Yesterday the heat index was 102 degrees F and our neighbors have Autumn wreaths on their door.
August in the Midwest be weird, y’all.
Despite the fact that I’m not ready for fall, as a mom I’m already thinking about the next season because kids grow (yay) and clothes stop fitting (boo). One of the top ways we practice minimalism in our home is to reduce the amount of clothes we own and increase the match-ability of the clothes we do own. That’s the essence of a capsule wardrobe: A minimalistic approach to owning less clothes and finding pieces that go well together.
Why have a capsule wardrobe?
I get pretty excited when I talk (type) about minimalism because I appreciate simplicity . Here are some ways a capsule wardrobe simplifies my life:
- Less clothes means less laundry
- Pick out outfits faster
- Stop buying clothes/accessories/shoes just because they are a good deal
- Packing for a trip is a breeze
Fact: Little people make big messes. That doesn’t mean that you have to own more clothes though. A capsule wardrobe can still have margin for extra pieces of clothing in the case of an accident, spill, stain, etc. Here’s what my toddler’s looks like:
What to put in the drawers
- 4 pairs of shoes
- 6 onesies
- 4 shirts
- 5 pairs of pants
- 5 pairs of PJs
- 7 dresses
- 1 sweater
- 2 jackets
If I mix and match those few pieces of clothes that over a dozen outfits! This “formula” can be easily adapted to older kids and adults too.
Colors
The key to a successful capsule wardrobe is to pick and stick to a color palette. For this fall, my daughter’s color palette is burgundy, olive green, pale pink, and neutrals.
So once I know what clothing items she needs I only buy those pieces in the colors that I know will match the other pieces. Solids and neutrals are your friend here – however, a capsule wardrobe can still be full of color. It’s all about being intentional.
I may not be ready to sip a PSL but I am prepped for the fall season and know what clothes my daughter has and still needs.
I hope this helps you find a simpler way to manage laundry, stay on budget, and practice minimalism!
The Nontoxic Journal 