How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe: Our 2025 Guide to Simplifying Your Closet

All great capsule collections contain a few everyday tops. Start with three to five options in different styles and sleeve lengths so that you’ll always have something to wear. Prioritize textiles—they’ll have a major impact on how long your pieces will last. Materials like silk, linen, cashmere, and cotton are all sound investments, as they’re guaranteed to last longer than lower-quality materials like polyester.

Another important thing to consider when it comes to selecting your capsule wardrobe tops is the silhouette. We recommend well-structured, simple pieces with clean lines and little to no unnecessary embellishments or detailing—we’re talking casual tees, dressy feminine blouses, simple sweaters, and classic button-down shirts in crisp white, like this menswear-inspired pick by AYR The Deep End. It looks great with jeans or khakis, and it’s elegant enough for work. Consider adding a navy or black top as a neutral alternative if you prefer darker colors.

Key Pieces to Consider When Choosing Capsule Wardrobe Tops

1. White button-down shirts: Everyone needs a few crisp, elevated basics to dress up without fuss. White button-down shirts and more casual boyfriend button-downs are the ultimate in breezy style, and they look wonderful with denim or skirts and blazers.
2. Tees and tanks for layering: T-shirts and tanks are essential layering pieces. It’s best to get a few items so you’ll always have a fresh pick ready. Start with flattering and stylish tees in high-quality fabrics to wear on repeat.
3. Lightweight sweaters: Having a classic, comfortable sweater on hand will add a bit of panache to your khakis and trousers. Cotton sweaters are especially good at regulating temperature, and they’re budget-friendly, too.

For a well-rounded wardrobe, stock your closet with adaptable, fashionable bottoms. Pick pants and skirts that suit your lifestyle, and include a casual option like these Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans. Their easygoing, relaxed attitude pairs well with everything from loafers to trench coats. Investing in a high-quality, well-fitting pair of jeans is highly encouraged, but don’t forget to think beyond denim.

Investing in an array of bottoms that work for multiple occasions and activities will serve you well for years to come. For example, black trousers or slacks can instantly elevate your office attire, while a trusty pair of black leggings will simplify styling when it comes to gym attire or casual athleisure looks.

Key Pieces to Consider When Choosing Capsule Wardrobe Bottoms

1. Classic jeans: Denim is timeless for a reason, and there are cuts and washes that suit every taste. If you like to dress up, add tailored, dark-wash jeans to your capsule collection, and wear them with heels or flats. If you prioritize comfort, you’ll love hanging out in stretch denim that’s designed to look good anywhere.
2. Black trousers: When you need a pair of work pants you can wear anytime, black trousers are a sure bet. Wear them with loafers and a blazer for modern appeal.
3. Simple skirts: A simple black maxi skirt can be dressed up or down and is easy to transition from day to night.

Owning a dress that you can wear everywhere will change your life. Having a strong selection of timeless, one-and-done dresses that work for multiple occasions can save you a few emergency shopping trips (or serious shipping fees) when you need something to wear stat. Look for a few dresses in a midi length—they’re office-appropriate but not too conservative for happy hour or casual dinner dates. When selecting a color, opt for something neutral that could work with any topper or bag.

An LBD is the perfect wear-everywhere option—the color works well for nearly every occasion. Add a blazer and some pumps, and it instantly becomes work-appropriate, but pair it with heels and a clutch, and you’re ready for date night.

Capsule-Worthy Dress Options

1. Little black dresses: There’s a reason everyone knows about the LBD. This staple is a must-have capsule wardrobe pick.
2. Tee shirt dresses: Casual and comfortable, but easily dressed up with the right accessories, a tee shirt dress is one of the most versatile options you’ll be able to wear again and again.
3. Slip dresses: More elegant than the tee shirt dress, but easily dressed down with the right cardigan and shoes, a slip dress adds a versatile piece with a classic silhouette to your collection.

When it comes to your shoe collection, it’s important to have plenty of evergreen styles to choose from. Your shoes set the tone for your looks, so pick a few different styles that add flair to your outfits.

