We’re a month into a brand-new year. How are we doing, team? I’m just now emerging from a haze…induced by overly hectic holiday celebrations and that flu virus that hung on for ages. So while the calendar reads February, it’s feeling more like January 1. My desire to set fresh goals in ’25 is coupled with overwhelming piles of new stuff that landed in my house from well-meaning relatives set on gifting my children the loudest and largest toys. This mamma is ready to streamline!

Imagine starting a Monday morning with a clean, organized closet filled with pieces you love and want to wear! There’s no better time to streamline your closet and bring intentionality into your style habits. Crafting a capsule wardrobe is the key to mitigating closet chaos. Plus, it’s what all the cool kids are doing. Here are some ways to simplify getting dressed…

A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of versatile, quality pieces that work together to create multiple outfits. Instead of a closet bursting at the seams with items you rarely wear, a capsule wardrobe prioritizes thoughtful choices that align with your personal style and lifestyle. The benefits are endless: You’ll save time picking outfits, streamline clutter, and reduce impulse shopping while also making a positive impact on the planet. (So many wins!)

Many articles on capsule wardrobes list items that “every closet should have.” But I believe staple pieces are different for everyone. For example, if you’re a stay-at-home mom here in sunny Florida, you probably don’t need to invest in a classic trench coat. It just doesn’t fit your day-to-day. What I love about the concept of a staple wardrobe is the focus on a few key pieces you can mix and match with ease.

One client’s go-to wardrobe might revolve around work-appropriate dresses and tweed blazers, while someone else’s essentials could be linen shorts and tank tops. It all boils down to what your lifestyle demands and what your personal style celebrates. The goal? Build a versatile foundation that works for you, not feeling beholden to a cookie-cutter list from the internet.

To create a capsule wardrobe, step one is a closet audit. Pull out everything you own and separate items into three categories: “love,” “meh,” and “why do I still have this?” Keep the pieces you genuinely enjoy wearing and that fit well. For the rest, consider donating, selling or recycling them responsibly. This process not only clears physical clutter but also gives you clarity on what you actually love to wear. A successful capsule wardrobe reflects both your personal style and your daily activities. Are you dressing for a corporate office, a creative workspace, or a stay-at-home lifestyle? Do you lean toward classic, bohemian or edgy looks? Understanding your style preferences and needs will guide your choices. Once you’ve cleared out, think about what foundational pieces are missing. Make a list. Now it’s time to shop or swap.

A capsule wardrobe typically consists of 20-40 items, including tops, bottoms, outerwear and shoes. Aim to include pieces that can be dressed up or down, layered, or worn in different combinations to give you variety. These timeless staples form the backbone of your wardrobe and can be styled in countless ways. Remember, it’s okay if you have basic pieces. Once you experiment with mixing and matching your core pieces, you’ll discover fresh looks. Accessories will extend your wardrobe’s versatility. You can easily update your foundational outfits with inexpensive accessories like scarves, belts, jewelry and bags. Rotating how you pair staples can help them to continuously feel fresh. 

For any gaps in your wardrobe, look to sustainable options. Shop secondhand at thrift stores or online platforms like Poshmark. My current favorite shopping hack is the Beni app. When you are online shopping, the app will pull up similar options for less by scouring other sites, even secondhand ones. This provides good prices and alternative, gently used options. Invest in ethical brands that prioritize fair labor and environmentally friendly practices. Or organize a clothing swap with friends for a fun and budget-friendly refresh. (Just don’t forget to invite me!)

Building a more sustainable capsule wardrobe won’t happen all at once. You don’t have to overhaul your entire closet overnight. Small, intentional steps can make a big difference. Over time, you’ll refine your collection and discover the joy of dressing with intention. So strike while the iron of motivation is hot, friends! Use the holiday influx of stuff to incite a proper closet clear out, and then map a course for a more streamlined and sustainable style. One day, you’ll wake up and have that magic closet moment where you actually like everything you own! It’s a mindset shift that can even support and encourage those other healthy efforts you’re after this new year. It’s 2025, friends. I believe in us.