8 Common Capsule Wardrobe Misconceptions: Timeless Style? Classics? Neutrals? Minimalist Style?

Hello KZbin family!
In today’s video, I’m talking all about common capsule wardrobe misconceptions. When I first started capsule wardrobing, I had several ideas about what a capsule wardrobe “should” look like, what kind of style it needed to be, or what kind of lifestyle I needed to leave. As a result, I decluttered so many beautiful colorful things. I thought my capsule wardrobe had to be full of neutrals, had to look minimalist, and had to be “timeless.” Over the years, I’ve learned that having a capsule wardrobe is so much more about finding your personal style, cultivating it, and sharing it with the outside world. I hope that this video helps keep you away from some of my most common mistakes and misconceptions. As always, thank you so much for watching!
Love, love, love - Lauren
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[@megananderson3891]

I love the “rule” of 3 for matching things, before you buy something think if it can go with at least 3 things in your wardrobe already. It really helps me when shopping.

[@ericabertels]

That’s a great tip! I’m gonna use that from now on!

[@ghostfeathers321]

In style to you is a such a cute phase like whatever your interested in is like your personal trends for the season I love that bc I honestly feel exhausted whenever I hear what’s “on trend”

[@mery_vc]

What I did when I was clearing my wardrobe to start my capsule, I put all the declutters in a suitcase and see if I remember them or reach for them. Its been working really well for me!

[@Gnv-q2m]

So refreshing to see a young person with an individual approach to a capsule wardrobe that expresses personality, life style and personal essence. You are in the early years of your journey and will enjoy many shifts as your life and the world around you changes.

[@cg50621Q]

Great tips! I especially needed a reminder on not everything has to go with everything. A couple of tips from my experience and a comment -- • A great way to add color, but keep things interchangeable is to work with colors close to each other on the color wheel (analagous). I have a fair amount of teal and green that go together easily. • For more mix and match, you can focus your prints, textures and less used colors in one type of piece, while keeping the others simple's and perhaps more neutral. Since I almost always have on a layer (cardigan, jacket, etc.), I've found it's best to keep my variety in either the tops or the jackets, but not both. But again, not everything has to match everything, so if this doesn't appeal, of course you can have fun with prints and colors in any type of piece. I doubt you meant to say that if you have torn or worn items, you should donate them, but I think that's how it sounded. For anyone who's considering donating items in a condition you wouldn't wear yourself, please don't. They probably just go into the rag trade, which is a problematic in ways I won't go into here. But if the store misses these items, people can end up at home not realizing they bought something with stains, rips or other damages.

[@erinlikesacornishpasty4703]

I was gonna say. Although I like to tear down my old things into rags and use them for cleaning. I've had people "gift" me clothes they think are "still good" only for me to realize when I'm out somewhere they're stained or ripped. It's so disappointing!

[@ruthmalcolm3028]

Thank you, great advice Lauren. I started capsule wardrobe planning last autumn. I did make some of those mistakes but you have given me the confidence to follow my instincts. I feel restricted wearing shirts so I dont often choose to wear them. My style involves some bohemian which I'm so glad that I have stuck with. Your videos are so refreshing and realistic, I always look forward to the next one. X

[@annaklaus8377]

Excellent advice as always Lauren, wish I had heard this at the beginning of my capsule wardrobing journey too. One thing that particularly chimed with me was the misguided idea that EVERYTHING has to match EVERYTHING else. I found that ideal paralysing. Now I see my wardrobe as 2 or 3 different capsule modules with slight deviations in colour scheme and/or silhouettes, with lots of pieces crossing over. This has enabled me to hold on to lots of pieces I love but didn't go with much else, and also helped me make progress with putting my wardrobe together. Because you could spend forever searching for your perfect pieces in special sizing, sourced sustainably, in just the right colour and shape. Lowering my expectations just a little helped me make incremental progress over the last few years, as well as enjoy the process and its rewards. Thanks for being part of my journey, I love your content.

[@sheilacroisier6446]

I appreciate hearing about your style journey, including the stumbles. It’s so true that clothes work best when they fit our individual lives and bodies. Keep on styling!

