Minimalist Wardrobe: 1 Yak Wool Sweater And 19 Other Essentials

Keeping my wardrobe simple and sustainable with 20 essential items.

When it comes to my wardrobe, I like to keep things simple and sustainable. Over the last year, I've put together a minimalist capsule of clothes that are not only long-lasting but also made from natural materials.

It includes essentials like durable jeans, lightweight base layers, and a couple of key accessories, such as my yak wool scarf. Plus, I can always rely on my trusty yak wool sweater for easy everyday wear. Having a small but versatile wardrobe makes my life easier.

Over the course of this blog, I'll share more about how I created a capsule wardrobe and offer some helpful tips on decluttering. I'll also walk you through my process of building a few core outfits with fewer items that you can wear every day.

How Many Clothes Are In My Minimalist Wardrobe

Having a minimal wardrobe means getting creative with the pieces you own. It’s fun to think of new ways to wear the clothes you’ll have in your closet for a lifetime. Here are the clothes in my 20-item capsule:

• Yak Wool Sweater - 2
• Summer Sweater - 1
• Yak Wool Scarf - 1
• Yak Wool Beanie - 1
• Base Layers - 14
• Classic Button-Up Shirt - 4
• Wool Dress - 1
• Dark Wash Jeans - 1
• Light Wash Jeans - 1
• Dressier Pants - 1
• Shorts - 2
• Bathing Suits - 2
• Rain Jacket - 1
• Coats - 2
• Blazer - 1
• Leggings/Sweats - 1
• Jewelry - 1
• Belt - 1
• Shoes - 3
• Socks/Underwear

If you’re looking for ways to refresh your wardrobe, to get it to a more minimalistic place, there are several sustainable options that you can explore. Let’s explore three ideas that you can try: clothing swaps, reselling, and upcycling.

3 Ways To Declutter Your Wardrobe

Clothing Swaps: Hosting or attending a clothing swap is a fun and eco-friendly way to get rid of clothes that you no longer wear while adding some fresh pieces to your collection. During a swap, you can exchange clothes with other participants, discover new styles, and even make new friends. Not only is it a great way to declutter your closet, but it also doesn't cost you anything.

Reselling: Another sustainable option for minimizing your wardrobe is reselling or donating. There are now several online consignment stores like Poshmark, Depop, and ThredUp where you can sell your gently used clothing items. And there are Goodwill locations where donations are welcome. This way, you can not only clear up space in your closet but, if you go the reselling route, also make a little extra cash on the side.

Try Upcycling: Lastly, if you have some DIY skills and a bit of creativity, upcycling your unwanted clothes can be a great way to give them a new life. By repurposing old clothes, you can create unique and personalized items that no one else will have. Upcycling can involve anything from turning an old pair of jeans into a skirt to using scraps of fabric to create patches. The possibilities are endless, and you can let your imagination run wild.

There are several ways to start shifting towards a more minimal wardrobe, including clothing swaps, reselling, and upcycling. By adopting these practices, you can not only reduce your impact on the environment but also refresh your wardrobe in a fun and creative way.

Make 5 Different Outfits With 1 Sweater  

I've got 5 versatile outfits that I can create with just the 20 essential items from my wardrobe. The star of the show is my everyday yak wool sweater. I've curated a collection of outfits that will take me from the winter, through the transition seasons, and all the way into summer with ease. Let's dive in and explore the versatility of the yak wool sweater together!

Outfit 1: Casual Layers

• Yak Wool Sweater
• Yak Wool Beanie
• T-Shirt
• Light Wash Jeans
• Pair of Sneakers

This outfit is perfect for everyday wear, whether I’m spending time outside or running errands. The classic sweater layered over a t-shirt and paired with light jeans is so easy to throw on while still looking put together. 

Outfit 2: Winter To Spring Transition

• Yak wool Sweater
• Wool Dress
• Belt
• Leggings
• Rain Jacket
• Pair of Ankle Boots

This outfit is perfect for the transition from winter to spring when the weather is still cool and unpredictable. The yak wool sweater provides warmth, while the wool dress and leggings keep your legs covered. The belt adds style and cinches the waist to create a flattering silhouette. The rain jacket is a practical addition for any unexpected showers. The ankle boots make it perfect for the changing weather and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This outfit is versatile and perfect for any transition season event.

Outfit 3: Cozy And Elegant

• Yak Wool Sweater
• Yak Wool Wcarf
• Yak Wool Beanie
• Dark Wash Jeans
• Watch
• Pair of Boots

This outfit is perfect for a cozy day out or a casual event. The yak wool sweater provides warmth, while the dark wash jeans and boots add style. The yak wool scarf and statement jewelry elevate the outfit, making it elegant.

Outfit 4: Business Casual

• Yak Wool Sweater
• Classic Button-Up Shirt
• Slacks
• Black Belt
• Dressier Shoes Like Heels

This outfit is perfect for a business meeting or a formal event. The yak wool sweater provides warmth while the navy slacks and heels make it dressier. The classic button-up shirt and belt add a touch of sophistication to the outfit.

Outfit 5: Summer Days

• Summer Sweater
• Shorts
• Bathing Suit
• Pair of Sandals

This outfit is perfect for a warmer day spent enjoying the outdoors. The SeaCell Summer Sweater is perfect for summer when I need to stay cool while keeping the sun off. The sandals are just easy to slip into, making it feel like I’m ready for any impromptu adventure.

All of these outfits are versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The yak wool sweater is the centerpiece of each outfit, and the other items are carefully chosen to complement it. The base layers provide extra warmth and comfort, while the statement jewelry and belt add a pop of personality. The different pairs of shoes allow for even more versatility and can change the look of each outfit entirely.

The Benefits Of A Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe

Minimalist capsule wardrobes are growing in popularity with a minimalist approach to fashion that emphasizes owning a limited number of high-quality, versatile items. In my personal experience, I've discovered that simplicity doesn't have to be boring.

My capsule wardrobe is made up of pieces that I wear often and can be easily mixed and matched. Among these basics are my yak wool sweaters, which are some of the most important items in my closet.

One of the reasons I value my capsule wardrobe is the versatility of its layers. A sweater, for example, can be worn on its own with jeans or layered with other pieces such as a button-down or a coat to dress up. Having flexible layers allows me to create outfits that can transition seamlessly from day to night.

Investing in cross-seasonal clothing is another tip I would recommend for those interested in creating a capsule wardrobe. My Oliver Charles sweaters, for instance, have thermoregulating properties that make them comfortable to wear all year.

I have it at arm’s length at all times because It’s the only sweater that can keep me cool in warmer seasons, and I know I can layer it to give me different looks for work, school, and when I wanna have fun.

I hope this inspires you to get creative with your own wardrobe and find joy in the pieces you already own!

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