There has been a lot of noise around curating the perfect capsule wardrobe the last few years. What is a capsule wardrobe you may ask? There are varying forms of it circulating the internet, but in essence it’s a collection of classic pieces (usually in neutrals) that can be worn in endless combinations back with each other. The idea behind the concept is that you only need a select amount of pieces for your wardrobe. Minimalism goals!
I am all for the concept of a capsule wardrobe. I strongly believe in high quality classic pieces are the essential building blocks to any wardrobe. However, they are just that- building blocks.
Capsule wardrobes may work for many, but it is not realistic for all of us. If you want those pieces which add interest and personality to your looks, you might find a strict capsule wardrobe a little limiting.
The past few years I have been working really hard at building up a strong foundation to my wardrobe (I am still working on finding those perfect pieces). In my quest to develop the perfect wardrobe, I still found myself purchasing certain more on trend pieces to give my outfits an update each season. This is not to say I was adding in throwaway fashion- I am very discerning about what crosses the threshold into my wardrobe. Even if it’s somewhat on trend, I am purchasing it with a long term view in mind.
I happened upon a concept recently which I have been unknowingly following this whole time… The Five Piece French Wardrobe.
What is it?
Most of us are aware that the French Wardrobe idea, tends to run parallell to the Capsule Wardrobe idea- they are in essence on in the same. But the 5 Piece French Wardrobe is far less restrictive and enables you to still play with fashion.
How Does it Work?
The Five Piece French Wardrobe seems to stem back to a Fashion Spot thread from 2005. The key is to first establish a strong wardrobe full of classic pieces, then each season you can pick five statement pieces to layer on top of your foundational pieces. This method gives us space to play with fashion and inject more personality into our look. The five pieces are based on fashion seasons Autumn/Winter and Spring/Summer, so it does force you to still be highly considerate of your choices when shopping.
Are There Any Other Rules?
The five items you select each season are completely up to you but it does not include basic items. Basic items are those foundational pieces in your wardrobe such as a white tee, or blue denim jeans which make up the core of your outfits. The five pieces are designed to keep your look updated and fresh each season. Being that you are restricted to only five pieces, its important to still challenge everything that you purchase. Always ask yourself the following questions:
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Does this piece truely reflect my personal style?
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Does this piece suit my current lifestyle and body shape?
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Can I wear this piece with three different existing outfits?
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Can I see myself wearing this piece in five years time?
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Is this piece super trendy and prone to dating quickly?
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Is the quality of a high enough standard that it will last a few seasons?
Over to You
What do you think of this wardrobe principle? Is this something you can see yourself implementing in the future. Let me know in the comments below.
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