This might be a terrible idea, but I’m on the precipice of an enormous wardrobe cull.

Something appeals to me about having less of more. I’m really up for having less stuff, and for the stuff I have to be of higher quality. Higher thread count, better fabric, less prolific, more rare. More stuff that goes together. More themed. More chic.

I’m finding myself all energised and inspired by the idea of a capsule wardrobe.

It all started with a spontaneous trip to The Shops. For about 2 years now, I rarely buy anything new. I am a Vinted Veteran. Other than socks and pants, I do my best to buy sustainably and second-hand.

But I found myself with an hour or two to kill near a shopping centre, so I began to mooch. Jeans are tricky for me to buy online / second-hand as the fit can be so touch and go; so in the physical realm of The Shops, I zoned in on the task of JEANS.

Butterfly effect incoming.

The jeans jaunt was a success. After a couple of dud denims, I found a pair high-rise enough to my liking, that didn’t trail the floor, and spared the camel-toe.

The next morning, I found myself scrolling Pinterest searching for ensembles with a 70s inspired aesthetic.

Side bar. I’ve recently taken up crochet and am working on my first project: a blanket for my baby nephew. As I hook and weave the yarn, my brain excitedly flickers with ideas for my next projects. Coasters, placemats and tote bags are all incoming. But what’s really lighting me up is the idea of creating cardigans, jumpers and waistcoats.

This paired with the high-rise, wide-leg denim is a vibe I am running not walking towards. Hence the Pinterest 70s inspired scrolling:

Capsule wardrobes

Apparently there are actually ways to go about this properly. There’s a science behind it. I’ve seen formulas dictating how many tops and bottoms you should have for a 35-piece wardrobe…

This clearly doesn’t take in to account a lazy laundry do-er such as myself, so I will never be at the level of having just 4 t-shirts… but it’s a good base line to work with.

The wardrobe cull

I semi-regularly pull out pieces I’ve not worn and build a pile in my bedroom that I’ll eventually get round to listing online.

I like to try and buy only with the in-app allowance I generate from selling my own stuff. It’s a little challenge I set myself and it does quite successfully motivate me to get on with selling my clothing if I want something new.

Inventory of my wardrobe

I think if I was to go about this properly… professionally… I can feel the need for a spreadsheet rising from within. Watch this space.

I already have a note on my phone where I have started to log successful outfits. I saw the idea online and tried it myself. It’s helpful when you aren’t feeling inspired but want to feel good in yourself. I made a note of the looks I’ve enjoyed wearing so I can simply pull them on if ever in doubt.

To build a genuine capsule wardrobe I think I’d need to log what I have and list what I need. But off the top of my head…

Wishlist

• Bottoms:
  • A lighter pair of high-waisted wide-legged trousers, either in cream or beige or a rust colour
  • Upgrade my current tailored black pair – the fabric is synthetic, and I have outgrown the style
  • A suede skirt with button details on the front
• Tops:
  • Neutral coloured blouses – ready to be layered with crochet makes of my own
  • Upgrade and invest in some staple tees, both long and short-sleeved; striped and plain
  • Slowly replace knitwear with more sustainable, timeless pieces
• Dresses:
  • Source a tunic dress to layer with blouses and t-shirts
• Footwear:
  • Invest in boots that don’t cause blisters

Maybe I’m leaning towards these 70s rust-coloured tones with Autumn on the horizon, but that’s ok. Perhaps I’m working towards seasonal staples.

Am I going to regret this?

No sudden movements. I will resist the urge to purge too drastically and instead try to build slowly and intentionally.

I’ve read some of the best minds in business dress simply and repetitively as it’s one less decision to make each day. Think of Steve Jobs in his black turtleneck… that’s going to be me. Except in a flowy blouse and home-made knitwear.

I have no intention of paywalling my work. If you like what you read, consider buying me a cup of tea. I’d love to virtually toast you over a pastry!