Looking to build a capsule wardrobe that will serve you day in and day out? Yes, it’s possible! 

We’ve created a full guide all about creating the perfect capsule wardrobe for beginners. 

From picking your capsule wardrobe essentials to nailing the capsule wardrobe planning formula for all your future purchases, there’s so much to cover here!

Read on to discover all the ways you can mix and match the most tried-and-trusted essentials to create the timeless style you’ve always wanted.

Our full guide to building a capsule wardrobe in 2024!

Have you ever found yourself grumpily standing in front of your filled-to-the-brim closet? I know I have!

You’d think that with so many options in your arsenal, you wouldn’t have to worry about not having many viable outfit choices ready for grabs — but that’s simply not the case.

That’s exactly when most people try to refuel their style by opting for even more clothing… only to keep the unsustainable shopaholic circle going.

Nonetheless, there is a simple solution to tackle decision fatigue once and for all: picking the right capsule wardrobe essentials.

So, what is a capsule wardrobe exactly? What items do you need for a capsule wardrobe?

Can a specific capsule wardrobe formula make the entire process a breeze? And, most importantly, can you do it on a budget?

Here is our fool-proof guide to help you create a capsule wardrobe for beginners.

What is a capsule wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a carefully curated collection of essential and versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits.

The concept of a capsule wardrobe emphasizes quality over quantity, with the goal of building a functional and streamlined closet.

So, the term “capsule” suggests a small, well-chosen collection of pieces that can be worn interchangeably, making it easier to put together outfits with minimal effort.

Where Did The Capsule Wardrobe Come From?

British fashion icon Susie Faux first mentioned the phrase “capsule wardrobe” in the 1970s. Susie’s boutique, “The Wardrobe,” was a place where folks could find high-quality, minimalistic staples that not only stood the test of time but also matched each other effortlessly.

According to Faux, a woman’s capsule wardrobe should contain at least “2 pairs of trousers, a dress or a skirt, a jacket, a coat, a knit, two pairs of shoes and two bags.” 

Later on, in 1985, American fashion designer Donna Karan showcased her “Seven Easy Pieces” line in which she managed to showcase various looks from only 7 bodysuits – quite impressive!

So, instead of shopping impulsively for one-season, trendy clothing that is notoriously hard to style with your pre-existing clothing, a capsule wardrobe formula will not only help you reduce your sartorial carbon footprint and reinforce the idea of mindful consumerism but also help you save much time and energy by having an array of looks ready for grabs at any given moment.

Quality over quantity — the oldest cliché in the ethical fashion sphere.

P.S. Don’t forget to check out The 50 Best Plus Size Clothing Brands | High Quality & Sustainable and The 25 Best Sustainable & Ethical Shoe Brands For Women!

This post is all about building a capsule wardrobe.

A Full Guide To Building Your Best Capsule Wardrobe

What are the benefits of designing a capsule wardrobe?

Before you take notes on how to build a capsule wardrobe and make the most out of your minimalist staples, let’s go over some of the fantastic benefits of creating an affordable, size-inclusive capsule closet.

Less Stress & More Joy

The benefits of owning basic capsule wardrobe essentials aren’t just gossip from eco-conscious fashion aficionados.

In fact, according to the recent study on capsule wardrobes by the International Journal of Market Research, “a positive impact of a 3-week capsule wardrobe on our participants who felt less stressed, detached from fashion trends, have found joy in their fashion style, and enhanced their awareness of conscious consumption.”

Save Money

Sure, opting for sustainable basics clothing may seem like a splurge at first.

However, if you really take some time to consider it, these wardrobe essentials are interchangeable and versatile — not to mention high-quality. So, you’ll quickly realize that, in the long run, you’ll be saving money.

Instead of opting for new clothing every month or so that you’ll only wear 5 times max, your solid capsule wardrobe formula will last you season after season — that’s a fact!

Be More Sustainable

Did you know that more than 15 million tons of textile waste are generated in the U.S.? On top of that, every second 2,625 kilograms of clothes are burned or landfilled. This is twice as much as 20 years ago! 

There is more; the average American spends around $2,000 on clothing alone. That’s because in most cases, fast fashion comes with a super short lifespan which results in the need of constantly having to replace your clothing.

As Orsola de Castro mentions in her book Loved Clothes Last “this overconsumption“ leaves behind a trail of human and environmental exploitation.”

By designing a seasonal capsule wardrobe, no clothing will go to waste, which means that no extra natural resources will be spent on your new, seasonal buys.

Instead, you’ll significantly lower your carbon footprint. Sounds amazing, right?

How to build a capsule wardrobe: 7-step guide

The entire process of designing a capsule wardrobe and capsule wardrobe planning itself is fairly easy.

But first, you need to have a clear picture of your likes, dislikes, and, most importantly, your own, personal lifestyle. 

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you start your minimalist capsule wardrobe journey.

Step 1: Time For A Closet Audit!

To kick-start the process, take a look at your pre-existing items and assess their role in your wardrobe. 

Surely there are some pieces you tend to wear regularly and other styles you haven’t touched in years. 

