Capsule closets: strip down to the basics

Many are downsizing their wardrobes to keep only the apparel they love.

A capsule closet consists of good quality basics that can be made versatile by mixing and matching to suit your needs. (Above) Karthika Anand wore the same black crop top to the gym and on a day out.

After a stressful year, almost everyone is hoping for this year to be a stress-free, fuss-free one. However, many believe that along with all the stress that the pandemic brought, it also brought them the ability to prioritise. This has helped them shift to a minimalist lifestyle, where they live with only what they need and only buy things that are necessary. Many have extended this to their wardrobes. Enter the capsule closet: a minimal collection consisting of versatile staples that one can mix and match to create different looks.

The concept is not new. The term was first coined by wardrobe consultant and author Susie Faux in the 1970s. The idea was to create a collection of a few essential items of clothing that do not go out of fashion, such as skirts, trousers, and coats, which could be augmented with seasonal pieces. The idea, however, was popularised by designer Donna Karan, who created the first capsule collection in 1985 called ‘Seven Easy Pieces’.

Sustainable lifestyle

Most people who have decided to adopt the concept have been motivated by their overgrowing closet filled with garments they were not using. “The consumerist, fast-fashion culture we follow makes you think we need everything. But, honestly, would our lives come to a standstill if we didn’t update our wardrobe with every season?” asks Jessica Mathew, student.

Jessica’s motivation was her shift to a more sustainable lifestyle. “I think, the shift is the easiest with clothes. If you consciously think about whether you really need a particular piece, the choice becomes easy.

Once you declutter, you just have to follow the same mindset anytime you buy something,” she says. The idea is to edit down your current wardrobe down to your favourite ones. Choose clothes that fit your current lifestyle and body type. “I used to hoard clothes that used to fit me earlier, thinking I will wear it when I lose weight. But, isn’t better to buy ones that fit you when the day comes?” asks Jessica.

Economic choice

Karthika Anand, marketer with a startup and a part-time fitness blogger, made the shift to a minimalist lifestyle in 2017. “At the time a lot of YouTubers were talking about the concept and I was drawn to it,” she says. She realised that there was no point in buying more as it would never stop. “I prefer neutral colours, except for bright red. Now I just have a collection of basics that I can choose from,” she says.

She has a collection of basic crop tops and leggings for when she hits the gym, two basic black dresses that she pairs with a jacket or stole as needed when she steps for a night out, and basic tees and jeans that she wears to work. Working at a startup has allowed her the flexibility with her attire, but she has a few formal pieces, should the need arise. “The idea is to invest in a few good pieces, so they last longer. Since I wear what I have regularly, I imagine they would last about two to three years,” she says. All her items of clothing fit in two shelves of her cupboard, which might seem less, but is all she needs. “There are times I am tempted. Sometimes, I worry that people will judge me for wearing the same thing. As an Instagrammer, I wonder if my followers might ask questions. But, honestly, no one cares,” she says. The best part, according to her, is that it is extremely economical. “Of course, if I really like something, I will just buy it. But it is a much more conscious process,” she adds.

Enhance style

Anu Shyamsundar, co-founder, House of Three says that many international brands have been following the trend for a while now.

“The idea is simple. Instead of creating a large collection of over 100 pieces that cover the entire season, the brands break down these collections into smaller ones and release them in short spans,” she explains. This tactic allows brands to stay relevant by introducing new designs at shorter intervals, which helps keep customers interested. What customers need to keep in mind is to simply add pieces to their collection that helps enhance their style.

“Consume consciously by purchasing from brands that are producing consciously. Choose interesting pieces that help build your wardrobe,” she suggests. A collection of basics can be made versatile across seasons simply by adding on accessories such as a belt, jacket or even jewellery, she says.

Capsule collections are easier on the environment, she adds, also because the smaller numbers make the manufacturing processes easier and less stressful on the environment.