10 Tips for Creating a Sustainable Capsule Wardrobe

We live in a time of luxury, where we can buy whatever we want and throw it away when we don't want it anymore. But this isn’t sustainable for the environment, the planet, or our wallets. Sustainable fashion is about finding ways to look good without breaking the bank or trashing our closet every season.

Here are some tips for creating a more sustainable wardrobe that will last longer, save you money and help protect the environment!


What is Sustainable Fashion?
Sustainable fashion is about finding ways to look good without breaking the bank or trashing your closet every season. It's a more environmentally-friendly way of living because it doesn't affect the environment negatively and it helps you save money in the long run by not buying as many clothes. Sustainable fashion can also be thought of as a way of dressing that minimizes waste, including textiles, water, energy, and other resources.

How to Find Sustainable Clothing
When you're looking for sustainable clothing, the best place to start is with brands that specialize in sustainable fashion. Brands like H&M Conscious Collection and eco-conscious brands like Vaute Couture are amazing places to find a more sustainable wardrobe.

Another great way to find sustainable clothing is at your local thrift store. Thrifting may seem daunting, but it can be a very rewarding experience when you find an amazing designer blazer for $15. It's always worth checking out your local thrift stores if you're looking for sustainable options.


Make Capsule Wardrobes Easier
Capsule wardrobes are great for making shopping less stressful and more sustainable. But they can also be a bit tricky to figure out. Here are some tips to help you create your own sustainable wardrobe:

1) Create a capsule wardrobe by figuring out what the most important items in your closet are. Figure out what you wear the most, what would be hard to replace and what will go with the bulk of your wardrobe.

2) Start with just five items. This is an easy way to make sure you have something that goes with everything without resorting to a uniform.

3) Make use of staples like white T-shirts and black jeans when possible. These pieces will go with many other options and can be dressed up or down according

4) Dress up your basics! Look for ways to add interest to basic pieces like a white T-shirt or black jeans using statement necklaces, fun shoes, scarves, jewelry or even accessories like hats or earrings.

5) Try adding a few favorite high-quality pieces each season that you'll love wearing for years to come (but don't buy them all at once).

6) Try switching out one old article of clothing per week instead of purchasing new clothes.

7) Shop secondhand stores! You'll save money and find unique pieces that couldn't otherwise be found in traditional stores.

8) Rentable closets are another option for those who want accessorize


Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
One of the easiest ways to upcycle or reuse an old item is to make it into a new piece. For example, you could make an old sweater into a skirt. Alternatively, you can try turning old clothes into handbags, wallets, or other accessories.

Another way to reuse old clothes is to use them as rags for cleaning around the house! This saves money from having to buy new ones and reduces waste that piles up in landfills.


Be Creative with Secondhand Clothes
Because of the current economic climate, many people are looking for ways to save money and one way is to buy pre-owned clothes. The best part? You can find some great items on sites like eBay and Etsy.

If you're not sure what size or type of clothing to look for, think about what you already have in your closet and the styles that work well with your body type. If you're petite, try looking for smaller sizes. If you're tall, look for clothes with longer sleeves or pants with more length.

If you decide to purchase secondhand clothing online, be mindful of how it will fit when it arrives. Check the product description carefully so that you know what size the clothes are before you buy them. And if there's any doubt about whether or not an article will fit, order a size up from what you normally wear!


Sewing for Yourself
I’ve always been a fan of sewing for myself. It can be a little bit tricky but it’s also easy to learn, and the rewards are great.

I recommend taking your favorite dress or skirt and altering it to make it your own. You can change the length, hemline, or neckline so that you have an item that is different than what you could buy in the store. If you take the time to sew your own clothes, then they will last longer and you will get more use out of them. Plus, if you alter an old garment in a new way, it often looks more current!


Sewing for Others
One way to create a sustainable wardrobe is by sewing for others. You might not want to sew for yourself, but you can turn it into a side hustle.

If you're just getting started, your first project could be a shirt or a dress from an inexpensive pattern. Or take your old clothes and turn them into something new. Sewing for others also provides an opportunity for personal growth, creativity and self-expression as you get more experienced.