Realistically, if you haven’t worn them for over a year, then they probably don’t belong in your capsule wardrobe. 

It would be best to create 3 piles: One to keep, one to repair, and another one to donate.

Step 2: Make Some Keen Observations

When you finish evaluating their usefulness, it’s time to start paying attention to the recurring themes. 

Your “keeping” pile is mostly likely chock-full of clothing that suits your lifestyle’s needs.

For example, if you work at an office, then probably women’s workwear in certain colors and silhouettes is your go-to choice.

If you are a fitness junkie, then loose tanks, leggings, and hoodies may be your sartorial holy grail. 

Are you a stay-at-home mom? Then maybe your pile mostly consists of comfy and cute organic cotton sweatpants and wear-me-everywhere linen dresses. 

Let them be your guide to all your future purchases.

Step 3: Create Your Style Palette

As a rule of thumb, neutral colors like beige, white, black, grey, navy blue, and tan work seamlessly together and with pretty much every other color. 

So go ahead and choose a color scheme you love and don’t forget to list your favorite silhouettes as well.

For example, do you reach for petite clothing that is usually high-waisted? Are you feeling extra comfy in your V-neckline tops? 

Maybe, you are a sucker for oversized blazers or opt for wide-leg trousers every single day without even noticing it.

Step 4: Make A Checklist Of Key Pieces That Are Missing From Your Capsule Wardrobe

Now that you are one step closer to designing a capsule wardrobe with a lasting impact, it’s time to pinpoint which basics are missing from your updated minimalist rotation. 

Cross-reference your clothing and make a list of all the things that are missing in order to create even more cohesive outfits based on your pre-existing purchases.

Step 5: Prioritize The Most Versatile Pieces

Step number 5 is one of the most important steps for the final perfect touches to building your perfect capsule wardrobe. 

No matter what color palette you choose, no matter if you’re a teacher, doctor, or stay-at-home mom of adventurous little ones.

Every closet needs versatile garments and accessories that work season after season and in several different ways.

Right now, you should be able to name at least one garment piece and one accessory that you constantly reach for in your closet. 

Is it a favorite pair of leggings that can be dressed up or down without fail? How about a stunning pair of jewelry that can be worn to the office and also to the playground?

These are the pieces we want in our capsule wardrobe!

Step 6: Keep In Mind Your Favorite Materials

Don’t forget to decide the materials of choice for your capsule wardrobe formula. 

Natural fibers like organic cotton, linen, and wool are not only sustainable but also pretty affordable and highly durable -which makes them a fantastic addition to your minimalist wardrobe. 

If you are leaning more towards the eco-conscious side, then Tencel clothing is also a fantastic option.

Step 7: Only Buy What You Need

When shopping for your new capsule wardrobe, it is important to keep in mind that, once again, quality always beats quantity. 

It’s pretty tempting to opt for even more styles that just look absolutely beautiful, but don’t fall into the consumerism trap. 

Instead, focus on finding the exact items that are currently missing from your wardrobe based on your pre-existing checklist.

Let’s move on to the next step, designing a capsule wardrobe.

How often should I update my capsule wardrobe?

The frequency of updating a capsule wardrobe can vary based on personal preferences, lifestyle changes, and seasonal considerations.

Many people choose to update their capsule wardrobes with each change of season. This allows for adjustments to accommodate different weather conditions and ensures that your wardrobe remains relevant and functional.

Plus, as your personal style evolves, you may want to update your capsule wardrobe to better reflect your current preferences. 

How many items are in a capsule wardrobe?

While everything depends on your lifestyle, in general, a capsule wardrobe usually consists of 25-50 pieces – including clothing, shoes, and accessories. 

You can also divide your capsule wardrobe essentials into two modules. 

Start with your wardrobe’s core items which is a selection of 7 pieces of clothing that can create up to 12 different looks. 

Then, move on to the “extended” module by adding 7 more pieces that mix and match with each other AND with your wardrobe’s core items.

Capsule Wardrobe Formula

In our easy capsule wardrobe formula below, you’ll find some sustainable fashion staples – including shoes and jewelry to help on your quest to design a capsule wardrobe that’s ethical, sustainable, versatile, and size-inclusive.

Take a look at our example capsule wardrobe below. 

Note: This is just a sample minimalist wardrobe; please use your chosen colors, palette, and aesthetics as you wish.

5-6 Shirts & Blouses

2-3 Tanks & Lounge Tops

2-3 Sweaters/Cardigans

2-3 Casual Bottoms

2-3 Dressey Bottoms

2-3 Dresses & Jumpsuits

1-3 Jeans

2-3 Jackets & Coats

1-3 Bags

3 Pieces Of Jewelry

3 Pairs of Shoes

Best Capsule Wardrobe Brands

Now that you have a complete list of the most important minimalist capsule wardrobe staples, it’s also worth mentioning that some stellar sustainable fashion brands offer pre-curated capsule wardrobe collections for our convenience.

Yes, you read that right, premade capsule wardrobe brands!

1. Neu Nomads

2. Girlfriend Collective

3. Mate The Label

4. Quince

5. Universal Standard