HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE YOU’LL ACTUALLY WEAR IN 2024

Learning how to build a capsule wardrobe is like unlocking the secret to effortlessly chic outfits. And I’m here to share the ten-step process with you.

Read on to create a timeless capsule wardrobe that’s custom-built for you and nobody else.

WHAT IS A CAPSULE WARDROBE?

A capsule wardrobe is a thoughtfully curated collection of essential clothing items that perfectly align with your style and lifestyle. The closet features a limited but powerful selection of garments that can be mixed and matched effortlessly.

If you’ve heard of a capsule wardrobe before, that’s because the concept was developed back in the 70s by London-based boutique owner Susie Faux.

Since then, the capsule has been embraced by the fashion-forward around the world.

Imagine having a closet that feels like your personal boutique, carefully curated with all your must-have clothing pieces. That’s the magic of a capsule wardrobe.

By focusing on quality over quantity, a capsule wardrobe helps you declutter your closet and say goodbye to those “nothing to wear” moments.

CHIC CAPSULE WARDROBE EXAMPLE

5 TOPS

Off-the-shoulder top

Puff Sleeve Top

Black Bodysuit

Striped Turtleneck

White Button Down

3 BOTTOMS

Wide Leg Trousers

High Waisted Jeans

Satin Midi Skirt

2 DRESSES

Tank Dress

Sweater Dress

3 OUTERWEAR

Buttoned Cardigan

Striped Turtleneck

Structured Trench Coat

4 SHOES

Lug-Sole Loafers

Slip-on Heels

Ankle Boots

White Sneakers

HOW TO BUILD A CAPSULE WARDROBE FROM SCRATCH

Here are ten steps to build a capsule wardrobe you’ll actually want to wear:

Assess Your Personal Style and Lifestyle: Identify your fashion preferences, consider your daily activities, and understand your body type and color preferences.

Sort Your Current Closet: Empty your wardrobe and separate items into keep, maybe, donate/sell, and seasonal categories.

Select Your Core Capsule Wardrobe Essentials: Build a foundation of timeless basics, choose versatile and timeless items, and consider your climate and seasonal variations.

Choose a Cohesive Color Scheme: Select a color palette that suits your style, incorporate patterns and textures effectively, and create a cohesive look.

Find Clothing Gaps: Identify missing pieces that would enhance the versatility of your wardrobe and prioritize quality and longevity over trends.

Shop Strategically: Plan ahead, create a shopping list, set a budget, and prioritize quality and sustainability.

Create Versatile Outfits: Maximize outfit combinations, experiment with layering techniques, and incorporate statement pieces and accessories.

Maintain Your Capsule Wardrobe: Follow garment care instructions, treat your clothes well, and periodically reassess your collection.

Store and Rotate Seasonal Items: Organize your wardrobe by season and store off-season items separately for easy swapping.

Refine Regularly: Periodically reassess your capsule wardrobe to ensure it aligns with your style, fits well, and meets your needs.

ASSESS YOUR STYLE

The exciting first step in building a capsule wardrobe that truly suits your needs? Assess your style, and lifestyle requirements. Let’s dive in.

👉 Understanding your personal style:

Start by pinpointing your fashion preferences. Think about the types of clothing that make you feel confident and express your personality. Are you after a minimalist wardrobe or something else?

Pay attention to the common themes and elements in your existing wardrobe. What types of silhouettes, patterns, or fabrics do you gravitate towards?

👉 Aligning your capsule plan with your lifestyle:

Next, consider your daily activities and what types of clothing would be most practical. A young professional will have a different closet than a stay-at-home mom. So consider what you need.

Be sure to note any professional requirements such as dress codes that will also influence your attire.

👉 Considering your body type and color preferences:

Understanding your body shape and proportions can guide you in choosing flattering silhouettes. Look for cuts and styles that enhance your best features and make you feel confident.

