Upgrading to Favorites: A Chat About Capsule Wardrobes

Join me for a cozy chat with my wonderful colleague Jorunn Hernes! We’re talking about one of our mutual favorite topics: capsule wardrobes.

Jorunn and I met almost a decade ago at a color analyst meeting in New York, and as fellow introverts and lovers of simplicity, we always have something to talk about. We thought it would be fun to share one of our casual conversations with the world.

We came up with some questions for each other ahead of time, but otherwise, this video is entirely unscripted. It’s also unedited (aside from the removal of some coughing fits!) so you’ll get our real-time, honest answers and reactions. Since the video is just us chatting, you can easily listen to just the audio.

Even if you aren’t into capsule wardrobes and you’re over-the-moon delighted with your maximalist wardrobe, I think you’ll find some great takeaways about style and happiness in our conversation.

 
 

Jorunn was kind enough to create a video timeline for us, if you’d like to skip ahead to a particular section:

02:36 Jorunn asks: “What is your approach to making your own capsule wardrobe?”

09:04 Cate asks: “What about when your weight fluctuates?”

09:25 How to work with a capsule wardrobe if your weight frequently fluctuates

13:15 One of my tips for buying clothes that accommodate weight fluctuation

14:31 Jorunn asks: “What keeps us from wearing our favorites?”

25:08 Cate asks a long and meandering three-part question:

     1. What is your reason, your “why” for working with a capsule wardrobe?

     2. How do you stay out of stores?

     3. When do you know that it’s time to get something new?

32:05 Jorunn asks: “What do you do when you’re sick and tired of what you have in your wardrobe?

38:39 Cate asks: “What’s your current favorite accessory and favorite piece of clothing?”

You can find Jorunn at Nordic Simplicity, and I highly recommend checking out her Wardrobe Magic course if you’re interested in working with a smaller wardrobe. She also has a number of courses you can access for free if you’re signed up for her emails.

And if you’re not on Jorunn’s email list, her newsletter is a real treat - it’s funny, friendly, and I always look forward to reading it. You can also sign up for emails pertaining to your specific color season!