The Capsule Answer to the Fast Fashion Question

Written by Maggie Bond

Throughout the past few decades, problems of fast fashion have arisen within the fashion industry and have taken the world by storm. Horrors revealing the truth about unsafe working conditions, unethical practices, and environmental destruction due to fast fashion are uncovered daily. More recently, the debate on micro-trends has begun leaving many consumers and individuals wondering, “What can I wear?”. It’s fair to assume that a majority of the population does not have the means or financial resources to attain a 100% sustainable closet, so that begs the question. What is the answer to the fast fashion problem? 

The answer to this question may have been around longer than we would have thought. A potential solution is found in the fashion philosophy of boutique owner and author, Susie Faux. Faux coined the term “capsule wardrobe” in the 1970s to describe a simple wardrobe composed of a few high-quality pieces of clothing that could be interchanged to make countless different looks. These pieces can be assembled in many different ways, including work looks, night looks, as well as casual outfits. Faux built an unbelievably successful capsule collection in her first book with only seven pieces. So now we are left with another pressing question: How does one create a successful and versatile capsule collection to stay on trend and keep the integrity of their own personal style in 2023?

Any successful capsule wardrobe shares three things in common. The pieces must be quality, timeless, and well fitting. Let’s break this down. 

1. Quantity

One of the greatest myths the fast fashion industry wants consumers to believe is that high-quality pieces are out of your price range. If anything, buying quality pieces that will last you a long time will save you money in the long run, as you will not have to replace the pieces you love the most. It is also important to note that capsule wardrobes filled with high-quality pieces can be built slowly over time. Rome wasn’t built in a day, people! Saving up for these pieces rather than overindulging in cheap pieces will pay off in the long run. Buying items secondhand is another way to acquire high-quality pieces at a fraction of the price. Whether it be from a vintage or thrift store, there are many quality items out there that could be the perfect addition to a capsule collection. 

2. Timelessness

While everyone has varying styles, a majority of the fashion industry can agree on a few silhouettes, cuts, and materials for their timelessness. Again, these classic staples do not have to be severely out of your price range. It is often easy to find these timeless staples secondhand. If an investment piece is more in your price range, buying pieces from brands you like and trust could be the best way to incorporate timeless pieces into your capsule wardrobe. Some silhouettes and styles that have been recognized for their timelessness are straight-fit jeans, a simple button-up, well-fitting trousers, and fitted t-shirts. These are just a few on a long list of items that will always stay in style and can be worn in many ways together. As difficult as it may be to run from trendy styles and micro-trends, in the long run, it will keep your wardrobe more sustainable and safe from ever being dated. 

3. Well-fitting

This statement may seem obvious regarding your clothing, whether it be in a capsule collection or not, but it is a factor often overlooked when buying fast fashion. Fast fashion is mass-produced with the objective of selling as many garments as possible. Your personal fit is not in mind with these garments. Investing in high-quality pieces may make you more inclined to get the garments tailored to fit you just right. Additionally, the added price of this can be seen as another investment. Again, if tailoring your clothing is something outside of your budget, there are many ways to make tweaks by yourself with a needle and thread to hem ill-fitting pieces. The moral of the story is that if your clothes fit you well and make you feel confident, you will be inclined to wear them more often. 

If anything about the capsule wardrobe intrigued you, you might wonder, “Where do I start?”. As mentioned before, there are many ways to start a capsule wardrobe that can be tailored to your budget and needs; however, there are companies out there attempting to make the daunting task of creating a capsule closet easier. One of which being VETTA. As raised earlier, many people run from a capsule wardrobe as they believe that their sense of personal style will get lost. VETTA is a company with sustainable and ethical production practices that offers capsule collections in all different styles. Whether you like to dress comfortably in loungewear or a little bit more edgy and dark, this brand has something for you. Naadam is another company that offers sustainably made basics that could fit into any closet. While they offer more simplistic pieces, there is always room for creativity in mixing and matching, as well as accessorizing. A capsule wardrobe is meant to be built. Regardless of where you are buying from, try buying simple garments, such as a pair of jeans, neutral trousers, a plain T-shirt, and a button-up shirt. While you can add more pieces, these can create a nice base for the collection. 

If we are being 100% honest with ourselves and each other, the capsule wardrobe might not be for everyone; that is perfectly fine. But it should challenge how we think about the clothes we wear, where they come from, and the ways we personally can make an impact with the clothing we choose to buy. Small changes can make a big difference - so next time you are shopping for clothing, maybe ask yourself, “Is this garment… Quality? Timeless? Well-fitting?”. 

Edited by: Sloane Fuhr, Hailey Ravitz, Melanie Gubernik, Roan Vaughan & Lauren Veum

DEI Reviewed by: Kiko Carbonell & Natalie Mai