Why I Quit My Capsule Wardrobe
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 8 ก.ค. 2024
- I had a capsule wardrobe for four years, but recently I quit and this is why. I hope you enjoy this video!
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I think two major factors are often left out of the suistainable clothing discussions and that’s how important know how to wash and repair your clothes are! Even if you’re buying fast fashion your clothes will not fall apart in 2-3 months if you wash them correctly, and even if a seam starts to come undone or there is a minor rip that can be fixed and extend the lifetime of that piece by years. I feel like the quality of fast fashion ends up being almost a bit of a scapegoat for not knowing how go take care of clothing sometimes
This! I don't shop at primark anymore but I still have basic tees and blouses I bought 5+ years ago. Everyone's always complaining about Zara and H&M quality as well when their clothes literally last me for years and I have a small wardrobe so I wear everything regularly
@@elisa9041 The problem is that the H&M or Zara pieces from 5 or even better 10 years ago (I have even older pieces that are still intact) still last but nowadays when I go into those shops the fabric is at least half as thin as before. But that also applys to a lot of more expensive clothes. It's not exclusively a Zara or H&M thing. It's just a trend to force people to buy even more.
As a hobby sewist I don't buy such bad quality. I know it won't last me.
💯
@@misss7777 Yes that's why I've resorted to thrifting. In stores I always check the label first thing and put 80% of the clothes back because I know they won't last me. But I still remember back in middle school when all my friends would complain about their H&M tees having holes after 3 washes and I still wear mine to this day and I've graduated uni. So I guess I must've done something right. But my mum also used to fix my clothing when I was younger and now I do, most people sadly never learn how to :/
Yep! The oldest thing I own is a tank top from forever 21. I've had it for 7 years and it's only faded a little bit and hasn't ripped
One of the best things I’ve done is buy two pairs of my favourite jeans in two sizes. That way all fluctuations are covered and I still get to feel good and wear my favourite jeans.
Keeping clothes that are a bit bigger and a bit smaller is part of slow fashion in my opinion! I'm a big believer of hanging onto clothes, or giving them to a family member for a season until you feel like wearing it again or happen to fit it again. Sometimes I think about getting rid of fancier items that i don't wear much, but then I know there will be an event every now and again where I will need it
Don't get rid of anything you like and enjoy to wear and look at 😀😀 you will wear it again .. Only wrong colors and wrong style for you should go
@@lulululu4444yes to everything you two already said, plus make sure to remember you already have that 'special occasion item' instead of looking for a new piece once the event comes closer.
There are a few thrifted pieces i regret letting go of when I lost weight. The weight is back and now I have to find better fitting pants. Any piece i LOVE, I will not donate, instead will keep in a bin. And i like looking for free sizing skirts so that I dont have to get rid of items as often❤
I’ve also loved consuming capsule wardrobe content, but I was honestly pretty poor throughout my 20s. The idea that “you probably already have this in your wardrobe!” never applied to me. Appreciate you verbalizing this. :)
Same, no plain basic stuff, mostly old hand me downs and weird thrifted items. In turn I experimented a lot in how to mix and match and wear the same stuff in different ways to switch it up and have fun
Same!!! I just gave up on the idea because I really couldn’t afford some of the things that were meant to just be “basics” or “essentials”. Or they just weren’t practical for where I lived and I didn’t have the experience to know how to translate the ideas
Me with the white shirt thing. I still don't own any white shirts. I own patterned shirts. White doesn't suit me 🤣
This too. Here it's hot in the summer but frigid in the winter. I felt like some of the guides I've seen online don't account for my climate.
Just coming in to say girlies PLEASE invest in some vanish for white clothes if your shirts are going yellow at the pits, don’t throw them away😅
Thank you!
Vanish has kept my white clothes looking good for YEARS longer. This is a brilliant tip x
woah thank-you, I didn't know about this!
Or use crystal deodorant, so they don't get yellow in the first place.
Yeah, changing a deodorant helps massively! Not just for whites, but for all clothes.
It’s great to hear someone say this. A lot of capsule wardrobes seemed like just another way of bragging about status and self-discipline. I am a sweaty person who fluctuates between size 6 and 8, who works a business formal job, works out, attends black tie events, and travels a lot to hot climates. I need a fair amount of clothing in every category just to avoid having to do laundry every three days!
Wardrobe curation > Capsule wardrobe
When i buy things, i look at fabric composition, its place on the timeless/trend scale, and if i can see myself wearing it/loving it still in 5 years. how it feels and fits. i'm so with you that fashion should be fun, i absolutely consider it a form of creative expression. getting dressed should be enjoyable and comfortable and functional. thanks for the video, looking forward to future fashion content!
Brave of you to make this video. It's nice to see the progression of a person and many people online don't admit past "errors". I remember watching those videos and thinking you seemed like you felt unsatisfied.
cuz when you put stuff like this on the internet you immediately attract a cloud of judgy assholes who act like they've done everything right their whole entire life 😑
I'm kind of confused tbh because I'm new here but every capsule wardrobe look I saw encouraged having items with colours/patterns/textures to break it up but having them cohesive. So did this lady have a really minimalist wardrobe?? 50 piece a sounds like tons to me but I have a small wardrobe/bedroom 😭
@@AlterEgo373 well I think it depends on where you live 50 would not be a lot. I'm from Toronto and really have 4 seasons which also means I need different kind of coats/jackets. Winter coats alone I have 2. One for when it's cold but not that cold and a parka. Most people I know have multiple coats because of the weather here. Also depends on the job you so can dictate how many clothes you have. If I would be counting my clothes I would be including my jackets in that number.
@@NA-vj5lu Fair point. Maybe I should actually count mine. 😂 It just sounds like a really big number but she did say pieces too. If that includes undies and accessories like shoes and scarves, handbags belts that's probably not much at all!
I could never get onto the capsule wardrobe idea, because it never felt like it accommodated people who work at jobs where they have to dress a certain way. As a teacher, I have to wear a certain standard of modesty, and there's a certain vibe you generally stick within. But that varies wildly from how I might dress for going out, or on the weekend.
