The Capsule Wardrobe: Why You Need It & How to Build One for 2023

Between ever-evolving style crazes and the changing seasons, building a wardrobe that can withstand it all can be challenging. But what if we told you there's a way to make getting dressed each day easier and help you get the most bang for your buck when shopping for clothes? Enter: the capsule wardrobe.

"A capsule wardrobe is a highly curated collection of clothing (and sometimes accessories) that is meant to be easily interchangeable, therefore maximizing the number of looks you can make," Jordan Foster, style director for Favorite Daughter, tells People StyleWatch.

From basic tees to comfortable denim, quality coats to versatile shoes, a capsule wardrobe provides the building blocks to any outfit. But what to include? "The most important items are versatile pieces that can be styled in different ways, as well as staple items that you can combine and layer with the rest of the articles of clothing in your wardrobe," says handbag designer Marina Raphael.

Ahead, Foster, Raphael and other fashion experts share their tips for creating a capsule wardrobe that matches your personal style, how to style trends that will stand the test of time and what to know when splurging on a luxury piece.

Creating Your Capsule

Believe it or not, a capsule collection starts with what’s in your closet. Take inventory of the items you have and love to wear. Chances are, you probably already own some of the essentials: a plain white T-shirt (like this one from Jockey), a comfortable pair of jeans, a jacket, a sweater and a simple dress.

“You can make at least five outfits with those staples,” assures Foster. 

From there, start to add specific items for each season. For the colder months, Foster suggests having a thick knit sweater, black trousers and a long overcoat on hand. When the warmer weather hits, consider adding a pair of denim shorts, a simple cotton tank, a lightweight sweater and a trench or denim jacket.

And while every capsule wardrobe starts with those basics, the final collection will look different for everyone. “Your capsule wardrobe should be completely for you,” Foster advises. “If you know you are someone who loves to wear short skirts in the summer, then make sure you have that piece in your closet. If you know you don’t love a certain body part as much as others, then don’t force yourself into something just because it’s ‘supposed’ to be a capsule item.”

When shopping for pieces of clothing, Raphael also says to trust your instinct: “If something you wear doesn’t feel like it represents you, or makes you feel uncomfortable, then keep looking until you find something that fits your needs and aesthetic.”

Another bonus of a capsule wardrobe? Some of your seasonal staples can be worn year-round. Agee Leinberry, co-founder and COO of online fashion retailer Couper, swears by a navy-and-white pullover, which she wears in both the heat and the cold. “In the summer I'm throwing this over a bikini and in the winter it's the perfect classic layering piece,” she says.

Fellow Couper co-founder and CEO Caroline Gilroy adds, “Having pieces in my favorite colors that are easily transitionable from season to season is extremely important. For example, my favorite brown sweater currently, I have worn from cold summer nights to cooler fall days and will 100 [percent] be wearing under my winter coat.”

What else will we be wearing in 2023? Our experts say a black (or plaid!) blazer, silk skirt, lug boots, menswear-inspired button-down and a trench coat are just a few of the items on the shortlist.

Incorporating Trends

Once you’ve secured the essentials, then you can begin to mix in other pieces to help meet the trends of the times. One of the best ways to stay in style without breaking the bank? Accessories.

“Shoe and bag trends tend to evolve most quickly in my opinion and there are so many incredible, great quality brands out there making affordable items in those categories,” says Foster. “Jeans paired with a T-shirt will always be on trend. Today you’d pair that with a lug sole boot and a mini bag whereas four years ago you’d pair it with cowboy-inspired boots and a bucket bag.”

Jen Batchelor, fashion lover and co-founder of Kin Euphorics alongside Bella Hadid, tells StyleWatch that her current go-to accessories are hats and headscarves. "Lately I’ve been about the headscarf," she says. "I can be wearing almost anything — even with a sporty outfit." As for hats, Batchelor adds, "they go with essentially any outfit." (She prefers designs by Teressa Foglia.)

When it comes to trends, however, Foster says to be cautious of fashion crazes. "If there’s pandemonium around something new in fashion it's most likely not the kind of thing that will still be relevant in five years. Things that become overly trendy are [all of a sudden] one day the opposite of cool. ... I try to ask myself: Am I buying this because other people will think it’s 'cool' or is it something I truly love and would like even without it being popular?"

Choosing Your Investment Pieces

If you're looking to invest in a luxury item to add to your capsule wardrobe, there are a few options to consider — whether it be a handbag, jewelry or clothing.

"Handbags are without a doubt where I would put my money," offers Leinberry. "I'd opt for a classic style that works for multiple seasons and for multiple aesthetics in a neutral color."

When shopping for a luxury purse (or any for that matter), Raphael suggests paying attention to the quality and construction of the piece, as well as the comfort and fit. She says, "If you are hoping to carry it all the time, you need to make sure it ticks all your boxes, and that includes comfort in wear."

Some of Raphael's recommendations from her own label include the Micro Bella in Crystal if you're looking for a little sparkle; the Micro Riviera in Caramel, which is "spacious enough for all your daily essentials;" and the vegan Doina in Black as it is the "ideal companion for the minimalist and capsule wardrobe aficionado."

However, if handbags just aren't your thing, consider adding high-quality jewelry to your wardrobe arsenal. "I believe everyone should invest in a nice piece of jewelry," Foster tells StyleWatch. "A diamond tennis necklace (or less expensive lab-grown stones) is an incredible way to elevate any outfit — from sweats to a gown." One of Raphael's favorites is a Swarovski crystal choker, which she loves pairing with a simple T-shirt: "It makes me feel super glamorous and put-together with just one accessory."

Leinberry is also a fan of diamond studs. She tells StyleWatch, "For those days when I'm feeling less put together, I find that simply putting in my diamond studs gives me an instant mood boost and creates that finishing touch to any look."

But whatever luxury item you deem worth it, heed Batchelor's advice: "No matter what it is, it should make you feel great about life. Never buy a luxury item simply because it’s in fashion. I like something practical that I can get some use out of."

Gilroy adds, "If you are splurging on a luxury item, make sure you have things in your closet you would be excited to pair with your new item!"