What is a Wardrobe Capsule

Sartorial Lounge Staff • January 2, 2024

...and, more importantly, what does it do for you?

Have you heard of the term "capsule" in the men's clothing context? The name may be new, but the concept based-upon common sense dressing is not new at all. A capsule wardrobe is a collection of versatile and timeless clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. The concept of a capsule wardrobe has gained popularity in recent years due to its practicality, sustainability, and style. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to build a capsule wardrobe that suits your personal style and budget.


This means that you can mix and match fairly liberally and rarely, if ever, come out looking like a circus clow. Got it? Let's look at some steps to success here.


Step 1: Declutter Your Wardrobe

The first step in building a capsule wardrobe is to declutter your existing wardrobe. This means going through all your clothes, shoes, and accessories and getting rid of anything that you haven’t worn in the past year, doesn’t fit you well, or doesn’t suit your personal style. You can donate, sell, or recycle these items. Decluttering your wardrobe will help you identify the items that you actually wear and like, and create space for new items.

 

Step 2: Choose Your Core Capsule Pieces

The second step in building a capsule wardrobe is to choose your core capsule pieces. These are the essential items that form the foundation of your wardrobe and can be styled in different ways. The number of core capsule pieces can vary depending on your lifestyle, climate, and personal preferences, but a good rule of thumb is to have around 30-40 items. Here are some examples of core capsule pieces:

· Tops: T-shirts, blouses, button-down shirts, sweaters, cardigans.

· Bottoms: Jeans, trousers, shorts.

· Outerwear: Jackets, coats, blazers.

· Shoes: Sneakers, boots, sandals, dress shoes.

· Accessories: Bags, belts, scarves, hats.


 When choosing your core capsule pieces, consider the following factors:

· Color palette: Choose a color palette that suits your skin tone, hair color, and personal style. Neutral colors like black, white, gray, beige, and navy are versatile and timeless, while bold colors like red, green, and yellow can add personality and interest to your outfits. (But, not everyone can pull it off without the clown element, you know.)

· Fit and comfort: Choose items that fit you well, flatter your body shape, and feel comfortable to wear. Avoid items that are too tight, too loose, or too short.

· Quality and durability: Choose items that are made of high-quality materials, are well-constructed, and can withstand frequent wear and washing. Avoid items that are cheaply made, prone to wrinkles, or require special care.
 

"...Avoid items that are cheaply made, prone to wrinkles, require special care"



Step 3: Create 10 Everyday Outfits

The third step in building a capsule wardrobe is to create 10 everyday outfits using your core capsule pieces. This will help you visualize how your wardrobe can work together and identify any gaps or redundancies. Here are some examples of everyday outfits:

· Outfit 1: White T-shirt, blue jeans, sneakers, black leather jacket.

· Outfit 2: Black turtleneck, gray trousers, black loafers, camel coat.

· Outfit 3: Striped shirt, denim jacket, neutral chinos

· Outfit 4: Gray sweater, black jeans, white sneakers, beige trench coat.

· Outfit 5: White button-down shirt, navy trousers, brown oxfords, black blazer.

· Outfit 6: Black chinos, Gingham shirt.

· Outfit 7: Beige sweater, blue jeans, white sneakers, black leather jacket.

· Outfit 8: White blouse, black trousers, black loafers, camel coat.

· Outfit 9: Gray T-shirt, white sneakers, denim jacket.

· Outfit 10: Black sweater, blue jeans, brown oxfords, beige trench coat.

When creating your everyday outfits, consider the following tips:

· Mix and match: Experiment with different combinations of tops, bottoms, and outerwear to create new outfits. For example, you can wear a blazer with jeans.

· Layering: Layering is a great way to add depth and interest to your outfits. You can layer a sweater over a shirt, a blazer over a T-shirt, or a coat over a dress.

· Accessories: Accessories can help elevate your outfits and add personality. You can wear a scarf, a hat, a belt to complete your look.


The Wrap Up:

So, be the king of your capsule. (Get it? Sorry.) Building a capsule wardrobe is a great way to simplify your life, save money, and look stylish. Oh, the time savings not standing there stressing over what goes with what! By following these three steps, you can create a capsule wardrobe that suits your personal style and budget. Remember to declutter your wardrobe, choose your core capsule pieces, and create the look and lifestyle you want!


