Capsules are a great way to maximize a small wardrobe. Whether you are looking to downsize what you already own, be more effective when packing or rebuild your existing wardrobe, capsules give you a lot of options.
The basis of a capsule is building multiple outfits out of a handful of items.
The capsule I am building in this article is spring focused. It may surprise you that I am including a lot of black but we are looking for basics first. Color can always be added at any point when you start with a basic wardrobe. Think of this as your most important items and any additions can be done in color, pattern or texture.
I am going to outline each section of a wardrobe and give you suggestions on pieces to buy. I am also making this size inclusive so there will be an item offered in regular and plus sizes.
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Tanks // LOFT’s Essential Tank top is great for wearing with a skirt or layering under a blazer. Available XS to XXL. For dressier occasions the LOFT Draped Cami in black is your essential for nights out or layered under a blazer for work. Also available in XS to XXL.
Tees // Tshirts are essential to any wardrobe. I really like these Amazon Essentials Classic Fitted Tee which are available XS to XXL. Having a few in different colors will give you options while staying in your color pattern. These tees come two in a pack so I would stick with the white, gray and black. This would also be a great spot to add some kind of long sleeve tee with a pattern. This Madewell Gathered Sleeve Mock Top in stripe is fun and lightweight so it will work for those cold mornings and warm afternoons. In plus I picked this Carlson Striped Long Sleeve Boatneck Tee.
Blouse // This is your opportunity to fill that gap for tops that are dressier than your tees and tanks. Nordstrom has a great selection of bow tops that fill this need. This Heirloom Polka Dot Top (plus) or Ruffle Tie Neck Top (regular).
Sweaters // There is always an opportunity to wear a cardigan in any season so having a neutral one on hand will come in handy on the cooler days. This BP Boucle Cardigan from Nordstrom comes in regular and plus and is a beautiful neutral beige.
Blazer // For a versatile blazer Gibson’s Top Notch Blazer in gray (also the bright blue if you are wanting to add color) will look great with anything from jeans to dresses. Gibson offers their line in regular and plus so if you are looking for a little more room in the shoulders try the Gibson Inverted Notch Collar Cotton Blend Blazer.
Jeans // For your denim we want options like we do with t-shirts. Jeans will be the biggest staple in your wardrobe so we want to have options. I would go for denim, black and white when selecting pieces. I have heard a lot of good things about the Good American Skinny Jeans in a dark wash. These jeans are available in regular and plus and retail for $139. If you are going for a splurge item in your capsule I would do it on your dark wash denim jeans. For the white and black options I would look at the Madewell Button Front High Waisted Jeans in black and the LOFT Slim Pocket Skinny Jeans in white.
Wide Leg Pants // When I am looking for a dress pant for spring I love a wide leg crop pant. They are fun, show off your shoes and easy to wear. LOFT really has some great options like Button Front High Waist Ankle Pant in black.
Shorts // I like having a casual and dressy option for shorts. I was surprised that stores have bathing suits out but not shorts so the options I am giving you may not be in stock in your size. We will use these as a reference and then I will update this when it gets a little closer to spring. I love a denim short but not a cut off. These Universal Thread Rolled Cuff Boyfriend Jean Short in plus and they also come in regular. LOFT had my favorite dress shorts last year and I am hoping they will return this year.
Skirts // Skirts fill in so many gaps for bottoms in your wardrobe. They can replace literally anything out of your current options. Midi skirts are going to be a big trend in the spring so this Modcloth A-Line Printed Skirt is a great option as well as LOFT’s Heart Pull On Midi Skirt. Both of these are printed but give you lots of options and versatility. For a shorter option and a basic the LOFT Denim Button Down Skirt in white.
Dress // Keeping it simple. Long and flowy with the Modcloth Maxi Dress. Short and Chic with the Cece Bow Neck Dress in black (regular) or the Cece Tie Sleeve Shift Dress in black.
Shoes // You need more shoe options in the spring/summer than we do in fall/winter. I am still keeping the number as low as possible thinking about essentials so flip flops, flats, sneakers, espadrilles and heels. Tkees flip flops are the best and neutral. Flats; BP Flat Loafer in Neutral. Sneakers; Nike Air Force One Platform Sneaker. Espadrille; UGG Ribbon Wedge Sandal. Heel; Pointy Toe Mule Pump.
Accessories // Gold is the way to go when keeping it simple. Modcloth Keep It Simple Necklace, Kendra Scott Presleigh Bracelet, Anthro Naima Drop Earrings.
Hats // No matter the season hats are a great accessory to have on hand. In the spring your go to is going to be a straw hat like this Joanna Straw Hat from Nordstrom.
Bags // Two bags are essential to every wardrobe. A tote and a clutch. Love this Madewell Leather Tote. For the clutch this Sole Society Crossbody Clutch Combo is perfect.
I hope this list will give you a starting place. Remember you don’t have to follow this capsule from beginning to end. Use it as a guideline and make it your own!
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