You should also determine colors that complement your complexion. Place different colored garments near your face to find the ones that make you look vibrant.

Remember, building a capsule wardrobe is a process. The upfront work is well worth the simplicity and beauty it brings.

Let’s move to step two.

SORT YOUR CLOSET

Ready to tackle the next step in building your capsule wardrobe? Let’s sort through your current closet and make some impactful decisions.

👗 Empty your entire wardrobe and assess each item:

It’s time for a closet cleanse! Set aside a few hours to evaluate your wardrobe.

🔍 Ask yourself the following questions about each item:

Do I love wearing this?
Does it fit well and flatter my body?
Does it align with my personal style?
Is it versatile?
Is it in good condition?

🗂 Separate your clothes into four categories:

Keep: Items you love, fit well, and align with your personal style deserve a spot in your capsule wardrobe.
Maybe: Place items in this category if you’re unsure about them or need further evaluation. Give them a second chance before making a final decision.
Donate/Sell: Clothes that no longer fit, are out of style, or no longer bring you joy can find a new home through donation or selling.
Seasonal: Sort out items that are only suitable for specific seasons. These can be stored separately until the appropriate time of the year.

🎯 Determining which items to keep, donate, or sell:

Prioritize versatile pieces that align with your style and make you feel amazing. Let go of items that no longer serve you. Remember, your capsule wardrobe should consist of pieces that are functional and make you look and feel your best.

On the fence? I put my pros and cons of a capsule wardrobe here to help.

SELECT YOUR WARDROBE ESSENTIALS

We’ve moved into the main part of building a capsule wardrobe. It includes:

🌟 Defining essential pieces for your capsule wardrobe:

Start by focusing on building a collection of high-quality tops, bottoms, dresses, and outerwear. These are the core elements that will serve as the backbone of your wardrobe.

Look for well-made, durable pieces that can withstand the test of time and repeated wear. My favorite capsule clothing brands offer some great foundational pieces.

🌟 Identifying versatile and timeless items:

When selecting your core pieces, aim for classic designs that never go out of style.

Prioritize neutral colors like beige, black, and white as they provide a versatile canvas for creating outfits.

Browse the capsule wardrobe checklist for essential items.

🎯 Tips for selecting core pieces:

Prioritize quality over quantity. Invest in well-made pieces that will withstand wear and tear. Longevity is key as you build a capsule wardrobe.

Remember to adapt your capsule wardrobe to suit your local climate and season. Weave in layering pieces so your wardrobe remains functional and comfortable throughout the year.

CHOOSE A COHESIVE COLOR SCHEME

🎨 Select a color palette that suits your style:

🌈 When it comes to building a cohesive capsule wardrobe, one effective approach is to use the colors of your core pieces as a guide for your overall closet color palette.

Harmonizing hues: Look for colors that complement each other. You can opt for a monochromatic color scheme, where different shades of a single color are used, or choose complementary colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel.

Versatile neutrals: Neutrals are an essential part of any capsule wardrobe. Classic colors like black, white, gray, and beige are timeless and serve as a foundation for building outfits.

Accent colors: Once you have your neutrals, consider incorporating a few accent colors to add interest and variety to your wardrobe.

🌈 Incorporate patterns and textures:

To avoid a monotonous look, incorporate patterns and textures into your capsule wardrobe. These elements add visual interest and depth to your outfits. Here are a few tips:

Start with basics: Begin by selecting patterned and textured versions of your core essentials. For example, choose a floral print blouse instead of a plain one, or opt for a chunky knit sweater instead of a smooth one.

Scale and balance: Consider the scale of patterns and textures. Mix larger-scale patterns with smaller-scale ones to create balance.

A color selection tool can help you visualize your ideal palette.

Need a hand? This guide to choosing a capsule wardrobe color scheme can help.

FIND CLOTHING GAPS

Now that you have selected your core capsule wardrobe essentials and know your colors, identify any gaps that need to be filled. These are the missing pieces that will complete your capsule and ensure that you have outfits for every occasion.

