A capsule wardrobe feels like an intangible goal. It's a term loved by the fashion industry, but what does it actually mean and how do you go about building one?
A capsule wardrobe has long been thought of as a minimalist or stripped-back wardrobe, but in actual fact, at its core, it's simply just about ensuring that all your clothing works together. While many stylists may tell you a capsule wardrobe has to contain certain wardrobe essentials such as the best jeans, a well-tailored coat or the best cashmere sweater, it's important to think about your own personal style when compiling yours. Think about what underpins your current wardrobe. If you're someone that lives in jeans, then an edited selection of denim will likely form the basis of your capsule wardrobe, but if you live in dresses, then your capsule wardrobe will look very different.
In this feature, we will look at the varied basics in a capsule wardrobe and then how to tailor this to match your style. If you've got a closet that is currently bursting, we've also got some tips for how to organize your closet and strip it back to help you build your capsule wardrobe. While there's no fixed number of items, there is an element of curation required. Making a capsule wardrobe will allow you to get dressed more easily, spend less money and make smarter shopping decisions, and who doesn't want that?
What is a capsule wardrobe?
"I would interpret a capsule wardrobe as any set of items you wear a whole lot", says wardrobe consultant and stylist, Dr. Anne Hamlyn (opens in new tab), of Dr. Dress Me. "Jeans, knitwear, a blouse, a jacket, a skirt or dress, that can be relied upon, mixed and matched, dressed up or down and enhanced by more creative and individual additions that bring you pleasure and make you feel alive and confident and uniquely you in the world."
The idea of a capsule wardrobe has always centered on key items that you must own like a white shirt or the best blazer, but these items don't necessarily take into account body type, personal tastes, or lifestyle. In reality, there is no mathematical formula to a capsule wardrobe, and injecting your personal style does play a vital role. That said, there are some key tips you can follow.
Dr Anne Hamlyn agrees, "If you want to live a subsistence sartorial life made up of 20 items because a uniform makes you feel safe and sorted that’s totally fine, many people just want to get dressed with minimal fuss and not think about it anymore, but there’s not much creativity, pleasure or risk in that. That’s only the beginning. Most people who come to me want to express something with their clothes that’s uniquely them."
A capsule wardrobe is about grounding your wardrobe in relevant basics, making sure you purchase clothes that will work with existing items in your wardrobe so that you can maximize their wear, and most importantly, end up with a closet of clothing you enjoy and feel good in.
“Think of a capsule wardrobe as a shortcut - it gives you something to build a look from, which can save you time and headspace when you’re getting ready. And if you shop smart, you’ll build a collection of key pieces that will stand the test of time and give you fantastic cost-per-wear. [A capsule wardrobe] can also be built upon with the addition of extra pieces which might be a little more trend-led or occasion appropriate” says fashion stylist, Karen Williams (opens in new tab) - and having dressed everyone from David Beckham to Beyoncé, she should know.
What does a capsule wardrobe consist of?
This is the tricky bit. Your capsule wardrobe will largely depend on your lifestyle, personal taste and body type. We will break down a few key style personalities and what those capsule wardrobes might look like, but overall, all capsule wardrobes will include a combination of the below...
- T-shirts and tops: V-neck, round neck, boat neck (depending on your style)
- Winter coat: Tailored, casual weekend (eg. puffer)
- Casual jackets: Leather, denim
- Spring/Autumn coat: Trench coat
- Jeans: Smarter and more casual styles, black and blue denim
- Dresses: Midi dresses, maxi dresses, pinafore dresses, shift and A-line styles, floaty boho iterations for summer days and sweater dresses for cold winter eves.
- Skirts: Leather skirt, denim skirt, maxi skirt, A-line skirt, pencil skirt, pleated skirt
- Trousers: Smart/tailored trousers, relaxed fit, evening trousers
- Sweaters/cardigans: A mix of more fitted and oversized pieces
- Shoes & Boots: Flats, trainers, plimsolls, Chelsea boots/ankle boots, knee-high, evening shoes, sandals
- Something for special occasions: Whether that's an LBD (little black dress), a classic wrap dress, a chic jumpsuit, or silk palazzo pants
- Bags: Crossbody, tote bags, evening bags, rucksack, weekend bag
How many items should be in a capsule wardrobe?
