How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe in 2024

Capsule Wardrobe

Jan 23

Written By Lily

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The new year inspires new changes for many of us. When it comes to our wardrobe, we might seek to dress more sustainably, discover our personal style or upgrade our closet with high-quality pieces. If starting a capsule wardrobe is one of your resolutions for 2024, look no further. In this blog post, I’m sharing everything you need to know on how to create a capsule wardrobe and transform your closet in the new year.

In our consumer-driven culture with endless fashion choices, curating our closets can feel like a challenge. A capsule wardrobe offers a practical solution. Essentially, a capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of essential, timeless clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched to create endless outfits. It’s about quality over quantity, ensuring that each item serves a purpose and aligns with your personal style.

So if you want to finally get your closet together in the new year, I’ve curated a classic capsule wardrobe to get you started. It features the timeless wardrobe staples that you need to put together effortlessly chic looks all year round. Whether you are working at the office, running errands or enjoying a night out, this capsule wardrobe will allow you to create elegant looks for any occasion with just 20 basic pieces. Continue reading to discover how to build a capsule wardrobe in 2024 and a sample capsule wardrobe to inspire you.

What Is a Capsule Wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of essential pieces that are carefully selected to create a versatile and functional wardrobe. Curating a capsule wardrobe simplifies the process of getting dressed each day, streamlining your closet to include only items that you love and that suit your personal style.

The concept is all about quality over quantity, focusing on timeless, well-fitting pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a wide range of outfits. Capsule wardrobes are often organized by season and can be customized to suit individual preferences and lifestyle needs. It's a smart, stylish approach to fashion that emphasizes quality, versatility, and personal expression.

What are the Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe?

If you've read my blog for some time, you're likely aware of how much I love capsule wardrobes. This method of dressing has not only transformed my personal style but also given me the freedom to focus on what truly matters in my life. If you’re not already convinced to build a capsule wardrobe, here are some of the advantages of a capsule wardrobe that have significantly enhanced my life:

Embrace personal style. By focusing on pieces that truly reflect your style, a capsule wardrobe allows you to define and refine your personal style identity. You’ll look and feel more cohesive and authentic in your style.
Look amazing every day. A capsule wardrobe simplifies your choices by curating a collection of versatile pieces that align with your style. It eliminates decision fatigue, making it easier to get dressed each day and ensuring you always look great.
Versatility. Despite having a limited number of pieces, a well-curated capsule wardrobe offers numerous outfit combinations suitable for various occasions, from casual to formal.
Less clutter. Having a well-organized, curated wardrobe can reduce stress. You’ll feel less overwhelmed by clothing choices and dealing with a cluttered closet.
Get dressed faster. With fewer items to choose from, dressing becomes more efficient. Mix-and-match options within a capsule wardrobe streamline the process, saving time while ensuring you always look put-together.
Save money. Investing in quality over quantity leads to a more cost-effective wardrobe in the long run. Fewer, well-made pieces tend to last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Mindful consumption. A capsule wardrobe can foster a more conscious approach to shopping. It encourages thoughtful consideration before purchasing new items, which reduces impulse buying and promotes more mindful shopping habits.
Environmental impact. Embracing a minimalist wardrobe approach contributes to reducing fashion waste. By consuming less and investing in durable pieces, you lower your environmental footprint.
Travel-friendly. The adaptability of a capsule wardrobe makes it perfect for travel. Packing becomes easier as you can mix and match a few key pieces to create different looks without overpacking.
Focuses on what matters. A capsule wardrobe shifts the focus from material possessions to personal values and what truly matters, allowing for a more intentional and mindful lifestyle.

How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe in 2024

1. Define Your Style

Begin by defining your personal style. This step is crucial as it forms the foundation of your capsule wardrobe. Whether you prefer a classic, minimalist, or eclectic style, identifying your preferences will guide your clothing choices.

While easier said than done, having a general aesthetic in mind will help you put together a cohesive capsule wardrobe. This isn’t about confining yourself to a single style but rather gaining a broad understanding of your preferences.

To get inspired, start by gathering inspiration from fashion magazines, Pinterest boards, Instagram accounts, or even art, architecture, and nature. Save or pin images that resonate with you and evoke a feeling or aesthetic you love.

You should also take a critical look at your existing wardrobe. Identify pieces you love and wear often and those you never reach for. Note patterns in the colors, silhouettes, and styles of your favorite items. This will help you further define your personal style.

Ideally, your style should reflect your lifestyle and be comfortable for your daily activities. Whether you prefer casual, professional, sporty, or a mix, ensure your style aligns with your life. Keep in mind, that your style will likely change over time. My style has shifted from preppy to minimalist and now tends towards classic. You can always adjust your capsule to suit your ever-evolving style.

