How to Style a Capsule Wardrobe

How to Style a Capsule Wardrobe feature image

What is a capsule wardrobe?

Wardrobe capsule

Have you ever been stuck in that situation of having so many clothes but nothing to wear?


This crisis, that is often accompanied by tears and borderline nervous breakdowns, is all too familiar for the majority of us. Here at birdsnest we think we have what it takes to prevent your next wardrobe meltdown and the solution is capsules.


Some of you might be thinking, well sure but what on earth is a capsule wardrobe? Well, a capsule consists of a selection of clothes that together make up a number of interchangeable outfits. Personally, I often find myself buying clothes that I see online and think ‘Wow, I love that, I could wear that to my best friend's cousin's wedding next year and it’d be perfect!” Then it sits in the back of my cupboard like nanna’s beautiful dinner set waiting for its time to be polished and brought out once a year or on special occasions. Now I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with having a couple of pieces like that but I don’t think I’m alone in making the mistake of often buying clothes and not outfits and this is the root of the problem. Having a wardrobe made up of outfits or capsules is the best way to streamline your wardrobe, save money and stop your clothes getting isolation depression. 

Step 1: Declutter Your Wardrobe

First things first, it’s time to go through your wardrobe and suss out what should go and what should stay, you can play the Clash as you do this, it helps! But what about that leopard print, tassled, sequin top that I looked so hot in when I went clubbing back in the day, you may be asking yourself. Well far be it from us to judge but maybe it’s time to let another person appreciate those pieces that haven’t seen the light of day in years and take advantage of your local vinnies or salvos.


If you have a retired birdsnest piece that you’ve worn out, you can make the most of our latest program, Rehatched. Rehatched allows you to return any of your old pieces and receive a credit for the store that can go towards building your capsule! The returned items are then available to shop so they can find a new home rather than to waste. We believe that having pieces you truly love are what’s important and that we avoid clutter.


Marie Kondo said it with, "ask yourself, does this bring me joy?"


We’d like to add to that, “have I worn this since the turn of the century?

Step 2 : Plan Your Capsule Pieces

A good starting point for any capsule wardrobe is a selection of versatile basics: a few tanks and shirts, cozy jumpers or cardigans, dresses that can be dressed up or down, a pair of reliable jeans, tailored pants, and a handful of shoes and accessories to mix and match. These core pieces make getting dressed effortless while keeping your style fresh.


For even more ideas and outfit inspiration, check out our lookbooks, capsule or outfit pages. You’ll see how easy it is to create endless looks from just a few essentials!


Here are some of our most versatile pieces that are easy to introduce into your wardrobe, and you can explore even more on our Best Sellers page.

Step 3: Find Capsule Inspiration

Think about occasions, where do you spend the majority of your time? Do you work from home or the office, are you a party animal and like to go out on the town or are you more of a casual gal who prioritises comfort?


Neutral colours like grey, white, navy, and black are easy to mix and match, fitting seamlessly into almost any wardrobe. Natural fibres such as linen and cotton are also great choices as they’re more sustainable and less likely to suffer wear and tear.


Think about your body shape and what styles you feel most comfortable in. Consider your proportions: are you tall or petite, do you have a larger or smaller bust? Which areas do you want to highlight, and which would you like to downplay? Once you’ve found that balance, you’ll have the perfect foundation to start planning a capsule wardrobe that flatters your figure, suits your lifestyle, and makes getting dressed effortless every day.

Capsule example

Here are a few capsule wardrobes we’ve put together just for you! If you’re after pieces that can carry you effortlessly through every season, these selections are perfect. They mix and match with ease, keep your style fresh, and make getting dressed a breeze no matter the occasion.

The Travel-Ready Anti-Pilling Knit Range

The Travel-Ready Anti-Pilling Knit Range

Introducing the bird keepers Travel Anti Pilling Knit range - the perfect blend of softness, durability, and everyday ease. Crafted with high-performance yarns designed to resist pilling, these pieces are ideal for life on the go

Wanderer In Me Travel Capsule

Wanderer In Me Travel Capsule

For when you get a wanderlust, boho bird has created The Wanderer In Me capsule. A versatile travel collection featuring six silhouettes in three colourways. Mix and match to create endless looks, perfect for roaming free in style.

These capsules are perfect for occasions like holidays or work, when you don’t want to cram your suitcase or end up wearing the same outfit day after day. With a capsule wardrobe you can keep that variety without breaking the bank or ending up with a wardrobe that’s bursting at the seams (pun intended). Capsules take the stress out of planning your daily outfits because, guess what...you’ve already done the hard work!


Think about it! With a 6 piece capsule you get 9 outfits, more than enough to cover your working week, plus room to mix and play with your style! Capsules are a fun, interactive way for you to plan your wardrobe and all at a low cost! Not only are you saving money but you're helping save the planet, one outfit at a time!


Check out birdsnest’s ready-made capsules for even more inspiration and effortless styling ideas.

Love, the birdsnest birds x

Lauren Wilkins blog icon

Lauren Wilkins

Lauren moved to Cooma after finishing a snow season at Perisher. She has a degree in journalism and loves writing, adventure and the outdoors.