How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe: The Essentials

Are you always scrambling to find something to wear? Well, I’m here to help a sister out with my “How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe: The Essentials” post that will help ease your mind when you’re in a wardrobe slump.

The concept of a capsule wardrobe has become increasingly popular in recent years as people seek to simplify their lives and reduce their environmental impact by consuming less. The idea behind a capsule wardrobe is to have a smaller number of high-quality pieces that can be worn for different occasions, rather than a large number of cheaper, less versatile items. Creating a capsule wardrobe can be a great way to streamline your closet, save time getting dressed, and reduce decision fatigue. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a capsule wardrobe that fits your style, needs, and budget.

While all opinions and recommendations are always my own, my content on this blog post may contain affiliate links for products I use and love. This means I get a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking one of these links. As always, I am so thankful for your support!

Capsule Wardrobe Essentials

A Classic White Button Down

The versatility of a classic white button-down is endless! Whether you are going to pair it with jeans, leggings, or my personal favorite a bathing suit you can never go wrong. I almost always pack a classic button-down when I’m traveling because the possibilities for outfits are endless. If you’re feeling particularly trendy you can pick up a lace button-down or textured one as well. Finally, I am guilty of owning more than 5 white button-downs. What can I say? They never go out of style!

Black Leather Bag

I mean what is more classic than a black leather bag? Whether it’s a satchel, tote, or crossbody you can’t go wrong with adding a classic black leather bag to your collection. I absolutely love my Gucci Soho Crossbody (you can read the full review by clicking that link) or a classic tote. If you’re going to invest in one item out of these five make it this one. Since the cost per wear is high.

Little Black Dress

A closet without a little black dress is like the sky without the sun or the moon. It doesn’t work! I can’t tell you how many times having a solid little black dress on hand has saved me. Depending on how you style a little black dress, it’s super versatile.

A Neutral body-suit

Simple, elegant, and easy to throw on with just about anything. Pair it with a mini skirt and boots or linen shorts and sandals. There are multiple ways to wear a neutral bodysuit and you’ll be wearing it for years to come. I personally wouldn’t invest in a super expensive bodysuit. However, I have this bodysuit in multiple colors and I love it (pictured above).

White Sneakers

If you have not jumped on the white sneaker trend, what are you waiting for? These are not going anywhere anytime soon and have taken the fashion world by storm. There are so many great options for white sneakers. The best part is you can wear them during any season! Go the trendy route and pick up a pair of Golden Goose Sneakers. Or for a California cool girl opt for a classic pair of Vans Sneakers. Finally, Madewell sneakers are trendy, comfortable, AND affordable (the trifecta – wearing them above).

Below are stylish ways you can pair sneakers:

• dresses
• shorts
• wide leg pants
• jeans
• leggings

Camel Topper or Trench Coat

The perfect addition to your fall/winter outerwear collection is a camel topper. These babies will never go out of style and are such a beautiful way to pull together a look. You can pair it with leggings and sneakers for a casual look or opt for jeans and heels for a night out. I am always reaching for it when the weather gets colder. You can shop the investment piece here and for a more affordable version check this one out. Finally, for the spring and fall seasons, trench coats are the perfect transitional pieces.

Chic Blazer

If you want to take an outfit to the next level, throw a blazer on it! The outfit possibilities are endless with this one: you can pair this with a dress and sneakers for a chic spring look or jeans and pumps for a classic date night look. Whatever you chose, adding a chic blazer to your wardrobe is a good choice! I love this one from Abercrombie because it’s trendy but classic at the same time. Finally, this black blazer from J CREW is chic, and classic, and will last you for years.

A Leather Jacket

The best way to spruce up any outfit would be to add a leather jacket. I love wearing mine over a slip-dress with heels for date night or dressed down with jeans, sneakers, and a tank. They can be super versatile and it’s best to purchase a good quality one so it’ll last for years to come. I own this All Saints jacket that I have had for years and it’s still in perfect condition. This Nordstrom leather jacket is more classic and if you’re on a budget this leather jacket is super affordable and I love the neutral color.

Leather Pumps

The best investment your feet will ever make is these Manolo Blahnik BB pumps. They’re incredibly comfortable, timeless, and effortless. I’ve had them for years and the quality of the shoes is unmatched. A simple black pump can be paired with jeans for a night out or with a skirt for the office. However, if you wear it it’s a closet must-have! For a more affordable pair, check these ones out!

Good Fitting Jeans

Everyone needs a pair of good-fitting jeans in their life. I’m the type of gal that has multiple sizes of jeans in my closet because my weight fluctuates. Whether they’re classic straight-leg jeans, trendy wide-leg jeans, or everyone’s favorite (sorry Gen Z) skinny jeans – they all fit seamlessly into your capsule wardrobe. Pair them with a bodysuit and mules for a chic look or throw on a cropped tee and slip-on sneakers for a more casual look.

Lastly, I created this fun video to showcase all the pieces you need to add to create your capsule wardrobe. Check it out below:

Seasonal Essentials

Denim Shorts

In the summertime, nothing screams classic casual style like a pair of denim shorts. Just like the jeans above, you want them to fit perfectly since they act as a base for the outfit. I love my levis shorts they are super classic and will never go out of style. Also, these curve love Abercrombie shorts fit really well.

Wool Fedora

In the winter adding a wool fedora to your look will elevate the sh*t out of it. Excuse my language but it’s true. I’ve had my rag-and-bone fedora for years (it’s a classic). For a more affordable version check out this fedora that I also own. It’s very versatile since it can be worn in spring/summer as well.

Straw Fedora

For the summer, adding a straw fedora to your closet will not only protect your skin from the sun but also add a little flair to your look. I have so many that I’ve collected over the years (what can I say, they’re kind of my thing) but my two favorites are linked here and here.

BLACK booties OR NEUTRAL BOOTIES

For the fall/winter seasons having a solid pair of booties on deck is always a good idea. I have been LIVING in these neutral booties you see pictured above. Insider tip: I always find good black booties at the Zara sale so keep your eyes peeled next time.

I hope you found these “Capsule Wardrobe Essentials” helpful. For more styling tips head to my style page! If you have any questions at all please feel free to comment below and I will get back to ya!

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XO,

Courtney