 
 

The Classic Shirt Every Man Needs

By Gene Thomas • August 6, 2024
The Oxford The Oxford shirt is a staple in men’s fashion, known for its versatility and timeless appeal. But how did this iconic piece of clothing come to be? Let’s dive into the rich history of the men’s classic Oxford shirt and explore the different collar styles that make it suitable for various occasions. Origins in Scotland Contrary to popular belief, the Oxford shirt did not originate from Oxford University. Its story begins in 19th-century Scotland, where a textile mill created a unique fabric known as Oxford cloth. This cloth was one of four fabrics named after prestigious universities—Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, and Harvard. While the other fabrics faded into obscurity, Oxford cloth stood the test of time. The Fabric Oxford cloth is made from cotton threads woven in a distinctive basket-weave pattern. This weave gives the fabric its characteristic durability and breathability, making it ideal for both casual and formal wear. The fabric’s natural wrinkle resistance and softness further contribute to its popularity. From Polo Fields to Ivy League The Oxford shirt’s journey from fabric to fashion icon began on the polo fields of British India. Polo players favored the shirt for its comfort and breathability. To keep the collars from flapping during play, they added buttons to the collar points, giving birth to the button-down Oxford shirt. The shirt soon made its way to American Ivy League universities, where it became a symbol of collegiate style. Students paired it with chinos and loafers, creating a look that would become synonymous with preppy fashion. Hollywood and Mainstream Fashion The Oxford shirt’s popularity soared in the 1950s, thanks in part to Hollywood stars like Paul Newman and Clark Gable. Brands like Ralph Lauren and J. Crew capitalized on this trend, bringing the shirt from university campuses to mainstream fashion. Exploring Different Collar Styles Oxford shirts come in a variety of collar styles, each offering a unique look and feel. Here are some of the most popular ones and when to use them: 1. Button-Down Collar. The button-down collar is the most traditional and iconic style for Oxford shirts. It features small buttons that fasten the collar points to the shirt, preventing them from flapping around. This style is versatile and can be worn both casually and formally. It’s perfect for a relaxed office environment or a casual weekend outing. 2. Point Collar. The point collar is characterized by its narrow, pointed tips. This style is more formal than the button-down collar and is often worn with a tie. It’s a great choice for a polished, professional look. Ideal for business meetings and formal events, the point collar adds a touch of sophistication. 3. Spread Collar. The spread collar has wider collar points that angle outwards, creating a larger space between them. This style is ideal for wearing with larger tie knots, such as the Windsor knot. It offers a modern and sophisticated appearance. Use this collar style for upscale events or when you want to make a bold fashion statement. 4. Club Collar. The club collar, also known as the rounded collar, features rounded edges instead of pointed ones. This style has a vintage feel and adds a touch of uniqueness to your outfit. It’s less common but can be a stylish choice for those looking to stand out. Perfect for themed parties or when you want to add a retro touch to your look. 5. Cutaway Collar. The cutaway collar is similar to the spread collar but with an even wider spread. The collar points are angled back almost horizontally. This style is very modern and is often seen in high-fashion contexts. Ideal for fashion-forward individuals, the cutaway collar is great for special occasions and stylish gatherings. 6. Hidden Button-Down Collar. The hidden button-down collar looks like a regular point collar but has hidden buttons underneath the collar points. This style offers the neat appearance of a point collar with the practicality of a button-down. Suitable for both formal and casual settings, this collar style provides a clean and streamlined look. Conclusion From its humble beginnings in a Scottish textile mill to its status as a fashion icon, the Oxford shirt has a rich history that spans continents and centuries. Its blend of comfort, durability, and style ensures that it will remain a staple in men’s wardrobes for years to come. The variety of collar styles available allows for versatility, making the Oxford shirt suitable for any occasion. Design your own oxford! Design your perfect shirt from the comfort of your home. Choose your fabric, style, and details to create a custom piece that’s uniquely yours! Try our Custom design tool today and elevate your wardrobe with your personal touch!

You Need These 10 Things

By Sartorial Lounge Staff • January 2, 2024
...You or that wonderful man in your life is not complete until he has these:
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