How To Build the Perfect Capsule Wardrobe
You need just 11 pieces to get started on a wardrobe you love and that works for your lifestyle.
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In a world where fast fashion is increasingly popular (and more damaging to the planet), having an edited-down wardrobe you love, that will last years and years, is a pretty great idea. Now is the perfect time to give your closet a little TLC, taking stock of what you have, spotting any figurative (and literal, actually) holes, and donating what you don’t have use for. Then you’ll be able to start building your capsule collection.
So what is a capsule wardrobe? We’ll let stylist and sustainable fashion expert Rebekah Roy explain. “The essence of a capsule wardrobe is a versatile, minimalist collection that you can mix and match in countless ways,” she says. “Typically, it includes anywhere from 10 to 20 staples that can be styled up or down.” But that doesn’t necessarily mean your style has to be minimal or neutral. You can create a capsule wardrobe to go with any aesthetic and truly make it your own.
While it’s true that basic pieces will help your wardrobe last longer through various trend cycles, your capsule collection should also feel like you. Go ahead and design it with big, bold colors and prints, or in softer neutrals, if you prefer. Either way, here are the 11 pieces Roy suggests to build out a capsule wardrobe that can work for just about anyone.
1. Classic Blazer
Layering is key when building a capsule wardrobe. “A classic blazer is exquisitely chic when done right,” Roy says. “Focus on the cut and fit to ensure it flatters your body.” You can get any thrifted jacket fitted at the tailor, or shop for a style you’ll love wearing just as much with jeans as with a dress.
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2. Leather Jacket
While a blazer is a more appropriate choice for the office or a business dinner, a leather (or faux leather) jacket is a chance to show off your personal style, “ whether it’s oversized, biker, rugged, or fitted,” Roy says. “A leather jacket pairs with all your bottoms or a dress, adding a cool or chic touch.”
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3. Seasonless Trench Coat
Roy calls the trench coat a “forever piece,” adding that it pulls any look together with minimal effort. “It's seasonless — perfect with a skirt and vest top on a rainy summer evening or with jeans and a jumper on a cozy autumn day,” she says.
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4. Little Black Dress
For a special occasion, it helps to have a go-to dress you feel good in. And in this case, “little black dress” is a loose term. “It doesn’t have to be black, but solid colors work best,” Roy explains. “This versatile piece can be dressed up or down, with trainers and a leather jacket, or kitten heels and a blazer.”
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5. Tailored Trousers
You can think of your capsule trousers as any pair of pants that aren’t denim. They can be khakis, pleated linen pants, or wide-leg black or navy slacks that go with everything. “Classic tailored trousers are an office essential and work perfectly with trainers or heels,” Roy says.
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- Everlane The Draper Pleated Pant
- Good American Essential Suiting Pleated Trousers
- Spanx SPANXsmooth PerfectFit Ponte Barrel Leg Pant
6. Nontrendy Jeans
When building a capsule wardrobe, jeans are a must-have. If you’re looking to buy just one type of cut, Roy says you should opt for straight-leg jeans, because unlike skinny or barrel jeans, they’ll never go out of style. “Choose the shade of blue you prefer, but ensure they fit well,” she says. Don’t be afraid to get them tailored just like you would dress pants.
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7. Quality Leggings
“A good pair of leggings can be styled with a blazer and shirt for daytime, or with heels in the evening,” Roy says. But make sure you opt for a pair of leggings made from thicker fabric to ensure they last wash after wash — and aren’t see-through.
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- Skims High-Waisted Banded Legging
- Spanx Booty Boost® Active 7/8 Leggings
- Good American Good Waist Faux Leather Leggings
8. Simple Skirt
Roy says if you already have a pair of black trousers, you can mix up your skirt color and choose a gray or bold-colored option, which will give you even more possibilities to match the tops in your closet. Go for a simple A-line style that flatters everyone and works for every occasion.
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9. Cozy Sweatshirt
Layering is a key component of a capsule wardrobe, Roy says. “A simple crewneck or V-neck in a bright color adds versatility,” she adds. We love a cute and cozy sweatshirt to keep you warm on errands but also add a sporty touch to trousers.
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- Anine Bing Miles Oversized Sweatshirt Letterman
- Alo Accolade Crew Neck Pullover
- Beyond Yoga Why Knot Pullover
10. Chic T-shirt
High quality is key when shopping for T-shirts. You want to make sure it isn’t see-through, too casual, or too distressed. Sure, those styles can be cute, but your capsule wardrobe should go with everything in your closet, so stick with high-quality basics. “You will have at least 50% more tops than bottoms in your capsule wardrobe,” Roy says. “This allows for greater variety and layering options, giving you more flexibility to mix and match your outfits.”
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11. Blouse or Dressy Top
When shopping for a blouse, Roy says to make sure you pick something that fits loosely over the midsection and hits just above the hips. “It offers numerous styling options, from layering over a T-shirt to wearing under a jumper or sweatshirt,” she says.
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This article is for general informational purposes only.
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