Stylish Filipino woman wearing an outfit in different shades of gray, talking on the phone

Marie Kondo and the general popularity of introduced people to the capsule wardrobe. Born on the idea that you can pare down your entire closet to the essentials, the concept is attractive to those wanting to adopt a simpler lifestyle.

Some of its advantages include preventing decision fatigue, and saving your energy for more important things. You don't have to rummage through piles of clothing, wondering what to wear for the day. Plus, a capsule wardrobe is more sustainable and better for the environment since it encourages repeating outfits instead of buying new ones – so you also save money.

But even with these benefits come the worries of being too basic. While a capsule wardrobe is not a problem if you’re into the minimalist look, it can feel restrictive for those with a more adventurous style.

What Is a Capsule Wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a limited collection of versatile pieces that complement each other. These consist of classic, interchangeable clothes that you can mix and match, unlocking the various ways to style them and maximize what you already have.

Many capsule wardrobes comprise goes-with-everything neutrals — shades of white, beige, gray, black, and the occasional navy or rust. But fans of color can still create a dynamic capsule wardrobe. Learn how to build a functional yet exciting streamlined closet with the tips below.

Define personal style

The point of having a capsule wardrobe means being more selective about trends. Beyond the latest outfits on the runways and social media, what style do you gravitate towards? Are you drawn to classic and timeless, quirky and bohemian, or casual and sporty? Knowing your style blueprint makes picking pieces easier.

Of course, you’re free to deviate from your signature style or add your own twist. However, it does mean committing to a specific clothing set more often.

Decide on a color palette

Having a capsule wardrobe doesn’t mean throwing out everything else. It’s the practice of curating pieces you’ll wear for a specific season, for example. The point is to get more mileage from your clothes and not be so wasteful.

It also doesn’t mean sticking to grays or neutrals unless you want to. If you’re aching to inject some color into your closet, don't worry. The key is sticking to a color palette you like. Try to look up premade color palettes on the internet. You can also add color through a few statement pieces and accessories.

Establish the basics

Now that you have your style and color down pat, you can choose your . There are no hard and fast rules, but the idea is to pick items you can mix and match. Some examples include button-down shirts (perfect for work and play), good pairs of jeans and pants, skirts, dresses, a basic tee, and some jackets.

Since “basics” aren’t the same for everyone, follow your gut and add items you know you’ll wear. Are you a leggings girl? Go ahead and throw in a pair. Do you love rompers or overalls? Then you should add them to your capsule wardrobe.

Keep your favorites

After paring down your wardrobe to the must-haves, add some by keeping your favorites. After all, a capsule wardrobe doesn’t have to feel stifling or restricting for you — it’s all about maximizing the items in your closet so you can dress better, faster, and easier consistently while avoiding clutter. And if you have favorite pieces you want to keep wearing – maybe a or a – you can hang on to them. As Marie Kondo says, they spark joy.

Plus, it’s easier to look good in anything you wear with clean and healthy skin. Keep yours nourished with Dove Beauty Nourishing Body Wash and Dove Pink Beauty Bar. These contain ¼ moisturizing cream that gently cleanses, plumps, and gives your skin a rosy glow.

Creating a capsule wardrobe doesn’t have to be boring; it all boils down to editing your closet to the items that matter the most. While this may be a more practical approach to getting dressed, the most important thing is that you feel like yourself. Don't forget to have fun, too!