Discover the secret to effortless style with our ultimate guide to creating a men's capsule wardrobe. Learn how to curate a minimalistic, versatile, and timeless collection of clothing essentials that will keep you looking sharp year-round.
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a minimalistic set of clothes that can be worn throughout the year. It’s more about functionality and trying to avoid an excess of impractical clothes. Moreover, a capsule wardrobe is timeless and versatile, so it certainly is a keeper.
Why Choose a Capsule Wardrobe?
As we previously mentioned, a capsule wardrobe is a brilliant idea if you are the kind of guy who wants to be stylishly efficient. In addition, you can adapt your capsule to your preferences and overall lifestyle. Whether you are someone who has a taste for style or you simply want to get dressed for the day. There are options for everyone and the best thing, of course, is the fact that you'll save money —isn't that like a dream come true?
How to Create a Men's Capsule Wardrobe
Before we create your minimalistic wardrobe, we want to re-organize your current closet. It's time to check out what you've got, what you can work with, and whether it will suit your style and overall lifestyle. Here is a small process you can do, before purchasing any new clothes. After all, you may own a closet full of potential!
1. What's Your Style?
Do your current clothes reflect your taste? Think of your style and compare it to the clothes that you currently own. How much of your wardrobe represents the taste you have? If you're someone with a taste for casual, yet your closet is full of formal clothes, you may want to re-evaluate what clothes should remain in your wardrobe.
2. Empty Your Wardrobe
First things first, we want to see what we're working with. Take out everything from your wardrobe — really everything. Lay out every single clothing item you have and observe. Start thinking about the clothes you've enjoyed wearing and the ones you haven't.
3. Pile your clothes
it's time to filter your clothes into the following categories: 'Keep', 'Maybe', and 'Toss'. Make one pile of clothes for each category. Here are a few examples of what kind of clothes should be included in each pile:
Keep: As you can already tell from the name, this pile should include clothes that you are willing to keep. It should consist of items that bring you joy and you feel comfortable wearing.
Maybe: This pile should have a collection of pieces you're not quite sure about tossing away or keeping. Perhaps some items have potential or others may be a shame to toss away.
Toss: Got clothes you'd never wear? Or you've never worn them and probably never will? Time to toss them away. Any clothes you feel have no value should best be removed from your wardrobe. Keeping these items will just cause unnecessary excess in your closet.
4. Toss Away Clothes You Won't Wear
Got a big pile of useless clothes taking up space in your wardrobe? Now is the time to get rid of them. Feel bad throwing them away? Here are several options: You can donate them, give them to your friends or sell them.
5. Buy Missing Pieces
Now that you have removed the clothes you no longer need, it's time to make space for new things. Once you're done reading this post, you will know which wardrobe essentials you'll need. If your current collection of clothes doesn't already have any of the items we've discussed below or maybe you'd like to update your style, now is a good opportunity to fill your closet with new things.
Men's Wardrobe Essentials
Use this guide as a men's wardrobe essentials checklist. Remember, everything can be adapted to your preference and your lifestyle.
Men's T-shirt
Of course, a T-shirt is your life-saver. It's casual, convenient, and can be layered or combined into an awesome outfit. We recommend at least three different T-shirts. If you want to have more combination potential, it's best to stick to neutral colors, such as white, grey, or black. Nevertheless, a tee with a cool slogan can also be a stylish piece, just make sure to go for something versatile.
Men's Jeans
Are you really surprised? Everyone needs a good pair of jeans. That's why it may be better to invest a bit more money for high-quality jeans with a better fit. Finding the right pair of jeans is a real struggle, so when you've found a pair that makes you look great, it may be worth spending a bit more.
Jeans come in different shapes and colors, so what's best suited for a capsule wardrobe?
The most versatile jeans shape would be straight-leg jeans. They can be combined with most tops. Color-wise, it's always better to go darker with jeans, especially as they also successfully hide most stains.
We recommend at least 2 pairs of jeans, one darker than the other. One pair should be suited for a casual setting, while the other should be more of a business casual wear. Check out our guide on business casual clothes for men to learn more about which jeans are suitable for work.
Men's Chinos
Yes, chinos also belong to the list. Chinos can be used for the office and more casual settings. A pair of chinos never hurt, and they can be combined with a wide variety of tops.
Men's Suit
It's good to always have one high-quality suit in your minimalistic wardrobe. This way you are always prepared for a fancy occasion. A suit in navy is the most optimal color and can be worn in most formal settings.
Men's Blazer
A blazer acts as your formal jacket. This means if the occasion isn't formal enough to wear an entire suit, you may want to opt for a blazer instead. For example, if you and your date are going to a fancy restaurant or bar, then this might just be the occasion to wear a blazer.
Men's Button Down Shirt
A button-down shirt is a must. See it this way, you can wear it for work, for a date, or perhaps for a fancy dinner. A business shirt is a simple item that is easily layered. On days when you lack creativity or feel lazy, this is your go-to. We recommend at least 3 shirts in different neutral colors, such as light blue, white or grey.
Men's Wool Coat
Unless you live in an area with lots of sunshine and warm weather over the year, you'll most likely need a coat to keep you warm during the cold season. The perfect coat should consist of a good fit and a wool material. Colors such as black, beige, or navy are most suitable, as these colors can be combined with most colors and outfits.
Men's Trench Coat
A trench coat is a classic — another reason why it should have a place in your wardrobe. While a wool coat is great for the winter, it can get too warm for summer or spring. That's where the trench coat comes in. it's perfect for rainy weather and cooler temperatures.
Men's White Sneakers
Nowadays, you will see a lot of people wearing white sneakers. Rightfully so! After all, they're classy and have great combination potential. Having a pair of white sneakers is always handy to have, especially as they make casual outfits look smarter.
Men's Boots
Owning a pair of boots is always practical, especially during the winter season or on rainy days.
Men's Oxfords
Most men wear a pair of oxfords at least twice a year. Oxfords are a classy item and can help updress any outfit. If you haven't worn oxfords at least once in your life or you're confident you never will, then opt for a pair of brogues or derby. You should at least have one formal pair of shoes, so you have some kind of footwear available for a formal outfit.
FAQs
What is a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a minimalistic collection of versatile clothing pieces that can be worn throughout the year, focusing on functionality and avoiding excess.
How many pieces should be in a capsule wardrobe?
A typical capsule wardrobe consists of around 25-50 pieces, including clothing, shoes, and accessories.
What are the benefits of a capsule wardrobe?
Benefits include saving money, reducing decision fatigue, promoting sustainability, and having a timeless and versatile style.
Can a capsule wardrobe be customized to personal style?
Yes, a capsule wardrobe can be tailored to individual preferences and lifestyle, ensuring it reflects personal taste.
What are the essential pieces for a men's capsule wardrobe?
Essential pieces include T-shirts, jeans, chinos, a suit, a blazer, button-down shirts, a wool coat, a trench coat, white sneakers, boots, and oxfords.
