What is a Melbourne capsule wardrobe?
There has been a significant change in the way we approach a modern wardrobe, with quality over quantity shifting our gaze from fast fashion to quality wares. Establishing a capsule wardrobe is about finding core, functional clothing essentials that can transcend seasons (or tweak each season), creating more intentional shoppers who invest in long-term pieces. The variability of Melbourne weather makes a capsule wardrobe even more important, as you never know when the temperature will betray you and require a suitable, stylish alternative.
Today we are going to cover the capsule wardrobe essentials and our favourite Melbourne designers who are our go-to in providing fashion that lasts years. If you aren’t yet on board with having a capsule wardrobe, here’s why it has become a movement;
- It’s a more sustainable way to shop
- It encourages intentional shopping and discourages fast fashion
- It makes travelling easier
- Save money and time wondering what to wear
What should be in your Melbourne capsule wardrobe?
Okay, so what should make up your capsule wardrobe? Essentially you want to have a small rotation of options that are going to be appropriate for where you live. You have probably subconsciously built part of your capsule wardrobe with those pieces you always fall back on, but there are likely a few gaps that make choosing an outfit painful and make AfterPay seem pretty damn tempting when an outfit isn’t coming together.
Your capsule wardrobe should consist of about 30 articles, although you can tweak this as you see fit. When assessing our own wardrobe during a spring clean, we categorised the clothing categories to be;
- clothes – jeans, skirt, trousers, t-shirts, shirts (button down, etc) and blazers
- shoes – heels, flats, boots and trainers
You can allocate the appropriate quality to each category based on your style preferences. Many include jewellery in their capsule wardrobe, but if we find it is easier to exclude your jewellery, as well as activewear and sleepwear.
Who should be in your Melbourne capsule wardrobe?
There are those tried and true brands that we gravitate to when looking for something special, but quality and reliable retailers are going to deliver that, as well as a guarantee that they will last the years. Here is our pick of the Melbourne designers that deserve a place in your capsule wardrobe.
Megan Park
Megan Park is a Melbourne designer with its flagship store in Fitzroy and its clothes found in boutiques all over Australia. The brand champions form and function, with stylish embellishments of beaded and embroidered motifs on its sheer and structured fabrics. We have a few Megan Park pants in circulation, with the wool design light enough for summer but also a great asset in winter.
Assembly Label
Assembly Label has reached cult status over the years and is your first choice for quality basics, inspired by the Australian coastal lifestyle. Here you will find t-shirts, shorts, sweaters, jumpsuits and denim. The unisex style of their clothes is an asset to any capsule wardrobe, so add an Assembly Label denim jacket, casual dresses and t-shirts to your collection and layer accordingly.
Dion Lee
Dion Lee may have started from humble beginnings, but they are now a fashion house that has seen 8 NYFW’s. Here you will find those statement pieces, like Dion Lee dresses and Dion Lee knitwear, with each article challenging convention and current trends. Secure a timeless yet bold piece of two from Dion Lee and you will always be ready for a special event or night out.
Bassike
The design intention of Bassike was to create structured clothes that could be paired with sneakers, and their relaxed fashion has become a constant in most capsule wardrobes. Organic jersey is the cornerstone look and feel of the extensive range, making the Bassike shorts and Bassike skirts a comfortable and flattering fit for all body types. Bring some neutral tones to your capsule wardrobe with Bassike.
camilla and marc
The iconic C&M can be seen everywhere, but camilla and marc are known for more than their branded tees and sweaters. Designed for Melbournians, you will find a camilla and marc jacket for all occasions, as well as camilla and marc leather pieces in every season. Bring this brand into your capsule wardrobe and you won’t need to replace your jackets and leather for years.
What shape is your wardrobe in? If you plan on building a capsule wardrobe with us this Spring, we would love to hear what you have included and what brands you absolutely must include. If you are also due for an accessory upgrade, be sure to read our an interview with Melbourne leather designer, Harrisson Australia.
