Capsule wardrobes are becoming increasingly popular but this fashion movement is about more than the average catwalk craze – it’s a long-term commitment.

A ‘capsule wardrobe’ is the creation of a compact collection of fashion staples and is a term that’s coming back into the spotlight as modern fashionistas attempt to streamline their ever-expanding store 0f throwaway items. It seems a brilliant solution to the overwhelming choice (and mess!) in your bedroom, but slimming your clothing collection down to a handful of favourites is easier said than done.

To help you get started, the experts at People Tree have put together a handy list of six tips that are sure to put you on the path to success when you create your very own capsule wardrobe.

1. Quality, Not Quantity

It’s always tempting to pile up reams of cheap clothing, but creating a capsule is the perfect opportunity to spend a little more on items that will last a lot longer. It’s important to focus on pieces that will stand the test of time, both in style and in quality. Pieces that are well made with high quality materials, like 100 per cent organic cotton, are more likely to remain in good condition with regular use, and will often continue to look good for years to come.

2. Timeless Trends

You only have to look back a few decades to realise how quickly styles shift. Keep this in mind when creating your capsule wardrobe and make sure you choose timeless pieces over fashion fads. Slogan tees and sequins should be replaced with simple essentials that can be dressed up or dressed down to suit the occasion. Here at People Tree, we believe simplicity is the key to a successful capsule wardrobe, and there’s nothing that symbolises this more than a smart but simple dress.

It’s important to have a versatile and flattering dress, particularly if you like to look smart in the office. The Jillian Asymmetrical Dress in Black is a wardrobe staple that can easily be adapted to suit a wide variety of outfits. Pair with a set of impressive heels for the perfect transition from day to night.

3. Stick to Your Favourites

There are many people out there who will suggest the key to a long-lasting wardrobe is including fashion “must haves”, like the ever-present little black dress. However, it’s important to remember that your personal preferences should come first, and you should keep your taste in mind when picking out your pieces. Of course, you can always mix and match with personal favourites and fashion classics, but don’t force yourself to include something that isn’t quite ‘you’.

4. Coats are Key

One piece you can’t be without is a good quality coat, which is likely to be the most prominent part of your outfit for at least a few months of the year. Whether you favour an adaptable jacket or something a little cosier for the winter weather, choosing a piece that can be adjusted to suit your outfit is the key to making a capsule wardrobe possible all year round.

A great jacket is at the heart of every year-round wardrobe, and the striped Ada Jacket is the ideal choice. With three-quarter length sleeves and a single button fastening, this versatile piece can be dressed down for a day out or paired with sparkling accessories for a night on the town.

5. Sourcing Your Style

Before you make your final capsule wardrobe picks, take some time to identify your personal style, so you can ensure your wardrobe really does last for years. Of course, it’s likely your style will shift with the latest trends, but by identifying a definitive underlying fashion sense you can make the process of tracking down key pieces far easier.

By selecting items that make you feel comfortable it’s also more likely that you’ll feel confident, which is key if you want to ensure you feel great in your clothes month after month.

6. Classic Colour

In order to keep all of your capsule wardrobe accessible on a daily basis you need to ensure each piece can be perfectly paired with the others. Not only does this make the morning routine a little easier, but it also means you can significantly multiply the number of different outfits it’s possible to create from a limited capsule wardrobe. This is where colour comes in, and keeping your clothes within the same classic colour family will make it easier for you to make the most of your carefully chosen selection.

The Eva Jumper in Navy is an example of a timeless piece in an ageless shade. Featuring open stitch panel detail, this brand new piece is made from organic certified Fairtrade cotton, ensuring it will stay soft and comfortable for years to come. Perfect to pull over a t-shirt on a summer evening or as a warm layer during the winter months, the Eva Jumper is a wardrobe essential all year round.