The Power of a Capsule Wardrobe: 10 Staple Pieces for Fall

A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of staple clothing that can be mixed and matched to make a variety of outfits, simplifying your entire wardrobe. Capsule wardrobes are particularly great for New York living whereby physical space is a luxury and time outside work is limited.

So, what exactly goes into a capsule wardrobe? There is no exact number of items that make up a capsule wardrobe, but each person should make sure they are covered for all four seasons and all occasions, without indulging in too much choice, and instead opting for minimalistic and basic pieces that work well together. Some people argue there should be 5 items in each product category, and some people have 50 items altogether.  

To quote Marie Kondo, every piece in your capsule wardrobe should bring you joy. It also should be well-fitted and of good quality. As you will not need to buy as many items going forward, it is a good idea to see the pieces as an investment, and therefore be willing to spend a little more. Shop at stores that produce apparel that will last and in the long-run, it will save you money.   

From LBDs to light-wash jeans, here is a list of items that will not go out of style and can be brought out every Fall season. These essential items can be mixed and matched easily to get an entirely different look for each occasion.

The Form-Fitting Blazer

ModCloth: Fine and Sandy Blazer

A form-fitting blazer is perfect looking professional at big meetings at the office. The blazer can also be worn outside the office when you want to feel like a Girl-Boss at the cocktail bar. Buy it in a neutral color – black or tan works best.  

The Classic Trench Coat

Halogen at Nordstrom: Trench Coat

Perfect for Fall, the classic Trench Coat should also be worn in a neutral color. Neutral colors are great for capsule wardrobes as they will mix well together without clashing. 

The Little Black Dress

Reiss: Tailored Wool Blend Dress

Another classic, it is important to avoid fashion fads when putting together your capsule wardrobe. For special occasions, a little black dress and neutrally colored heels would work, and bonus points if the black dress is suitable for the office when worn with the blazer. 

Black Boots

Sam Edelman from The Outnet: Paneled Leather Ankle Boots

Another staple for Fall, black boots are both practical and stylish. Ankle or knee-length, you will be sure to get plenty of wear out of the boots. Leather boots are definitely an investment in terms of price, but if you purchase a quality pair then they will last for more than a couple of seasons. These boots from Sam Edelman are an amazing 70% off at the moment.

Light-Wash Jeans

Topshop at Nordstrom: Raw Hem Crop Straight Leg Jeans

Possibly the most versatile piece in our wardrobes, a good-fitting pair of jeans can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the occasion. 

Basic Black, White & Gray Tees

Rag & Bone: White ‘The Tee’ T-shirt

A great quality tee can be just what our wardrobes are missing. Whether you opt for black, white, gray (or all three!), a comfortable cotton tee is another great addition to a capsule wardrobe.   

The Black Turtleneck

Commando: Cashmere Layering Turtleneck

A black turtleneck is a classic that never dates. Whether you style it with a long necklace, layer it with the trench coat, or just wear the turtleneck as it is, the turtleneck is always flattering, always stylish, and always versatile. 

White Sneakers

Vans: White Old Skool Platform Sneakers

There’s no denying that Vans make the perfect crisp-white sneakers that are both versatile and classic. White trainers can be thrown on with any casual outfit and somehow still look put together.  

The Tote Bag

Longchamp: Le Pliage Large Tote Bag

A Longchamp tote bag has enough space to fit in all your necessities, plus there is space for your sweater or jacket for those chilly Fall evenings. Accessories are particularly useful in a capsule wardrobe as they can dress up or down staple items, such as a tote bag and sneakers for grocery shopping when wearing jeans or a clutch paired with an LBD. For more designer bag inspo click here.

Black Heels

Mansur Gavriel: Italian Croc Slingback

A classic black heel can work wonders for a capsule wardrobe. Pair the shoes with the jeans or LBD and you have the perfect outfit for a dinner date, or wear them to the office with a blazer for a sophisticated look.

The benefits of a capsule wardrobe are endless. Not only is a capsule wardrobe a great way to save space in your closet and declutter your apartment, but you will also save time getting ready in the morning because your capsule wardrobe will be simple, and each item will be easy to find. Ultimately, capsule wardrobes can save time, money, and space, and each piece is carefully selected to give you the most out of the purchase.