[@larachristie4475]

I am totally with you on button up shirts and blazers. I just don’t wear them, feel comfortable and they don’t fit my life at the moment as a stay at home mom. Thanks so much for today’s video all 8 were spot on 💐

[@ashlynnkaplan680]

Some of my most worn and cherished pieces have color! And if you follow a color palette, it’s amazing how well you can pair colors and patterns with other things. I also fell into thinking everything needed to match everything and as a result, passed up some really amazing pieces secondhand simply because there were a few things in my wardrobe I could not wear it with. I was passing on pieces that would’ve really, truly suited my personal style because of this and I still regret it, like your boots!my pieces that don’t match everything else are complimented and styled differently with accessories as well as my simpler, more neutral pieces. With some strategic planning of tops and bottoms, this is totally achievable! I also did an”clean slate” start and regret some declutters… literally to the point of shopping for pieces I donated 😅 embarrassing! I’m with you on 100% cotton denim. I actually have two pairs that work for me but they are sized up and waist taken in. I find I walk and move less wearing 100% cotton which isn’t good! As I have sorted through items in my closet to determine if I’m going to keep them or not, I pay attention to how motivated I am to do chores around the house and go out and do things based on how I feel and what I’m wearing. Some things are a bit too fussy for me to really live my life and I find myself restricting what I do because I feel restricted in what I’m wearing! Your content is spectacular and so relatable. I appreciate all the work you put into this! Thank you!

[@virginiaquinones-rogers3412]

Thank you Lauren. I tried creating a capsule wardrobe for years. My problem was believe it or not, following all the misconceptions you have mentioned. Thank you so much for this video, it makes a lot more sense than the ones that box you into a set list of items that just may not suit you. 🙂

[@annegousha9484]

This is the best video on finding your personal style and creating a wardrobe I have seen on KZbin! You’re a very bright and beautiful woman and you rock everything you wear and I love that. I just found you subscribed to your channel and look forward to many more videos from you. Good luck to you and thank you!

[@dominguezs2317]

I think you could best exemplify what you mean by making a video in which you create, say, three different capsule wardrobes (from the most basic/classic one to one with colours and patterns) that are very different to one another, so that we get something visual of what you mean! I'd love to see a video like that. Keep up the good work!!! Love your channel :)

[@meganmanson6488]

My capsule wardrobe mistakes were laundry-related. First, I did not scale the item count up to align with my laundry frequency expectations. Second, I originally failed to consider fabric care requirements when choosing pieces. I am the queen of dryer-ironing (tossing items in the dryer with a damp towel to smooth out minor wrinkles) so I had a few button-front cotton shirts that I rarely wore because they require real ironing to look presentable. My decade-old no-iron shirt wore out by fraying at the button placket so now I am back to looking at that wrinkle-prone shirt I boxed up.

[@halliebass]

I like my fun pieces. I used to wear lots of dresses to work and now that I am retired, I don’t wear them as much! I have gotten rid of some of them but still keep the rest for going to lunch or to the city for the day, or just to wear with a pair of leggings.

[@kat_thefruitbat]

So much helpful guidance and encouragement!! 😊👏🏼 I’m still more towards the beginning of my capsule wardrobe journey, and I’ve found it really interesting how many KZbinrs who discuss this sort of topic tend to have capsule wardrobes that do fit into that “certain aesthetic” you described (blazers, t-shirts, trousers, button-down shirts, etc.)! It definitely reminds me a lot of minimalism since it also has that “certain aesthetic” that is popular when it comes to fashion (which you also mentioned) and interior decorating (i.e. white/gray furnishings, lack of color/coziness, a lot of empty space, etc.). I’m not sure why people tend to choose these particular styles… maybe some genuinely like it, but I wonder if some people have chosen them because they felt they “had” to in order to adopt the principles behind the concepts…🤔 But, as you’ve explained, everyone should acknowledge and embrace their own personal style, lifestyle, preferences, etc. rather than mirroring whatever someone else might be doing (be that for minimalism, a capsule wardrobe, or anything in life)! 👍🏼👍🏼😃

[@janesimmons8201]

Living in the Midwest my capsule wardrobe includes a floral prairie dress and brown leather riding boots. They are easy to wear and I can always add a structural suit jacket while in the office. I'm paying off student loans, so I buy affordable natural fabric pieces (alpaca, linen, silk and wool) from local consignment shops.

[@pipavino5347]

OMG-your hair looks gorgeouse!

[@tamiewert808]

This video was meant for me!! Each and every point you made, are the experiences I have had also! Especially the misconception that capsules need to be the same as those on Pinterest, KZbin, etc. How boring would that be, all of us looking like cookie cutter people!? Now that we know what you feel isn't a capsule wardrobe principal, could you please do a video on what you feel does comprise a capsule?

[@libbysmith4485]

How is this channel not bigger? Great content!

[@hammiek1884]

Thank you, this is all so real. I can relate to the button down shirt because I don't look good in them but I kept thinking I need to have them... An I love dresses but keep second guessing buying them because I keep asking myself how am I going to pair them to make atleast 3 different outfits. This was an eye opener.