Trying to stick with 50 items is a lot harder when you might have to dress for two different styles
Well said ! As an outdoor person , both work & hobbies , my wardrobe includes things for that area for the ever changing weather of four distinct seasons ; then there are clothes needed for casual wear , special occasions , etc. Coordinates within those individual groups are great & thinking quality over quantity & proper care extends all items & saves money in the long run .
I'm a personal stylist and I get a lot of clients telling me they'd love to have a capsule wardrobe. (I don't know why this appeals to them!) I always warn them of the things you've said here. The ones who've tried it always come to the same conclusions as you. They find it extremely limiting.
I love that a new appreciation of fashion as art has been ignited in you, and that you want to have fun with your clothes! It can definitely be done conscientiously, without going the overconsumption route.
As far as the weight fluctuations: after decades of weight fluctuations beginning in my teen years (gaining weight in winter and losing it in summer), I have finally come to terms with it as a fact of life. I no longer only buy cheap stuff when I'm heavier, thinking I'm going to lose the weight, so why invest? And I no longer get rid of my "fat clothes" once I've lost it (because winter will eventually come around again!). So I now have a beautiful wardrobe, no matter what weight I'm at and I know I look good even when I'm at a heavier weight.
I’m still interested in the idea of a capsule wardrobe but not for the minimalist aspect. More as a template for putting pieces together (some of us dont know how to put an outfit together and need a template.). I would buy multiple of the same pieces and rotate them to prevent the wear and tear and I would want at least enough of a wardrobe where I could wear a different outfit daily for a month. And mix and match between those pieces so that you really have enough variety for 2 months. And shoes and handbags would not be included in the count 😂. I think it’s a good idea for people like me who aren’t that fashion savvy but still want to look stylish and need a little help with putting things together. I would enlist the aid of a stylist to help with building the capsule wardrobe.
Yes! I came to the same realization. Now I buy the things that I really want that are more quality, more expensive pieces, and I keep them when I change sizes. It’s been the best change. And yes there are some pieces I have in three sizes, because they are the staples of my wardrobe.
@@T2MARA it’s been 2 months, but I just saw your comment! Sincere apologies for such a late reply.
What you’re describing really just sounds like you want a wardrobe that serves you well, with pieces you love and are able to combine multiple ways.
The main thing I understand from what you wrote however is that you don't know how to put together outfits in a way that is harmonious and gives you confidence. But the good news is: That's something you can learn. (It's something I teach my clients.) You can learn how to put together outfits from playing around in your closet and mixing and matching items you'd never thought of combining before. You can learn from watching TH-cam videos or you could also hire a stylist to show you.
There are different styling concepts that can guide you in putting together a great outfit, but ultimately, it comes down to your own personal style and to you developing your sense of aesthetics. I also HIGHLY recommend putting together a Pinterest board of outfits you love and analyzing them to see what it is that you love about them. Maybe you even want to try and reproduce an outfit there with items from your wardrobe. Maybe you'll discover that you keep pinning outfits with a certain item, but don't own that item - go out and get one!
It’s funny, you mention buying multiples of the same pieces- I do that and I encourage clients to also, when they find pieces they really, really love. Because wear and tear is a real thing!
Did you end up working on your wardrobe? Are you happy with it at the moment?
@@careya that’s fabulous! Glad you found a system that works for you! (It works for me, too 😂)
Susie Faux (creator of the idea of a capsule wardrobe) described a capsule wardrobe as:
“(a) collection of a few essential items of clothing that don’t go out of fashion, such as skirts, trousers, and coats, which can then be augmented with seasonal pieces.”
“There’s no hard and fast rules, here - the principle is that less is more so really what you’re trying to do is to make the most of your budget to create a working wardrobe with high quality clothes that will be sufficient for your lifestyle”
I just have one winter and one summer wardrobe, where some pieces stay all year round. IMO if you have a small capsule wardrobe and you love fashion, you will eventually get bored. A medium sized closet where you can have fun and experiment and still buy slowly, has more potential to bring you joy for the long term, without over-consuming. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
I went to fashion school and so much of the content I consume is fashion related. I got caught up in the era of minimalism and capsule wardrobes too. Thankfully so many of my favourite pieces survived several culls. I'm a lover of colour and outlandish, eccentric, weird fashion. Yet 2018 through 2021 had even me feeling like it's better and more ethical to wear only neutrals so everything goes together easily. Beige personally damages my spirit.
The top 1% should feel guilty. Ordinary people shouldn't feel so much guilt and shame. We're allowed to wear clothes that make us happy. Also it's human and normal to want to experiment with style and play with our image.
Once you've bought an item that damage is done. It's probably going to damage the planet less in your wardrobe than in landfill. The only good reason to cull your wardrobe or reduce it to a strict capsule is if you, yourself, feel overwhelmed and you want to simplify things. In that case it's better to store the rest somewhere rather than get rid of things when you're stressed, or acting out of guilt and feeling like you need to punish yourself.
I also studied fashion and the idea of the capsule wardrobe has always intrigued me but I've always felt like I had too many different parts of my life to make it work so I never actually did it.
Since starting to work as a designer and having to do market research and keep up with trends I have found myself constantly wanting to buy the new (which right now, the fun bright colors and fun fem details are so me, while during the pandemic all the neutrals and loose/oversized clothes were not so the trends right now are making it SO HARD)
I've realized that I'm a things person, I just like having lots of things, lots of options. And we're all ever evolving in style and lifestyle so I don't thing having just a capsule wardrobe really works for most people, BUT I think it's a great idea to have a capsule as a base to work off of and be able to have to add your more fun pieces to a look.
I do agree with a lot of what you said, but curious about why 1% should feel guilty. Why should anyone have shame for having more? I have definitely over consumed and have been on a low buy while trying to shop my own closet and donate items that do not fit my authentic self. I wished I would have purchased less but better quality, but guilt is a wasted emotion. When you know better you do better.
I think people's relationship between buying and guilt is something that really needs unpicking and considering. Because you're right that individual responsibility is used as a smoke screen to distract from what those in power augh to be doing.