📝 Identify the gaps:

Ask yourself the following questions to help identify the gaps in your wardrobe:

Are there specific occasions or events that I don’t have suitable clothing for?
Are there certain pieces that would help me create more variety in my outfits?
Are there any essential items that I need but am currently missing?
Are there certain pieces I regularly wear that I can use in a couple more colors?

By answering these questions, you’ll be able to pinpoint the areas where your wardrobe may be lacking and make a list of the specific items you need.

⚖️ Focus on versatility:

When filling the gaps in your capsule wardrobe, prioritize versatile pieces that can be styled in multiple ways and suit various occasions. Reach for items that can be dressed up or down and that suit your color scheme.

🛍️ Make a shopping list:

Based on the identified gaps, create a shopping list of the items you need to complete your capsule wardrobe. Be specific about the type of items, such as “brown leather mules” or “lightweight summer cardigan,” and note down any preferences you have for materials or styles.

🎯 Tip for filling clothing gaps:

To maximize the versatility of your capsule wardrobe, look for pieces that can be mixed and matched with your existing core items. This allows you to create a wide range of outfits without needing a large number of individual garments.

Click here to get the printable capsule wardrobe checklist!

SHOP WITH A STRATEGY

When building a capsule wardrobe, shopping strategically is key to ensuring you make mindful and intentional purchases.

🛍️ Tips for mindful shopping:

Create a shopping list: Before heading to the shops (or opening those online shopping tabs), list the items you identified as missing. Having a clear list keeps you on track. Plus, it prevents those impulse purchases we’ve all been guilty of.

Set a budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on your shopping trip or for each specific item. You can read the affordable capsule guide for more ways to build your wardrobe on a budget.

Avoid impulse purchases: While it can be tempting to buy items on a whim, it’s important to pause and ask yourself if the piece truly aligns with your capsule wardrobe vision.

Choose sustainable options: Look for brands that prioritize sustainability and use eco-friendly fabrics.

CREATE VERSATILE OUTFITS

Want to maximize the versatility of your capsule wardrobe? Do this to create a range of outfits:

👗 Maximize outfit combinations with fewer items:

Play around with your core pieces and explore different outfit combinations. Mix and match tops, bottoms, and outerwear to create fresh ensembles. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new pairings.

👗 Leverage your layers:

Layering is a fantastic way to add depth and interest to your outfits. For warmer months, consider lightweight layers such as cardigans, kimonos, or lightweight jackets. In colder seasons, opt for thicker fabrics like sweaters, blazers, and coats.

How pretty is this Aritzia in Vegas?! I spy lots of bodysuits and essentials on deck.

MAINTAIN YOUR CAPSULE WARDROBE

Make sure your hard work lasts by maintaining your capsule wardrobe. Here’s how:

Follow Garment Care Instructions 🧺:

Laundry! I know, not the most fun topic. But proper garment care is crucial for your capsule closet’s longevity. Pay attention to the care labels on your clothing items. Each garment has specific washing and care instructions. Adhering to these guidelines will help prevent damage, fading, and dreaded shrinkage.

Treat Clothing Well ✨:

Be gentle. Handle your garments with care to prevent unnecessary wear and tear. Be mindful of how you put on and take off your clothes to avoid stretching or snagging delicate fabrics. Use appropriate hangers for specific items, such as padded hangers for delicate tops or suit hangers for jackets and blazers. By treating your clothing well, you’ll preserve its quality and appearance.

Repair and Alter 🧵:

Instead of discarding clothing at the first sign of damage or fit issues, consider repairing or altering them. Replace missing buttons, fix loose seams, or mend small tears to extend the life of your favorite pieces. Additionally, a trip to the tailor for alterations can help ensure clothes fit your body perfectly, ensuring they flatter your figure.

