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, 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.
Why is a capsule wardrobe a good idea?
It saves you money: A capsule wardrobe will not only save you time in the morning, it can also have a positive impact on your bank balance. According to a study from ClosetMaid, the average woman has 103 items in her wardrobe, with an eye-watering 58% of those items hanging unworn for the past six months.
A capsule wardrobe is all about getting your wardrobe working for you and adding pieces to it that you can wear with existing items. It's all about shopping smarter.
It saves the planet: A capsule wardrobe could also be beneficial to the environment. It's no secret that the rise of fast fashion has had a devastating impact on the environment, with the UN stating that by 2050, the fashion industry will take up a quarter of the world’s carbon budget. By buying less but better, or buying clothing that is more functional for our needs and wardrobes, we're more likely to keep hold of it for longer and less like to dump it into landfill or simply have clothes lying unloved.
Remember you can always learn how to sell clothes online, to make some money to fund new items in your capsule wardrobe, while giving your unloved pieces a new home too.
It saves you from shopping regret: A capsule wardrobe requires you to really think about your purchases.
“If you're in doubt about buying something, ask whether you can wear it three different ways; if you can only wear an item one way, it’s not worth it,” says stylist Susie Hasler.
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 flattering jumpsuit, or silk palazzo pants
- Bags—Cross-body, 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.
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?
Capsule wardrobe: Investment styles
Invest in your basics...
When it comes to buying the building blocks of your wardrobe, invest as much as you can. Whether that's the best tailoring you can afford, the best denim or a great coat. The idea is that your basics are the foundations of your wardrobe, you'll wear these pieces all the time (for many seasons), adding in newer, often cheaper, more trend-led pieces as and when. But always think about whether that new purchase will go with at least 3 things in your existing wardrobe.
Keep your basics (fairly) neutral...
This just means they can easily be combined with newer purchases. Before you invest, always ask yourself 'what color suits me?. From there, you can form a color palette for your key wardrobe building blocks.
But...
“Above all else, you need to look at what makes you feel good. What fabrics do you feel most comfortable in? What fits do you go back to time and time again? What outfit silhouette do you feel most flatters your body? You want to fill your wardrobe with pieces that are not only practical, versatile and comfortable, but that also make you feel fab,” adds Anna.
This is what you need in a 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, 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.
Reformation Scoop Neck Top
RRP: $58 / £60 | A scoop neck is great for rebalancing proportions as it opens up the neck area. If you want a rounded neck that gives great cleavage too, a scoop is ideal.
Hush V-Neck Grey Slub Tee
RRP: £32 (UK only) | In breathable cotton, this v-neck top is a smart choice for those looking to gain a few sneaky inches. The V draws the eye up and down the body, lengthening your silhouette in an instant.
Crew Clothing Breton Stripe Top
RRP: $41.74 / £32 | The fashion pack will tell you that a Breton striped top is a capsule wardrobe essential. This classic print will never go out of fashion and always looks chic.
River Island BlackTop
RRP: $37 / £20 | Stock up on basic camisoles, both thick and thin straps, and tank tops in various neutral hues to work as layering pieces underneath sweaters and shirts to help you switch up your look.
Boden Wrap Top
RRP: $80 / £55 | A wrap top is great for hugging and highlighting hourglass curves. A really feminine shape, this style top softens tailored trousers or jeans and works really well with skirts.
M&S Slogan Sweatshirt
RRP: $42.50 / £25 | A slogan sweatshirt has become a wardrobe staple. Easy to update, but never out of style, whatever your mood, say it with your clothing. A stylish way to inject some new into your closet.
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.
J.Crew Breton Striped Sweater
RRP: $118 / £132 | This classic collared sweater will pair well with denim and casual midi skirts. The Breton stripe never goes of style, making it ideal for a capsule wardrobe. In a relaxed fit, utilize a half-tuck to help define your silhouette.
Brora Pink Cashmere Sweater
RRP: $475 / £298 | Making some of the best sweaters, Brora cashmere is absolutely gorgeous. From classic black and neutral tones to bright color clothing iterations, when it comes to investing your knits, opt for high quality, natural fabrics.
Holland & Cooper Black Fitted Roll Neck
RRP: $77.21 / £59 | This British brand is often spotted on Kate Middleton, showcasing just what great quality it is. A roll neck is ideal for layering under dresses in cooler months but can also be worn as a stand alone piece.
Benetton Cable Knit Sweater
RRP: $415 / £245 | A cable knit is a serious style staple. This cream Aran wool knit is a classic look for winter months and can be switched out for cotton versions come the spring. Neutral tones such as cream will go with absolutely everything.
Gant Beige V-Neck Sweater
RRP: £89 (UK only) | A V-neck sweater is flattering on a larger bust and also a strong layering piece over any of your classic wardrobe staple t-shirts. For a cozy but smart look, pair a V-neck sweater over a crisp white shirt and team with tailored trousers.