If we could only wear four pairs of shoes for the rest of our life, we’d go with ballet flats (or loafers, for a more polished look), boots, comfortable heels, and sneakers—all in a classic color that can easily transition from outfit to outfit. These silhouettes make styling a breeze, and there shouldn’t be a single piece in your closet that won’t work with at least one of them.

The Veja Campo Sneaker is low-key yet hip enough to add energy to your jeans, trousers, and skirts.

Shoe Options to Consider for Your Capsule Wardrobe

1. White sneakers: Sneakers have become shorthand for in-the-know, off-duty style, but you can also wear them to work. Pair our favorite white sneakers with jeans and a jacket, or slip on everyday sneakers with trousers. 
2. Nude heels: Like we said, every good capsule collection includes a pair of dressy shoes that you can wear out to dinner and more. These versatile heels pair well with trousers for work and skirts for an evening date.
3. Black boots: Simple black boots are one of the most versatile pieces in your capsule wardrobe. Wear them with jeans for a stylish, casual look or pair them with a dress or skirt for a more polished look.
4. Loafers: Snazzy loafers can add elegance to your tees or look relaxed with button-down shirts.

Great outerwear can complete your look, so when it comes to prioritizing investment-worthy pieces, coats rank high on our list.

We suggest starting with a camel coat. Classic, cozy, and versatile enough to pair with anything, this is an outerwear piece that’ll remain in your closet for years to come. If you live in a warmer climate that rarely sees all four seasons, opt for something lighter, like a boyfriend blazer. The silhouette is just as chic and timeless, but it won’t be too heavy for everyday, year-round use.

The J.Crew Madelyn Blazer In Four-Season Stretch has a classic cut that will elevate anything you wear. Pick a dark color like black or navy for versatility, and pair it with loafers, sneakers, or heels. Be sure to check for a J.Crew promo code to save on your purchase and score a stylish deal.

Key Pieces to Consider When Choosing Outerwear

1. Blazers: A blazer adds instant style to jeans, trousers, and skirts whether it’s in a tailored or relaxed fit. Dark colors work well year-round, and neutral colors are perfect for the warmer seasons.
2. Cardigans: For those 50 to 60-degree days when a heavy jacket is too much, a cardigan is the perfect way to keep warm and avoid a bulky look. Layer over a sundress for a simple, chic style, or pair with a button-down for an office-friendly look.
3. Leather jackets: A high-quality leather jacket will stand the test of time and pair well with just about anything. Layer over your LBD for a chic going-out look, or spice up your casual daytime outfit like jeans and a simple tee.
4. Raincoats: Braving unpredictable weather is becoming the norm these days, and a great raincoat will help you battle the storms in style. Pick a trench or another classic that will look gorgeous with trousers and loafers or jeans and sneakers.

Every capsule collection needs accessories that add charm to your basics. Accessories for your capsule wardrobe can really be broken down into three categories: bags, belts, and jewelry.

For bags, start with a high-quality shoulder or tote bag—both silhouettes can easily elevate any outfit, and they’re versatile enough to take you from work to weekend to evenings out. When considering jewelry, wear-with-everything pieces like simple studs, personalized pendant necklaces, and dainty rings can embellish your looks in the best way. And jewelry doesn’t have to be over the top to make a statement —your money is best spent on simple yet high-quality pieces that will work with everything in your wardrobe.

For belts, high-quality leather ones are an excellent investment. Intentional picks like this Madewell Sculptural Buckle Belt will add the finishing touch to jeans and trousers.

Our Recommended Accessory Options

1. Everyday necklaces: Wearing a stylish necklace or even a few, will add a gorgeous accent to any top whether it’s a blouse, button-down, or tee.
2. Classic earrings: Beautiful hoop earrings will draw attention to your face and add a lovely dimension to all your outfits.
3. Black belts: When you add a belt to your outfit, you’ll complete your look. Choose options with high-quality materials, or splurge on a designer label belt to enrich your wardrobe’s appeal.