When it comes to numbers, there are no set rules and a capsule wardrobe can consist of anything from 10 pieces to 80.
“The rule of owning just 40 pieces might work for some people, but maybe it’s 80 that works better for you - there’s no perfect number that everyone should be aiming for. Take your time with it and don’t feel pressure to do one big purge of clothing and start from scratch, it’s overwhelming and expensive,” explains Anna of The Anna Edit (opens in new tab).
Some schools of thought suggest that 50 items is the maximum you should have in a capsule wardrobe. This rough estimate works because you should be realistic about how many items you will wear over a given period of time. The idea of a capsule wardrobe is to make your clothes work harder and smarter. By the time you've finished curating, you should be wearing everything in it, and do you really have time and occasion for more than 50 items?
Remember you may also wish to create several smaller capsule wardrobes to work for different seasons and occasions, for example, you may have a winter capsule wardrobe and a spring capsule wardrobe; you may also decide to have some pieces kept aside specifically for a capsule wardrobe for travel or borrow from other seasons accordingly.
The items you need in your capsule wardrobe
Your capsule wardrobe basics are the building blocks of your wardrobe. These are the pieces that underpin all the trend-led pieces you might inject within a season. They are the staple styles that hold your wardrobe together. Your building blocks might include an array of well-cut jeans, tailored trousers, a sharp blazer, and the best leather jacket; alongside a failsafe evening dress and your party-ready jumpsuit. These are the items you might want to invest a little more in as you are likely to wear them on repeat and they're the pieces that always make you feel good.
The exact makeup of your personal capsule wardrobe we will go into a little later, and while it's governed more by taste and lifestyle, some may find an over-50s capsule wardrobe differs slightly. But first, let's look at the possibilities.
The tops you need in a capsule wardrobe
When it comes to choosing the right tops for your capsule wardrobe many of these decisions will in large part be down to your particular body type and the silhouette of top that works best for you.
If you have a larger bust, you will be more likely to opt for a scoop or v-neck over a boat or high neck top as it helps to balance your proportions. Likewise, if you are a pear shape, you may want to emphasize your shoulders to balance out wider hips, meaning that puff sleeve heads or a shoulder-padded top could work best for your figure.
The types of tops you need in a capsule wardrobe include: round/scoop neck, V-neck, Breton top, camisole, wrap top, sweatshirt.
RRP: $54 / £54 | A plan long sleeve black tee is a total wardrobe essential, no matter the season. Plus, the scoop neck is great for rebalancing proportions as it opens up the neck area.
RRP: $39.99 / £25 | In breathable cotton, this v-neck top is a smart choice for all occasions. Layer with the best Christmas jumpers this winter or team with a midi skirt in the summer.
RRP: $45 / £29 | You can never go wrong with a Breton top. Add some subtle color with this light blue version that will go with numerous pieces in your wardrobe from jeans to skirts.
RRP: $29.50 / £26 | A basic black cami looks great when layered with a white t shirt for dressing up more casual days. Wear under a cardigan teamed with a floaty skirt to explore what is boho style, or slip on with wide leg pants and a fluffy coat this winter.
RRP: $76 / £45 | Wrap tops work well for hourglass figures due to their curve loving shape that works to accentuate your silhouette. We love this bright red hue that will go perfectly with blue denim for the daytime or with black for the evening.
RRP: $150 / £130 | Slogan sweaters are surprisingly versatile, especially as athleisure continues to be a growing trend. Team this Sporty & Rich number with relaxed jeans for a brunch outfit idea. Or use it as a way of showcasing how to style a pleated skirt.
The knitwear you need in a capsule wardrobe
You might automatically associate knitwear with bitter winter months, but must-have knitwear styles for your wardrobe can play an important role in your capsule wardrobe all year through. While there are some styles you might only pull out on the iciest of days, lightweight cotton knits make a great basic building block in spring and summer months. The exact shape of knitwear you opt for, like with tops will depend on your body type. If you're looking for the most versatility stick to neutrals and block color styles that will remain timeless.