Avoid Overwashing 🚫🌊:

Washing clothes too frequently can accelerate wear and tear. Unless an item is visibly soiled or has an odor, consider wearing it a few times before laundering. Overwashing can cause colors to fade and fabrics to deteriorate faster, shortening the lifespan of your garments.

Click here to read the full guide on maintaining and refreshing your capsule wardrobe!

STORE AND ROTATE SEASONAL ITEMS

By implementing a seasonal rotation system, you can ensure that your clothes remain practical for current weather conditions.

Organize by Season 🗂️:

To make it easier to navigate your wardrobe, organize your items by season. You can section clothes into different groups based on the seasons—spring/summer and fall/winter.

This way, you can easily identify the pieces that are suitable for the current weather and avoid sifting through items that are out of season.

Store Off-Season Items 📦:

When the season comes to an end, pack away the clothes that are not currently in use.

Properly store off-season items in a separate space, such as storage bins or garment bags. This helps maximize your closet space and reduces visual clutter.

Seasonal Rotation 🔄:

As the seasons change, so can your wardrobe. When transitioning from one season to another, swap out the appropriate pieces. Bring forward the clothes that are suitable for the current season.

Store away the items that are no longer needed. This rotation allows you to maintain a clutter-free and functional closet throughout the year.

A look at my winter capsule wardrobe essentials.

REFINE YOUR WARDROBE

Last, but not least, remember to periodically edit your closet. By taking the time to refine your collection, you ensure that it aligns with your personal preferences and lifestyle. Here are some tips for maintaining a well-curated capsule wardrobe:

Style Check-In 👗:

Regularly evaluate your personal style and fashion preferences. As your tastes may evolve over time, consider if there are any items that no longer resonate with your style. You can remove these to make room for pieces that do suit you.

Fit and Functionality 📐:

Check the fit and functionality of your clothing. Ensure that each piece still flatters your body shape and serves a purpose in your daily life. If an item no longer fits well or aligns with your lifestyle, consider donating or selling it.

Donation or Addition 🎁:

If you come across items that no longer serve you or align with your style, consider donating or selling them. This allows someone else to benefit from your pre-loved pieces while also making room for new additions.

A look at my winter capsule wardrobe essentials.

CAPSULE WARDROBE OUTFIT IDEAS

Here are six outfit formulas to inspire your capsule wardrobe styling.

SWEATER + MIDI SKIRT = COZY ELEGANCE

Achieve a cozy yet elegant look by pairing a soft sweater with a flowing midi skirt. Opt for complementary colors and add a belt to define the waist. Complete the outfit with ankle boots or flats.

T-SHIRT + TROUSERS = EFFORTLESS CHIC

Pair a classic neutral t-shirt with a pair of elegant wide-leg trousers for a chic and comfortable outfit. Complete the look with minimalist accessories and a pair of sleek flats or heels.

WHITE BUTTON-DOWN SHIRT + DARK DENIM = LAIDBACK POLISHED

Create a polished yet unbothered outfit with dark denim and a trusted white button-down. Roll up the sleeves and give the shirt a loose tuck for a more effortless feel.

STRIPED TOP + DENIM JEANS = CASUAL AND TIMELESS

Combine a striped top with your favorite pair of well-fitted denim jeans for a timeless and casual look. Add a denim jacket or a leather bomber for extra style, and finish with sneakers or loafers.

BOAT NECK TOP + HIGH-WAISTED JEANS + BLAZER = SOPHISTICATED LAYERS

Layering can elevate your outfit. Start with a boat neck top as a base, add high-waisted jeans, and top it off with a structured blazer. Complete the look with ankle boots or pointed heels.

BLOUSE + CROPPED PANTS = MODERN AND VERSATILE

Combine a flowy blouse with cropped pants for a versatile ensemble. Choose a monochrome scheme to look extra polished. Then, add a structured blazer or a cozy cardi, depending on your mood.

