How to build a capsule wardrobe – all the items you need

Usually, a capsule collection is a refined selection of your most frequently worn pieces, your classic must-haves that you can’t live without, but are versatile enough to last through every season, any event, year after year.

Some of the most wanted wardrobe staples to keep in the closet include a reliable pair of jeans, smart wide-leg trousers, classic layering items like T-shirts and tanks, as well as a timeless leather biker jacket and blazer.

In most situations, you can wear every item in your capsule wardrobe as one complete outfit, or use it as a foundation to style with other clothes.

For example, flattering jeans paired with a white T-shirt, black heeled boots, and a black leather jacket can work for the office, after-work drinks, brunch with friends, or your next shopping trip.

The best thing about a capsule wardrobe is that it’s timeless. So, if you don’t already have certain items in your closet, they’re worth investing in as they’ll see you through any occasion, season, and style.

Typically, a capsule wardrobe consists of classic colours and tonal hues like black, white, greys, navy, and camel. These can be paired with any outfit, which is why they so popular.

While some people might prefer a more colourful wardrobe, you can easily add colour through layering items, accessories, or makeup to elevate a look and make it more personal to your style. And, if your style changes in the future, you can always fall back on your capsule wardrobe.

If you’re looking to declutter your wardrobe, slim down your closet, and start creating a capsule wardrobe, Maisie Bovingdon writing for The Sun shared some useful tips to help you curate the essentials.

The perfect black bag

A classic black bag is a must-have. It goes with any outfit and is suitable for any occasion, day or night.

Jeans

Jeans are a necessity in any wardrobe, and while you might have many styles, from skinny to wide-leg or flares, the top choice is a straight leg in classic blue denim. A pair of jeans is always a safe bet, no matter the season. To keep the capsule wardrobe limited, Maisie suggested jeans in blue denim, ecru and black.

Black oversized blazer

Such a versatile statement piece, an oversized design is flattering and timeless that you can wear all year round – especially if it’s made from cotton.

Black turtle neck

A turtle neck, or roll-neck jumper, is stylish, classy, formal and flattering as they make your arms and neck look longer, said Maisie. They’re perfect for keeping warm in winter, and you can wear them under a blazer, shacket, another jumper, or leather jacket.

Chunky knit jumper

A knit jumper is perfect for layering in winter, wearing on its own, under a blazer or parker jacket, with jeans, leggings, a skirt, over a dress, paired with boots, trainers, you name it.

But you can also keep it with you in the spring and summer seasons too, drape it over your shoulders so it’s easy to put on when the warm nights get a bit chilly at those upcoming garden parties.

White T-shirt

A classic white round-neck T-shirt goes with everything. You can tuck it into jeans, a skirt, or shorts, wear it over leggings, dress it up or down, wear it alone (if in a large size), or layer it on top. No matter how you choose to style a white T-shirt, it will always look stylish.

Black-heeled boots

If you’re only going to buy one pair of boots, go for classic black ones. A block heel ankle boot with a pointed or square toe matches every outfit.

This footwear essential can be paired with jeans, a skirt and jumper for work, or a blazer dress for weekend drinks – the options are limitless.

Cotton shirt

A cotton shirt might seem very formal, but it doesn’t have to be worn with a suit for work. It’s a necessity for those days when you want to look polished and put together with minimal effort.