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Capsule wardrobes are curated selections of versatile clothing items and practical closet essentials (like a little black dress, for example).
Creating a capsule wardrobe means attaining a few high-quality items rather than a ton of pieces you don’t wear much. It’s also a great idea for spring cleaning if you’re looking to declutter and focus on a few core pieces you can mix and match.
When putting together a capsule wardrobe, there are no hard and fast rules for what to include. The key is choosing pieces you love and are willing to invest in (and keep!) for the long haul. Everything from your clothes, to your shoes, to your accessories must earn its place.
Ready to get rid of those low-quality and ill-fitting pieces and create a collection of closet staples? Here’s what’s in my capsule wardrobe if you’re looking for inspiration.
Casual Layers
This Luan Sweater ($295) from M.M. Lafleur is made from sustainable Mongolian cashmere. The soft, breathable material is perfect for transitional weather and can be dressed up or down. I chose this versatile light gray shade over the other two colorways (bright pink and kelly green) because it’s a better match for my neutral-focused capsule wardrobe.
Every capsule wardrobe should have a pair of comfortable platform boots. I found mine in the form of the Chelsea boot in Fawn ($348) from KOIO. They’re chic, practical, and hand-crafted in Italy. The lightweight design makes them easy to wear, plus they have water-resistant soles (so they hold up well in any weather).
Another great layering staple: M.M. LaFleur’s Bennet Jacket ($395) in black. Most of the time, I either pair it with a graphic tee or put a hoodie underneath it to keep it casual.
And no capsule wardrobe is ever complete without a great pair of jeans. Madewell’s Petite Perfect Vintage Jean in Fiore Wash ($128) is my answer here. These jeans are made of Heritage Stretch Denim that lends a worn-in look and feel with a light wash that completes the vintage look. Bonus: Petite sizing means no hemming required!
Feminine Flair
The Lalita Henley ($115) by Nation LTD is an absolute essential because it goes with everything without looking too plain. Plus, it's eco-friendly and made from recycled materials like polyester derived from post-consumer plastic bottles. The delicate ruffles and super soft fabric make it both feminine and functional.
Another great piece with a bit of feminine flair: the Georgette Sleeve Knit Jumper in Ivory ($162) from Karen Millen. The sleeves themselves are nothing dramatic, but the contrasting texture and gold embellishments add a nice touch to what could have been plain knitwear.
Day-To-Night Pieces
If you’re looking for pieces that can transition from work to after-work, look no further than the Lovers and Friends Tamarin sweater dress in black ($168) from Revolve. The thick material and mock neck are nice protection from cold weather, and it can go from formal with heels to casual with a change into tall, heeled boots.
Majorelle’s Killian Bodysuit ($128) is another gem from Revolve. The flowy sleeves and bodycon lower half are a nice contrasted pairing. The neckline is playful (but not revealing) and the bottom part of the bodysuit fits snugly, like shapewear.
Cozy Comfort
Reformation’s Kieran Sweater in black ($228) is not your average mock neck sweater. This cropped-fit cashmere sweater has bell sleeves and a button-down back that’s cut high at the bottom for an unexpected twist. It also comes in Gossamer, a cream hue that makes another excellent choice for a capsule wardrobe. This sweater gives off a romantic vibe and is perfect for a night out with someone special. (I wore mine on a date night to a French restaurant last weekend!)
In colder weather, you need a great statement coat to go with your capsule wardrobe outfits. My go-to is a bit of an investment, but an extremely high-quality piece that I’ll keep for decades: Overland’s Olivia Bomber Jacket. Priced at $795, it’s made of premium Spanish Merino shearling sheepskin that’s extremely warm and has an edgy element to it.
So what’s the bottom line when it comes to creating a capsule wardrobe?
Pulling together a small collection of versatile pieces that can be combined in various ways to achieve looks that work for any occasion. Hopefully this was a good jumping-off point as you curate your own.
5 other DTC brands that can help you complete your capsule wardrobe:
1. This not-so-basic Whisky A Go Go Black Label Tee from Original Retro Brand. Graphic tees are a must when layering with jackets!
2. Everlane’s suede Western Boot adds a touch of style to any outfit without compromising comfort and versatility.
3. Cuyana’s French Terry Wide-Leg Pants are the perfect blend of casual and comfortable.
4. Verge Girl’s In My Element Pants are super versatile; wear them casually or dressed up.
5. Moscot’s Gelt Sunglasses are one of my capsule wardrobe accessories I swear by. The classic silhouette and gender-neutral design allow me to wear them with any outfit for a classic cool vibe.