[@DonnaLHaney]

🎯 I've often wondered if there has been a misunderstanding or evolution of the idea of a "capsule wardrobe" because when I first recall hearing that term it was in reference to a subset of ones entire wardrobe, a subgrouping that all went together, but not with everything one owned. Like a travel wardrobe, or an office wardrobe... This would be a good approach as a starter wardrobe when getting a first job, or after a life change, etc. I imagine someone decided that should be enough, period, and here we are all trying to solve this impossible puzzle! That's my take on this, and I'm happy to see you exclaim, "the emperor has no clothes!" 😉

[@alexandraberman2512]

That navy tshirt looks awesome on you! Especially with the pearls.

[@29BKing]

I had to stop the watching the video to tell you that you look stunning in that colour!

[@amybythewindow]

Love this! As someone at the start of their capsule wardrobe for journey this is super helpful, I personally don’t love how I look in black, and most capsule wardrobes seem to have a lot of black! That’s the main thing that appears in most capsule wardrobes that I’ve “ignored” because I know its just isn’t right for me. That and the trend away from skinny jeans - straight legged jeans just don’t look right on my short, short legs. 😂

[@annaklaus8377]

So much truth in one video! Thank you Lauren, but you could have spun this out into a series, it's so good. The misconception that hindered me was: every item needs to match all others. That's just paralysing for anyone who doesn't have the money (or disregard for the planet) to start from scratch.

[@pennyditchfield9944]

Getting real about capsule wardrobes, this is so refreshing. Nice vid! 😊👍

[@allinclusive4943]

Love that so much Lauren! It took me years to realize, that my capsule needs to be adapted to my very sporty, active lifestyle! That means - normal trenches or wool coats, fittet blouses, trousers ore dresses are not that practical! 🌷

[@christiana_mandalynn]

This is such a fantastic overview and 💯 relatable!! I have done nearly all of these... learning from my mistakes... and it is quite validating to hear it from you. I fell into the trap of “basics” and “neutrals” and I tried to find my personal style by copying and pasting the outfits from “capsule wardrobes for moms”, which have a very distinctive aesthetic (stripes, black leggings, olive anorak jacket, running shoes etc) but plain tees are way too bland for me, and I don’t like stripes, and black is too harsh for me. I am much more of a boho girl but because there isn’t much resource on practical, chic, boho style for everyday motherhood, it’s been really difficult to find source inspiration! I like to be feminine, wear dresses and skirts often, and most motherhood capsule wardrobe resources are full of jeans and leggings. But I find jeans SO uncomfortable, and I hate leggings unless they are under a shirtdress 😂 Also, I *love* your outfit at 14:21 🤩

[@crystalstewart168]

So useful. I had similar mistaken thoughts about capsule wardrobes.

[@ericabertels]

I wanne start getting to a more minimalist style (less items) and capsule wardrobe is a great direction for me. Thanks for all the tips!

[@elafashfreak]

Your videos always make me so happy 💕💕 and inspire me so much! Love this video Lauren, amazing content as always!

[@lindafuhrman3041]

I recently had my colors done, and as a spring.... I'm eliminating all my black. (as an over 60-something, I leaned in to black to look thin) but black can be so harsh on us older ladies

[@amybythewindow]

Black always looks terrible close to my face! I’ve gotten rid of most of my things that are black on top. Maybe I should get my colours done.. 🤔

[@Martina_E]

@@amybythewindow I'm a Black woman with a warm skin tone and black looks terrible near my face too! -- unless I have black that has small white polka dots or the black has some type of texture like sequins on it to give off some light or if the black is not directly near my face and my skin is showing so I can have some contrast. I need colors, prints & patterns in my wardrobe to feel like me

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

Black is awful on me, I’m a 61-year old “Summer”. I do have a few black items, but with my few black tops and dresses, I always wear a collared white shirt underneath or a white or light scarf with a little black in it. And, extra blush and lipstick!🙂

[@caramelcreme777]

Sister - you could wear a POTATO SACK and you'd look chic. Your hair is just stunning. Especially with the way you have it styled in this video, you remind me of one of those pics of Venus emerging from the clamshell. Please PLEASE give us a hair products/care/styling video soon.

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

She looks like a Botticeli goddess!

[@jojohendrix5996]

Do people create a capsule wardrobe for each season? Or do they just have one capsule and that's it?

