How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe
I am so excited to be sharing this post with you all today! I have been organizing and collecting items for my spring capsule wardrobe for about a month. It has been so fun putting outfits together and building a classic, interchangeable wardrobe. I have been scouring the internet, digging through my closet, and finding classic items to wear this spring.
I already teased a mini capsule collection at Old Navy earlier this week, but I am finally ready to share my bigger project. All of the items I am sharing I actually own and have been wearing during the past month. So, let’s get started!
What is a capsule wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of items in your closet that you can wear interchangeably. You can find a ton of resources on the internet, but most capsule fans agree that around 30 items should do the trick. This includes clothing, shoes, and accessories. For me, this capsule is a baseline wardrobe for the spring season. You can be strict with it, or use it as a jumping off point, and add pieces during the season.
Why create a capsule wardrobe?
I love clothing, accessories, and shopping in general. So you might be curious as to why I decided to create a capsule wardrobe. First, I wanted to curate a closet full of classic, basic pieces that I can wear all year round. Second, a capsule wardrobe helps you save time and money. When you have items in your closet that all work together, you can get rid of that ‘I don’t have anything to wear’ feeling. Getting dressed for the day will become easy and fun with your new capsule wardrobe!
How to start building your capsule wardrobe?
First, I have to be clear about one thing. You do NOT, I repeat, DO NOT need to buy everything I recommend here. Actually, the idea is to start with what you already have in your closet, and build your capsule wardrobe from items you own already. For example, I happen to own a lot of chambray, denim, and striped tops. These were the items I used to start my capsule wardrobe, and I added pops of color and additional items that would work interchangeably with what I already owned.
Second, there are no rules! If you like a lot of color in your wardrobe, go for it! I am a neutral girl, so my capsule may look different than yours, but that is OK!
Thirdly, I think it is important to declutter and organize your closet before starting this project. I clear out my closet each season, and while this might be extreme for some, I think it is necessary when creating a capsule wardrobe. Without decluttering, you may not be able to get rid of that overwhelming feeling when you open your closet door. Plus, it gives you an opportunity to decide what items in your closet you truly love, and helps you figure out your personal style!
My Spring Capsule Wardrobe
Tops
Scalloped Cami // (XS) – A great layering piece for spring, summer, and fall! Also comes in black.
Leopard Print Cami // (S) – I wanted a printed camisole for this collection, and leopard has become one of my favorite neutrals in 2019. The muted print is subtle, and pairs well with all of the denim, and layering pieces!
White Blouse // (XS) – I love this blouse, LOFT has gorgeous tops this spring. This one is layered, so you don’t have to worry about it being see through, and can be dressed up or down.
Blush Satin Top // (XS) – I chose to integrate blush into my spring capsule. I am not a huge fan of pops of color in my everyday wardrobe, so it seemed like a good color option for my capsule wardrobe.
Henley Tee // (XS) – My new favorite top this season! This is a recent purchase and you guys, it is SO SOFT. It is long enough to be knotted, or tucked, and I love how it is casual, but looks so put together!
Chambray Button Down // (S) – A must in every closet, in my opinion! I recommend investing in a quality chambray top. Mine is from J.Crew Factory, and I have had it for almost 4 years!
Stripe Tank // (XS) – My love for black and white stripes is deep. I love the luxe tanks from Old Navy, they are so soft and wear so well!
White Button Down // (XS) – This is not a top I wear often, but still love to have in my closet at all times. When I feel like I have nothing to wear, I throw this on with a good pair of denim and I am good to go!
Printed Blouse // (XS) – This floral top has been on repeat in my closet. It looks great with all of the denim, and the colored jeans! I love the pops of blush in the floral print as well!
Outerwear and Layering Pieces
Denim Jacket // (S) – Another classic item that every girl should own! Mine is from Old Navy and I have had it for years. I am so happy they keep bringing it back (at a fantastic price) so that I can keep sharing it with you all!
Field Jacket // (S) – Another Old Navy favorite. The one I am linking is similar to mine, and comes in many colors to suit your capsule needs! This is another item that I pulled from my own collection that has been well loved in my closet for years!
Oatmeal Colored Cardigan // (XS) – This is a new one for me this season. I love how neutral it is, and goes with everything! I love it with the printed tops!
Striped Cardigan // (XS) – Here I go again with the stripes. I love this one with the dresses, or the white blouse!
Dresses
Chambray Dress // (XS) – Pair this with either one of the cardigans and you are good to go! Wear it with the block heel sandals, sneakers, or black flats. It is so versatile!
Black Button Down Dress // (XS) – Another great basic that can be dressed up or down. Would look great with the denim jacker on cooler spring days.
Denim
Dark Wash Denim // I much prefer dark wash denim to light wash. I thought about adding light wash to this collection, but for me it wouldn’t get enough wear. A great, non-distressed, dark wash denim was an essential for my capsule wardrobe.
White Denim // I have been on the hunt for white denim for a while now. This pair is more of a cream color, but guys, I love them! I love the button fly, and they feel very Madewell-esque. The quality is fantastic for the price, which is an added bonus!
Black Denim // Another must have for me! Chambray and black denim is one of my favorite combos! Pair them with a fun printed shoe to amp up the outfit!
Military Green Colored Denim // My favorite color pant to wear in spring! Something about the color just makes me think of spring time. I love these with the floral printed blouse, and even the chambray top!
Tomgirl Jean // These are a newer addition to my denim collection! I am still experimenting with how to wear them, but they are so cute with the block heel sandals and the scalloped cami!
Shoes
Converse Sneaker // The love affair with these sneaks continues. You will see in photos that mine actually have rose gold detail, but they are unfortunately sold out. You cannot go wrong with the classics, though!
Block Heel Sandal // These go with everything! Dress them up or down! The price on these is fantastic, and the faux leather is so soft. I find that they wear really well and do not feel cheap at all!
Espadrille Mule // These are a bit out of my comfort zone! I don’t normally like the peep toe look, but fell in love with the espadrille heel on these mules. They look great with the button down dress!
Black Pointed Toe Flat // These are so comfortable and are a great way to dress up the chambray dress, or even the tomgirl jean!
Printed Flat or Sneaker // I could not choose between these two! Get creative with this! I love both of these flats, and wear them constantly!
Shop my capsule wardrobe
xo, Kristen
