How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe

A younger version of myself would likely be rolling their eyes at my current self for saying that a capsule wardrobe is truly life changing! It was just a few years ago that I was still working in an office downtown, and had to have a new outfit for every day of the week – I just justified it because I “love clothes” so much!

However, a lot has changed since then. Yes, I may be a little older and wiser.  But living in a pandemic, working from home, and having three toddlers has really changed my outlook on my wardrobe necessities. I didn’t necessarily choose the capsule wardrobe life, the capsule wardrobe life chose me 😉

I can tell you that getting dressed has become so much more simple! I was already grabbing for the same few items on a regular basis, but when you have a complete collection of basics that work together, you are less likely to get bored with getting dressed, and can truly play around with items to achieve different looks.

Ready to talk all things capsule? Let’s do it!

What is a Capsule Wardrobe?

If you’ve made it this far and are still wondering, what is a capsule wardrobe? then let me break it down for you. A capsule wardrobe is a collection of items that you can mix and match to achieve different outfits, without needing an excess of clothing that might not be worn.

This collection of clothing is made up of many things you likely already have hanging in your closest – and can be a mixture of both high price points and low, or whatever you want!

I tend to spend more on items such as handbags, shoes, etc. that I know I will love and own for a long time (ahem, timeless items)…and then spend a little bit less on items such a t-shirts, jeans, and trendy sneakers that I might not be interested in wearing in a year or two.

Year Round Capsule Wardrobe Basics

There are definitely some items that are seasonal, however, there are many items that can be worn year round when styled appropriately.  Consider spending a little bit more on quality items that will last throughout the year, because these are the items that will get the most use!

Denim

It goes without saying that everyone should have a few go-to pairs of denim in their reserve.  They quite literally go with everything, and can be dressed up or down depending on your mood or occasion.

Jeans aren’t something I splurge on per se, but I also don’t buy the cheapest options out there. And really, the style is up to you; contrary to popular beliefs on TikTok right now, I think a good pair of skinny jeans will always be in style.

Nude Pumps

As someone who has hundreds of pairs of shoes in my closet, I can tell you that my most worn (dressy) shoes are by far my nude pumps.  Why? Because they go with everything.  Some might argue you need black pumps, but there isn’t an outfit I wouldn’t pair a nude pump with (and can’t say the same about black pumps) – that is versatility!

These are my absolute favorite, but they are a splurge.  There are lots of great options at all price points!

Basic White T-shirt

There is just something so easy yet so polished about a good, basic white t-shirt.  I prefer a more loose fit so that I can style multiple ways, including knotted in front (or back!).

I also love a good crew neckline, however, its definitely up to you and your preference because a great white t-shirt will go with so many things.

Denim Jacket

Ohhhh goodness, my love for the denim jacket is so deep.  That’s why I have over ten varieties of colors, fit, and levels of distress – a denim jacket is truly an MVP of the closet.  However, you just need one to really complete your look, so find the style that suits you best and start rocking that denim jacket on the weekly!

Sunglasses

There is something about throwing on a pair of sunglasses that make an outfit look effortlessly cool, am I right? Plus, your eyes will thank you for the protection. Sunglasses are such a personal decision based on the shape of your face, however, I’ve always thought the classic aviator compliments everyone!

 

Neutral Handbag

Now, like I mentioned, this is an area that I will splurge.  A good designer handbag that you will have for years to come is just something I’m willing to invest in.  However, you definitely don’t have to in order to complete your look.  Pick a great handbag (I prefer a bag that can be worn crossbody or on my shoulder) in a neutral color that can hold your necessities (and hold up to be using on the regular).

 Neutral Belt

Again, another splurge worthy area for me, but definitely does not have to be!  I invested in a designer belt a few years ago, and have worn it too many times to count!  If you aren’t one who likes to wear labels, no worry!  But pick a belt that you can can wear with different colors – I prefer black, tan or off-white.

 

White Sneakers

Ok, so, I’m trying my best to not sound redundant, but white sneakers? Also an MVP.  Something I wear daily, and with essentially everything.  I own quite a few pairs by now, because of how much I wear them.

But you only need one great pair that you love to throw into your collection. Trust me, you will LOVE styling these so many ways. I tend to love a chunky white sneaker, but the options are endless!  You might prefer star sneakers or a simple silhouette; doesn’t matter because they will go with so many things.

 

Hat

You might not consider yourself to be a hat person, but let me tell you – you need to be a hat person!  A great hat really elevates and outfit, not to mention conceals a bad/dirty hair day.  I’ve fallen in love with wide brim, rancher style hats over the last few years, and I just keep adding to my collection, because of how much I truly love wearing them.

 

So there you have it, all of the items you can (and will) love wearing year round!  Now let’s get into season items, shall we? And since I’m a summer girl, I’ll start there.

