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How To Prevent Your Capsule Wardrobe From Becoming Boring

Three helpful tips for working around your capsule wardrobe.
April 25, 2024
By Elizabeth Ramsey

Minimalism Is Not Monotonous

Today, I’m sharing the third and final part in my 3-part blog series about outfit repeating.

In this blog, we’re talking about ways to prevent your capsule wardrobe from becoming boring.

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I’ve embraced a capsule wardrobe for some time, but let’s be real: We all like to occasionally mix up our look and be on-trend.

Today, I’m sharing three ways that I’ve kept my wardrobe from becoming boring while still fitting in with a #repeat outfit / capsule wardrobe philosophy.

How To Prevent Your Capsule Wardrobe From Becoming Boring - Oliver Charles.jpg__PID:47784cbe-6026-4e2a-ae7f-36d377a81a25

Start By Adding A Splash Of Color

While most capsules are based on neutral colors, that doesn’t have to be the case. You can create a capsule wardrobe solely of brights or do what I do, and carefully incorporate a few coordinating colors to complement your core basics. To get inspiration, I often look at works of art or fun, patterned clothing pieces online or at the mall. Ask yourself:

  • Which colors flatter me?
  • What colors work together?
  • Which colors will work best with the core basics in your closet?

Ideally, you’ll come up with 2-3 tones that work together and with your staples. Next, add a handful of these colored pieces to your wardrobe. Tops (shirts, sweaters, vests, jackets) and accessories (scarves, belts, shoes, handbags) will give you the most mileage for mixing and matching.

Start By Adding A Splash Of Color - Oliver Charles

Pick A Pattern To Amp Up Your Look

A second trick to amp up your look is to add a pattern to your outfit. Once again, tops and accessories will afford you the most flexibility. Was a scarf your inspiration for the color palette you chose in the step above? Add that bad boy to the cart, knowing it will combine with the solid accent colors you chose!

It’s all about taking the time to think things out and shop mindfully! With a bit of thoughtful planning, you can easily create a capsule wardrobe that never becomes boring because you have just enough colored/patterned pieces to keep your looks fresh.

Pick A Pattern To Amp Up Your Look - Oliver Charles

Learn To Layer Your Go-To Sweater

Lastly, you can add interest to your outfits by learning to layer. Try wearing a shirt or tee underneath a sweater. Or wearing a vest or blazer on top. Even necklaces and scarves can be used to create layers.

Learn To Layer A Yak Wool Sweater - Oliver Charles

I think we’ve learned today that small doesn’t have to mean boring! By adding color, pattern, and layers, you can give your capsule wardrobe a fashion-forward look.

You can even try using the tips above in combination. For example, layer a shirt under a basic sweater, and then add a colored belt and boot or handbag. You’re truly only limited by your imagination!

Elizabeth Ramsey is the founder and content creator behind NattyGal, a fashion, lifestyle, and travel blog for women over 40.

If you believe that every good wardrobe starts with owning less and owning better, consider buying yourself an OLIVER CHARLES sweater.
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