The types of knitwear you need in a capsule wardrobe include: Breton striped sweater, cashmere sweater, fitted roll neck, cable knit sweater, V-neck sweater, loungewear hoodie, sweater dress, short cardigan, long cardigan.
RRP: $89 / £65 | Featuring a wide collar and blue Breton stripes, this half zip front knit is both directional and timeless, pairing beautifully with jeans and tailored trousers alike. The relaxed fit is ideal for evoking this season's Coastal Grandmother trend.
RRP: $425 / £195 | Making some of the best sweaters, Ted Baker has a gorgeous selection of knits. From beiges to bold colors, there is something for everyone. But whether you opt for neutral tones or bright color clothing, you can't go wrong with cashmere.
RRP: $14.99 / £12.99 | A roll neck is ideal for layering under lighter weight dresses in cooler months to give them added longevity, but can also be worn as a stand-alone piece teamed with pants or skirts. A classic black version is a stape, and this H&M knit is a bargain.
RRP: $415 / £245 | A cable knit sweater is a serious style staple. This white cotton knit is ideal for layering over blouses in cooler months for added warmth, or worn alone on brighter fall and spring days. Neutral tones such like this cream design will go with absolutely everything.
RRP: $425 / £395 | Beige knits are timeless and can be easily dressed up or down for every season. From leggings outfits inspiration to cozy loungewear, this Joseph sweater can do it all. Team with trainers for the weekend, or some chunky boots for days in the office.
RRP: $80 / £70 | A trendy hoodie is essential to up style your best loungewear looks. Perfect for running errands or layering under a midi length coat on chilly winter days, this light pink hoodie will serve you for years to come. Team with tonal hues or with denim outfits.
RRP: $49.90 / £32.99 | Knitted dresses are ideal for the winter and this design from Zara is one of the best jumper dresses we've seen. Slip on with one of the latest boot trends - over-the-knee boots for directional finish, or wear with the best knee high boots and tights.
RRP: $135 / £120 | Embrace the fashion color trends 2022 with a statement knit. We love the oversized collar detail on this Cos cardigan that makes it ideal for layering. Wear over white to make the color really pop. Or add brightness to more muted pieces such as a black dress.
RRP: $102 / £55 | Long cardigans are one of the most versatile outerwear pieces for the colder months. Style like a trench coat, belting it tightly and styling with tights, boots and a midi length dress for a polished look or sling on with a pair of the warmest leggings for a cozy look when lounging.
The shirts and blouses you need in your capsule wardrobe
When it comes to the best shirts for your capsule wardrobe there are a few different silhouettes to consider. Opt for classic styles from quality brands to ensure these pieces last. Inject your capsule wardrobe each season with new trend-led prints and colors to refresh your look, but always make sure you have the building block basics covered.
The types of shirts you need in a capsule wardrobe include: White shirt, silk blouse, pussy-bow blouse, statement collar shirt, denim shirt and striped shirt.
RRP: $79 / £39 | A fitted, crisp white shirt will add polish to any look. Whether you need something to smarten up jeans, pair with a blazer or add a chic twist to an A-line skirt. A white shirt is timeless and a great style for a capsule wardrobe.
RRP: $465 / £275 | This floaty silk blouse is both comfortable and sophisticated. Silk is great for regulating your body temperature, making it ideal for warmer weather or layering during winter. Opt for neutral hues for versatility.
RRP: $119 / £109 | Kick your shirt game up a notch with a pussy-bow blouse. Ideal for formal occasions like work Christmas party outfits, it's great for learning how to style a blazer and adding a feminine finish to more tailored, structured pieces.
RRP: $40 / £35 | Big collar blouses are a statement style that we don't see disappearing any time soon. They look equally good worn alone as they do under a crew neck jumper or give a fun twist to how to style a slip dress for a more directional feel.
RRP: $69.50 / £70 | Like a denim jacket, this casual shirt is a great piece to slot into your capsule wardrobe. Opt for a classic, mid blue wash as this will team easily with other shades of denim for a '90s fashion trend favorite - the double-denim look.