Capsule Wardrobe Summer & Spring Necessities

As much as I enjoy changing of seasons, I live for a summer moment.  I love the warmth, the long sunny days, and especially the ease of dressing.  Here are the basics you need for your spring/summer capsule wardrobe.

Denim Shorts

Quite possibly my most worn item in the summer, I absolutely love a great pair of denim shorts.  There are so many styles to choose from these days; from dad shorts, to mom shorts, to boyfriend shorts – find the style you love most and let’s get to styling these amazing shorts.

 

Flouncy Skirt

I definitely lean toward a feminine flirty style, and the flouncy skirt is up there as one of my favorite summer items to wear. Dress it up with a blazer, or style is casually with a knotted white t-shirt.

 

Maxi Dress

Summer’s queen – the maxi dress.  So easy, and more versatile than you might think! Pick a bold print or a neutral shade – it doesn’t matter because we can style it many ways, either way!

 

Midi/Maxi Skirt

The maxi skirt is definitely an unsung hero in my book. I love them paired with a simple tank, a crop top, a basic white t-shirt, a blazer, a jean jacket, a sweater in the fall – the list goes on!  You must add one of these to your capsule wardrobe!

 

Neutral Sandals

For the days when your feet just need a break, am I right?  Or for vacation.  Or for running to the grocery store. Or wherever!  I definitely recommend investing in these – you will have them for years and will wear them with everything!

 

Wedge Sandals

If you love to add some height like me, then wedge sandals are where its at.  Comfy and perfect for date nights, vacations, etc.

 

Tank Top / Bodysuit

If you aren’t really a bodysuit kinda gal (which, please try one before you rule it out) then a basic tank will do – you definitely need a great tank in your capsule wardrobe for obvious reasons.

 

Lace Camisole Tank

Truly truly one of the items I wear most in my closet, and year round.  Great for virtually any outfit.  And great for layering.  Repeat after me: layering is your friend.

 

Now that we have spring/summer covered, let’s move on to fall/winter items! (I’m cold just thinking about it).

Capsule Wardrobe Winter & Fall Necessities

While I love Summer temps, I must admit there is just something about a fall layered outfit.  The only thing missing is your PSL.

Trench coat

Timeless. Classy. Elegant.  Everyone needs a great camel trench coat in their arsenal, perfect for completing that fall/winter look.

Blazer

I seriously love a plaid blazer.  Wear it with shorts and a t-shirt, or Spanx and a lace cami.  This layer is just so fun and polished.

 

Turtleneck

I know what you might be thinking, a turtleneck…really?  Yes really.  They are great for layering, or just wearing with a great pair of jeans.  But mostly for layering.

 

Booties

Can I get an amen? I don’t know too many people that don’t love booties.  I especially love a camel suede bootie because they really go with so much!

 

Boots

Just because you need some versatility, and your booties are gonna need a break every now and then. I especially love a knee high boot right now, although over the knee boots and mid calf boots are great options too.

Spanx Leggings

All I can say is, if you do not own these yet, please drop everything you are doing and buy your first (of many) pair.  There are so many ways to wear leather leggings, you will never tire of these things.

 

Chunky Sweater

What is better than sweater weather? You can do so much with a sweater, including layered over a maxi dress, paired with a flouncy skirt, or even with some nice joggers.

Joggers

Honestly, one of the best things to come out of 2020 was normalizing joggers for daily wear.  When done right, they can still have a polished look without sacrificing any comfort. Definitely a capsule wardrobe must!

 

Leather Jacket

Another item I wear SO much – it just completes so many different outfits! And you don’t have to spend a ton – faux leather jackets can be pretty reasonably priced but still have the great edgy look of the real thing. No capsule wardrobe would be complete without it.

 

Graphic Sweatshirt

I almost completed this guide without adding the graphic sweatshirt – what a tragedy that would have been!  A graphic sweatshirt can be layered over a turtleneck, paired with Spanx leggings, mixed with a flouncy skirt, or even over top a maxi dress.  Grab a style you love and lets rock this look!

How to Style Items From a Capsule Wardrobe

Honestly, the sky is the limit here, but the key is being creative and trying new things! Mixing and matching is going to become your new best friend.  While you can honestly build hundreds of outfits once you have the key items, here are just a few ideas to get your going with your new capsule wardrobe!

In this example, I’m using the flouncy skirt and building four separate looks – however, it is not limited to just these!

When building your own looks from your capsule wardrobe, pick your “hero” item, then start to pull other pieces to compliment it.  Don’t be afraid to have fun!  Mix and match pieces to come up with looks that make you comfortable and confident – that is most important!

Shop all Capsule Wardrobe Items

To shop any of the capsule wardrobe items featured in this post, simply click the image below!

Conclusion

While you might hear the words “Capsule Wardrobe” and think, “how boring?!”…think again!  Simple doesn’t have to be boring.  With the right items, you can build hundreds of styled looks that will save you time and money. Do you have any questions on how to build or style a capsule wardrobe?

xo,