24 Items You Need To Build a Capsule Wardrobe
Does your closet feel like a strategically-planned collection of clothes that allows you to easily put outfits together that reflect your personal style?
If you’re like most women, you have a hodgepodge of items: old, new, some that fit, some that don’t, high quality, poor quality, worn out and never worn. It’s no surprise that putting outfits together is confusing and uninspiring.
What if you could do a reset with a planned system? I’ve been asked if there is such a thing and the answer is, YES! Drawing on my experience working with clients I’ve developed a Core Capsule system that begins with a foundation of 24 classic, quality pieces that I believe every woman should own. These items work together to easily create outfits. And not everyone’s 24 items are exactly the same. For example, one item in the capsule is black pants. Your black pants are different then mine based on our personal style, body type, budget and lifestyle.
Keep reading to learn how to build your Core Capsule, or take the quiz and sign up for us to create your personalized core capsule!
The fun part comes once you’ve built your Core Capsule because this is where you then add in (or keep) items that are seasonal, current, special and unique. It’s like eating your veggies before you have desert. The best part is seeing how easily you can make outfits with your seasonal pieces because you have those core pieces that go with everything.
Once you start taking this more strategic, thoughtful approach to building your wardrobe you will reduce decision-making fatigue, have more space in your closet, save money by limiting those impulse purchases, reduce waste by having long-lasting, quality items that don’t go out of style, and have a plan for adding fresh, current items seasonally.
But wait, there are 25 items in that photo! Good eye - we added an extra purse. Just making sure you’re paying attention.
Here’s how it works:
Build or edit down your wardrobe to create a Core Styling System wardrobe that is made up of approximately:
60% core items: these are classic, quality, well-fitting, well cared for items in mostly solid colors. Within this category is a core capsule wardrobe that consists of 24 essential items (continue reading for the list).
30% rotational and seasonal items: these are items that cycle in and out based on trends, seasons and your evolving preferences and taste.
10% statement: these are special occasion and travel items. Typically dressier, special, heirloom, once-in-a-while or simply “just for fun” items.
Of course these ratios are a general guide and the percentages will change slightly according to your lifestyle.
I’ve been asked for this list of core capsule items by my followers and I’m happy to it. Again, these are not trendy items so the list might seem bland. But I assure you, when you build outfits with beautifully constructed, well fitting, classics, you won’t need much more than some accessories to look stunning. It’s like the engineering of a home foundation - not exactly the most creative part of building a house but without it, nothing matters.
Don’t get me wrong, as much as I love the minimalist, European vibe of, say Amalie and Cecile Moosgaard (which, by the way, this core capsule of 25 items will help you create), I find immense joy in patterns, colors, textile details and unique silhouettes that are the rotational and seasonal 30% of the core styling system. Adding these items is the next step in the process, so we must be patient! But having the right core capsule means you can look effortlessly chic without having to think about it.
Use this list as a guide and do your own closet audit to see what you already have. Ideally pull the items out onto a clothing rack or different area to take a close look and see the capsule all together. If anything is old, tired or doesn’t fit perfectly then it’s time to look for a replacement. This is your chance to upgrade items so you end up with the perfect 24 core capsule pieces.
I’ve included examples and more details below. Happy foundation building!
CORE CAPSULE LIST:
Jeans (straight, medium wash)
Pants - trouser or dressy (black)
Pants - utility, chino or khaki style (army green or earth tone)
Shirt (white cotton)
Shirt (denim or chambray)
Silk blouse (black or navy)
Silk blouse (ivory or white)
Sleeveless shell (black or navy)
Sleeveless shell (ivory or white)
T-shirt (white)T-shirt (black)
Top with pattern (stripe, floral or geometric)
Thin sweater (black or navy)
Thin sweater (camel, ivory or gray)
Blazer (solid back or navy)
Coat (trench or wool)
Jacket (leather, jean or utility)
Dress (simple black)
Flat (black or brown)
Heel (black or brown)
Boot (black or brown)
Sneaker
Purse - medium size (neutral)
Belt (black or brown)
As a stylist I’ve spent hours searching for the perfect core capsule items for my clients. I know which items work best for the most women. Of course, there are 1000 options for each of these items, but here are some of my favorites:
Jeans
are so fundamental and of course could be a completely separate blog post - and it will be soon. Most of us have way too many. We need different hem lengths, washes and overall fit. P lus some are more casual and some are dressier.
For your core capsule I recommend a straight leg, structured mid-wash pair. My two favorite straight jeans are a great price: Gap High Rise Cheeky Straight and Levi’s Wedgie Straight.
Black pants
Black pants are another item that most women have multiples of because we need different hem length and silhouettes. For your core capsule I recommend an ankle length pair that can be worn with loafers, flats, heels or sneakers. If you prefer a longer silhouette I recommend the Arielle pants from Nili Lotan - they are truly amazing. For a lower price version, try these long trouser silhouette pants from Reformation.
Neutral pants
For your core capsule, I recommend an olive, gray or light khaki pair of utility pants. Nili Lotan makes the Shon Pant in several great neutral colors and the barrel cut is super cool.
Some women cannot live without white jeans or pants and if that’s you, then include them in your core capsule of 24. Basically, you want to include or add a pair of pants that are not blue jeans and are not black pants.
White button up shirt
A crisp white button up is something I definitely have multiples of in my wardrobe. I’ve heard many clients say that a white button up feels too tailored or masculine and doesn’t reflect their style. If that’s you, then consider a white pop-over or a softer, drapey cotton button up shirt.