BENEFITS OF A CAPSULE WARDROBE

You can peruse the whole list of capsule wardrobe benefits in this post or browse the highlights below:

Time Benefits: Getting dressed becomes quicker and easier, and maintaining and organizing your wardrobe becomes more manageable.

Style Benefits: Every item in your wardrobe looks good on you. A cohesive color palette and flattering pieces mean polished outfits, again and again.

Sustainability Benefits: Reduce clothing waste by investing in timeless pieces and gravitating toward sustainable clothing practices.

Money Benefits: Shop less often and enjoy a lower cost per wear. By investing in quality pieces, you’ll become a more intentional shopper.

Mental Benefits: Avoid decision fatigue by streamlining your closet. You’ll actually enjoy getting dressed (and having a neater closet, of course).

CAPSULE WARDROBE ESSENTIALS

Follow the steps above and you will have a pretty clear idea about what your essentials look like. The list below can offer some guidance as well. And, if you need more detail, I created this full capsule wardrobe checklist guide.

Tops:

Crisp white button-down shirt
Neutral t-shirt
Boat Neck Top
Cozy knit sweater

Bottoms:

Dark wash jeans
Tailored black trousers
A-line skirt
High-waisted shorts

Dresses:

Little black dress
Versatile wrap dress
Floral print sundress

Outerwear:

Structured trench coat
Utility Jacket
Cozy cardigan
Tailored blazer

Shoes:

Ankle boots
White sneakers
Leather Mules

Accessories:

Chic Hat
Sunglasses
Leather belt

HOW TO APPROACH TRENDS IN YOUR CAPSULE WARDROBE

A timeless capsule wardrobe brings a bevy of benefits. But you may be wondering if a capsule wardrobe can be trendy. The fact is, you’ll have to make some tradeoffs when building a capsule closet. For me, a simple and timeless wardrobe is worth giving up trying all the new trends. However, I’ve found ways to keep things fresh and fun while still maintaining a small wardrobe. Two words: Clothing. Rentals.

Renting clothes from a clothing rental service allows you to experiment with trends without committing to purchasing them. It’s a sustainable and budget-friendly way to add variety to your capsule wardrobe.

HELPFUL CAPSULE WARDROBE RESOURCES

BLOGS

Where to Get a Premade Capsule Wardrobe

Best Capsule Wardrobe Brands to Shop

Helpful Capsule Wardrobe Checklist

BOOKS

The Curated Closet by Anuschka Rees: Explore the art of curating your wardrobe and discover how to build a versatile capsule collection that truly speaks to your personal style.

Project 333 by Courtney Carver: Join the minimalist movement with this book that guides you through the process of creating a capsule wardrobe consisting of only 33 items.

APPS

Cladwell: This handy app helps you create and manage your capsule wardrobe by providing personalized outfit suggestions based on the items in your collection.

Stylebook: Organize your wardrobe, plan outfits, and track your daily looks with this popular app that allows you to mix and match items to create endless outfit possibilities.

CAPSULE CLOSET FAQS

HOW MANY PIECES SHOULD A CAPSULE CLOSET HAVE?

Ah, the million-dollar question: how many pieces should you have in your fabulous capsule closet? Well, the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But I do have a guide with 3 ways to determine how many pieces should be in your capsule.

While some capsule enthusiasts aim for around 30 to 40 carefully curated items, including tops, bottoms, dresses, outerwear, and accessories, it’s all about finding your sweet spot. The key is to focus on quality over quantity and select pieces that can be mixed and matched like a sartorial puzzle.

WHAT IS THE FORMULA FOR A CAPSULE WARDROBE?

There are actually multiple capsule wardrobe formulas to choose from! For a travel capsule wardrobe, the 5-4-3-2-1 method is popular. There’s also the 10×10 challenge, where you create 10 outfits using only 10 pieces for 10 days. Check out the capsule wardrobe formula guide here to explore multiple options and how to use them for your own wardrobe.