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Saturday, April 27
The Indiana Daily Student

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COLUMN: The guide to building a unique capsule wardrobe

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We can make fashion as simple or as intricate as we want. It can serve as a calculated art form for some, or it can simply be functional for others. No matter what role fashion plays in a person’s life, having a capsule wardrobe is both convenient and practical for dressing oneself.  

A capsule wardrobe is a collection of clothing made up of fundamental pieces that can be worn in various ways, stretching the items’ usage. When a person uses a capsule wardrobe, they buy a few quality pieces of clothing that serve multiple purposes. Someone could logistically live off just this collection of clothing, making it a good baseline for anyone’s closet.  

Capsule wardrobes can look different depending on the person, but this outline from part of my personal capsule wardrobe can serve as a guide to anyone looking to start their own.  

Favorite pair of casual pants 

These can be any type of pants that work well in everyday scenarios. My pants under this category are my medium wash, straight leg jeans. These are pants that I find relatively comfortable and can wear in pretty much any situation. I could theoretically wear these multiple days a week because they go with a nearly endless combinations of tops.  

Comfy, plain crewneck  

A crewneck is essential because it serves as a warm layer. A neutral-colored sweatshirt is perfect for lounging, exercising, or just when you need some sort of jacket on a cooler day.  

Black athletic dress 

This is a more individualized item, but for me, it’s a staple in my wardrobe. My athletic dress can be worn in an athletic context with a pair of Hokas, or it can easily be dressed up for a summer dinner with a pair of sandals.  

Go-to set of jewelry pieces  

My basic set of jewelry consists of quality pieces that I know will last a long time. I have a pair of gold earrings and a necklace that I always wear. It’s convenient because I always have a safe option for jewelry, but they are also pieces I can add additional jewelry to if needed.  

Basic tee or tank 

Obviously, everybody needs some type of shirt, but I am specifically referring to a tee that fits well. There are a lot of shirts on the market, but the perfect capsule tee is whatever you feel fits best. It’s important that it’s comfortable because it’s an article that is truly one of the most versatile pieces in a closet.  

Plain button-up  

A button up is often for formal occasions, but there have been countless times I’ve thrown one on with a pair of jeans or over a swimsuit. I own a tan button up because it goes well with navy, black, and white, making it work with any type of pants I may need to pair with it.  

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