I've never embraced a Capsule wardrobe and never will. I know I'd get bored, personally, very quickly. Also, I feel that making us feel guilt for buying clothes is just a diversion ,for us to worry about our carbon footprint, whilst the rich fly in private jets and helicopters, and drive limousines!! I have a Spring/ Summer wardrobe,( as I live in a hot climate,) and a selection of Jackets and Pashminas to change things up in Autumn/ Winter. I buy as good a quality as I can, but cannot afford Designer clothes. Anyway, many Designers have their clothes made in Sweatshops in China and India, the same as cheaper Brands. My Wardrobe is full of things I've had for years because I love them and take good care of them. I have pieces tailored to suit my body type and last longer . I add pieces as I feel necessary or, hey, just for pleasure!! Its my choice. I send lots of perfect pieces to a Clothes Bank 2-3 times a year to balance my purchases, but don't follow trends or fashion. I wear what makes ME feel good!
I don't ever purchase from Charity / Thrift stores, except for Handbags, Household Goods and Jewellery as I hate wearing other peoples old clothes ( I have a touch of OCD there!! )
NOBODY should be made to feel guilty if their style of clothes shopping doesn't suit other people's standards . The World's already a sad , harsh place without shaming people, and individuality in Fashion is to be applauded.
@@jacqueline8559 This is pretty much exactly how I'm trying to be with my wardrobe now! The clothes bank idea is such a smart one, seems like you have a very considered and genuine approach to fashion :)
Whilst all the while the gap between the 1% and the rest of us (especially in the U.S., but I think it's happening in a lot of places) grows wider and wider. If wealth were more evenly distributed, we would all live well, but responsibly, and hold our governments accountable. But I'll get off my soap box now....
I agree that fashion is so complicated and messy. It's really a struggle to sort out. For me, I have mixed feelings about minimalist movements like capsule wardrobes because it can be so limiting and guilt ridden, and all the while, it feels like something the wealthy is trying to sell the poor.
"You don't need things, be happy with less. You can't buy happiness, you know. You don't deserve things anyway, peasant." Ya know what I mean?
I myself keep a seasonal wardrobe. All my summer clothes are stored away right now and some spring clothes are seeing a bit more use during a surprise heat wave in February lol I like putting my seasonal clothes out of sight so that it feels like I'm gaining a whole new wardrobe to shop from when it's time to pull them out again.
Thank you for talking about all these issues. I've always felt guilty because I often buy a lot of my clothes from 'fast fashion' places because I don't have a lot of money at the moment. But I try my best to only buy items I know I'll get a lot of use out of, and I really make the effort to make my clothes last as long as possible. I completely agree that the quality of clothes has really gone down lately and it's so hard to find quality pieces even if you're putting a bit more money behind it.
THANK YOU! I'm convinced that very stylish women who do *not* have a 'minimal/scandi' aesthetic just tend to have larger wardrobes.
There are so many places/weather conditions I need clothes for if I'm going to be dressed appropriately. I don't want to have just one pair of boots.
When you talked about having fun with fashion, I think about this new trend of dressing in the your color palette. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to wear colors that bring out your features, but I don’t know I guess as an artist and someone who plays with color all the time I feel stifled by the idea that I “shouldn’t” wear certain colors. Maybe I’m wearing my bubblegum pink sweater because it makes me happy even if it washes me out lol I guess what I mean is I care more about expression than I do looking my best.
Yes! Color palette dressing has been around forever, and all sorts of other trends that push people toward wearing what's "flattering" according to the world -- but where's the room for joy?? I dress to feel good, not to flatter according to some random person! I really love your last line, it's exactly how I feel.
As someone who didn't always feel beautiful. I began dressing to suit my colours and it has improved my self esteem. I think it really depends on the why. You love the colour and makes you happy when you were it. No matter what it makes you look like. However I may love the colour but if it doesn't suit me. It doesn't make me feel good. I view clothing as a way to feel beautiful, confident, and happy and by wearing things don't suit me, do the opposite. I just wanted to add this perspective because I think it should be just as valid.
All your points resonated so deeply with me. I tried (and failed) at a capsule wardrobe as I too was starting from the ground up. I invested in all these pieces I ended up hating because all the guides at the time leaned neutral and business casual which neither fit my style.
And omg the guilt! I’ve never had a problem with overconsumption, but I felt guilty even thinking about clothes and environmental impact. A part of me even felt like I should punish myself in order to make up for others’ shopping addictions. I think policy change would have the greatest environmental impact. Like as a sole consumer, I can’t stop buying from Shein if I never started.
I've learned that I value actually wearing the clothes in my closet. Over the last decade I purchased many dresses/outfits for "someday" when I would be thin enough to wear it. Now during my weight loss journey, I've discovered several of these pieces are now too big (some beyond being able to be altered). It makes me sad because some of the items were never worn or very seldomly. My wardrobe is becoming the most curated I've ever had. Going forward I intend to rotate through my collection and buy quality pieces within my budget.
I work in a creative profession and the thought of wearing a "uniform" daily (AKA capsule wardrobe) always seemed stifling to me. I love colour, pattern and texture far too much and to me these are the hero elements of an outfit while neutrals exists to be worn as background supporting role. For me a capsule works if your planning a trip and need to pack smartly and cohesively. Thank you for your honesty, I've been waiting for someone to finally admit the limitations of a capsule wardrobe
I love Leena's videos learning to sew/repairing and updating clothes so that you're excited about them again. Maybe you guys could do a collab? If you don't have any knowledge it could be a chatty one while she teaches you how to repair something, or if you do then something else could be fun.
Yes! This point, that a lot of capsule wardrobe creators came from actual abundance and pared down a big wardrobe to a small with all their favourite pieces, and that this is such a different experience from most "normal" fashion consumers!
