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There is no better way to save time, space and money than with versatile clothing. To become a master of your wardrobe, you need to have a good selection of basics you can build upon. Making several outfits from one item of clothing is about thinking outside the box and coming up with different ways to style it.
How to Make Multiple Outfits with a Single Item of Clothing
Often called a “capsule” wardrobe, using minimal, classic pieces help make decision paralysis about your outfit in the morning a relic of the past.
Whether you’re packing a small suitcase for a cruise or just want to make the most out of a smaller wardrobe, here are my tips on how to create multiple outfits with a single item of clothing.
Capsule Wardrobe: Accessories
Carefully chosen accessories are the secret to getting the most out of one garment. A scarf or hat can complement a look and grab attention, drawing the viewer’s eye to them.
Adding a few well-chosen items can really elevate your outfit from basic to extraordinary. You can tailor your accessories to the occasion you are dressing for or to your mood of the day.
Classic, chic accessories like a statement necklace are a surefire way of dressing up a simple, minimalist look, while accessories in bold colors can add playfulness to your outfit.
Be adventurous and don’t be afraid to try out new things. You can experiment with prints, textures, and patterns to multiply your outfits. Let yourself become inspired by your travels, as accessorizing is the oldest trick in the book for making your outfit stand out in all the right ways.
Capsule Wardrobe: Versatile Shoes
If you’re a mom on the go, then you need a stylish pair of flats to go with any outfit and fit in any bag. It’s super easy to get dressed around a pair of flats. You can wear them with everyone’s favorite: jeans and a t-shirt. Plus, they’re perfect for everyday errands and outings.
Flats are a great replacement for painful heels at work, too. They look smart with anything from a skirt and blouse to a business suit. A good pair of flats easily transition to evening wear without sacrificing your aesthetic.
Capsule Wardrobe: Maxi Skirt
A maxi skirt has the potential to become one of your favorite items. Of course, it can be worn as a skirt, but even as just a skirt there are many options. You can try it tucked in or out of a blouse or a tighter top; with or without a statement belt, high-waisted or low; with a jacket or with a long cardigan. The possibilities are endless!
Buy one in a color and pattern you love, as you might just end up wearing it all the time.
One way to make it a staple of your wardrobe is learning to use the maxi skirt as the foundation for layered looks. Flowy, bohemian looks are incredibly easy to accomplish with a maxi skirt. Don’t forget to add a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of round shades to really complete that gypsy aesthetic.
Capsule Wardrobe: Sports Clothes
I’m not saying we should all live in athleisure (although we could, couldn’t we?), but choosing cute yet functional athletic wear that can be worn in situations other than your morning run will save you time and money.
When you choose your fitted tank top for your running gear, make sure you love it and can see yourself wearing it with a summery skirt, as a camisole under a flowy blouse, and even to sleep.
Leggings are another essential for sportswear which can be worn in nearly any setting. Your leggings are great for yoga but but pair them with some flats and a tunic dress and you’ve got your Sunday brunch outfit!
You can also use your favorite leggings as the base for a layered look with lots of other cozy elements like a plaid shirt, scarf, and headband. Sports clothes are versatile, functional, and can look amazing when styled correctly. Just make sure it’s styled in a way where people know you’re not headed to the gym.
Making multiple outfits from a smaller wardrobe is a fun way of challenging your sense of style. We hope these tips, at the very least, inspired some creativity!
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These are all great tips. I’m personally a fan of maxi skirts. I need to get more.
My mom is the chronic “clothes overpacker” in our family!
A capsule wardrobe is so important, mix and match all the way! I’m pregnant so not fitting into much right now, but still bought a few key pieces.
That jacket in the first picture is stunning. I’m not sure I would pack that for a vacation though. I’d love to have it for this fall weather.
Great ideas! I’m usually too short for maxi skirts, but I love the idea of a statement necklace or scarf to change a look!
I certainly could use some help in this area. I always pack way too much. It’s not that big a deal when we drive, but we may fly this summer. I have to step up my game!
thats so true especially now with some of the airlines tacking on high baggage fees!