If you find that each new season you’re donating your kids’ clothes and many of them are almost like new – or worse, never worn – then you’re not alone. Many moms and dads regularly find that they’re spending too much on clothes that are outgrown within a few months.
One of the reasons for this is that shopping for cute kids’ outfits is so much fun, but at the end of the day you end up with a cupboard full of clothes that don’t match and don’t get worn.
Enter the capsule wardrobe.
A capsule wardrobe is a mini wardrobe that is made up of versatile items of clothing that you love to wear. They are essentially the building blocks of a basic wardrobe. This may be the solution you’ve been looking for in your own wardrobe, but let’s take a look at the kids’ version.
Here are a few reasons why you should consider creating a Kids’ Capsule Wardrobe:
- Fewer clothes mean fewer washing cycles (saving you electricity, water and time)
- You’ll get your money’s worth because your kids will actually wear everything in their cupboards
- Fewer choices mean your kids will get dressed faster each morning
- It’s budget friendly because one you have the basics, you’re done
- More cupboard space generally means less mess.
5 steps to creating your kid’s capsule wardrobe
1. Match outfits to your child’s lifestyle
What activities do your kids love? If they’re extremely active, you might want to priories hard-wearing clothes that they can move in.
2. Work with what you have
Before you go shopping, take everything out of the cupboard and review what you have. Create a keep pile, a donate pile and a sentimental pile.
3. Make a list
What’s missing from your keep pile? Decide on a colour palette for the season and make a list of the items you need to create a small, versatile wardrobe for your child.
4. Shop consciously
Don’t just buy an outfit because it’s cute or on sale – stick to your list. A few quality items that are comfortable, worn regularly and even passed on to the next child are a better investment than lots of cheap outfits.
5. Get your kids involved
Some kids couldn’t care less what they wear, but most will have some favourite items. Taking them with when you shop will let them pick out their new favourites, although make it clear from the beginning that you are looking for particular items on your list.
