Your 2023 Winter Capsule Wardrobe: 15 Pieces, 54 Outfits
To look cute or to be warm? For the fashion-forward, this perennial problem pops up as temps drop each year. But worry no more. With a well-crafted winter capsule wardrobe, you can look polished while staying snug.
I built a minimalist winter capsule ( just 15 pieces- I’m feeling very sleek this season) and am showing you exactly how I style it below. It features a foundation of timeless basics and the necessary sprinkle of attention-grabbing garments.
Let’s get dressed, darling.
Table of Contents
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Winter Capsule Outfit Ideas
Temperatures are dropping. But your style doesn’t have to take a hit. With these 15 core pieces, I can create over 50 winter outfits. Scroll on to see just some of the ways I styled my capsule for chic (and warm) winter looks.
Want more feminine winter outfits? Explore this dreamy feminine capsule wardrobe.
Base Layers
- Thermal Crewneck
- Thermal Bottoms
- Long-sleeved T-shirts
- Wool Socks
Shirts
- Turtleneck
- Long Sleeve Shirt
- High Neck Blouse
- White oxford (great for layering)
- Statement Top
- Long Sleeve Bodysuit
Dresses
- Turtleneck Dress
- Knit Sweater Dress
Outerwear
- Wool Coat
- Down Vest
- Wool Blazer
- Insulated Parka
Sweaters
- Knit Cardigan
- Neutral Chunky Sweater
- V Neck Sweater
- Cozy Hoodie
Bottoms
- Fleece-lined Leggings
- Dark-Wash Denim
- White Jeans
- Tailored Trousers
- Lined Leather Pants
- Fleece Sweatpants
Shoes
- Waterproof Boots
- Over the Knee Boots
- Grippy Loafers
- Block Heels
Accessories
- Wool Scarf
- Lined Gloves
- Fleece Lined Beanie
- Earmuffs
What should be in a winter capsule wardrobe?
A winter capsule wardrobe should contain warm base layers, long-sleeve tops, chunky knits to layer, thick pants, a wool coat, and warm accessories like mittens, hats, and a scarf. For shoes, waterproof boots are essential. Winter capsule staples include:
- Thermal Underwear
- Turtleneck
- Long Sleeve Bodysuit
- Knit Sweater
- Dark-Wash Jeans
- Fleece-Lined Leggings
- Sweater Dress
- Wool Coat
- Down Vest
- Gloves
- Wool Scarf
- Waterproof Boots
How many pieces are in a winter capsule wardrobe?
The exact number of pieces in a winter capsule wardrobe will depend on your climate, style preferences and lifestyle. Generally, a winter capsule wardrobe will have 20-40 pieces including accessories and shoes. A minimalist winter wardrobe may have fewer pieces.
Because winter capsules contain more layering pieces, they are typically larger than summer and spring wardrobes. The goal is to have an organized closet with versatile pieces that you can easily mix and match. Prioritize this rather than reaching a specific number of pieces in your capsule wardrobe.
How often should I update my winter capsule wardrobe?
A good rule of thumb is to update your winter capsule wardrobe at least once a year, preferably during the fall so you’re ready to go when winter rolls around. Updating your capsule helps to keep the closet size manageable. Additionally, it gives you the chance to make sure all pieces suit your evolving personal style and lisestyle needs.
If getting dressed is more stressful than it is fun, you need a simplified and chic closet. Click below for the 10 step process to your ideal capsule wardrobe.