Love the idea of a capsule wardrobe? Want to know the best foundational pieces you should consider for your personal capsule? This post has everything you need to know about the must have pieces for a versatile capsule wardrobe. I started my personal capsule wardrobe in the Winter of 2021 and have found that a few foundational pieces are key to refreshing a capsule wardrobe. In this post I am sharing my ultimate capsule wardrobe checklist. These are foundational pieces that transition well through seasons and lay the groundwork for a plethora of outfits. With just a few, or all, of these basic pieces you can create several timeless outfits.
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If you are interested in creating your own capsule wardrobe, explore my latest capsule wardrobe guide! In the guide I share my personal process for creating a seasonal capsule.
This guide includes a recommended seasonal wardrobe with 20-30 pieces and styles the pieces into 100 outfits.
My goal is to help you reduce decision fatigue that often comes when we have a closet full of clothes, but nothing to wear. The best part, a capsule could help you shop LESS (hello, money savings!!).
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What is a capsule wardrobe, and why do I need this checklist?
A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of cohesive pieces, usually 20-30 items, that work together easily. With a capsule wardrobe, like these from Penny Pincher Fashion, you can create a several outfits for the season. For me personally, a capsule wardrobe allows me to save money, by wearing more of what I own and shopping less. I am also able to pick out outfits with less stress & decision fatigue each morning!
This capsule wardrobe checklist is your resource of foundational pieces that you can wear across multiple seasons, think white sneakers, jean jackets, and basic tees! Other capsule pieces, not included on this list, may only be able to be worn for one season.
Seasonal Capsule Examples
Each season, I create a capsule wardrobe guide perfect for everyday casual wear. The style I use is perfect for working from home, attending school events, play dates, coffee runs, and church!
Your personal wardrobe should fit into your lifestyle, this is an important aspect to creating a functional capsule wardrobe for YOU!
Below are the capsule wardrobes I have created. You will notice several items are shown in multiple seasons, these are the basics I’ve included in this capsule wardrobe checklist! These are the items you’ll wear the most throughout the year.
The Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
Below you will find 30 basics to include in your capsule wardrobe. This is not a complete list; however, these have proven to be the most versatile and classic pieces from my personal experience.
These are timeless and versatile pieces that can be worn year after year. Adjust this list to accommodate your lifestyle, climate, and personal taste!
For your convenience, shoppable links are posted below each item! Links have been updated for 2024 and may not be exact to the product image shown.
TOPS – Capsule Essentials
LAYERS – Capsule Essentials
LONG CARDIGAN
BOTTOMS – Capsule Essentials
DRESSES & SKIRTS – Capsule Essentials
FOOTWEAR – Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
Footwear is definitely a personal preference when it comes to essentials for your capsule wardrobe checklist. I narrowed footwear down to my top 5 favorites over the years. These are the shoes I reach for the most and find to be the most versatile.
WHITE SNEAKER // NEUTRAL LOAFER // BLACK FLAT // ANKLE BOOT // LEATHER SANDAL
SHOP THE CHECKLIST
A Little Leopard
Capsule Wardrobe Outfits Spring 2023
Striped & Scalloped
Gift Guides for Her