Capsule Wardrobe Data
Learn how to create a (realistic) capsule wardrobe with data.
A Capsule Wardrobe maximizes outfit options using a minimal amount of pieces.
The data
I track data about my Capsule Wardrobe to better understand what I have and gain insights to make it more efficient. All clothing, coats, jackets, shoes, jewelry, bags, scarfs, belts, sunglasses, swimwear and hats are included in my data, only undergarments are excluded. Some blogs recommend a specific number of pieces for a Capsule Wardrobe. These are often seasonal wardrobes (e.g. My 30-Piece Spring 2019 Capsule Wardrobe and Closet Tour!) and don’t include clothing packed away for out-of-season storage. I find it easier to keep my entire wardrobe out year-round as I often wear clothing that could be considered out of season and therefor track my complete wardrobe.
My Capsule Wardrobe // Coats, jackets, and shoes are stored in a hall closet. // July 2020
Composition
Size
Change
Age
Efficiency
Versatility
The goal of a Capsule Wardrobe is to maximize the number of wearable outfits with a limited number of pieces. The greater number of places a piece can be worn, the more efficient it is in a Capsule Wardrobe. I evaluate my wardrobe pieces across 5 categories: work, everyday, formal, active, and lounge.
The higher a piece’s Versatility is, the more places it can be worn. For example, I have a floor-length gown, which can only be worn at formal events, so its Versatility is a 1 out of 5. My Nike Tech Pack pants can be worn to work, for everyday wear, formal events, the gym and for lounging, so its Versatility is a 5 out of 5.
It’s unlikely that a Capsule Wardrobe would have a Versatility of 5, as most people need their wardrobe to work for a broad range of situations such as a professional office environment, weddings, weekend errands, household chores, yard work, hiking, and vacations. It’s rare that one piece can work for all of these.
Isn’t it boring?
While the base of my wardrobe is basic, I have a handful of accent pieces that make getting dressed and wearing my clothes fun.
Additionally, I found that pieces purchased specifically for work, the gym or on sale were liked less, based on my 2018 wardrobe analysis, read more here.
When a wardrobe has versatile pieces, a greater number of outfits can be created. This paired with a gradual rate of change (clothing added and clothing retired) keeps the wardrobe feeling new and interesting. Sometimes the introduction of one new item can make an older item feel brand new again.
Net Promoter Score
Usage
In 2018, I tracked what I wore everyday to gain insights on wardrobe usage and efficiency.
Cost of piece and cost per wear