RRP: $43.99 / £25 | If you want to figure out how to style oversized shirts, begin by experimenting with a casual, breathable poplin style shirt. This is a great and easy layering piece that can be worn over dresses or casual t-shirts alike.
The jeans you need in a capsule wardrobe
Curating your jeans collection for your capsule wardrobe does require some thought. Notoriously tricky to buy, finding the best jeans for your shape can be a nightmare. But, once you do, we advise you exercise some brand loyalty, as it will, in the long run, make your life easier.
It's also good to remember that when it comes to jeans shapes, not every shape will work for you and that's ok. Like to feel sculpted and shaped? A high-rise waist is what you're after. If you're balancing out a larger bust, look for a wider leg. Meanwhile, everything from kick flares to full flares will draw the eye away and down your body.
When it comes to how many jeans should be in your capsule wardrobe, there really is no set number. If you live in jeans, you may want two or three of the same cut so you don't wear pairs out too quickly and can rotate. Equally, think about what colors of jeans you need. Lighter blue washes are always seen as more casual, deep indigo without any distressed elements can be worn smartly, but very black jeans will always be the smartest.
When it comes to buying trend-led jean shapes, these can be injected as and when and are unlikely to form part of the building blocks of your capsule wardrobe. For these pieces, look to straight-to-market brands for cheaper options rather than investing in branded styles.
The types of jeans you need in a capsule wardrobe include: straight jeans, flared jeans, skinny jeans, ankle cropped jeans, kick flare jeans, dungarees.
RRP: $98 / £100 | The original jean. If there ever was a pair of denim that deserved a spot in your capsule wardrobe, it's these. A lovely straight leg, in hard-wearing denim and with a flattering high-rise, these will never not have a place in fashion. They come in multi washes too, so if this is your shape, invest in a few hues and make these key to your closet.
RRP: £45 (UK only) | '70s-inspired flares are perfect for elongating legs (making them some of the best petite jeans) and are surprisingly easy to wear. If you're wondering how to style flared jeans, the trick is to keep your top half fitted, as this helps to balance out the width at the bottom of the hem. Pair with platform shoes to finish for a true vintage feel.
RRP: $68 / £74 | When it comes to wardrobe staples, the best skinny jeans are a no-brainer. Made with extra room in the hips, for a contoured but comfortable finish, this pair from Everlane loves curves. With a high waist to help flatter your midriff, use as a layering piece under tunics or longer line tops or try half-tucking in floatier tops to highlight your waist.
RRP: $55 / £55 | Just because it's cold out, doesn't mean you need to get rid of your cropped jeans. Make them work for fall and winter by styling them with the best cashmere socks and a pair of Chelsea boots this winter to keep you ankles protected.
RRP: $199 / £99 | A cropped style, with a kick flare finish. The length again works well for those of shorter stature. The flare is great for adding a little width to your bottom half, narrowing waistlines and balancing out a wider shoulder or fuller bust.
RRP: $81 / £68 | Not quite jeans, but close enough. Dungarees aren't just for off-duty days anymore, as they are extremely easy to style up and very versatile. We pair ours with a flowy blouse for smart-casual looks, or with a white tee for weekends.
The skirts you need in a capsule wardrobe
Having a selection of skirts in your capsule wardrobe will help you to maximize your tops. Essentially, building a capsule wardrobe is all about getting good basics together that you can mix and match as this increases the number of possible outfits you can create.
A bit like with jeans, you want to make sure you've got your basics covered, but after that, you can look for more trend-led iterations to mix up your wardrobe.
Opting for neutral block colors will always be more versatile, but if you love color and print, you should certainly add these into your building blocks too. And of course, whenever looking to purchase new items, make sure they go with at least three existing pieces in your wardrobe.
The types of skirts you need in a capsule wardrobe include: Leather skirt, denim skirt, slip skirt, pleated skirt, tulle skirt, maxi skirt, pencil skirt, knitted skirt, midi skirt.
