4 Tips for Building a Colorful Capsule Wardrobe

When you imagine a capsule wardrobe, you may think of a minimalist closet filled with beige blazers and black pants, but building a colorful capsule wardrobe is a great opportunity for every fashionista to mix and match bright pieces without ending up with a wardrobe overload. Every item in your closet can be fun, bright, and true to you while remaining versatile. If you’re ready for some standout tops and eye-catching pants, read on to learn our four best tips for building a colorful capsule wardrobe.

The History of Capsule Wardrobes

While capsule wardrobes seem like a trend that just got here, the concept of capsule wardrobes dates back to the 1970s. It was a concept that first originated from Susie Faux, who owned a London boutique and believed a capsule wardrobe contained a few essential and timeless items that could be supplemented with various seasonal pieces. Later, in 1985, designer Donna Karan created a capsule collection called the “Seven Easy Pieces” with a bodysuit, skirt, tailored jacket, dress, one leather piece, a white shirt, and a cashmere sweater. Today, we have different kinds of capsule wardrobes, from minimalist neutrals to colorful contemporaries.

1. Pick a Color Palette — Leanne, the Founder of Classy Yet Trendy, shares that when picking out colors for a capsule wardrobe, you’ll want to select a base color like navy or black; add a coordinate neutral color such as gray, white, or beige; and then throw in one or two popular accent colors like lime or burgundy. To pick your color palette for your capsule wardrobe, begin with versatile neutrals like navy or beige, and then add a couple of standout colors that spark joy. Think of zesty yellows or cool teals as a combination of bright and subdued so you can mix and match without stressing about clashing colors. Watch your wardrobe come together effortlessly because you’ll know exactly which shades fit right in.

2. Grab Versatile Basics — If you tend to wear dark clothes or neutral colors, don’t be afraid to switch it up and wear colorful clothes every day. Wearing bright colors as everyday basics can instantly brighten your day! Begin with colorful tops to add a burst of personality to even the plainest of outfits. Your versatile basics should be pieces that you’ll reach for over and over again, like a cozy sweater or fitted tee, but make them colorful. Basics should be comfortable, easy to layer, and ready to mix and match with everything else in your capsule wardrobe. Choose pieces in colors that match your palette but still feel fresh, like emerald green pants with soft coral tops.

3. Accessorize Thoughtfully — To add some sparkle to your colorful capsule wardrobe, choose accessories that complement your colorful clothing without overwhelming your outfit. Think of classic leather belts and simple gold hoop earrings. One scarf in any of your accent colors can tie your whole look together. Amp up the fun with a playful pair of shoes or a bold handbag. Remember, the key to balancing out accessories with colorful clothing is that the accessories should blend seamlessly with your outfit, not add unnecessary visual clutter to it.

4. Mix Patterns and Textures — Add trendy pants in different patterns and textures to your wardrobe as an easy way to keep your look fresh without overloading your closet. Trying out various patterns and textures can seriously make magic happen with your colorful capsule wardrobe. Mix patterns that share a common color, like pretty pink florals with pink polka dots. If you have one bold pattern, add dimension and texture like a cozy knit paired with silky fabric. All of these elements bring personality to your closet without adding bulk.

Congratulations! You’re well on your way to embracing a vibrant capsule wardrobe that’s as fabulous as it is functional. The key to any colorful capsule wardrobe is to pick pieces that reflect your personality while being versatile enough to mix and match quite effortlessly. Whether you want cheerful tops or trendy pants, each item is meant to spark joy and excitement in your everyday life. Rock those colorful outfits, Avaraista!