The Capsule Concept

Welcome back!
This week we are taking a closer look at the concept of a capsule wardrobe. Did you get a chance to see what items you own already that are office appropriate? Try answering the poll on the right sidebar of this blog.

Let’s break down the concept a little further. The term “Capsule Wardrobe” was first used in the 80’s by a British boutique owner named Susie Faux. She wanted a way to help women refine their wardrobes and declutter their closets (Bennett, 2017). Owning a wardrobe full of interchangeable pieces will save you both time, and money.

In 2012, Investopedia said “In the business world, how you present yourself is, at times, almost as important as the skills you bring to the table”. This thought should resonate with all of my readers because I know each one of you wants to obtain an amazing position in the business world. First impressions matter, but so does your presence on a daily basis. That is why perfecting an office-ready wardrobe is essential.

A capsule wardrobe can consist of 10 or more versatile pieces that allow you to get ready with ease. You know in advance that all of your articles work together in varying combinations, allowing for a minimal yet effortless wardrobe. Utilizing some basic closet building blocks, you can create your own capsule wardrobe. Next, we will find out where to shop for the best deals on a dime.

 Feel free to check out these videos for more capsule wardrobe inspiration.

Capsule Wardrobe Series – Erin Elizabeth - Real Men Real Style - Art of Manliness

- Ash xo 

References

Bennett, A. (2017, September 14). What Is a Capsule Wardrobe? 11 Essentials to Complete Your Entire Closet. Retrieved from InStyle: https://www.instyle.com/fashion/clothing/what-is-capsule-wardrobe

Investopedia. (2012, April 12). Building a professional work wardrobe on a tight budget. Retrieved from Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/investopedia/2012/04/12/building-a-professional-work-wardrobe-on-a-tight-budget/#110f33c61f0b

Planning Your Purchases

Congratulations on your new office job! You think you are ready, but you find that your wardrobe is not. If you are anything like me, then you are ready to run to the mall and spend whatever it takes to feel prepared for this new endeavour. Wait just a minute! Before you head off on a shopping spree, there are three things you need to consider:

Office Dress Code

The most important step before you shop is to verify the policies for your office. You need to know how formal or casual the dress code is so that you do not purchase items that are inappropriate.

Clothing Budget

Typically, people do not have a large budget at their disposal for purchasing an entirely new wardrobe. The key is to think about what items you need to invest in. Keep in mind that “the general rule of thumb is that your clothing budget should comprise no more than 5% of your income” (Premack, 2018).

Basics Needed

Lastly, you should shop your own closet before picking up new pieces for your wardrobe. You might already have versatile items that you can use.

I have included two videos from Youtube that give you a quick look at some office basics. These rules apply for both professional men and women, so it is important to understand the concept before we discuss building a capsule wardrobe.

Women's Basics - Erin Elizabeth & Men's Basics - Alex Costa

Leading up to my next post, try to make a list of office attire essentials you have, and ones you need to purchase. I will discuss the most cost-effective solutions to building your professional wardrobe.

- Ash xo

References

Premack, R. (2018, July 8). How to dress for your first job without blowing your paycheck. Retrieved from Business Insider: https://www.businessinsider.com/what-to-wear-to-work-on-a-budget-2018-6