[@ninalandon6341]

Good advice thank you . We are ever changing your so right so should our wardrobe x

[@NathaliaChiappani]

Great tips! Also you look absolutely gorgeous in that shade of blue 😍

[@mnoeliarc]

Thanks Lauren. I wish that I’d seen videos like this when I started but it was 7 years ago and there wasn’t much advice then. I always thought that you had to have lots of neutrals and tops and bottoms (mainly trousers/jeans) combos. And, of course, mostly solids or just stripes. However, I now have mostly dresses and skirts and they’re patterned and colourful. I also explored lots of different capsules - the 333, the 10 item wardrobe by Jennifer L Scott (the daily connoisseur here on KZbin), capsule by modules (Christie Ressel also on KZbin) and more! I’ve now combined a little bit of all of them and have come up with my own thing. I think making mistakes is part of the journey, despite being frustrating. For people who struggle to know where to start, there’s a lady called Jennifer Mackey Mary who creates a capsule guide every season with links to shops in the US for every item of clothing (each one has different links for different body shapes, sizes etc). The capsules are mostly aimed at older women and a little costly but one can buy an older one for around $16 which could be used as a guide of where to start. I think she may even show one of the old capsules on a video either on KZbin, Facebook or her website (youreverydaystyle(dot)com). I haven’t used them myself but have seen others talk about them.

[@nufoxiemommy]

Everything neutral. After 2.5 years of building my work wardrobe (business casual after a casual business setting). The neutrals are making me feel dull. So for spring I’ve purchased Fuchsia purple and teal blouses. That’s the cheapest way to start adding color. I can match those with my neutral pants and shoes. I realized that after watching so many videos people we’re like, oh now my life is different and I’m changing what I wear 😳. I fell into the trap! So I’m off to adding color. Also for the button down. The classic top doesn’t work for me. But, I have a few pull over ones that sort of have a v front with buttons. Love to wear them tied or tucked in the front (not a fan of the French tuck) or out with a skinny belt. But they are great for when I wear a sweater over it. Preppy chic.

[@kimberlyperrotis8962]

Such a welcome treat after all the war news.

[@repa49]

37 seconds in and I‘m already watching your Video!

[@madiclark5973]

I love your hair!

[@joywhitley3141]

You are so right! ❤

[@sharonfonseca7506]

Hi dear! Great video! I have a question regarding colorful standard. Is the ivory see through? I’m interested in placing an order and that’s a color I’m not sure of because it’s usually see through. What has been your experience with the brand so far?

[@LaurenWMcKinney]

Hi Sharon! That’s a great question. My ivory shirt isn’t see through at all, actually! I’ve had a much harder time finding a white shirt that isn’t see through. I find this to be a really nice, thick fabric ☺️.

[@sharonfonseca7506]

@@LaurenWMcKinney thank you for the quick response! I will place my order soon!

[@ProfMcGonaGil]

Just a side note, your glorious mane EVERYTHING.

[@tristian9006]

Where is that white button up sweetheart neckline puff sleeve dress? Absolutely in love with that.....

[@anniemazariegos621]

Muchas felicidades por tus 8140 seguidores, me alegra se parte de esta comunidad. En relación a lo que hablas de la cápsula tienes toda la razón a mi me cambió la paleta de colores al dejarme las canas y lo que si he aprendido de estas cápsulas es que si trato que todas mis prendas de abajo las pueda combinar con las de abajo y también que no debe de ser con básicos aburridos, debe ser con básicos que básicos para mi, porque son de mi estilo. Ahora quiero hacerte una pregunta, porqué la cápsula debe tener tan pocas prendas he visto videos que tienen 15 prendas y pienso, pero porque solo me voy a poner 3 pantalones y una falta por 4 meses si tengo mas ropa y la he ido comprando en base a mi paleta de colores, mis gusto, mi estilo, puedo usarlo todo, tu que piensas de esto?

[@ElizabethHernandez-dg1jl]

Hola! La idea de las cápsulas es para limitarte a no comprar impulsivamente o sentir que siempre que te falta algo. Entonces si ya tienes las prendas, las puedes usar. No te limites en darle uso a lo que ya tienes.

[@anniemazariegos621]

@@ElizabethHernandez-dg1jl gracias por tu fina respuesta breve y muy claro. Trabaje mucho en mi paleta y combinando las prendas. Gracias.

[@carolynberlin124]

Have you had a color analysis or do you just choose colors you love?

[@lindafuhrman3041]

what is the best way to discover our style type?

[@paperboundprotagonist]

I somewhat disagree that capsule wardrobe aren’t all neutrals. Maybe they don’t have to be, but most are. Even searching KZbin for colorful capsule wardrobes, the results are still black, denim, beige, white, and navy. Also they’re all based on those lists of essentials for women. Why do I need a little black dress? Who erroneously stated that black is universally flattering? Or white for that matter?

[@LaurenWMcKinney]

That’s partially what I’m trying to “undo” with this channel! So even if MOST capsules look a particular way, I want people to know that they don’t have to. In fact, they shouldn’t. Because at the end of the day, a capsule filled with basics and neutrals might be versatile, but if you don’t love the pieces that make up your wardrobe, you won’t wear them, which totally defeats the purpose of a capsule wardrobe in the first place. Personal style and a color scheme you love should always be implemented alongside (if not before) the common elements that make up a capsule.