Does the Perfect Wardrobe Capsule Exist?

For as long as I remember, fashionistas have constantly been searching for that dream wardrobe capsule that will help them solve all their style problem. It would guarantee them a number of versatile interchangeable looks that work together and spare them from the pain of shopping, at least for the nearest future. Creating a capsule is the most frequent request I receive from my style clients. But does it really exist?

In the past, the pieces included in a capsule were a pencil skirt, a white shirt, a classic blazer, a little black dress, etc. These were considered timeless classics. Before becoming a stylist, I tried to follow the capsule strategy too. I purchased all the needed elements: a perfect-fitting pencil skirt, a classic black blazer, a great quality white shirt, and other "staple" pieces. They proudly hung in my closet for a while, but surprisingly, I never wore any of them and ended up selling them on Postmark, feeling failed.

Why did it happen? Later I understood that I didn't wear those pieces because they neither matched my lifestyle, nor my taste. As a freelance worker in the creative industry, I have never needed office wear. And I don't like shirts or classic blazers and only wear them sometimes because I absolutely have to.

Now, unlike me, some people may need and want classic capsule staples, but a pencil skirt or a little black dress may not work for their body type, and blazers or trench coats may not be suitable for people who live in a warm climate.

So what's the problem one would ask. Let's create capsules for every body shape, every style, every career, and every climate zone! Sounds easy. And this is what many popular stylists are doing these days - creating these capsules in bulk and selling them to their Instagram followers for a pretty low price.

Do they work? I believe they work somewhat better than the "One for All" capsule, but unfortunately, they rarely solve the problem.

For example, imagine you are a plus-size petite freelancer living in Canada. Such a capsule would rarely be created in bulk. And if a standard capsule for a petite plus-size body will fit you, you still may not like colors, fabrics, etc. Finally, let's imagine everything works - but do you want to be dressed exactly like all other petite plus-size ladies?

So is the solution in creating a capsule yourself or hiring a personal stylist to make one ideally tailored for your needs? If you are a meticulous person who wants space in a closet, hates shopping, and is okay with wearing the same several outfits all the time, then go for it. And you can always add some pieces to create a bit of variety. But if you are a free spirit and want your looks to reflect your daily mood, a capsule wardrobe is not for you.

Is it essential to have excellent quality great fitting fun clothes that suit all your needs? Absolutely. Does one need a capsule of 6-8 items as a wardrobe solution? My answer - it is not for everyone. And what do you think?