Capsule Wardrobes For Everything You Do

I don’t know if you’ve picked up on this, but I am NOT a minimalist. I mean, at all. And that’s why the concept of capsule wardrobes did not originally resonate with me. I mean, who wants to narrow their options that way? Not me.

I wanted an unlimited wardrobe with lots of options, not a closet full of boring and basic and beige.

And then I changed my mindset. I realized that capsules, like most other concepts we learn, are a tool that can be used in a variety of different ways. For some, a capsule can be a minimalist wardrobe of neutrals that all go together. And for others, like me, capsules can be a way of focusing our efforts, packing and updating our wardrobes more efficiently, and creating multiple outfit combinations with fewer items.

When I discovered this, I kind of blew my own mind. I’m not going to lie. And then I started using this tool in my clients’ closets, using it as a tool in wardrobe edits and outfit creation, packing and seasonal updates. It changed everything.

Today, I’m going to discuss how mini capsules, called clusters, can help you focus on one “area” of life at a time. Using clusters in this way can help you evaluate the items that you have for one specific lifestyle need that you have, from camping out to casual wear, working out to work.

To shop the items in the clusters shown below, click on this catalog.

As a reminder, here’s the breakdown of a cluster.

When used as a building block of a wardrobe, multiple clusters can be combined for endless outfit options.

And now, the cluster concept by lifestyle.

Athleisure Cluster

Even if the only exercise you do is run errands, an athleisure capsule can be the perfect choice for at-home days, running around, and walking the dog.

This Athleisure Cluster consists of these 6 pieces:

Using these 6 pieces alone, we can create multiple outfit combinations.

Cocktail Cluster

If you’ve ever scrambled to find a dress for a last-minute invitation, this cluster is for you. Whether it’s the special event that snuck up on you, a fancy work event, or fancy fundraiser, this cocktail cluster is elegant and special without being too memorable, so you can continue to wear the pieces and rotate them for years to come.

And here are the outfit possibilities.

Professional Cluster

If you still get to dress up in a professional way for work, consider yourself blessed. It’s still the quickest path to looking polished, and it definitely increases productivity. But it can also feel a little boring and predictable. Here, I created a mix-and-match cluster from M.M. LaFleur that combines professional polish with creativity.

These create multiple outfit options.

Workout Cluster

I think it’s important to separate athleisure, or elevated lounge clothes, from the clothes we actually work out on in. These fall into the later category. They are functional and practical but also cute enough to wear to your favorite workout class.

And here are the outfits.

Business Casual (or Smart Casual) Cluster

Whether you’re dressing for a relaxed workplace or an everyday out-and-about kind of lifestyle, this cluster will serve you well, with crisp pieces that are easy but still polished.

These pieces create multiple outfits.

Outdoor Cluster

Whether you’re camping or hiking, this cozy yet chic cluster of pieces creates multiple outfits.

And now for the outfits.

I hope you were inspired to create clusters that work for your life using items from your own wardrobe! Which of these clusters could you see yourself wearing? And what cluster would you like to see?