How To Pack A Fun Capsule Wardrobe

One of the ways to make your packing easier and more sustainable is by curating a capsule wardrobe. By definition, capsule wardrobes are typically minimalistic and neutral, but that can sometimes block you from expressing yourself through your clothing. If you’re like me, you love putting together fun outfits that show off your creative style, and capsule wardrobes can prevent that from happening. However, that doesn’t have to be the case. I have provided some tips on how to pack a fun capsule wardrobe.

“A capsule wardrobe is a minimalist collection of clothes that can be put together in different ways to cover a variety of outfits and occasions.”

Capsule wardrobe. (2024, March 29). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capsule_wardrobe

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1. Fit Everything In A Carry-On

To establish a goal for this packing process, everything should fit in a carry-on and maybe an additional small bag. If you have to check a bag, then you did not pack efficiently enough (or you’re going on a really long trip). This is just something to keep in mind when picking out your clothes.

2. Pick A Color Scheme

Most articles will tell you to instantly pack your plain white tees, jeans, and white tennis shoes, and while that definitely works, it might not be the look you’re going for. I wish I could say go absolutely crazy with the colors, but that would make packing a capsule wardrobe very difficult. That’s why I recommend picking a color scheme. Maybe you’re feeling pinks and oranges or blues and greens. Either way, picking a color scheme will definitely help you keep your wardrobe small and reusable. Throwing in a bit of white and a pair of jeans wouldn’t hurt either.

3. The 5-4-3-2-1 Rule

A common rule when it comes to packing a capsule wardrobe is The 5-4-3-2-1 Rule. Typically, this refers to packing 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 bags/accessories, 2 shoes, and 1 of each destination/season-specific item (big jacket, bathing suit, scarf, etc. While this isn’t something you have to stick to, it is a good rule to get you in the right direction.

4. Rewear Items, Especially Loungewear

When packing, you really want to think about reusability. How can you use the same top with different bottoms, shoes, and jackets? Also, can you sleep in the same pajamas/loungewear multiple nights in a row? Can you wear your airport outfit again during your trip? These are great questions to keep in mind while packing.

5. Pack Comfy Stylish Clothes

This is something that will help with the reusability of clothing. When it comes to packing your loungewear, try packing comfy clothes that you wouldn’t mind wearing out in public. That way these clothes are not just strictly your pajamas. For example, try packing a cute graphic tee and athletic shorts for a more stylish comfy look that you could wear while hiking, walking around town, eating lunch, etc.

6. Reversible Clothing

Some clothes are made to be reversible, meaning you could turn them inside out for a second style option. Packing items like this can easily give you two outfits in one and save you a lot of space in your suitcase.

7. Light Layers

To keep outfits interesting and luggage light, consider packing thin layers. This way, you can get a bit more creative. One day, you can wear a tank top and shorts, and another day, you can wear that same tank top with a fun light jacket or button-up and jeans.

8. Pack Accessories

Accessories are typically pretty small which means you can pack a decent amount. They can also take an outfit to the next level, so I encourage you to have fun with them. Pick out some necklaces, bracelets, rings, headbands, scarves, hats, etc. Obviously, keep sustainability in mind when choosing accessories To save space, try packing accessories into whatever purse/bag you plan on bringing.

At the end of the day, you should feel good in the clothes you wear. You don’t have to compromise your style to pack sustainably and efficiently. As long as you are pragmatic during the packing process, you can successfully pack a fun capsule wardrobe. It is also great to practice having a capsule wardrobe in your home. Not everything has to be a statement piece. Just try finding your sustainable-style and thrift when you can to be even more eco-concious.

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