For the last couple years, the term “capsule wardrobe” has been tossed around the street fashion and style influencer world, but what really is a capsule wardrobe? Simply put, it is a wardrobe made up of basics and a few special items where every clothing item and accessory can be mixed and matched together to create a multitude of chic outfits. The purpose of such a thing is to limit throw away fashion, items of poor quality that only last a few wares or items that don’t go with anything else in the closet. A capsule wardrobe also helps heavy spenders limit unnecessary purchases by making them purchase items of higher quality that have more wear, and items that will help create more outfits with the clothes they already have.
A capsule wardrobe is customizable for every person to fit their lifestyle and personal style. The basic items of a capsule wardrobe are the base that each outfit is built on. These items come in many different styles and cuts, so even though they are basic, they don’t have to be boring. If you are anything like me, you’ll need outfit variability so that the clothing boredoms are kept at bay. So, when building a capsule wardrobe, pick out basics that are classic but also are visually interesting to you. From there, accessories and special statement pieces can be easily added to keep your outfits unique. Having a good base is the key stone to building beautiful outfits that look effortlessly chic. To start your own capsule wardrobe, let’s start with just the clothing basics, below is a list of wardrobe staples that every woman needs in her capsule wardrobe.
Let’s strip down to the clothing basics:
Pants:
$29.99 at Target
Black pants– These are a must in any closet. A well fitting black pant is essential for a work wardrobe as well as an everyday outfit basic because they go with everything and make you look put together without much effort.
$54 at Lulus
Jeans– You can pick the style and wash you like best, but having a few good jeans that fit you and make you feel at your best will make any outfit automatically look better. Invest in quality denim that can last you more than one fall without getting stretched and faded.
$24.99 at Old Navy
Pencil skirt– This item lends itself more readily to the professional gal, but a neutral colored pencil skirt easily dresses up an outfit and if paired with more casual items, like a jean jacket and sneakers, it can be dressed down.
Tops:
$49.90 at Express, $29.90 on sale right now!
White blouse– Any style will do, so chose your favorite, but if you don’t like wearing tanks under your clothes, make sure it is not too sheer so your bra and belly button won’t be visible. A white blouse is chic and timeless and make any outfit look effortlessly beautiful.
$39.90 at Express, $29.90 on sale right now!
Cami– I recommend a silky black cami because it is an easy outfit builder, but if you are a person who doesn’t wear black often then any neutral colored cami will work just fine. Camis are good for layering both under jackets and over long sleeves.
$14.99 at Target
Turtle neck– I am personally a huge turtle neck fan. Though turtle necks are usually seen in fall and winter wardrobes, I think they can work well in a spring wardrobe especially if you go for a tank turtle neck and style with more spring or summer items, like a twirly skirt and sandals.
$28 at Lulus
Black long sleeve– Again, if you aren’t a fan of black, opt for a neutral color or a color that works well with the rest of you clothing items so that it is buildable. A simple long sleeve, whether you choose a wrap style or a classic crew neck, is able to start any outfit off in the right direction and can be made more interesting by adding accessories, jackets and bling. I highly recommend a neutral color so that all of your accessories can be worn with it.
Jackets:
$53 at Lulus
Blazer– This is essential for a work wardrobe because a blazer creates a level of professionalism to an outfit that can boost your confidence as well as the attitudes of those around you. It is important for the blazer (or blazers, let’s be real) you choose are fitted nicely on your figure. Blazers come in many cuts and colors, so pick one that is your style. A classic black blazer is a must, but also a nude or white blazer is very sophisticated. Pair a blazer with jeans and a sweater and you have a perfect casual outfit. See? So versatile.
$64 at Asos
Jean jacket– Now this item is on the more casual end of the spectrum, especially of you opt for a lighter wash with a slouchy cut. But, a classic denim jacket is a good topper to a casual or going out outfit because it can complete a look and add a layer of warmth without seeming like you are wearing a coat.
$29.99 at Old Navy
Long cardigan/sweater– This is a perfect layering tool in any wardrobe. By replacing a zip up hoodie with a cardigan your outfit automatically elevates itself to a look. Again, a neutral color will go with more outfits and is easier to build on, but I am all for mixing and matching outerwear.
Dresses:
$39.99 at Old Navy
LBD– The classic little black dress can do no wrong. There are so many styles to choose from, some more dressy, some more casual, so take your pick. The LBD can be dressed up and down with different accessories, shoes and outerwear and is perfect for those “I have nothing to wear moments.” Find a cut that works with your body and invest in tailoring it to fit you perfectly, that way you know it will always look good, even if you don’t feel good.
$55 at Lulus
Shift dress– This is a dress that is easy to wear and is casual in nature. Find a fabric that does not easily wrinkle and choose a cut that flatters your figure. This dress is a go to during the hotter months and is an outfit on its own.