Once you have a better idea of what style you’re drawn to, compile your inspirations into a mood board or collage. This visual representation can help identify patterns, colors, textures, and styles that consistently attract you. It’s a great tool for understanding your style preferences. I like to make my mood boards on Pinterest to get extra suggestions based on my saved inspiration.

2. Choose a Color Palette

Determining a color palette for your capsule wardrobe involves understanding what shades complement your complexion. I’ve previously covered the concept of finding your color season, but it’s important for selecting a palette that harmonizes with your coloring. There are many resources available online, so I won’t discuss it too much in this post, but knowing your color season will make it easier to choose a color palette while also ensuring that your clothes look amazing on you.

Once you’ve identified the colors that suit you, narrow down your best colors to about 5 key shades for your classic capsule wardrobe. Start by choosing 2-3 neutral colors. This will allow you to effortlessly mix and match pieces and lay the foundation for you to incorporate bolder colors and patterns that more authentically express your personal style. Neutrals might seem boring in the beginning, but once you have them, you’ll be able to put together outfits seamlessly. Neutrals like black, white, beige, cream, grey, camel, medium brown, and blue, anchor your closet, acting as a base onto which bolder shades can be layered.

Accent colors, on the other hand, introduce vibrancy and personality. They represent the shades that resonate with you and enhance your style. Opt for 1-2 accent colors from your identified color season, ideally within a similar color family, which will maximize their versatility.

3. Assess Your Current Wardrobe

Now it’s time to take a critical look at your existing clothes. Start by emptying your closet and lay out all your clothing items. I prefer to sort items into categories: tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, shoes, accessories, etc. This categorization will help you see the full range of what you own. Then, review each category and identify items you frequently wear, those that are rarely worn and pieces that no longer fit or align with your style or color season. Set aside items that don’t fit or aren’t aligned with your style to donate, sell or store.

If this is your first time editing your wardrobe, I wouldn’t recommend tossing out your entire closet. For items that don’t entirely spark joy, consider storing them completely out of sight, perhaps in a bin, or set them apart in your closet.

If you find that these items remain untouched after a year, then it might be a sign to part with them. However, if you occasionally find yourself drawn to these items, consider the following options:

Integrate them into your current capsule
Establish a new capsule around them
Upgrade these items

For instance, I frequently found myself reaching for a cream blouse, but I never wore it because it was a bit too sheer for my taste. I made a mental note and added a similar cream blouse to my wishlist that wasn’t so sheer. This approach allowed me to refine my choices and upgrade items that almost made the cut into pieces that better fit my desired wardrobe.

4. Select Core Pieces

Choose versatile, timeless pieces that form the core of your capsule wardrobe. These essentials usually include items like a well-fitted pair of jeans, a classic white shirt, a tailored blazer, a little black dress, and neutral-colored tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched effortlessly.

The core pieces in your wardrobe can vary based on your lifestyle, whether you prefer a casual, professional, sporty, or mixed style. To offer inspiration as you curate your core wardrobe, I’ve listed ten timeless pieces that are the perfect foundation for most capsules. Paired with carefully chosen accessories and accent pieces, these essentials enable you to authentically express your personal style.

Trench coat
Tailored blazer
Crewneck sweater
Button-up shirt
Cotton t-shirt
Tailored pants
Leggings
Medium to dark wash jeans
Pencil or A-line skirt
Little black* dress

*Or any neutral color like navy, gray, camel, etc.

5. Add Accent Pieces

Now that you’ve identified the core pieces in your capsule wardrobe, it’s time to supplement them with a few accent items that add personality and variety.

These could be statement jewelry, a patterned scarf, a bold-colored sweater, or a distinctive pair of shoes. These pieces add flair and can transform the look of your outfits without deviating from the core aesthetic.

They could also be additional neutral basics to expand on your core pieces. Consider a denim jacket, striped shirt, ankle boots or carry-all tote.

Accent pieces can also be seasonal items like a wool coat, riding boots, structured shorts or strappy sandals.

