Building a capsule wardrobe is all about figuring out what, exactly, you like to wear on a daily basis, and then tailoring your closet to those needs. Everyone does this to an extent, but investing in the right wardrobe essentials—and saving money on unnecessary purchases in the long run—requires some intentionality. “The idea of a capsule wardrobe can be completely different for everyone,” says Rent the Runway stylist Maeve Reilly, who structures looks around staples. “Your capsule is your go-to items that make you feel confident and comfortable,” whether that’s elevated tailored suits or simple white sneakers.
Liisa Jokinen, a street style photographer and founder of vintage shopping hub Gem, echoes that sentiment: “There isn’t just one capsule wardrobe; mine can look completely different from someone else’s, and you don’t need to add any trench coats or blue jeans,” she says. It’s really about setting yourself up with well-made pieces you’ll want to wear over and over again. Both experts agree that it’s best to invest in your hero items; meanwhile, seasonal trends and statement pieces can be cheaper, secondhand, or rented in case you fall out of love with them in a season or two.
Below, shop the capsule wardrobe items that fit in most women’s closets. Think of them as guideposts while you’re filling out your collection—and then branch out from there.
1. The white T-shirt
Regardless of your personal style, you could use a nice white T-shirt in your wardrobe. It’s a hardworking piece that goes with everything—wide-leg jeans, blazers, you name it—and is crucial for layering during every season. Find a cut that speaks to you, then buy multiples so you’re never without a crisp tee on hand.
2. The everyday sneakers
Sneaker trends come and go, but slim, sporty kicks are timeless. While you might assume that you should go with a white pair, that’s not necessarily the case. Your best bet for a capsule, Reilly says, is a pair in a neutral shade that’ll complement most everything in your closet; these minimalist styles will do the trick.
3. The straight-leg jeans
Classic straight-leg jeans (preferably in a mid-blue wash) will more than pull their weight in your capsule. Unlike some other cuts, they’re completely trend-proof, so you can feel confident investing in a pair that’ll last you years to come. Style them with everything from a sweater and heels to a blazer and booties.
4. The blazer
“A good blazer always goes a long way,” Reilly says. The key is getting the right fit; we suggest going for a slightly relaxed (but still trim) cut for your capsule blazer. Black, tan, and navy look great with matching trousers, silk skirts, and well-worn jeans, whether you’re headed to drinks or to the office.
5. The tote bag
Your investment accessory should be a tote bag. Make sure your pick is big enough for whatever you have to carry most of the time, whether that’s a laptop or a bunch of baby stuff; you’ll find yourself using it for everything from weekend shopping to weekday commutes. These high-quality leather pieces are especially worth your time—and by the way, Katie Holmes is spotted running errands with that exact Madewell tote all the time.
6. The heels
Comfortable heels take dresses and jeans to the next level, so make sure you have a nice pair in your rotation. “I would suggest a mid to low heel for versatility,” Reilly says; these cute, easy picks are available in plenty of colors and aren’t too trendy. Your work wardrobe has never been quite so chic.
7. The cardigan
High-quality knits deserve a spot in your year-round closet for chilly evenings and overactive office air conditioning. We suggest a timeless crewneck cardigan in a neutral color to start; layer one over a tank top in early summer or a sleeveless dress during autumn.
8. The black leggings
Black leggings are so versatile and comfortable that you should make sure you have a proper pair at all times. The athleisure staple can take you from the gym to low-key lunches, depending on your styling; throw on a hoodie, a trench coat, and big sunglasses with one of these top-rated pairs to channel some Parisian chic.
9. The dinner dress
Use these easy, elevated numbers as wedding-guest dresses, date-night go-tos, or pieces you pull out of your closet when you need to look nice at a moment’s notice. They’re versatile enough to work with any shoe, jewelry, and hair choices, and the cuts and materials work well across any season.
10. The button-down shirt
An oversized button-down shirt forms the backbone of Jokinen’s personal capsule wardrobe, and she recommends the all-season piece because it’s so easy to layer. Pack it in your vacation carry-on; wear it to work; throw it on under a jacket. You really can’t go wrong here.
11. The crew socks
This might be controversial, but in the vast majority of cases, we prefer visible socks to hidden ones; they add just a touch of preppy, sporty style to any outfit, from fall dresses with slingbacks to sweatpants with sneakers. These not-too-tall picks will zhuzh up your shoe collection.
