Capsule wardrobes are a great way to end decision-fatigue. It allows you to have a small number of clothing pieces that you can mix and match for a variety of outfit combinations. Especially with growing little ones it’s more sustainable and budget friendly.
It frees up drawer space and creates a clutter free closet. Making outfit selection a breeze and also fool proof. Say goodbye to the days of “you put her in that?!”.
Planning The Capsule
Take Inventory
The first step is to see what you have. Go through the baby clothing to see what still fits. Clear out anything that your baby has outgrown.
This is a great foundation to start building your fall wardrobe capsule.
Plan For The Weather
In the south fall can be quite warm in the northern regions/midwest fall can be very cold. Start making a list of things your baby will need. In warmer temperatures making sure you have layers for cool evenings is important. For colder climates, you’ll need lots of layers to keep baby warm outside but not too hot inside.
How Many Items?
This depends on how often you’re doing laundry. Most people do laundry once a week. So 7 outfits is ideal, plus some extra options in case there are spills. The struggle is real!
Here’s a good starting point:
- 7 tops (3 short sleeve, 4 long sleeve)
- 2 dressy outfits (for girls a dressy tunic and 1 dress, for boys a pair of slacks and a nice sweater, a pair of khakis and a button down shirt)
- 7 bottoms (3 joggers/leggings, 3 pants, 1 overalls)
- 3 layers (1 hoodie, 2 cardigans/sweaters)
- 2 outerwear (1 coat, 1 snow suit for cold temperatures, in warmer temperatures 1 lightweight jacket and 1 thicker coat)
- 3-5 bibs for drooling and feeding time
- 3 pairs of shoes (1 slippers, 1 outdoor boots, 1 snow boots in cold temps, 1 canvas sneakers in warmer temperatures)
Which comes to about 24 items for girls and 26 for boys.
There is a learning curve, you’ll get a better idea of the number of items that work best as you go.
Decide on a Color Palette
Pick your neutrals and any accent colors. This might be guided by pieces you already have. If that’s the case then find colors that will compliment them to give you a lot of combinations.
Pro Tip: Keeping accent colors and patterns to either tops or bottoms only and keeping the others neutral will help this go easier. Try to pick patterns that incorporate a few of your colors so they match a lot of items.
Pajamas and Sleepers
We recommend in addition to the day time wardrobe capsule to add sleepers and pajamas. 5 is a good amount to start with.
2 baby sleeping gowns for easy diaper changes. Our favorite sleep sack is this one from Laughing Giraffe®, in addition to being buttery soft it also has a side zipper so the baby stays warm while being changed and it makes it easier for you too!
We recommend 2 footie pajamas. These footie pajamas are our favorites because you can fold over the footies for sleeping and fold them back up for walking without slipping.
Lastly, a comfortable sleep sack to layer for colder nights.
This will be an ongoing learning process but with time you will have it down!