RRP: $590 / £390 | One of this season's top buys, a leather skirt is actually a great wardrobe building block. If you're wondering how to style a leather skirt, stray from classic black and experiment with this oxblood shade for a modern and brighter look.
RRP: £59 (UK only) | Follow the denim trends 2022 and embrace all things blue. This denim midi will work for any and every occasion and can be styled hundreds of different ways. Check out denim skirt outfit ideas for plenty of style inspiration.
RRP: $205 / £170 | Comfortable and elegant are two words fashion rarely put together, but it is bang-on when talking about a slip skirt. Style with a white tee and trainers for a smart weekend look, or pair with a silky cami and heels for the evening.
RRP: $75 / £109 | If you are new to pleats, and wondering what to wear with a pleated skirt, this blue leopard print midi is foolproof. Flowy and comfortable, it will look just as good with baggy jumpers as it will with a tight black long sleeve tee.
RRP: $108 / £89 | Master how to dress like Carrie Bradshaw with this stunning blush tulle number that can be worn year round. Dress down with a tee and a denim jacket or make it occasion-ready with a silky camisole or pretty sheer blouse.
RRP: $80 / £52.95 | Floral pieces work well all year round, particularly to add some brightness and interest in colder weather. Great for pairing with white trainers for a laidback feel, it will also style well with a pair of tan boots and a denim jacket.
RRP: $38 / £26 | A pencil skirt is a great shape for hourglass silhouettes and pear-shaped bodies that want to show off their curves. A smart and tailored style, it makes a great wardrobe staple for work all year through, teaming with blazers, tops and blouses.
RRP: $59.99 / £35.99 | This nostalgic knitted skirt is a timeless shape, and gives a nod to '90s styling. The texture adds interest to everyday looks, pairing well with leather or knitted items for a tactile feel. Make it work for the winter by adding a metallic knit.
RRP: $120 / £75 | An A-line and/or tiered skirt is a flattering silhouette for a range of body types. Sitting higher on the waist it skims over midriffs for those with an apple-shaped body, drifts over fuller hips, and shows off hourglass waistlines.
The trousers you need in a capsule wardrobe
Curating the best trousers for your capsule wardrobe is not too dissimilar to sourcing the right jeans. You'll want a selection of styles that work for different occasions and pair them with the existing separates in your wardrobe. The exact cuts you opt for will depend on your body type, but when looking to gather a selection of building blocks for your wardrobe, there are a few key shapes and styles that are useful to have. When you find a great fitting pair of trousers, it's a good idea to get a couple of pairs, as brands change styles regularly and you won't want to be left disappointed. Opt for more neutral hues that will work with lots of items, injecting color and trend-led styles as and when.
The types of trousers you need in a capsule wardrobe include: Tailored trousers, tuxedo trousers, leather leggings, wide leg trousers, cargo trousers, pajama trousers (not for sleeping in).
RRP: $160 / £98 | A tailored trouser is one of the most important building blocks in your capsule wardrobe. If you struggle with fit, get items altered for the most flattering look. And when you find a great pair, stock up in all neutral hues.
RRP: £69 (UK only) | The best tuxedos for women make an elegant evening wear option, and some well tailored suit trousers are the place to start. Though the cobalt is bold, it is surprisingly versatile, pairing with white, black or pops of pink.
$975 / £595 | When it comes to how to style leather pants, a pair of leather leggings is a luxurious basic that will make the humblest tunic length shirts sing. Real leather, while pricier, will be less hot and sweaty so they're worth the investment if you can.
RRP: $159 / £79 | Wide leg trousers are both flattering and stylish, making them ideal for all manner of occasions. Style yours with a basic tee on weekends, or team with a soft cashmere sweaters and boots for instantly office-ready attire.
RRP: $102 / £55 | Thanks to '90s nostalgia, cargo trousers are back. When it comes to how to style cargo pants, experiment by adding a neutral colored pair to your closet. Try dressing these up with a heeled court shoe and a floaty chiffon blouse for a new take.
RRP: $169 / £109 | Get the comfort of your best pajamas with the look of office-wear with these white silk pants. Don't save white pants for warm weather, winter whites, paired with timeless camel hues makes for a chic daytime or evening-ready look.
