There are many ways to build a wardrobe (and we’re not talking about the flat-packed variety). A staple wardrobe, or a capsule wardrobe, are those foundational items of clothing that can be put together without any effort, a get-up-and-get-going functional collection of clothes.
But what truly defines a capsule wardrobe? For most of us, it is the idea of basics, standard, reliable classics that don’t really challenge the imagination but can be relied upon to deliver easy-to-put-together outfits. Now we don’t disagree with that but we would like to add something to the notion…versatility.
Developing a really good capsule or sew-your-own wardrobe should boil down to how versatile your individual pieces are. Each sewing pattern we develop has us questioning how many ways are there to wear it, more or less in any combination, and how many existing wardrobe pieces will it work with.
When creating a sew-your-own wardrobe, think about easy-to-make pieces, great silhouettes and layered looks. Garments that can be worn over garments allow you to add or subtract to a look with ease. Buildable capsule pieces mean you can layer up to suit any style occasion. It’s also about showcasing a little standout and not fading into the background.
An easy Tee
Cotton jersey tees are great but that basic top shape can be elevated and have more presence in your wardrobe when made from poplin, linen or even lightweight denim or given an added subtle detail to take them from the ordinary and stand out from the crowd. Consider longer sleeve lengths which allow a pop of the top to show beneath a jacket or throw over shrug, adding a little more drama to a basic in your wardrobe. Our Parcel Tee took that idea further by adding a removable sash detail. Plain Tee or embellished Tee you choose!
Anyday trousers
A wide-leg trouser is an ideal piece to take you from casual to formal. Unlike their skinny or straight-leg counterparts, they have a presence and a little “joie de vivre” but are just as straightforward to style and wear. Our wide leg trouser Palooza Pant pattern inspired our Easy Cargo Pant sewing pattern adding just a little extra volume at the base of a super-wearable cargo jogger to stand out from the crowd but still ticking all the boxes as an everyday wardrobe piece.
Loosely structured jackets
We’re as fond of a good piece of tailoring as the next person but a more loosely structured jacket is not only a more approachable make for your next sewing project but works harder as an overlayer. Cape style shapes are a great wardrobe make as they sit over bulkier pieces, smooth a silhouette and add a touch of pared-back chic.
Quite often our sewing pattern design process means figuring out additional details within the garment that can be added or removed to give it “newness” each time you style it. Detachable collars turn our Rapture Kimono jacket and Hug jacket sewing pattern into a formal or less formal piece in an instant. These sewing pattern designs also allow for colour contrast or differing fabric textures and a bit more playfulness and versatility in what is already a great capsule piece.
So next time you are evaluating your perfect capsule wardrobe don’t just think functional, think versatility.