this list of second hand capsule wardrobe must haves. They are the ultimate go-to when building any capsule wardrobe. Quality jeans are readily available second hand and we can all agree that once you find that pair that fits like they were made for you, it’s hard to wear anything else.
A skirt that does it all
If jeans aren’t your thing, capsule wardrobe led skirts are here to save the day. Natural materials such as cotton and linen make beautiful, comfortable and breathable skirts of any length. The success to a capsule wardrobe is to use as many pieces that are cross-seasonal as possible. Seek out a second hand skirt that has comfort, yet style written all over it. Avoid bold, difficult to style patterns and opt for a subtly textured finish instead.
Bonus: One statement piece
The common misconception that capsule wardrobes are lifeless, suitable for the minimalists only and overall lack personality leads shoppers to believe that low-quality fast fashion is the only answer to statement wardrobe pieces.
Remember, capsule wardrobes are the foundation of your go-to everyday style yet, the big occasions in our lives are a wonderful opportunity to bring out statement pieces that admittedly may not be worn as part of your everyday capsule wardrobe, but maintain your high quality and sustainability standards.
Statement pieces aren’t an excuse to buy a clothing item, second hand or not, and wear it once. Instead, this small part of your wardrobe should be about lively personality filled pieces that can be styled multiple ways and feel fresh every time.
Think a beautiful flowing midi dress, perfect for a wedding that once layered with a baggy jumper is also the perfect Sunday shopping outfit when paired with a comfortable pair of trainers. Or a trouser suit that makes you feel like a winner at the races but can be broken up into multiple outfits in the week, perfect for work at the office.
Final Thoughts
Building a capsule wardrobe with second hand clothes is a practical way to create a versatile, reliable wardrobe while shopping more sustainably. By choosing quality staples like a blazer, boots, jeans or a skirt, you can move away from micro trends and focus on pieces that work across seasons and occasions. Add a statement piece for personality and flexibility. Start building your capsule wardrobe today with second hand clothes from Sunshine Thrift.
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