Wow, there is so much good advice here. Here is my take-away:
1. Seek versatile pieces
Buy pieces that can be used across more capsules. (Mo, Caro) Likewise, I was impressed that Zapotee could say, “I seem to use my entire wardrobe as a whole.”
2. Migrate pieces between capsules
Get more use from your smart casual capsule -- wear to work (Dana), migrate pieces that are worn to the casual capsule. (Claire)
3. Be OK with repeating outfits. (Annagybe)
4. LOA (Laws of Attraction concept)
Dressing for a smart casual lifestyle will open up more smart casual opportunities. (Shiny, Dana and others)
5. Similarly, expand your opportunities to wear your smart casual items (Rachylou).
Or, as Dana put it, “Since you have fab clothes, why not try to plan more activities to wear them. You'll have a great time and feel justified in your spending.”
6. Control/discipline
Stick to a list, no impulse shopping. (Jayne, Glory) Be ruthless about returning/on-selling items that have sat unworn in your closet for a pre-determined period of time. (Lyn D). Set an actual dollar limit for smart casual purchases (Merwoman). Work out a minimum number of clothes/outfits you need to keep you happy in the dressy category & do the one in one out on this section. (Caro) I think that if you spend 50% of your time in casual, 50% of your budget should go to it. (Laura)
Admittedly, this is the hardest area for me to follow, but I do think I can aspire to some more discipline. Finally, I really appreciate the sensible yet forgiving tone of many of your comments which revolve around the concept of...
7. Acceptance/cut yourself some slack
If you’re wearing the items and get enjoyment from them, why worry. (Alaskagirl, Suz, Elisabeth) If you have enough/right items then why worry? (Christieanne) Accept that some capsules will cost more (Queen Mum) and why worry if you love the items? (Rae). Go ahead and buy things that you enjoy for your imaginary life, but not at the expense of the life you already have. (Velvetychocolate)