How To Create a Spring Capsule Wardrobe
Today I am sharing the steps for how to create a spring capsule wardrobe for busy moms. These are the wardrobe essentials that you need in your closet this spring. When life gets busy, a simple and streamlined wardrobe makes getting dressed so much easier.
It is said that most people wear only 20% of their wardrobe, 80% of the time. That absolutely rings true for me. I find myself reaching for my favorite basics day in and day out. That realization inspired me to think about what I really need in my closet this spring.
In thinking about creating a 'busy mom' capsule wardrobe, I am not implying that everything else must go. Not at all! It's more that I am creating space in my closet for go-to items that I can count on, a uniform of sorts. They are items that I love, that I feel good in, that I can mix and match, and that I can easily grab. But let's back up a bit...
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What is a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is simply a small collection of clothing that you can mix and match in different ways. It is meant to help you simplify and declutter your closet, as well as make getting dressed easier (goodbye decision fatigue!). Often a capsule wardrobe consists of basics in neutral colors, but it doesn’t have to!
You can have capsule wardrobes for each season, or for your wardrobe overall. There is no hard and fast rule as to the number of items you are ‘allowed’ to have. You can do what feels good to you. Consider this a section of your closet made especially for when you want easy-to-grab, versatile pieces that make you feel good.
What are the benefits of a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe helps to keep your closet clutter-free. You can easily see what you have, and you only keep items that you wear and love.
Having a capsule wardrobe makes getting dressed easier. The number of decisions we make each day can easily cause decision fatigue. Having outfits at the ready can eliminate the decision of what to wear.
Capsule wardrobes can also help you to save money. By choosing classic pieces that you’ll have for years, you will not need to spend as much on your wardrobe each season.
How do I create a capsule wardrobe?
Step 1: Start with a closet clean-out. You can read how to do that here. After cleaning out your closet thoroughly, you will be able to easily see what you are working with.
Step 2: Next, think about the type of capsule wardrobe you need. You may need a work week capsule and a weekend capsule. (Note: The goal of this post is to share ideas for all the times that we are in busy mom mode, but you can follow these steps for any type of capsule wardrobe you'd like to create!) Are you a SAHM who primarily wears athleisure or more casual clothes during the week? Are you at kid sporting events all weekend long? Consider what type of clothing you need for during the week, and on the weekends. What would be the most helpful for you to have at the ready?
Step 3: Now, take stock of what you already have. What dependable basics do you already own and love? What do you reach for most often? Take those items out, put them in piles organized by type of clothing.
Step 4: The last step is to think about where you need to fill in the gaps. Do you need some new denim, because that is what you reach for daily? Or some classic tees for the weekend because your others are worn out or don't fit well? Start to think about what you need and start to look for those items.
The number of items you have for each clothing category is up to you. However, keep in mind that the goal of the capsule wardrobe is to make it easier to get dressed and eliminate the need to make too many decisions so I would suggest 3-4 of each type of clothing.
A Spring Capsule Wardrobe for Busy Moms
Now that you have an idea of what a capsule wardrobe is, the benefits, and some simple steps to create your own, here are some recommendations based on my own ideal 'busy mom' capsule wardrobe.
The Essentials
Denim. I’m starting with denim because for me it is an absolute staple. It is easy to dress up or down, and it goes with everything! Think about different silhouettes and washes, and what you feel best in. I have been leaning toward high-waisted straight leg styles for every day, but I have a few other styles that I gravitate towards as well. Finding just-right denim can take some trial and error. I love Gap for budget-friendly denim (like these straight leg cheeky jeans) and Mother denim for a splurge (these are my all-time favorites).
Joggers and Leggings. These are a must-have for all of us busy moms. I love these comfy joggers from Vuori - perfect for spring and summer. As for leggings, you can usually find me in these. They are buttery soft and come in a bunch of colors. I also love the cult-favorite Align legging from Lululemon. Pick a few favorite pairs in colors you love. I tend to stick with neutrals like black or navy blue because I can easily pair them with different tees, sweatshirts and hoodies.
Tops. What kind of top do you wear the most? For the busy mom, I think we all need some great tees, a neutral cardigan to throw on and elevate an outfit, and a classic button-down shirt.
Sweatshirts and Hoodies. I love a crewneck sweatshirt, hoodie or half-zip pullover for a casual look with denim, leggings and joggers. I wear them year-round. Some of my favorites are this one from Vuori and this one from Amazon.
That is how to create a spring capsule wardrobe for busy moms. I love to rely on a uniform to make getting dressed easy and effortless, especially during busy seasons. Add your favorite accessories to personalize or add a pop of color.
What would you add? Let me know in the comments or message me over on Instagram @thelifestylenotes.
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