The White Company Hoodie
RRP: $259 / £179 | A cashmere hoodie is a piece you can reach for time and again. Just remember to update those mothballs in your drawers and closets to keep moths at bay. This white cashmere hoodie is ideal for lazy weekends and lounging.
Arket Knitted High Neck Dress
RRP: $99 / £89 | The sweater dress has the ability to be super smart or cozy and casual. To dress it up, pair with your best blazer, tights and knee high boots and add a belt for waist definition. For casual, wear it with trainers and a shacket.
Boden Green Cotton Cardigan
RRP: $90 / £65 | An easy way to inject the fashion color trends 2022 into your capsule wardrobe, opt for bright block knits that can add a mood-boosting element to basic t-shirt and jean outfits. These can be re-worked and switched up seasonally.
H&M Grey Fabric Belt Cardigan
RRP: $49.99 / £34.99 | Belted longline cardigans, make a fantastic alternative to full outerwear as we head to spring. In colder months, use as a cozy layering piece over the best midi dresses and simple jeans and t-shirt combos.
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.
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.
Hawes & Curtis White 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.
Me+Em Ruffle Neck Blouse
RRP: $245 / £150 | A silky shirt transforms this androgynous silhouette to something more floaty and feminine. Silk is great for regulating your body temperature, making it ideal for warmer weather. Opt for neutral hues for versatility.
Saint Laurent Pussy-Bow Blouse
RRP: $1,390 / £945 | A pussy-bow blouse is a sleek and sultry item. Appropriate for work or evening, this style can be worn loosely over jeans or tucked into skirts for a retro feel. Ideal for those looking to add width and curve to a bust line.
Monki Statement Collar Shirt
RRP: $35 / £30 | Statement collar blouses started as a trend piece then pitched up and stayed as a capsule wardrobe staple. The bigger the better, wear alone, styled under sweater vests or under cardigans for a classic but directional look.
Levi's Essential Denim Shirt
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 fashion favorite double-denim look.
Zara Basic Cotton Shirt
RRP: $35.90 / £27.99 | A basic cotton shirt, either block colored or striped, easily smartens up jeans, is great for work, and is a style that will really never date, an ideal capsule wardrobe piece.
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.
Levi's 501 Originals Dark Blue Jeans
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.
River Island Mid Blue Flares
RRP: $78 / £42 | Flared jeans are great for adding width to your bottom half, making them a great choice for those with broad shoulders or a larger bust. When choosing your flare level do consider your height as it can be overwhelming. And when in doubt, add heels or platform shoes underneath for an extra boost.
Beauty in Curves Skinny Jeans
RRP: $193 / £145 | Skinny jeans have become a firm favorite for denim wearers. These curve sculpting jeans offer even those that are nervous of the figure hugging shape a great option. With a high rise, tummy sculpting panels and bum lifting abilities, these dark black jeans will keeping you looking smart and feeling fabulous.
Me+Em Cropped Tapered Jeans
RRP: $194 / £165 | An ankle crop jean is a great choice for petites. Losing just a little bit extra at the hem of your jeans can actually elongate your silhouette. In a spring-ready white, if you've been wondering how to wear Vans, these ankle crop jeans would work well.
Whistles Kick Flare Mid Blue Jeans
RRP: $199 / £99 | Another cropped style, this time with a kick flare finish. The cropped length again works really well for those of shorter stature. The kick flare is great for adding just a little width to your bottom half, subtly narrowing waistlines and balancing out a wider shoulder or fuller bust.
Boden Girlfriend Dungarees
RRP: $150 / £98 | Not quite jeans, but close enough, dungarees used to be reserved for dressed-down days, but their growth in popularity amongst the fashion set has earned them a place in the capsule wardrobe. Pair with t-shirts for casual occasions and dress up by layering over a broderie Anglaise blouse.
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.
M&S Leather Midaxi A-Line Skirt
RRP: $315 / £149 | A leather skirt, like a leather jacket is an investment purchase. Working well for both smart and casual occasions, this is a piece that will only get better with age.
White Stuff Denim A-Line Skirt
RRP: $86 / £55 | A denim skirt is often seen as being smarter than jeans, meaning you can wear it for slightly more formal events. While there are lots of iterations around, a knee length version is timeless.
Ghost Luna Slip Skirt in Khaki
RRP: $125 / £69 | Like the best leggings, a slip skirt is one of those wardrobe basics that can work with a multitude of tops. Add something dressy and you have a wedding-ready look, add a tee and it's casual.
Hobbs Pleated Skirt
RRP: $290 / £139 | A pleated skirt can be a little trickier to wear, particularly for pear and apple shape silhouettes. Look for a partially pleated skirt with a flat front panel for a style that's more universally flattering.