A year with a suitcase of clothes 3 things I learned

Moving 8,459 kilometers away for uni this year with one suitcase for everything, I realized I couldn't take everything.

I had to pack a capsule wardrobe, so that meant leaving behind some of my favorite jeans, tank tops, and staple shoes. This was the best decision I could have made.

It evolved my style, taught me what I actually wear, and got rid of the clutter.

So if you are looking to declutter or update your wardrobe in a sustainable way here are my three tips:

1. Know your basics

A lot of capsule wardrobe tutorials will curate a perfect list of the best ￡60 white T-shirt, a maxi skirt that can be styled from casual to formal, and the most stylish trainers. But if you don’t already have these items in your closet there’s no need to put it in your capsule wardrobe.

Your basics will be the items you keep coming back to week after week like your favorite pair of trousers, or your coat you wear every day of winter. They are defined by your personal style.

2. Will it work

Although I loved my tank tops and high knee boots, I had to be realistic. Those shoes can not be worn everyday and tank tops would have me freezing in the 0 degree winter.

A good rule I grew up with is only buy what you love, items you can’t live without yet are practical depending on the weather, if it’s comfortable, and the occasion you are wearing it to (everyday, school, a night out, etc.).

3. Trying new styles

Last year some were saying that everything is trending making it so nothing is trending. Whether your feed is filled with coquette or y2k aesthetics, here is how to keep your personal style intact while trying the latest trends in a sustainable way.

Think about if you can style it with other items you have, if you can think of at least 3 different outfits you can wear with it then you are set, go for it!

If the style feels too out of your wheelhouse, start by accessorizing, jewelry is a good way to go for this.

Overall these have been my guiding principles to adding to my wardrobe and I hope you can take these and apply them to your own.