How to Create (Or Buy!) a Sustainable Capsule Wardrobe That You'll Lov

Do you want to fast-track your way to an organised closet with timeless pieces that you can always rely on? A capsule wardrobe might just be the answer!

A capsule wardrobe is a carefully curated collection of clothing which consists of timeless silhouettes and items which can be mixed and matched for a variety of outfits. You'll have fewer pieces to keep track of, helping you to conserve space in your dresser drawers or on your closet rack. Plus, choosing high-quality items that won't go out of fashion helps reduce waste and contribute towards sustainability in the fashion industry. Investing in quality pieces for your capsule wardrobe can also save you money in the long run!

To create your own capsule wardrobe, start by evaluating your current style. Keep a journal of each outfit you wear for a few weeks or a month to get an idea of what pieces you wear regularly and pair together. You could also save some inspiration photos as a reference point but make sure they are realistic looks that you would actually feel comfortable wearing.

Once you have a clear vision, make a plan for how many items (e.g. 3 pairs of jeans, 2 non-denim pants, 10 tops etc.) should be included in your collection. Clear out the items from your closet which don't fit into this plan and find the holes that need to be filled - choosing high-quality, timeless pieces for each item where possible.

To make sure it's an all-season capsule wardrobe, choose seasonless fabrics and include good layering pieces as well! Experiment with different layering combinations - your dedicated warm-weather pieces may surprise you with how well they transition!

Now it’s time to shop! Before you buy, you should keep a few tips in mind for shopping sustainably and buying quality pieces. To make sure your investment lasts, look out for fabrics with natural fibres like wool, cashmere, and linen, as well as durable blends that are made to last. You'll want to thoroughly inspect the quality of the construction too.

Shopping second-hand is also a great way to get high-quality items at a fraction of the cost while still being mindful of sustainability. Plus, you can find some amazing pieces that no one else has! Op-shops can be goldmines if you know what you’re looking for — think classic cuts and timeless silhouettes that will never go out of style.

Another step in creating a capsule wardrobe may be to sew your own clothing. If you're already a handy sewer or know someone who is, this will be the simplest part of the process. You can create custom-made pieces that are guaranteed to fit and flatter you, as well as reflect your unique style.

Of course, this isn't necessary if you don't want to do it—you can still shop around for pre-made items that fit within your capsule wardrobe parameters. But if you do decide to take on the challenge (and it's really not as difficult as you might think!), here are some tips for sewing for your capsule wardrobe:

Consider the fabric: Make sure whatever fabric you choose is high quality and will last through multiple wears and washes. At Melco we care about where our fabrics come from and know you do too. We specialise in Australian milled fabrics. We believe it's important to know the origin of textile products to ensure it aligns with the values of slow, ethical fashion.
Think about how versatile it will be: When adding items to your capsule wardrobe, go for pieces that can work in multiple settings. For example, a nice blouse can be dressed up with accessories or paired with jeans for a more relaxed look.
Don't forget details: Small details like pockets and trim can make all the difference—they add an extra bit of unique flair to whatever you're making!

So, don't be intimidated by sewing your own clothing—with a bit of practice and patience, you'll be able to create an entire wardrobe made just for you!

Re-evaluating your wardrobe doesn't have to be overwhelming – with a few simple steps, you can create a capsule wardrobe that not only looks great but is ultimately built with the environment in mind. You don't need to buy new pieces all the time, but instead, invest in quality items that you'll be able to wear for years.

Whether you find a new way of shopping or start sewing your own pieces, the world of capsule wardrobes can open up a creative world of holistic and sustainable fashion. From considering colours and patterns to re-thinking accessories, the possibilities are endless and can help you create a wardrobe that works for you and the environment. Start small and stay inspired – re-think clothing and get creative with your capsule wardrobe.