How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe

Have you heard the term Capsule Wardrobe? It’s the concept of investing in a few key pieces that complement one another, which also helps alleviate the age old question of “what should I wear today?” The key to a Capsule Wardrobe is purchasing with intention. You want to ensure that the pieces are made with high-quality materials that will sustain wears and washes, that they are classic styles that will withstand “fast fashion” trends, and that they are in colors and silhouettes that can be mixed and matched together into outfits you love and feel confident in. 

Now, I am no fashion guru - actually, I’m pretty helpless when it comes to shopping. But a Capsule Wardrobe is an idea I can get behind. Here are some ideas of how to build a Capsule Wardrobe, and some products I’m loving to get you started. 

Basic Tees

Everyone should have a few basic t-shirts to wear with jeans, under sweaters, with leggings, etc. I have a few in my rotation that I love to dress up or down, layer with a cardigan, or tuck into a skirt.

• Lululemon
• Everlane
• RE/DONE

 

Flattering denim

I love my Levis. I’ve had a few pairs over the years, and they’re truly the jeans I reach for again and again. Which probably means I need to get them in a few more colors. 

• Levi’s Wedgie High Waist

 

Go-to sweater

No surprise that my favorite go-to sweater is STIK’s Scotia Sweater. I’ve worn it countless times this summer - it’s the perfect weight, can be worn over a bathing suit or a dress, tucked into jean shorts, and only gets better after every wash. When you find a sweater that’s this good, you want in all colors. I have navy and white - white for the summer and navy to take me into fall. 

• STIK Scotia Sweater

 

Classic Black Dress

Everyone needs a black dress that they feel like a million bucks in. These one would be perfect to transition from daytime meetings to after-work cocktails. 

• Jenni Kayne
• J.Crew
• Tuckernuck

 

Comfy flats

Find a pair of flats you can walk 5 miles in. Seriously. The pair you invest in should be the most comfortable pair of shoes you own, and one that will never go out of style so you can wear them season after season. 

• Birdies
• Sarah Flint

 

A truly “you” piece

Capsule Wardrobes don’t always have to be full of neutral colors. Find a seasonal piece that truly speaks to you. Maybe it’s a pattern you love, or a silhouette that you know flatters you. Make this your “special” piece for when you have an occasion and want to feel and look your best. I’m LOVING this Oliphant dress for summer. 

• Oliphant