The dresses you need in a capsule wardrobe
Dresses are the simplest way to feel put together. While a wardrobe of separates requires some styling, the best dresses and flattering jumpsuits are a full good-to-go outfit - just add shoes and jewelry. When it comes to building your capsule wardrobe of dresses, consider your body type and the shapes that suit you. If you're looking for dresses to highlight an hourglass shape, look for fit and flare or belted silhouettes. Want stylish dresses to hide a tummy? High-waisted styles or ruched iterations will look fantastic. Learn how to wear a wrap dress - to nail one of the most universally flattering fits, while the best shirt dresses always look smart. You might also want to consider the best shapewear under a dress to help sculpt and smooth your silhouette.
The types of dresses you need in a capsule wardrobe include: Shirt dress, midi dress, little black dress, slip dress, knitted dress, leopard dress.
RRP: $77.99 / £45 | This midi dress combines two of our favorite things: shirt dresses and denim. Versatile and cool, this dress will become an essential in your capsule wardrobe instantly. Team with a trench coat and the best white trainers.
RRP: $99.99 / £59.99 | The best midi dresses in either an A-line or wrap shape are an ideal all-season buy. From what to wear to a Christening to work-friendly attire, this dress can do it all. Style with heels for the evening or chunky boots during the day.
RRP: $218 / £245 | The perfect LBD doesn't have to be all black. We love the white accents on this Reformation mini that will work for both formal and casual occasions. Wear with tights and boots this winter, add a blazer to this look for extra polish.
RRP: $169 / £99 | A slip dress is ideal for all year wear. In the summer wear bare armed, or slipped over a white t-shirt. Come fall or winter, add a roll neck knit underneather or slip a jumper over the top to create the look of a skirt and sweater instead of a dress.
RRP: $135 / £89 | Sweater dresses are a wardrobe staple in winter. The perfect layering piece, or ideal for lazy days at home, they are both comfortable and chic. Team with boots to pull the look together, or wear around the house with the slippers.
RRP: $235 / £130 | A leopard print midi dress will never fail to make you feel confident. The fashion pack's version of a neutral and won't go out of style. Pair with heels for dressy occasions or team one with boots and a leather jacket for a casual twist.
The jackets you need in a capsule wardrobe
There are three key jacket shapes you should consider for your capsule wardrobe. All three can be worn in warmer months as outerwear without a coat on top, but in cooler months don't be afraid to wear them instead of a cardigan for extra versatility. When purchasing a jacket it's good to think about how you will wear them. Traditionally bikers, denim jackets and blazers are often left undone, so don't worry too much about being able to fully do them up. The best way to judge the fit is how it feels across your back, shoulders and arms. You want the jacket sleeve heads to sit correctly on your shoulders and you want to be able to freely move your arms. A jacket that is too tight will be uncomfortable and might also rip.
The types of jackets you need in a capsule wardrobe include: Leather jacket, denim jacket, blazer.
RRP: $400 / £319 | All Saints is known for making some of the best leather jackets. Leather is one of those items that looks better with age, so don't be afraid to get your wear out of it. Read our All Saints leather jacket review if you're considering investing.
RRP: $100 / £100 | You can't talk about the best denim jackets without referencing Levi's. Available in multiple washes, it adds an edge to any dress or simply act as a cardigan on a cool evening. Read our guide on how to style a denim jacket for full styling tips.
RRP: $205 / £295 | The power of a good blazer is unrivalled. Adding instant polish to any look, it can smarten up jeans, or a great dress, rendering most items office ready. While black is the obvious choice, don't discount a lighter and brighter choice.
The outerwear pieces your need in a capsule wardrobe
When it comes to the best coats for your capsule wardrobe, there are a few wardrobe essential styles that will stand the test of time. A good camel coat in a cozy wool will be a piece you can turn to as soon as the winter chill hits and fall outfit ideas take center stage. Wool coats are the perfect way to sharpen up any look, as they will instantly make an outfit look smarter, from your best jeans to a tailored outfit. Puffer coats are definitely for more casual moments, but the best puffers offer unrivaled warmth, giving you ultimate protection against the elements. Meanwhile, trench coats offer fantastic weather protection and the smartest iterations are a straight swap for your best-tailored wool coat as soon as the sun starts to shine. These three key styles will take you through the year with ease.
