Inside The Anti-Capsule Wardrobe Of Brisbane Super-Stylist Kimberly Gardner
The case against capsule
By Victoria Lewis | 3rd September 2025Contrary to propaganda spread by the capsule craze, a wearable wardrobe doesn’t have to be full of just basics. Fashion should be fun, and it should be yours. The anti-capsule wardrobe, a carefully curated collection of wild and whimsical pieces, may just be the secret to personal style that stands the test of time. But don’t take my word for it – we caught up with one of Brisbane’s greatest fashion minds, super-stylist and fashion director, Kimberly Gardner, for rapid-fire insider tips on creating an everlasting (and iconic) wardrobe.
What is your secret to curating a wardrobe that’s unique but also wearable
Only purchase when you have an event coming up, head to toe! But also work out how you are going to dissect it to wear every day. Then, experiment with the unexpected. Replace a silk shirt with an oversized cashmere jumper (tres chic), then don with a sequin skirt in the middle of the day. It’s about unusual pairings – high heels with parachute pants et cetera, et cetera.
What is your most unique anti-capsule piece
Every piece. I don’t tend to buy pieces I’ve seen before. This way you can wear your clothes for years.
If you had to pick one… What is its story and how do you style it
The team at James Street boutique, Camargue, tend to keep an eye out for me on their buying trips. This outfit (below) is from Dries Van Noten SS25. For weddings or functions, I’ll pair with my Marni faux fur slides, and for casual wear, the coat is perfect with pants from previous Dries Van Noten collections.
What makes a unique personal style
Originality!
How did you find your own
Isolation is the best for creativity. Growing up on cattle properties we dressed for every occasion – to go to town, to the rodeo, to the races. It left plenty of room for creativity. Magazines and their beautiful editorials also had a big impact, a complete fantasy I would drift in and out of.
Any tips for others
Find a couple of experts you relate to and ignore the rest.
Imagery: @_kimberlygardner
