One question that I get A LOT is what I would recommend putting in a capsule wardrobe. Curating was tough, but now I finally have all the building blocks in place to create many outfits easily.
The thing is, that this is MY capsule so none of these ideas may work for you. I like to dress very feminine, I usually dress less casual than my friends, and I dress for a petite pear shaped body. You may be a long lean lady or a curvy petite gal or gravitate towards a style that is less feminine…that is all okay! These ideas are just simply my own building blocks that I am thankful I invested in.
I explain over and over again that I am committed to a gently used wardrobe (you can read my tips for shopping for your capsule secondhand over here!) so almost all of the things I have bought were expensive pieces bought for a fraction of the retail price. That is how I am able to keep it on budget for me. It’s a bit like treasure hunting to find these items I needed and I got a real thrill from it. If you don’t, I’m offering some budget-friendly ideas for consideration.
I am incorporating all seasons in the recommendations to simplify today!
Best Capsule Wardrobe Basics
Capsule Recommendations for Layering Under $50
I do not count my winter jacket and trench into this mix, these are just the layers that I rely upon the most when it comes to dressing up my capsule.
Black Blazer
Jean Jacket
Striped Blazer
Utility Vest
Cardigan (in your favorite coordinating color)
Capsule Recommendations for Best Tops Under $50
Chambray Shirt (can also do this in a short sleeve for summer!)
White Collared Shirt
Black & White Striped Shirt
Black T-Shirt
Gray T-Shirt
White T-Shirt
Floral Shirt (sharing this landing page to find the best style, cut, & season for you!!)
Jean Shirt (Dress)- I use it as both!!
Gray Sweater (short sleeve option)
Flannel or Gingham Shirt (depending on seasons!)
Bonus: Lace Shirt
PS- I skip the tanks thanks to these!! They are AMAZING! Please buy one and come back & tell me how much you love it too!
Capsule Recommendations for Bottoms Under $50
Black Pants
Black Leggings
Colored Jeans (choose your favorite coordinating color)
Dark Denim Jeans
White Jeans
Colored Skirt (pick your favorite cut & color)
Denim Skirt
Black Midi Skirt (vegan leather option for fall & winter)
Patterned Pant
Denim Shorts
Bonus: Lace Shorts
Capsule Recommendations for Dresses Under $50
Black Dress
Striped Dress (long sleeve option)
Floral Dress
White Dress
Jean Shirt (Dress)- I use it as both!! I’m pointing here so you can pick your favorite cut!
Maxi Dress (I also love this patterned option with sleeves because I’m always freezing!)
Browse My Capsules & Wardrobe Planning Advice
Fall 2014 Capsule Wardrobe
Winter 2014 Capsule Wardrobe
Fall 2015 Capsule Wardrobe
Spring 2015 Capsule Wardrobe
Summer 2015 Capsule Wardrobe
Winter 2016 Wardrobe
Spring & Summer 2016 Wardrobe
Creating the Perfect Capsule Wardrobe (that really works!)
How to Shop Secondhand For Your Capsule Wardrobe
Make Money Organizing Your Closet
25 Best Wardrobe Planning Printables
Coupons That Might Help If You Are Making a Capsule Too
Get $10 for your first thredUP purchase (this is my favorite online consignment resource)
Stitch Fix can be a fun resource for shopping for smart basic wardrobe pieces if a stylist might benefit you!
Have you done a capsule wardrobe before? What makes your must-have list! I’d love to hear!
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