A capsule wardrobe is a set of clothing, which can be as small as six pieces or as large as 24 items or more, which can be mixed and matched to create a wide variety of outfits. The idea is aimed at people who want to make the most of a small clothing budget

Budget

A budget is a financial plan and a list of all planned expenses and revenues. It is a plan for saving, borrowing and spending. A budget is an important concept in microeconomics, which uses a budget line to illustrate the trade-offs between two or more goods...

, or people who find that they spend a lot of money on clothes that they never wear.

The benefits of a capsule wardrobe are that spending less money on clothes, and making the most of what's already in the closet. The key is buying timeless designs, which will ensure that the clothes chosen do not go out of style, and to buy the right clothes for one's body shape

Body shape

Human body shape is a complex phenomenon with sophisticated detail and function. The general shape or figure of a person is defined mainly by skeletal structure, muscles and fat...

. Also important is choosing colours that work well with your skin

Color analysis

Color analysis, also called skin tone color matching or color seasons, is the process of finding colors of clothing and makeup to match a person's complexion, eye color, and hair color. It is often used as an aid to wardrobe planning and style consulting.Color analysis is the process of determining...

, and any items added to a capsule wardrobe need to work with the other capsule clothes.

The clothes can be dressed up with accessories, shoes, bags or scarves, so that any outfit can be dressed "up" or "down". What is selected for a capsule will depend on each person's needs and style.

A Capsule Wardrobe may contain:

• 1 Pair of Dark Wash Jeans
• 1 Black Skirt
• 1 Pair of Trousers
• 6 Tops
• 2 Dresses
• 1 Trenchcoat
• 2 Jackets
• 2 Silk Scarves
• 2 Belts
• 2 Bags
• 4 Pairs of Shoes

But for anyone on a very limited budget, a capsule wardrobe can start with as few as six pieces...

• 2 cardigans or jackets
• 2 tops in coordinating colors
• 2 bottoms: 1 pair of pants & 1 skirt or 2 pairs of pants