Thrifting is an excellent way to build a capsule wardrobe without breaking the bank or harming the planet. It's not just an eco-conscious approach to style—it's also a more affordable one too! When shopping second-hand, clothes come with a much smaller price tag than when buying brand new.
When you choose to thrift, you're giving pre-loved items a new lease of life, reducing the demand for new clothes, and minimising your environmental impact. So you get to look good, feel good, and save some money all at the same time.
How do I make an affordable capsule wardrobe?
Creating an affordable capsule wardrobe requires planning and strategic purchases. Start with what you already own by identifying the items that fit well, are in good condition, and can be easily mixed and matched. Stick to a colour palette and define the style rules that will guide your outfit choices.
Be smart when shopping by making the most of sales and discounts, as well as thrifting to build your capsule wardrobe without overspending. Invest in well-made, durable pieces that will last longer and require less frequent replacement and you'll create an affordable capsule wardrobe that is both stylish and functional.
How do you build a wardrobe on a tight budget?
Thrifting offers a unique opportunity to build a capsule wardrobe filled with high quality, timeless pieces without spending a lot of money. Creating a capsule wardrobe on a tight budget requires a considered approach to shopping that prioritises essential items while minimising unnecessary purchases.
Start by creating a wardrobe inventory of all your current clothes and accessories to identify any gaps and determine what key pieces you actually need. Put together a wish list of items to stay focused on when shopping. Stick to versatile, timeless basics that can be easily mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Maximise your options by incorporating accessories, like scarves, belts, and jewellery to enhance outfits without spending extra money.
Affordable shopping options include thrift stores and online marketplaces where you'll be able to find quality, pre-owned items at a fraction of their original price. It's also worth shopping the sales, and making use of discounts and promotional events to find budget-friendly clothes.
A Thrifted Capsule Wardrobe
There is a misconception that pre-owned clothes look a certain way (old, tatty, out of style) and that thrifting must be difficult in order to be rewarding. Neither of those things are true and my thrifted capsule wardrobe proves it!
From lack of sizing to time constraints, thrifting is often criticised for not being accessible. But reselling apps not only makes thrifting accessible to more people, it makes finding items in a wider range of sizes quicker and easier.
Less time is wasted on rummaging around in bins and prices are comparable to thrift stores now that physical stores have raised their prices. It's hard to argue that thrifting online isn't both accessible and affordable, making shopping second-hand an option for many more people.
Pre-owned clothes aren't ugly or worn out either. It's possible to find items ranging from new with the tags still on to vintage gems in great condition. The majority of my capsule wardrobe is thrifted but you wouldn't know it to look at it!
This is an example of a second-hand capsule wardrobe made using clothes I thrifted. The only two items that weren't preowned are the trousers and maxi skirt. Incorporating thrifted items into your wardrobe is easy when you make considered choices and plan purchases with a wardrobe wish list.
Thrifted Outfit Ideas
How to Thrift a Capsule Wardrobe
Shopping second-hand makes it possible to build a functional and refined wardrobe on a budget without compromising on quality or style. By adopting a mindful approach to shopping and focusing on essential, versatile items, you can build a functional and stylish capsule wardrobe on a tight budget. This is how to thrift a capsule wardrobe successfully:
Write a List
Before you start thrifting, write a list of the wardrobe staples that you need to complete your capsule wardrobe. Having a clear list with help you to stay focused when thrifting to find exactly what you're looking for. This list will also help avoid impulse purchasing and buyers' remorse, which can ruin a capsule wardrobe!
When deciding what to shop for, consider your current lifestyle, personal style, and wardrobe gaps to identify the key items you need as well as any statement pieces items you want. Reminding yourself of your day to day activities and what you enjoy wearing will help you to avoid shopping for a fantasy life with outfits you'll never wear!
Know What Brands To Look For
Familiarise yourself with the best brands to thrift for as these brands are known for making durable, high quality clothing. Having a list of brands to look for when thrifting will help you to make more informed decisions about the items you buy. You'll be able to strategically thrift a capsule wardrobe that reflects your personal style.
While these brands might be popular, the label isn't as important as the style, quality, and fit of a garment. Just make sure to stay true to your personal style when thrifting by only buying items that suit your life and style. This is where having clearly defined style rules will come in useful!
Learn Thrifting Tips
The biggest criticism of thrifting is that finding the good stuff is too difficult! The best way to get the most out of shopping second-hand is to follow the best thrifting tips and techniques. Learn how to inspect garments for quality, read labels for care instructions, check for signs of wear, and access fabric composition.
Thrifting doesn't begin and end with thrift stores and charity shops either. Reselling apps and online marketplaces are a great place to discover pre-loved gems and unique pieces for your capsule wardrobe. Thrifting online is often a more accessible and affordable way to thrift too!
Go Shopping
Armed with a wardrobe wish list, brands to look for, and thrifting tips, it's time to go shopping for your capsule wardrobe. Visit thrift stores, charity shops, flea markets, and consignment stores. Take the time to browse the rails and try on garments to find exactly what you're looking for.
Don't forget about thrifting online via Vinted, Depop, and eBay. These apps all provide an accessible way to search for second-hand clothing from the comfort of your own home. Make use of the search function and filters to hone in on your wardrobe wish list pieces.
Be Patient
Finding exactly what you want when thrifting isn't always easy. It's important not to compromise by settling for something that isn't quite right just because you're impatient to put together a capsule wardrobe. Remember to be patient and stay persistent throughout the thrifting process, as finding the perfect pieces may time some time and effort.
Be prepared to spend time in thrift stores and charity shops, scouring the rails or bins, or scrolling through items on apps like Vinted. Thrifting online makes it easier and quicker to find exactly what you want. Just expect to pay a little more for the convenience. Although with the current charity shops prices, maybe not!