The types of outerwear you need in a capsule wardrobe include: Trench coat, wool coat, puffer coat.
RRP: $2,250 / £1,650 | A classic trench coat is a must-have piece. And while a Burberry trench coat is the iconic piece, there are plenty of budget-friendly options across the market. Look after your trench and in return it will save you on drizzly days.
RRP: $398 / £448 | A smart, belted coat is ideal for fall and winter office outfits. We love the light check pattern that will add interest to neutral outfits, without being overwhelming. Throw this coat over anything to instantly dress up any look.
RRP: $340 / £169 | A puffer coat is one of the best winter coat styles and while it once was seen as a trend-led piece, it has now secured a permanent place in our capsule wardrobes. Brighten up your winter wardrobe with a bright hue or bold print.
The shoes you need in a capsule wardrobe
Editing shoes for your capsule wardrobe is no easy task, particularly if this particular shoe quote hits a little too close to home: "The average woman falls in love seven times a year. Only six are with shoes.” - Kenneth Cole
As with clothing, there is no set number of items you should own when it comes to shoes but do really think about the space you have and the type of lifestyle you lead. If you're someone who lives in comfortable flats, as much as you might love the best designer heels, they may not be the wisest capsule wardrobe investment. When it comes to which shoes to actually purchase, make sure to opt for quality footwear that fits well.
The types of outerwear you need in a capsule wardrobe include: Ankle or Chelsea boots, knee-high boots, white trainers, evening shoes, strappy sandals.
RRP: $93 / £70 | An ankle boot will team effortlessly with trousers, jeans, dresses and skirts. We love this sustainable option from Office that is made from recycled plastics, so you can feel as good as you look. These boots will go with anything.
RRP: $150 / £149 | Dr Marten boots have had a revival in recent years and they're being teamed with everything from mom jeans to floral dresses, reaffirming that these hardworking Chelsea boots are the one to invest in for this season and beyond.
RRP: $279 / £225 | Every wardrobe needs a pair of classic knee-high riding boots. Ideal for wearing with a midi dress and jeans alike, this pair by Duo comes in a number of different calf widths for a pair of boots that will give a more personalized fit.
RRP: $95 / £80 | The best white trainers or plimsolls will help you dress down pieces for the weekend and keep your feet comfy too. Stan Smith trainers are a timeless classic and their smart but laid back silhouette pairs easily with most outfits.
RRP: £195 | These quilted flats with bow detailing evoke Chanel vibes at a fraction of the price. The perfect shoe for all year round, the luxe tan leather elevates this ballet pump design to new heights. Slip on with tailored pants or with an A-line dress.
RRP: $675 / £575 | A flat strappy sandal is ideal for the warmer months or if you're heading off for some winter sun. Whether you want to glam up your poolside look or need something to take you through evenings in style, a strappy design is the answer.
The bags you need in a capsule wardrobe
As with shoes, if bags are your way of injecting personality into your look, don't feel you need to be confined to just a couple of items, however there are some key styles that should be in your capsule wardrobe, both for their timeless design and their practicality.
The types of bags you need in a capsule wardrobe include: Crossbody bag, tote bag, clutch or evening bag
RRP: $1195 / £950 | The best crossbody bags are extremely practical, but that doesn't mean they can't be stylish too. This cream iteration by British clothing brand Mulberry is chic and versatile and the cream hue offers an instant uplift to any look.
RRP: $53 / £40 | The best tote bags ensure you can carry around all your essentials without compromising on style. This bag features an outer zip pocket and plenty of storage space to fit everything you need. Great for laptops and work commutes.
RRP: $740 / £630 | If you're looking for an investment piece, then the best designer bags are worth a look. Choose neutral hues and timeless styles that will go with everything. This Saint Laurent clutch with metal hardware is a real style winner.
