How I Created a Summer Capsule Wardrobe – 40 Pieces, 30 Days, 30 Outfits

As we head into the summer months, many of us require a more paired down workable closet – if not for everyday, for travel. While going through popular past AskSuzanneBell posts, I decided to bring back, How to Create a Summer Capsule Wardrobe. I shortened it up a bit, so if you want to read the full archived post you’ll find it (HERE).  And to view 30 days of outfits, created from capsule pieces click (HERE). When I look back at the items used in this post, I noticed all these pieces still hang in my closet today. I mix and match in new trend pieces, but these key pieces remain relevant. Now, if you have no interest in how to create a Capsule Summer Wardrobe, and are thinking, take me straight to 30 different summer looks, then scroll on down to the end of this post and we’ll meet up there!

What is a Capsule Wardrobe Anyway?

Google “Capsule Wardrobe” and you will find the concept explained so many ways, you may decide to throw in the towel right then and there. Simply put, a Capsule Wardrobe is a collection of clothing in which all pieces area interchangeable. The idea being “with less, you will actually have more”. The number of items typically used is 33 – if you follow the Project 333 guidelines. To read more on Project 333, click HERE.

Let’s Get Real People!

You will never see me pair my closet down to 33 items. I am a collector, so locking me into 33 items would not be rewarding. I write a style blog because I love color, fabric, design, style, texture, pattern and print. I love the stories behind Vintage pieces and finding that one special piece. I have a passion for accessorizing. I love the science behind fashion, and what makes the industry tick. I have been interested in style and design since I was young – and always will be. It served as a longtime career for me, and I still enjoy it all to this day.

But, what if I created a capsule – just for my summer clothing? 

Below are actual pieces from my closet. Not quite 33, I have 37 pieces – with maybe 3 voids I’d like to fill along the way – giving me a 40 piece collection for summer/early fall. Not my entire closet – just a season.

16 Tops

11 Bottoms

5 Dresses | 2 Jumpsuits

3 Jackets

What’s With the Thought Bubbles?

Pieces I feel are missing in my capsule – items that could stretch my looks further.  And that white crop casual jacket? I’m still looking! Has anyone seen a cute one for me?

Note: my capsule cannot be your capsule. We each have our own sense of style, body type and comfort levels. BUT, you can use mine as a guide to get you going, if you think this is something you want to try.

Where Do I Begin?

1. Clean out your closet.

If you are just getting started, start HERE (The Purge!), if you cleaned out earlier this year but are in need of a refresh, click HERE (Revamped Closet).

2. Pull out your favorite pieces

3. Organize by type, then color

 4. Edit

Project 333 calls for: 21 items of clothing | 4 pairs of shoes | 2 pieces of jewelry |6 accessories (super minimalist and not for this gal!)

I prefer: 18 tops | 3 jackets | 4 dresses | 8 bottoms (shoes and accessories don’t count)

or, 9 tops | 6 outerwear | 6 dresses | 6 bottoms | 6 shoes

So last summer, I decided to give the Capsule Wardrobe Concept a try.

40 Pieces, 30 Days, 30 Outfits

June/July 2016

Note:  I swapped out 3 of the original dresses and 1 skirt for different pieces. I donated the original four, as I found they were not working with my style at the time. My kids snapped these photos for me each day – an actual 30 day Style Diary of what I really wore.

In Summary

I don’t like ANY fashion rules. Fashion is a creative outlet – so why rules? I do love, an organized living space, it’s where I function best and can be my most creative self.

But, for some getting dressed, it’s a means to an end – the end being getting out the door without worries and living with less.

Whatever your passion, do what works for you, and makes you happy.

Let’s Chat!

Are you a minimalist or a collector?

Could you live with only 33-40 pieces of clothing and accessories?

Do you like the idea of a capsule wardrobe? What about a seasonal capsule wardrobe?

Bonus: anyone know where I can find a casual everyday crop jacket? Still looking…

XOXO

Suzanne

A quick note: “Blogs I Read” has been added back onto Ask Suzanne Bell. This is a list of blogs I personally follow, not all, but regulars. This page automatically updates – whenever the author posts something new. Therefore the most current post lands at the top. My hope is that this new format makes it easy, so you don’t have to hunt around for your favorites. While you are here visiting, you can simply pop on over and see what’s new out in the world of blogging. Not all are fashion or style blogs, you may just find one you love!

Click HERE to check it out!

Linking up with : Not Dressed As a Lamb| Fashion Should Be Fun| My Refined Style| Sheela Writes | Style Stories |Visible Monday|40 Plus Style | Style Me Wednesday | Style Perspectives Link-Up