This is a great video. After I retired I was watching all the minimalist wardrobe vids on the U. I spent almost 4 decades working in the beauty industry and love clothes, shoes, makeup etc. I found myself with 2 closets full of clothes I would hardly wear or never wear again. I luckily didn’t fall to much for the minimalist thing because I knew it would not work for me. I did however downsize my wardrobe considerably. I gave more than half away to friends, family and donations. Some did just get pitched. I wore what was left that now filled less than one closet and took note of what I wore and didn’t. Also noting what I now needed for my new life. I actually have 3 categories of clothes, sort of capsules but not. First- at home comfy nice interchangeable but not junk. Second-my errand running around clothes. Thirdly-nicer going out social clothes. They can all be worn with each other too. This works great for me. I don’t feel deprived but also I don’t feel bogged down. Sorry for the long winded comment.
Well said ! Agree w/ your 3 categories - form to function ! 💟
I mean I would definitely love a "Seasonal Clothing Edit" series were you pick out some clothes you want to get wear out of the upcoming season. Wouldn't be like a capsule wardrobe like you did in the past, but more like picking out some focus pieces. Could also be called something like "Seasonal Fashion Focus" and include things like trends & styles to try or some creative inspirations.
I do this twice a year and really recommend it! It feels like shopping your own closet, choosing what you are excited about for the coming summer/ winter.
There's several influencers on TH-cam that call in 10 item wardrobe and do just that, focus on 10 main items then add extras ad needed to style those items
Good idea ! I live in the midwest ( USA ) where we have four seasons , but even then , the weather can vary greatly within each . Much of my daily clothing choices involve adding or subtracting layers kept on hand " just in case " ! 🙂
If you only have a small closet a capsule wardrobe makes sense. Those of us living with 4 seasons, have active lifestyles, travel and work in professional workplaces need much more options. Totally agree sustainable, within budget and closet space is necessary to maintain.
I relate to this! I grew up with a very frugal mother who never let me buy new things unless it was absolutely necessary so it was banged in my head that I am not deserving of new clothes if I had functioning ones (even if they made me sad). I've spent so much time and energy since on sites like ThredUp and limiting myself to a couple unused pieces a year and I am left with a sad, falling apart wardrobe of heavily worn clothes.
MADISON, You are so deserving of the opportunity to buy clothes that bring you joy whenever you look into your wardrobe. Choose things that you can afford that make you so excited whenever you are about to dress each day ♥ Turn your back firmly on sadness and embrace the pieces that make you a joyful individual. X
Madison, Marie Kondo’s philosophy of keeping only the things that spark joy for you (unless they are utilitarian items that you may need and would be expensive to replace, like appliances) really positively impacted my life. I realized I love neon, hot pink, bright colors and florals and kitschy accessories. I frankly stopped giving a shit if I look crazy, it brings color into the world and makes me happy and probably makes other people happy. Please let yourself enjoy color. I got most of my things at Goodwill Outlet or other thrift stores.
@@jacqueline8559 you are the sweetest, thank you friend!
When your clothes cant be darned anymore you can cut them up into rags or patches for other clothes. And then buy new ones.
You deserve the clothes, I will say those clothes will be lucky to be with you..
Love your point that our energy would be better spent asking governments for better policies around unethical production and overproduction, but would love to know if this is something you're doing? A video on how to go about it would be amazing, and with your influence and number of followers could actually make a difference!
I feel similar to the "decluttering" trend that's been going on for the past few years- it starts to feel like getting rid of stuff just to get rid of stuff, esp when you see people churning out video after video about it. Maybe if you don't reduce your entire wardrobe/all your belongings to only the essentials you currently need in this very specific time in your life, leaving no room for a change of circumstance (like going from working in an office to working at home), you won't find yourself in cyclical acquire/purge cycles.
I realised I was in a cycle of declutter/replace with my wardrobe and would often get rid of something only to realise my mistake later.
Declutter/multiple haul videos/declutter repeat.
I think, it's just overdone a lot of the times. I'm on a decluttering Reddit and people keep getting caught up about the most ridiculous things that they feel like they have to get rid of, but don't want to.
I feel like 60% of my answers is that it's okay to keep things that are neighter useful nor feel particularly important.
Some people even declutter things like plungers, because they haven't used it in a year. That's the whole purpose of a plunger!!!
Or they encourage you to get rid of expensive ski gear, because you only ski every 3 years.
It's just mindboggling to see.
In my opinion, one of the mistakes of the approach of capsule wardrobes, was the idealized end result of it. Many people thought the scope was to have a certain number of basic pieces. And of course one can get easily bored and the individual taste and style were sort of left out. there were many many videos of people sorting out and giving away like 90% of their stuff and bought new, capsule wardrobe “approved” items to then later find out that it does not fit their style.
I think it is great that people start addressing the failures of their own approach to this
The concept of capsule wardrobe is very useful and practical if you take advice from the stylists (such as Daria Andronescu), not the influencers with lots of beige clothing and very rigid approach to it. I have been applying it for almost 3 years and can't imagine going back. I don't stick to it so rigidly, and it helped me a lot with discovering my own personal style, mixing and matching my clothes, knowing my color palette and style uniform. I think I buy smarter and more thoughtfully and use more the clothes I already own.
Ooh yes, I've been getting visually tired of the beiges and neutrals, I have some colour in my wardrobe but I want more. Like a pendulum I swung from extreme to extreme but now I'm ending in the middle, found Daria again today and followed her. As usual, she was one of the three or so videos with colours in it in my search results 😅
I also feel (and I'm talking from the perspective of a cis woman) that my body changes in ways I can't predict every 3-5 years. Between the ages of 23-28 I, no joke, grew an inch, and I went up a cup size. So, suddenly, about half of my wardrobe just fit me really awkwardly. In the next five years? I might enter a new industry which requires that I dress completely differently, I could put on a lot of weight, I could get pregnant and find that my body changes irreversibly. Buying clothes with intention is great, but you can't always predict what you'll need in several years time.