Basically, these accent pieces are going to fill out your capsule wardrobe by including more tailored, seasonal items with your selected core pieces. Not sure which accent pieces to choose? Here are some ideas for a classic, year-round capsule wardrobe:

Wool coat
Denim jacket
Leather jacket
Striped button-down
Basic tank top
Tailored shorts
Slip skirt
Black jeans
Structured tote
Shoulder bag
Wool hat
Cashmere or wool scarf
Silk scarf
Classic sunglasses
Neutral heels
Loafers
Ankle boots

6. Consider Quality

Invest in quality pieces that are durable and made from good materials. While they might have a higher price tag initially, they tend to last longer, saving you money in the long run. Quality items also tend to fit better and retain their shape and color over time. To build your capsule wardrobe with high-quality pieces, here are some of my favorite places to shop:

Vestiare Collective: Another luxury resale platform offering authenticated, pre-loved designer fashion. They curate a selection of high-end clothing and accessories.
The Real Real: A luxury consignment platform offering authenticated, pre-owned designer items. They specialize in high-end fashion, including clothing, accessories, and more.
Cuyana: Minimalist designs and quality leather goods. They emphasize quality over quantity and offer timeless pieces meant to last.
Theory: Renowned for its contemporary, sleek, and sophisticated clothing, they specialize in modern workwear and clean-lined silhouettes.
Filippa K: Swedish fashion brand known for its sustainable practices and minimalist, Scandinavian-inspired designs.
Arket: Contemporary yet timeless designs. They provide a range of modern essentials. (Currently not shipping to the U.S.)
Everlane: Affordable basics that are made to last. Known for their modern essentials like t-shirts, sweaters and denim.
COS: Modern, functional, and clean-lined designs. They prioritize timeless pieces with a contemporary edge.
J.Crew: Known for its classic, preppy style. They offer a range of clothing, blending timeless elegance with modern trends.
Uniqlo: Japanese brand known for its affordable basics and functional apparel.

Now that you have selected a color palette and decided on the core and accent pieces for your capsule, let's put together a classic capsule wardrobe that will work year-round. This classic capsule wardrobe features 20 key pieces: 3 pieces of outerwear, 1 dress, 4 tops, 4 bottoms, 4 pairs of shoes and 4 accessories which will allow you to put together several stylish outfits year-round. It includes style staples that can be easily worn together for both daytime and evening looks. The best part is that you likely already have some of these items in your current wardrobe.

Classic Capsule Wardrobe Checklist

Shop the Capsule Wardrobe

Classic Capsule Wardrobe Outfit Ideas

At the Office

Simplify your mornings with this stylish outfit for work that is easy to put together. A classic button-up shirt is a style staple that looks elevated with a tailored blazer layered on top. During the colder months, opt for a camel crewneck sweater and a matching wool coat. You can’t go wrong with a pair of black trousers that you can wear year-round to create work-appropriate looks. For footwear, opt for a pair of elegant ankle boots or comfortable leather loafers. A timeless black belt will help define your figure and upgrade your ensemble even more. Pack your tote with all of your work essentials, and you’re ready to head to the office.

Running Errands

Run errands in style while wearing this comfortable fit that’s perfect for when you’re out and about, on the go. Black leggings are an easy pant to pair with any basic tee. Elevate the look with a classic trench coat that will also keep you warm on chillier days. Sporty sneakers are a wardrobe must-have, and this white pair from Everlane is a timeless basic. Finish your look with a large tote to carry extra shopping bags and your everyday essentials.

Casual Friday

Here’s another easy chic look that’s perfect for a casual Friday at the office. Start with a classic cotton shirt and a pair of straight-leg jeans. A black blazer and leather loafers add a preppy touch and will instantly make your outfit office-appropriate. You can easily transform your look for happy hour by swapping the loafers for ankle boots and adding a crossbody bag.

Night Out

For any evening plans, you can’t go wrong with this effortlessly romantic ensemble. A silk blouse is the perfect piece to layer underneath a tailored blazer. Keep it comfortable with a pair of straight-leg jeans and your favorite heels. A shoulder bag and a black belt are easy accessories to finish your look for a night out.

Weekend Brunch

This chic ensemble is perfect for any weekend activity (although my favorite is brunch with friends). A white button-up shirt and black mini skirt is an easy combo that feels incredibly timeless. For a casual touch, add a shoulder bag and a flat loafer for extra comfort. Don’t forget to layer a trench coat on top to complete your casual, yet stylish weekend look.

Coffee Date

Combine only a few basic pieces for the ultimate off-duty weekend look. A pair of blue jeans and a tee are great foundation pieces for any outfit. Add interest by layering a trench on top and sliding on a comfy loafer. With a structured tote bag and some everyday jewelry, you’re ready for your next coffee date.

Ready to build your own capsule wardrobe? The important thing is to enjoy the process and allow yourself to build a wardrobe that works for you and your lifestyle. By being thoughtful about your wardrobe, you’ll be able to better express your own style and feel more authentic in what you wear.

What items are essential in your capsule wardrobe? What do you think of this classic capsule wardrobe? Let me know in the comments below.