Building a Capsule Wardrobe With Timeless Pieces

by Tess D. Content Strategist

Having a capsule wardrobe is all about shopping with mindfulness and intention. Instead of having hundreds of random clothing pieces cluttering up your closet, a capsule wardrobe focuses on sticking to the basics. Selecting a small collection of garments that harmonize well will save you more money in the long run, even if each item costs more individually. Let’s take a look at several timeless pieces that every woman’s capsule wardrobe should include.

Little Black Dress

Affectionately known as the LBD, the little black dress is a timeless staple that every woman’s closet shouldn’t be without. The epitome of chic women’s clothing, this versatile staple has its origins in the 1920s. It can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. To wear your LBD during the day, pair your dress with a jacket and pumps. For evening wear, it can be worn with fine fashion jewelry and accessories.

Cashmere Cardigan

You may be wondering if it is really worth it to buy cashmere. The answer is yes! Cashmere is soft to the touch, warmer than wool, yet lightweight and breathable. A cashmere cardigan is the perfect wearable for a cold winter’s morning. It drapes beautifully, so it has an elegant look to it. Pair a cashmere cardigan with dresses, skirts, pants, jeans, or practically anything you want to look fabulous in.

White Dress Shirt

Perfect for working, interviewing, or just looking refined for a nice dinner, a white dress shirt should be found in every woman’s closet. Avoid buying an inexpensive white dress shirt, as you are going to get what you pay for. It should be able to hold its shape after being washed many times without becoming see-through. Experts recommend buying one size larger if your shirt is made of cotton to avoid unwanted shrinkage.

Khaki Trench Coat

One of the most iconic pieces of outerwear known throughout history is the khaki trench coat. The modern-day trench coat comes in various styles and textures. Ideally, you should look for styles that are loose in the shoulders and sleeves, so that it allows you to layer clothing underneath them. Although trench coats look good buttoned up, try leaving them open and loose to show off your outfit underneath.

All-White Sneakers

Trending in 2021, classic all-white sneakers can be worn in a variety of different ways. The idea is to have them work with any outfit, so look for a pair that has very little or no other colors on them. Wear them with skinny jeans or a solid-colored dress with a denim jacket, for example.

Denim Jacket

Speaking of denim jackets, they are also on the list of clothing you should have in your capsule wardrobe. A slice of Americana, the jean jacket is one of those classic pieces that will always be a timeless wardrobe staple. One of the most popular ways to wear a denim jacket is with a white top and black or blue jeans. It also looks great with a basic, colored dress.

Black Pumps

Whether you need a shoe to pair with your LBD, or just your favorite pair of skinny jeans, a pair of black pumps are your go-to shoe. Look for a simple pair with no embellishments and a 2–4-inch medium heel. They are perfect for work, or for play, and every woman’s closet needs a pair or two.

A Minimalist Approach

Having less truly is more. Don’t be afraid to go through your closet and purge, as it is all about adapting to a minimalist approach. Get rid of clothing you haven’t worn in a year or more, or that you never plan on wearing again. Donate or sell anything that you have never worn that still has the tags on it. Deciding to choose quality over quantity will keep you in style and looking great.