I feel the same, I have no joy in neutral only template capsules. And I do need shiny new things sometimes. My solution is to hit the charity shops, keep stuff for as long as I want and donate back if I don’t want it anymore 🤷🏻♀️ works much better than constant restriction
I really like the way you explain that sustainable/ethical consumer guilt. It's something I heavily relate to. I work in a highly consumptive industry and to combat that guilt, I have high standards for how I participate in capitalism. Buying secondhand and from companies that are local, sustainable and ethical has always been my goal, and I pursued that as a young adult, but my resources were incredibly limited at the time. I was so restrictive on my purchases that sometimes I would avoid purchasing something I needed, like a puffer jacket, because I was so exhausted by the pursuit of finding one secondhand/ethically made that fit me well and sometimes it would take weeks/months. It's only as a more financially stable person that a form of mindful consumerism hasn't taken as much mental strain. Now I have savings, I've developed a better idea of my taste/needs so I'm buying things that will hold more potential in the future, and I also now live in an area where making positive choices about the companies I support is easier because I have so many great local independent stores with similar values to mine.
It's been a journey, and I feeling lighter now that I can make those choices with ease rather than stress.
I too tried the capsule wardrobe and found it didn’t work for my lifestyle (I work from home, not an office, so there was no need for the amount of business casual items I had). I’ve been going through my whole wardrobe, trying every item on and I realise how boring i had gotten. I got caught up in the trend and while I picked up a lot of great tips( yeah basics or foundation pieces are amazing), it feels like there’s no longer any character in my wardrobe.
At the same time, I’m trying to figure out more innovative ways to spice up my wardrobe, without over consuming. I did a no buy year last year and it’s helped me to rethink my spending habits.
This is really nuanced and well-done. I am by no means advocating shopping from Primark if you don't need to, but when I was doing my master's, the reality was that I often had to shop at Primark because I legitimately could not afford not to. And some of those pieces lasted for 5-6 years. Meanwhile, I've bought items from expensive places that are likely also unethical that haven't lasted 6 months. I really wish that the brunt of this didn't fall on consumers. Like if you can afford it, ethical consumerism is great, and I think we should be more conscious about where we spend our money and asking companies hard questions as consumers. But also a huge part of it is regulating the fashion industry.
When my husband was getting his MA degree in the UK, I bought two night shirts from Primark. They were my favorite. I wore them consistently for 15 years. They wore out after that; too thin with big holes in them. They were pretty good quality for fast fashion.
I think ethical clothing should be somewhat more affordable at least. thrift stores are becoming more pricey too.
Weight isn't a trigger for me but I so appreciate how you handled talking about it and letting people skip over that if it wasn't right for them to hear it. So respectful.
I’ve always been a little wary of capsule wardrobes because as someone who tends to dress both pretty “alt” and who layers a LOT it’s never really seemed like something that would work… I think my idea of “basics” is very different than what a lot of capsule wardrobe creators would recommend
I did the same with makeup and skincare. I was trying to make everything myself from scratch and buying £50 ethical mascaras lol. Took over my life, I don't bother anymore, I buy what i like and need.
The ending is so perfect. It’s true, the best capsule closet is when fashion-forward people can pare their closet down to their most foundational pieces. Being thin, with the ideal body ratios, it’s a gift to just be able to pick anything up and know it’s going to look good. Which, makes a capsule closet easier and more straightforward.
For most people, it’s about balance. Don’t do a “fashion haul” every weekend. Your carbon footprint will not be as bad if you just thoughtfully shop and get what you need, for a modest sized wardrobe.
Learn sewing basics. It’s really quick and easy to fix holes.
Learn how to wash clothes- cold vs hot. Get a delicates bag.
If you have a top washer, put heavy on bottom and delicates on top.
You should be good to go with a modest-sized wardrobe and carbon footprint.
It’s actually up to the fashion COMPANIES to start producing sustainably and fair trade.
Shop fair trade when you can. Don’t feel bad if it’s hard, because our system isn’t built for it to be easy.
I can really relate to the weight aspect of a capsule wardrobe! I have a capsule (ish) wardrobe which works well for me because I quite literally wear black clothing 97% of the time! Easy to pair my black clothes with the few coloured pieces I have, and living in Norway all black is very fashionable (Scandinavian style)… I also try to keep the (best) items which become too small/too big for me in my wardrobe because of the weight fluctuations! This video was great ❤
I have fluctuated between 70 and 77kg for ten years. Just up and down depending on how ill I was. I figured out pretty early on that I need a versatile wardrobe that has a mixture of loose and fitted clothes that looked nice most of the time. Some of my pieces I would never fit in at my heaviest, but some of my faves transition me from my thinnest to my heaviest without altering how I like the fit. I always meet me where I am and I never buy aspirational clothing, but I also never worry about fitting into anything.
Thank you for being so real in your journey ! I think “capsule wardrobe” isn’t one definition, it looks different for everyone. I think the most important message about capsule wardrobes is that we need to be intentional about everything we buy, not just clothes .
So true re buying first hand. I'm not gonna spend $100 on jeans that aren't made in a safe environment where the workers aren't paid and treated well when I can buy the same thing made in the same place for $50. It is horrible the consumers have been gaslit to think this is our fault vs the governments and companies who are really to blame. Loved the video as always!
OMG!!! Thank you for this video!!! I can relate to SO much of this!!! Being a women who's almost 40 and having weight fluctuations is a real thing for MOST women. Most influencers are thin so anything looks good on them. I wish more natural sized influencers existed. Here in the states the average womans size is a 16/18. Most influencers here are size 0/2. Way different clothing is needed to flatter each of us. Also, I completely agree about white t shirts-no matter how much or how little money you spend you're going to get pit stains! And trying to research 'ethical and sustainable' brands is hogwash-most are corrupt and until that problem is solved I'll keep my money and buy the best quality for what I can actually afford. I've had Old Navy dresses that I still wear today and I've had for 20 years along with Wal mart sandals that were $19 and I've worn for 5+ years. I'm not saying these are great companies but it's what I can afford. Also, I'm tired of seeing everyone trying to look like everyone else. People are beautiful and even more beautiful when we are truly themselves. . I want diversity and color and to be inspired by my wardrobe, not to copy what everyone else is doing. Thanks for touching on so many good and real topics!
