If you’re even tangentially interested in fashion, you’ve probably heard of what’s called a capsule wardrobe. At its most basic definition, a capsule wardrobe is an interchangeable set of basic wardrobe staples you can mix and match to create an (almost) endless supply of outfits. The benefit, of course, is that you have a preselected batch of outfits to choose from, which makes getting ready for work in the morning a cinch. (You’re also less likely to impulse shop if you can’t figure out more than a handful of ways to incorporate it into your existing capsule wardrobe.)
We talked with fashion consultants to figure out what exactly you need to start building out your own work capsule wardrobe, and you may be surprised that you likely have a few pieces on hand already.
What is a capsule wardrobe?
“A capsule wardrobe forces you to think more purposefully about your personal style,” says Aemilia Madden, a fashion writer and consultant. “Choose pieces that not only make getting dressed easier but better reflect what fashion and dressing up means to you.”
And stylist Kathryn Typaldos, who’s based out of Los Angeles, agrees. “Having a semblance of a uniform — which is what a capsule wardrobe really is — alleviates any stress of choosing an outfit from scratch,” she says. “Plus, because you’re using a foundation of classics, the right capsule wardrobe should feel timeless.” That doesn’t mean the same thing for everyone, though, especially based on what sort of job you have. “You can use your own means to refine and subvert these basics as a way of self-expression.”
Capsule wardrobe checklist
But how do you start to build a capsule wardrobe for work? Well, you start with the basics. According to Typaldos, that can include pieces like a great-fitting trouser, the perfect white button-down, a blazer, a classic heel and a boot, among a few other pieces that are more climate and dress code driven.
In addition to adjusting your capsule wardrobe based on your office culture, “the capsule wardrobe should be interpreted through a coastal lens as well,” Typaldos says. “If you’re in a cooler climate, chunky, lug-sole boots might take the place of sneakers — and if you’re in a warmer climate, you can probably ditch a turtleneck in favor of a great crewneck sweater.”
Capsule wardrobe essentials for women
While this isn’t an exhaustive list of pieces to follow for the perfect capsule wardrobe, there are some great pieces to start with. The perfect pair of pants is subjective, but as long as they’re well tailored and make you feel confident, that’s all that matters. “Play with the idea of fit and silhouette, dress things up and down," Typaldos says. A pair of pants like these from Abercrombie & Fitch can easily transition from season to season for year-round wear.
Simple white button-downs are classics in any wardrobe for a reason. Wear one, such as this bestseller from Banana Republic, tucked into trousers or jeans, or as a great layering piece under sweaters and cardigans when the weather cools down.
Instead of a traditional sleeveless shift dress, lean into your own style with a fun sweater dress in a neutral-adjacent hue. You can grab this dress from Marine Layer in green, henna, black and blue hues.
“Play with the idea of fit and silhouette, dress things up and down, but when you have these elemental pieces for winter, you can transfer them from season to season,” Typaldos says. While you can opt for a classic color like black or navy, a light-colored blazer also makes a great layering piece, especially for warm weather palettes. The relaxed fit of this Uniqlo blazer gives it a modern feel, while the structured cut keeps it a timeless and versatile piece.
“Relaxed black jeans are the anchor of so many great winter outfits,” Madden says. “They’re easy to style with boots, can be dressed up with the addition of a blouse, but can also be thrown on with a sweatshirt and sneakers. I prefer a high rise with room through the legs." We love this pair from Madewell that you can also pick up in tall, petite and curvy cuts for your ideal fit.
The idea of a “perfect white tee” can change from person to person, but this scoop-neck from Everlane is a real crowd-pleaser.
A leather jacket makes a great seasonal layering piece and is a great way to add a little more edge and personality to your work basics. If you feel like your workwear needs some variation away from neutrals, grab this jacket in this beautiful navy.
A square-toed boot is one of the most versatile shoes you can add to your closet. These Vagabond booties are both office and night-out approved since the added heel makes them perfect for wearing with cropped pants and jeans, as well as skirts and dresses.
“For winter, I tend toward leather sneakers with a thicker sole to keep my feet protected,” Madden says. “Air Force 1s are a great example of a shoe that is simple but hits everything on the checklist.” If they’re too casual for the office, keep them stowed under your desk for when it’s time to head out.
Heels aren’t essential for everyone, but if you feel comfortable wearing one to work, make sure you choose one that goes with everything, like this asymmetric stiletto.
Capsule wardrobe essentials for men
For men, a capsule wardrobe is also dependent on location and personality type, but it can still be a smart idea, especially for fellas who struggle with putting together outfits every day. “We’re all different shapes and sizes, so it’s important to figure out the silhouettes that work," Typaldos says. One great option is a well-fitting blazer in navy or charcoal, such as this one from Calvin Klein, which is essential for anyone with a more formal office dress code.
“Every man needs the perfect denim, either in blue or black,” Typaldos says. If you’re working from home or in a more casual office, feel free to opt for blue. Otherwise, black denim is versatile enough for work and play.
For more casual office dress codes, Typaldos says that depending on your build and style, you should also have a non-denim trouser that can take the place of an everyday pant. This pair of Dickies looks great with sneakers, boots or loafers.
A white tee is such a wardrobe staple that Typaldos recommends finding a fit you like and buying in bulk.
When the weather starts to turn colder, an easy crewneck sweater is the perfect option for layering. This bestseller from J.Crew is made of 100% cashmere, meaning it looks great and will keep you warm on chilly spring mornings or underneath your heavier jackets in winter.
Jackets for work can be really contingent on dress codes and personal style, Typaldos says. You can opt for staple investment pieces like peacoats and trenches for a timeless, more formal look, or go for something more normcore like a durable half-zip or denim jacket for a more casual look. This Theory jacket is a favorite for its clean look that can be styled a number of ways, since it goes with almost anything.
In winter, the shacket (or shirt/jacket hybrid) is a great way to layer. This fleece-lined overshirt from Everlane is a more heavy-duty option when it comes to warmth, but it's great for chilly offices or for jobs where you might be popping outdoors often throughout the day.
As long as you keep them clean, a simple athletic-leaning sneaker can easily work in your office wardrobe. These New Balance sneakers have a more casual vibe but will help you stay comfortable on your feet throughout your workday. You can also shop them in several neutral color combinations for whatever best suits your style.
Based on personality type and seasonality, a pair of all-weather boots is also a great closet staple. These Ugg boots are made with waterproof leather for extra protection and feature increased traction on the soles so you don't slip around on ice and snow on your way to the office. And, of course, they look great paired with anything from a suit to your favorite jeans.