The jewelry you need in a capsule wardrobe
Jewelry is the speediest way of switching up your look. Dress any outfit up or down in a flash by swapping your sparkle. Often not considered a must-have in a capsule wardrobe, some simple, gold, silver and rose gold designs will add instant chic to the most casual of looks and make every outfit feel finished.
At the start of every season consult the latest trends - read all about the jewelry trends 2023 here - and buy into statement trend pieces via cost effective straight-to-market brands. Use these trend-led designs to update your wardrobe staple pieces to give them a refresh.
The types of jewelry you need in a capsule wardrobe include: Layered chains, stacking rings, hoop earrings.
This is a great time to think about eyewear too if you wear glasses, you can make sure that your look always feels fresh by tapping into the eyeglasses trends 2023.
RRP: $845 / £555 | We love the layered look when it comes to how to dress simple but stylish. Though these necklaces are expensive, you are getting four separate pieces that match harmoniously. You can shop pieces separately slowly building your stack.
RRP: $175 / £131 | While you might reference the iconic Coco Chanel quote "Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off", right now, more is more. Stacking rings and layered chains are the looks to invest in for statement bling.
RRP: $136 / £105 | Everyone needs a pair of hoop earrings in their jewelry collection. This twisted pair puts a spin on the classic but will still match with anything. Missoma make great affordable luxury pieces that are worth the investment.
How to create a capsule wardrobe to suit your style - according to our fashion experts
We've pulled together some key items that should be included in your capsule wardrobe, depending on your style tribe. Remember, your capsule wardrobe should fit your aesthetic and lifestyle. It isn't about mathematical dressing or removing the fun, it's about making sure you have your basic building blocks and that whatever you buy truly deserves a spot in your closet.
How to build a capsule wardrobe for a jeans or trouser wearer
If you are someone who subscribes to the "jeans and a nice top" code of dressing, your capsule wardrobe should contain a selection of these pieces.
- Jeans: Invest in a selection of jeans as the most important building block for your capsule wardrobe. You may wish to stick to one particular leg shape, but we suggest having three to four pairs of jeans in different washes, such as dark denim for dressing up and light washes for casual attire.
- Trousers: You'll also need tailored and casual trousers. Unlike with jeans, this is slightly less formulaic. You'll want three to four tailored pairs of trousers, to cover you for dressier occasions, cigarette trousers and/or palazzo trousers for evening wear as well as casual trousers such as cotton straight-legged trousers, smart joggers or cargo pants.
- Sweater/knitwear: Gather an edit of great knitwear to pair with your jeans. You'll want a selection of sweaters for evenings out (think embellishment) and cozy styles for laid-back looks. There is no real number on this, but do think about how much you actually need and will wear. If you know you'll revert to a couple of comfies and one or two for best, then only invest in pieces you truly love. Remember to fold knitwear, use mothballs for cashmere and shave bobbles off to keep your jumpers looking fresh.
- Blazer: If you're wedded to your jeans whatever the occasion, then having a great tailored blazer will ensure you can sharpen up your look in an instant. If you have a pear-shaped body, look for a blazer with great tailoring through the waist.
- Tops/Blouses/Shirts: As with your knitwear, this doesn't need to be extensive. The joy of jeans is that they go with nearly everything, so be selective about your tops. If you're looking for numbers: five work-appropriate shirts, three to five for dressier occasions and four casual tops for weekend looks. If you want more, remember there is no set number, just remember to wear items on rotation.
Stylist's tip...
"A good pair of jeans is a great basis for a capsule wardrobe and once you’ve found the perfect pair for your body shape, they can fit almost every aspect of a versatile wardrobe as they can easily be dressed up or down. For work opt for pairs in darker shades such as over-dyed black or indigo for a smart look that mimics more typical office-appropriate trousers. Team with a tailored silk blouse, stylish blazer and smart shoes or boots for a look that will instantly make you feel pulled together. For weekend outings, the same jeans can be dressed down with a t-shirt, jacket and trainers for a stylish off-duty look." - stylist and fashion editor, Antonia Kraskowski (opens in new tab).