I totally agree especially that 20 year old Old Navy and Walmart piece you’ve had for years. That’s true sustainability, not shopping from “sustainability” companies. I had that guilt as well and it backlashed on me so bad I shopped year round for a whole year of “quality” pieces because I started having a scarcity mindset instead of an abundant one so my reaction was to hog because it was all I could ever have in my capsule. Horrible. I spent so much money instead.
I've bought virtually all my clothes at thrift for my whole adult life (and I'm definitely an 'older adult' now). I don't expect everyone to do that, and I realize that thrift (or charity as UK folks call them) shops vary a lot from place to place. Still, I find it really freeing because I know that I'm giving another life to something that would otherwise end up in a land fill. I can experiment with things that I definitely would never buy at retail, as well as wardrobe basics. It's also a way to find 'vintage' pieces that are well-made at an affordable price.
This was so great to hear! It very much feels like a conscious wardrobe where you are intentional in your purchases without putting so many restrictions on yourself. Thank you for your insight :)
It's so refreshing watching your videos about fashion consumption! I've always felt like I was clearly stupid or doing something wrong comparing my spending habits and ability to "invest" in more expensive pieces to that of influencers. Whenever you come out with these videos and discussing the trial and error and discovering the things that worked with you as individual, I always find them so relatable (and your takes on this subject are so down to earth).
I didn't anticipate at all that I would relate to this video and your thoughts so much. I just recently realised what sorts of clothes I like and where I take inspiration from - and this has really changed a lot for me. I'm here for all the fashion content you will bring Lucy! And I really appreciate how down to earth and aware you are, especially about money. Everyone can't afford to buy the expensive staple pieces you 'need', everyone can't buy the organically produced clothes, and that has to be okay. Everyone can't do everything, and I appreciate that you talk about this!
I think it is great that you digested and learned valuable lessons and a system and mindset that you can bring with you along the way. This is not about a set number, it's about having a practical wardrobe with clothes you love and wear !
So relatable and authentic! Looking forward to seeing more videos like this. Idk if it's already been done, but 'Style Diaries' could work. It makes sense that as your style changes, so does your wardrobe, and it's cool to see it change and progress over time and be part of the journey.
In my opinion the best way to quit fast fashion is to quit the mentality that clothes are a throw away things. If you shop consciously and take care of your items it's not that big of a deal that these items are bought from H&M or any other similar store. If we all bought less, fast fashion would be a horrible business model.
Thank you so much for this video. I’ve had so much anxiety and guilt i’ve been feeling over NEEDING clothes. Your words really resonated with me
This was very interesting. I've been trying (and failing) to build capsule wardrobes for years. There are also many lovely pieces that I regret parting with because they didn't fit the capsule wardrobe vision at the time. I can totally relate to the idea of clothing as self-expression, so I'd love to see your new series reference self-expression or having fun in the name. I feel like I've been given permission to evaluate clothes from a new perspective :)
I feel like your video topics & vibes this year so far have been SO amazing 🥰
Loved this video and found myself nodding along to all the points you made!
Loved this video, Lucy! It was interesting to hear your thoughts and learn more about your wardrobe journey, and for some reason so soothing to hear your talk with the cosy setup in the background. Definitely looking forward to more wardrobe content 👏 I have a different style from yours, but still find your fashion-related videos very inspiring
Thank you for addressing this issue like a lot of people I almost felt pressured into having a capsule wardrobe and realised very quickly that a capsule wardrobe is just not my thing. I can't afford high end clothing but am more conscious of where I spend my money but I also realised that I have now completely lost my sense of my own style in my forties which is very confusing. I almost feel that my passion for fashion has definitely diminished.
Thanks for sharing Lucy. I’ve had such a battle with this the last couple years. I’m fashion babe through and through but felt so guilty that I wanted to pursue a career in fashion/indulge in a industry thats so toxic. As you said there’s a bigger play at hand, and all we can do is try our best to consume continuously x
my weight fluctuation is such a huge obstacle/element of my clothes buying process and it makes purchase decisions so hard and stressful, I'm so glad I'm not the only one lol. I literally can go up and down 2 dress sizes over the course of a year
Dressing to please yourself might be a good title . Thank you for these . I tried to go neutral and capsule and realised I wasn’t happy so now I have colour but basic neutrals and everything works for me
Love this! I used to be obsessive with my wardrobe!! Filling the ‘gaps’ swinging from a capsule then building more n more then decluttering then curating and on and on … and now I just totally reject it all. I dress how I want. Buy stuff when I want but mindfully. I just don’t wanna over think it anymore as it becomes a stress more than anything else. Great video ❤❤❤
I relate so much to feeling limited and guilty about buying new clothing as my body changes. I have found my body have changed a lot in my 20's and things I loved don't always fit. I don't love buying tons of clothing or fast fashion, but price wise I sometimes can't afford to buy the expensive higher quality basics that I might need now but might not in 3 months time. I really appreciate you talking about this because it really feels like something that goes untalked about. Also I love the idea of talking more about what learnings you have had in your 20's about building a wardrobe. In terms of a central theme I think something that would take us through types of items would be fun like "my life in t-shirts" or "roamed around shoes". I work in supply chain and NOT marketing so not my strong suit but would love to see something like that.
I feel you so much on the weight fluctuations… so important to have a range of clothes that fit at different sizes ❤
I appreciate the authenticity! I loved this video! 4 years ago, I remember seeing this rise of capsule wardrobe and when I listened/watched videos, I totally understood their reasons on that path. even minimalism basically. And because it is such a good cause and reasons and it seems like the right thing to do when you are improving other areas of life, so it makes "sense". But all my life I have loved fashion. or more than anything I loved different styles and playing with them depending on my mood for the day. As you mentioned it's a huge way I express myself especially being someone who is more reserved, in way's shy, etc. I think the shift really internally was more about needing some restructure in terms of becoming more efficient with my choices basically as you mentioned, the mindfulness of other aspects of purpose for the pieces we choose. restricting myself may it be number of items or certain clothing feels like I'm not giving myself the freedom of expressing myself and being authentic to who I am regardless of trends or what's politically moral or whatever. Just wanted to share that. Your videos feel inviting to share ❤
I would love a basics video! I think this video was super interesting and so excited for more wardrobe content!!