The perfectly fitting, high quality ivory blouse can elevate the simplest outfit and it will never go out of style. Accessorize it with timeless gold jewelry to add warmth and elegance.
Black or navy long sleeve silk blouse
Pairing a dark, high-quality blouse with jeans or perfect black pants is a winning look every time. This tonal dressing effect is the perfect go-to that always flatters.
Whether it’s a silk cami or cotton tank, having a high-quality white or ivory base top can be worn alone or under a blazer or jacket.
I am a big fan of these sweater tanks from Amazon. Although the fabric is acrylic (which I rarely recommend), because it’s a shell there’s less concern about the fact that acrylic isn’t breathable. The stitching on these sweater shells is incredibly flattering!
White & Black T-shirts
No need to explain, but it’s important to find a T-shirt silhouette that works for you. Ideally you should own a few different shapes in your core category - a classic “true” T shape, a wide scoop neck with cap sleeves and maybe a more fitted cut. For the core capsule I recommend whichever style feels the most comfortable and flattering.
I’m a bit of a Breton stripe enthusiast and feel it should be promoted to the core capsule. But I know they aren’t for everyone so a stripe button down or any geometric or polka dot pattern top should be a part of your core capsule.
Black or navy thin cotton or cashmere sweater
The key to this item is the neckline and how the bottom hem hits your hips. Getting this fit right is essential to ensure it makes the cut as a “core capsule item”. You should feel like you want to wear it all the time because it flatters you so much. And it must be top quality to ensure it holds its shape if you are going to wear it so often.
Black or navy blazer
When I first started styling, I was surprised to find out how many women don’t own or even consider owning a blazer. I think many women associate them with a suit and feel it’s simply not their style. The reality is there are so many different blazer styles that range in silhouette and fabric. A nautical “Captains blazer” is a great option, and a more casual linen or knit blazer is great for those with a more relaxed, casual personal style.
Jacket
A leather or jean jacket is the perfect casual layering piece that pretty much goes with anything.
I don’t know if Jenna Lyons is responsible for making the jean jacket a styling staple and hence a core capsule item but let’s give her the credit. There are an endless number of styles that range in price to suit your taste and budget. You need one - no matter what your age.
I also love this leather bomber jacket from Mango if your style is more modern/urban.
Coat
Similar to blazers and button ups, a trench coat may feel too preppy or structured for some. If that’s the case a utility jacket can serve the same function in your capsule wardrobe. Anything from a cropped military jacket to a barn jacket.
I prefer a trench because it’s elevated and adds a bit of sophistication to a simple combo like jeans, a T-shirt and flats. The best is of course, the classic Burberry trench, but it’s an investment piece. The more budget friendly Barbour is great too and you can comb consignment stores and TheRealReal to find a previously owned or vintage trench because they’ve been in style forever (and will continue to be so).
Depending on your climate you may opt for a wool coat instead or in addition to a trench. I love having a beautiful coat to wear over dressier outfits, but it’s also a great way to instantly look polished (even if you throw it on over your workout or lounge clothes.)
Ah, the LBD (little black dress). This used to be the keystone in a woman’s wardrobe and I believe it still is. There are numerous silhouettes to choose from and I recommend finding a dress that has the most flattering neckline for you and doesn’t wrinkle.
Personally, I love dresses. They are my “one and done” comfortable go-to and an essential travel item. I learned very quickly when I first started styling that not all women feel comfortable in dresses. If dresses aren’t your thing, consider trying a shirt dress or a black skirt or skip this item.
Black loafer or flat
Ballet flats are big this season and I just purchased the cutest, inexpensive pair from H&M. “But wait, this isn’t high quality! How can it be in your capsule?” you might ask. Well, not everything has to be expensive to make the cut in your capsule. It just has to fit well, look great and LOOK high quality. These ballet flats are all of those things. I may upgrade to a pair of Ferragamo flats one day, but it’s OK to have placeholders in your capsule until you upgrade (and maybe you don’t always need to).
Loafers are another option if a flat isn’t your thing. There are so many styles to choose from in a very wide range in price.
A sandal could be considered a “seasonal” item, but here in California you can wear them for over half the year (more if you travel someplace warmer in the winter) so I’m including them in the core capsule. Opt for a flat or a slight heel and when you find the perfect pair, you’ll find you lean on these basic shoes almost year-round. If you live in a colder climate swap this item for a brown bootie.
Nearly every woman I’ve styled owns low black boots, so chances are you already have this item. But take a look at them and make sure they are in great shape. And if you have this item covered, consider finding a fabulous pair of pumps to wear instead of boots on occasion. A black pump can instantly up level a simple outfit and add a timeless, feminine, European touch.
Black and brown belts
Either one of each color or a reversible and very well crafted one.
Keep in mind that this list is the most pared down inner core of your wardrobe. Depending on your lifestyle and personal preference, you will have multiples of many of these items and they are still considered part of the 60% that make up your core items but start by ensuring you at least have these 25 core capsule items.
In taking the time to curate your core capsule to ensure these 25 pieces are all the best-of-the-best items in your closet, you are investing in a wardrobe that is built on a solid foundation. These items are timeless and classic yet anything but bland. Try building outfits with only these core capsule items by adding a few touches of beautiful jewelry and a pop of lipstick - I promise you will look chic and stylish.