12. The suede jacket
We’ve often recommended plain black leather in the past, but it’s officially time to switch to suede jackets. The soft, textured material lends a relaxed elegance to any outfit, especially when you need a layer that’s interesting but also easy to style. Don’t be afraid to borrow from the boys; these are all unisex picks that
13. The everyday sunglasses
Ever notice how every celebrity and style influencer almost always wears sunglasses on the street? Beyond protecting your eyes, they also punch up any outfit; go with a black pair for your capsule, since they look good with everything. Ovals and cat-eyes have plenty of personality and look good on everyone.
14. The trousers
You might be tempted to wear only jeans on your day off, but slouchy trousers can be just as comfortable—not to mention incredibly versatile. If you’re off to brunch, for example, style yours with an elevated top or a breezy button-down, then take your pick from sneakers or chunky loafers.
15. The black dress
The LBD is a staple for a reason—and if you somehow don’t have a black dress waiting in the wings for your next elevated occasion, it’s time to fix that. These picks work for virtually any season and fête, whether it’s a fall wedding or a spring birthday party. Don’t overdo it on styling; less is more with these minimalist beauties.
16. The ballet flats
It’s possible to dress ballet flats up or down, making them some of the most versatile footwear around. Go with a classic bow-adorned pair or a new-school pair of Mary Janes; either way, they’ll make your denim, trousers, and skirts sing.
17. The topcoat
We could debate the different types of outerwear one needs endlessly, but you really shouldn’t attempt to do cold weather without a topcoat. Every fashion person owns at least one long, sleek coat, and these warm options will lend you an old-school elegance whenever you need an extra layer that’s not too bulky.
18. The hoodie
Paired with leggings, sweatshirts make the perfect day-off uniform. They can also help ground jeans, denim skirts, and more adventurous bottoms like pajama pants; play around and you’ll prove to yourself just how versatile these tops really are.
19. The stackable chain
There is absolutely a time and a place for statement jewelry, but the most stylish women we know are almost always wearing a simple chain or two that stacks well with other pieces. Whether you’re more of a gold person or a silver one, these affordable jewelry picks are the perfect foundation for your other favorites.
20. The denim skirt
Although they’re available in every length, we prefer our denim skirts as midis. A refreshing alternative to jeans, these picks project a sense of ease; pair them with a cardigan and leather slides around the neighborhood or a ribbed tank, a suede jacket, and knee-high boots for shopping days. (And yes, you can totally wear one to the office.)
21. The slim loafers
While chunkier silhouettes are trending, go slim for your hero pair of loafers; they’ll never go out of style and look smart with jeans and suits alike. G.H. Bass makes perhaps the most classic pair on the market, while Sam Edelman and Gucci offer even slimmer models decked out with chic hardware.
22. The cashmere sweater
Lots of sweaters these days are made from plastic, which is fine—but if you’re investing in a proper capsule wardrobe, we can’t recommend anything but cashmere. The wool is produced by goats and spun into ridiculously soft knits, which can last for years or even decades with proper care. They start at $100, but trust us: You’ll feel the difference. (Don’t blame us if you can never go back to the lower-quality stuff.)
23. The elevated top
Don’t save your nice tops for special occasions; by pairing something elevated with, say, jeans or black trousers, you’ll look like you know what you’re doing. There’s no one answer; each of these gems brings a different vibe, but they all look cool (and, let’s be honest, expensive).
24. The belt
We love a good statement belt here at Glamour, but your collection should start with a belt that’s nearly invisible. Neither too thin nor too wide, these picks look great with jeans and trousers alike, especially when you’re tucking in your top. It’s a subtle way to make your ’fit feel just a touch more polished.
25. The clogs
Every woman could use a pair of these boho staples—you just need to figure out the right flavor. If you’re one to take leisurely strolls around the neighborhood, low clogs from Birkenstock or Tory Burch are your best bets. If you live in jeans and flowy dresses, meanwhile, pick up a boosted, walking-friendly pair that’ll sub in for fancier heels.
26. The sweatpants
Like leggings, sweatpants are deceptively chic bottoms that come in clutch for low-effort outfits. When you pair them with more special pieces (even just a trench, suede sneakers, and a graphic baseball cap), you’ll nail the woman-about-town look that’s so popular on both coasts right now.
27. The baseball cap
Bad-hair days are no match for a classic baseball cap. Beyond hiding greasy roots—we’ve all been there—hats also add just a touch more personality to any ensemble. When you’re not entirely sold on your outfit, these picks will come in clutch.