Yes to the video! Always love to watch videos about clothes/fashion as you always have such interesting points plus I just love seeing what other people wear/own :)
I've always loved your content. It feels so nice to watch your progress and you talking about how you changed your mind; it's also interesting because I went through the opposite process: I had a lot of "for when I get skinny" clothes", I bought things that I really liked on the store but never used. I've been doing capsule wardrobe for a year, I only have convos that work for me and my personal style, saves me time and money, forces me to do my laundry more often lol and overall has helped me in my everyday routine. I just love seeing different takes on clothes because every one of us has different tastes and needs!
I really needed to hear this. I’ve been trying to put together a capsule wardrobe for a year now and while I do have some pieces that I love, I still find it hard to make outfits. I’ve started looking more for things that I like and are comfortable to wear while finding exactly what my fashion style is. The one thing I gleaned from attempting a capsule wardrobe is to really think before buying pieces. I shop more slowly now and so that is my silver lining.
Hi Lucy! I found your channel while I was browsing in the world of capsule wardrobes so any fashion related content or wardrobe journey videos are welcome!
yessss i woud love that video! i actually first subscribed to your channel for the capsule wardrobe videos, but i stayed for your amazing personality (:
Amazing discussion around capsule wardrobes! It really hit home with me how you talked about coming from a place of building a capsule wardrobe from scratch compared to people pairing their wardrobes down to the essentials that they love and know will look great on them. I know that a few years ago I was really into this idea of trying to build one and constantly failed at it. Just like you said, I would try and buy pieces and they became basically a worthless purchase because I didn't know anything about my style. What suited me and what I myself liked to wear. How my body continuously would keep changing. I moved on from there and went on my own journey with clothes, but, you really put it so great into words why it didn't work out. I had never thought about it that way. I also think you bring up a really valid point about the fashion industry and having a budget. The fashion industry is indeed a bigger problem to solve! Not to say that we can't try and make smart choices for ourselves, but there are bigger things needed to solve that problem. Looking at our budget and our values, we can only ever try to make as good a decision as possible. Really... Great video! Loved hearing your take on this topic!
Oh! And by the way. In case you haven't come across her before, I would highly recommend checking out Stasia Savasuk on Instagram! She talks a lot about our bodies and how they change and all of that good stuff. Because I really recognised myself a lot when you talked about that too (basically, this video is my life! Haha!) and she has a great way of approaching it. Amazing woman and perhaps you would enjoy her thoughts and ideas as well. She even made a Ted talk some years ago that you could watch.
The problem i have with "ethical" brands is usually their sizing goes up to large or a small XL which does not help a large amount of people, and makes it then look as if plus size folks are truly the ones causing this issue. You are not fully ethical unless you are inclusive.
But where does it stop? No matter the size range there will always be someone whinging that their size isn't available. A lot of these ethical brands are small businesses and it is not economically feasible to have an excessive range of sizes.
@@B_27but people would buy those sizes. i mean if there was no market in bigger sizes, all plus size clothing brands would go out of business, right? like isnt the market already there
@@quiqui6424 Okay, let me explain this like you're five because you clearly don't understand basic economics. It costs more to produce plus size clothing because it requires more material but people will get offended if you charge plus size people more so in order to keep everything the same price, your profit margins have to be much smaller for the plus size garments. Large companies can usually absorb the cost but for small business, they often can't afford to.
This is so insightful, thank you!
Such a great video, Lucy. I've been trying to be really conscious of my environmental impact as well, which has led me to be much more restrictive in my fashion. A good thing and a bad thing, I suppose. Being in my early 20s myself I am still trying to pinpoint my style, so that restrictiveness has been almost oppressive at times. I've definitely lightened up a bit, while still being environmentally-conscious but giving myself a little more freedom to branch out. Thank you for speaking on this! Love your videos as always!
I am grateful to all the fashion youtubers that talked about minimalism, decluttering, capsule wardrobes, etc... because it lead me to find my own style and to study my spending habits. I had not much money for fashion but I had access to a lot of thrift stores and charity shops and my closet was full with nothing to wear as the saying goes. After a few years of watching these videos, I now know my style, my colour palette and I don't listen to my fantasy self any more. I have a "curated" wardrobe but I keep clothes( the "maybe" pile, the"I don't feel to wear these anymore" pile) that I am not using in a box in case I realise that I need them at some point. It gives clarity and space in my closet but a great peace of mind that I did not get rid of everything. I do these "curations" regularly. I am still buying fast fashion but in a more thoughtfull way and look for quality and natural fabrics as much as I can and yes, we should push the government to regulate the industry.
I have a rotating capsule wardrobe based on what fits & appeals to me and have the rest stored away until I need to swap it out.
I totally agree about the privilege & guilt factors with capsule wardrobes. And a lot of times big, systemic problems get reduced down to individual guilt. Instead of holding corporations & those with power to actually do make changes accountable, the people with less resources & choices are guilt tripped.
Wow this was so insightful and refreshing. It gave me so much to think about when buying clothes and creating my wardrobe. I have definitely fallen into the idea of buying the more expensive item even though it didn’t make sense for my budget or maybe even my lifestyle. Thank you!
thanks for this, I agree that we are sold a dream of the "perfect" wardrobe
looking forward to the new content!
Thank you so much for your insight! I found you originally through your capsule wardrobe content since I was going through my closet when the pandemic hit & wanted to be more mindful of what I needed & wore. Like you, I realized I love color & like playing with fashion too & one thing that put me off from going full capsule wardrobe was the aesthetic being so minimal & neutral (at least online). I know every wardrobe is unique to the person but it is kind of annoying that that is the prevailing image of one. I think the only way I'd have one is when I'm travelling (which seems like it'd be the most helpful for me). I'm just more mindful of what I want to buy & slow down purchasing. One of the ways I did this was by making a Pinterest board of things I know I want to add to my wardrobe & seeing how I feel about it. I also totally agree about the quality of clothes since most of my stuff from almost 10 years ago is still in good condition
Thanks for making this! Have loved your content for years but didn’t personally relate to the capsule wardrobe because it didn’t feel like it would work for me or was even something that could include me. I still enjoyed watching your journey with it and it’s validating to hear about the imperfections of it for you.
