How To Build A Timeless Wardrobe

Trends may come and go, but a well-edited closet doesn’t. Creating a timeless wardrobe doesn’t mean just owning fewer clothes; it's all about owning pieces you’ll want to wear for years. This idea has its roots in history. The term “capsule wardrobe” was first coined in the 1970s by London boutique owner Susie Faux and later popularized by Donna Karan’s capsule collection “Seven Easy Pieces” released in 1985 that included a bodysuit, skirt, tailored jacket, dress, leather piece, white shirt, and a cashmere sweater. Which she paired into endless combinations.

Foundational Pieces

A timeless wardrobe consists of a limited set of high quality basics rather than a cycle of trending pieces. Most style guides will tell you the same thing: a quality coat, a tailored blazer, a white shirt, a knit or cashmere sweater, a pair of trousers, quality denim, a versatile dress, and a reliable shoe such as a loafer or elevated sneaker. The coat is usually considered the most important piece of clothing, as it layers over everything and should last you at least 5 years.

Cost Per Wear

The price tag on a piece of clothing isn’t how one should calculate the cost of an outfit – it’s cost per wear. For example, if you buy a sweater that costs $50 that you will wear a total of one hundred times, you are effectively paying 50 cents per wear. While that $15 cheap sweater falls apart after your tenth wear, this actually costs more in the long run. This logic supports spending more on those daily pieces, while saving your trendier pieces for occasional wear. 

Think Fabric, Not Fashion

Timeless fashion draws heavily on natural fibers such as wool, cotton, silk, and cashmere. These materials are durable and tend to hold their shape over multiple years. When it comes to denim, your most versatile option is going to be a dark indigo wash. You can dress it up with a kitten heel and a button up or dress it down with a tank top and trainers. Distressed jeans on the other hand tend to date quickly. It is beneficial to also find a good tailor: you can easily make alterations to your clothes for $10-30 and turn an unflattering piece into one you consistently reach for. 

Why Is it Worth It?

Beyond style, there's real benefit to this method of clothes shopping. The fashion industry contributes to about 10% of global carbon emissions. A large amount of clothes produced end up in landfills, making fewer, longer lasting purchases make a meaningful impact. Besides, it makes life easier: a curated closet cuts down on dressing time since all your pieces will already go together. 

A timeless wardrobe isn't built in a day: it should be assembled gradually, as you learn to prioritize quality and versatility your closet a decade from now will still make sense. 

Photo Credit: Instagram (elizzako) & Pinterest (@Vanireal)