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Rumor has it that the average person only wears 50% of the items in their wardrobe. Blame this on fast fashion which has helped condition us to consistently buy into trends that might not even be our individual styles to begin with. Enter the capsule wardrobe which is about consciously shopping for the pieces that we’ll actually wear… again and again. And, by wearing an item of clothing for just 9 months longer can reduce your carbon footprint by 30%. Another benefit for learning how to create a capsule wardrobe is that a lot of these pieces will also work well together so that you can mix and match.
When it comes to time to learn how to create a capsule wardrobe, we can all use a little expert guidance. Stylist Roberta Lee is on a mission to help men and women feel and look their best… in the most sustainable way possible. She’s offered her advice on how to shop for vintage and pre-loved gems on BBC and with her Ethical Brand Directory, she shares a carefully selected crop of sustainable brands with initiatives like recycling, donating to charity, using organic materials and transparency along the supply chain. So, when we were seeking advice about how to create a capsule wardrobe, Roberta was the expert we turned to. Below, a few of her tips to create a capsule wardrobe; sustainably.
What is the 1st thing we should all do to start a sustainable capsule wardrobe?
Honestly, the first step is to define WHAT sustainability means to you. Then the next step is to look at your lifestyle and determine what size of a capsule wardrobe will work for you. Before creating a sustainable wardrobe you MUST know your personal style, otherwise it will be impossible to stay focused on a capsule collection of items when you have no clear direction for your style persona.
What are 3 universal items that every woman should have in her closet?
- At 25 I would day you should by now own a great pair of jeans – it doesn’t matter what style is on trend, it’s about finding a fit that works for your body shape and makes you feel great no matter what.
- By the time you hit 30 a fabulous blazer is a must – again, style-wise it doesn’t matter if you can go for fitted, cropped, boxy or oversized boyfriend style. A blazer can transform an outfit and they never ‘date’ so investing in a classic styled one is essential.
- And finally a statement handbag (or two) by the time you are 35-years that will pull any outfit together and see you through the next few decades.
What do you look for when shopping for quality, long lasting pieces?
I always ask myself, will I see myself surpassing 100 wears in this piece? I have a rule, if I can’t style it 5-ways with what I already own, then it’s not a contender for my capsule-ish wardrobe. If it is a contender, I examine how it’s made, by who, where, and seek proof my purchase isn’t in conflict with my values. Then of course, it’s about the cost. Can I afford it? I look at the predicted Cost Per Wear (CPW) based on 100 wears and try to imagine how many years it could last. I then consider if it is a true investment, or if I am just trying to rationalize a moment of sheer lust!
I check buttons, that seams are tight and I cannot see through when I pull at the garment, I look at hems for signs of poor stitching too. If it looks like I won’t last, then it is a no go for me. I also try and avoid items that say they can only be dry cleaned.
What sustainable, ethical brands do you love at the moment?
That’s a hard one to answer as I love so many. I have a few firm favourites that I’m getting lots of use from: A multi-bag solution, a reversible tote, a clutch and a crossbody bag, designed to stand the test of time and forgo all trends.
I love Tatum Diamond London, I have the Whitley Clutch/ Belt Bag, which just adds a special touch to my outfits.
I am a sucker for Mother of Pearl too, but their designs just aren’t made for curvy petites like me. I’ve got my eye on Ethereal London at the moment, they make beautiful pieces that aren’t trend based, just feminine, timeless and stylish. I have a major crush on Anthony Stoker’s footwear – I’m just obsessed with the designs, truly art for your feet.