Have watched so much content related to this topic but felt like you articulated it very well and I really related to this video ❤❤
Wow, I never really thought about the waste of transit miles when shopping online. I will definitely keep that in mind when making future purchases. Thank you❤️
On thing that keeps me out from having a capsule wardrobe is that sometimes I need this wide selection of clothes even if I don't wear them all all the time. 2 examples that come to mind that I often think I have too much of are 'comfy slobby clothes' and 'nice summer dresses' and then suddenly last year I was quite ill for 2 weeks and also had a 2 week long conference somewhere hot and in those 2 sets of 2 weeks, I wore through all my comfy clothes and all my nice summer clothes. Do I need all of them normally? No. But do I need all of them occasionally? Yes.
I relate so much to everything you said about weight fluctuation, and it’s so refreshing to hear someone else say it.
I don’t have a capsule wardrobe but I have a similar approach to you, and at times I’ve been obsessed with not owning too many things or not being ‘frivolous’. I only ever own one pair of jeans which is kind of ridiculous but I get so anxious at the idea of buying something only for it not to fit me in a few months time. I’m working on being more generous with myself and anticipating weight fluctuations when I buy clothes rather than fighting it. I’ve also found that buying things which are a slightly looser fit gives me way more peace! I’d rather feel my clothes are a little big than a little small, and that really helps with being kind to myself.
7:55 ‘I find it really hard that my body changes a lot, it’s like I can’t ever get used to it’ THIS!!!! this this this this this
I went through a minimalist phase back when I first got married. I’m still somewhat minimal but my wardrobe is not lol I’m a flower child hippie. But I was trying not to be for some unknown godforsaken reason. I literally have NEVER had an office job but for some reason felt the need to wear a pencil skirt 🤷🏻♀️
I always appreciated the mixing and matching of capsule wardrobes, but never found them useful for a lot of the reasons you mentioned. I'm still so enamored with the idea of a beautifully curated capsule wardrobe, but I just keep reminding myself that a strict set of rules just don't work for me. Some pieces I've kept through years of weight fluctuations and style changes, and other pieces just don't translate, and it's okay to shift those in and out. I'm now considered a plus-sized lady, and what I feel comfortable and fabulous in is different from what I was wearing 5 years ago, and that's normal and okay.
I also fell into the trap of "more expensive means quality and longevity," but it's just not necessary for everything. If I want to spend more money on a beautiful "luxury" sweater, but spend $10 on t-shirts, I'm allowed to do that. Some of my very favorite things that have lasted for years were things I bought very cheaply. I have a black cowlneck sweater from nearly 20 years ago that is still going strong, and I've never found a replacement for it--it's a workhorse in my wardrobe and has only needed minor mending, despite not having a designer label. Meanwhile, pants are the bane of my existence, but I've given myself the flexibility to just *buy pants that fit* instead of trying to make them work for the sake of sustainability. If they're not comfortable, they're not serving me anymore, and a wardrobe should serve the needs of the person who wears it.
Really loving these introspective essay style videos - I feel the same way when it comes to ethics however I won't shop at shein or 3rd party sites where I can't track down where the stuff is actually coming from if that makes sense
I brought into the capsule wardrobe idea and curated the pieces i thought i needed based on what id watched. Now i realise i didn't consider my lifestyle, comfort or what i actually like to wear.... big learning curve!
i would love a video on building a wardrobe!! really interested to see your take and process
This is so real. Thank you for sharing!!
For me personally, as soon as clothes don’t fit I get rid, I know it’s not the best and I try my best to not fall victim to fast fashion. But as a plus size person who spent years squishing myself into clothes that never fit it’s not worth the self esteem issues
i really appreciate this video, you verbalised a lot of my thoughts ! watching influencers i loved made me desperately want a capsule wardrobe with high quality pieces but being 16 with no income bc i was a literal child lol made that impossible obviously. i felt really bad about it for a long time ! my adhd also means that i get bored of my clothes very quickly. letting go of that minimalistic mindset and letting myself be more free with my purchases (although still thoughtful) actually means that i'm less impulsive about buying new clothes. i Love fashion and although i probably have more clothes than i should, every piece gets worn and i get joy out of them all. it's nice to know that i wasn't the only one who felt both incredibly restricted by capsule wardrobes and mad guilty about not being able to maintain it
I try to buy more consciously from brands that are "ethical", but youre so right, the amount of greenwashing is insane right now. also the fact the quality of products has tanked over the last 15 years, it all just adds into the cocktail of uncertainty of what to buy and where to shop.
also i agree with the point of "timeless pieces", like "everyone needs a [blank]", lika nah, maybe not everyone needs that, and I also have fallen for it, where i had heard it so many times repeated that i started thinking "huh i guess i DO need that particular item i never had a desire to wear before"
👏👏👏👏👏 I really relate to the weight fluctuations and the fact that I don't have much clothing to begin with! I've been starting from scratch and have found capsule wardrobe content to be helpful in finding staple pieces to build from. But I also leave room to be excited about an item that's totally not "capsule wardrobe" style. And i've also been bummed when the perfect jeans i finally found didn't fit a few months later, so I like the idea of keeping different sized clothes around for when I do change size. I would LOVE more videos about playing more with clothes and styling in different ways.
I loved this video! I've gone on a similar journey with my capsule wardrobe era, I'm glad to not feel like the only one. Maybe a new title for wardrobe/closet videos going forward could be your "Intentional Wardrobe"? That's how I've reframed thinking about my closet and it's helped a lot.
Thank you for sharing this with us! For me I set my the goal to buy more Slow and Fair Fashion, esp. when I replace something.
This was amazing. Thank you.
8:00 I completely agree!! I go through this all the time. I've done the same thing of keeping things I think I'll love if my weight fluctuates again. Makes me feel better about buying things at my bee size as well because I know it's stuff I need.
Thank you for sharing your views and I think you made really valuable points.