I’m sure you’ve heard of the term “capsule wardrobe” or maybe you’re wondering what it means. I’ve really dove into building my capsule wardrobe since we have been traveling for my husband’s job. We could only take what we could fit in our vehicles so my entire wardrobe fits in 3 tote bins (excluding shoes). I’m slightly embarrassed to say that before moving, I donated 6 trash bags full of clothes to a local shelter but to be fair…we had a giant closet that didn’t require me to get rid of those jeans I’ve had since high school. However, your capsule wardrobe consists of about 15-30 pieces (and often more if you have pieces in multiple colors). These pieces should all have the ability to complement one another. Consider them your “staples” like you would with food. You know those plain tee shirts you find and you love so much that you buy them in every color? Those should be part of your capsule wardrobe as they are likely versatile and easy to interchange between outfits. Think more neutral colors, textures and fabrics.

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How to Get Started

The first place I started building my capsule wardrobe was by figuring out the best colors for my skin tone. This website provides a free service for determining the best color palette for you! And it’s as easy as uploading a picture of yourself and determining where to start with capsule colors! I would recommend trying with a few different colors to see what result you get the most. I used 5 different photos and received two different color palettes so I went with the majority vote.

After I determined what colors worked best for me, I worked my way through my existing wardrobe and started getting rid of items following these guidelines:

If I haven’t worn it in the last 6 months
If it’s a color that doesn’t compliment my skin tones
If it’s an item that no longer serves me and doesn’t make me feel good

From there, I began laying out all the items that I wear most in a two-week period. If your wardrobe is already overwhelming, maybe start by separating your clothes out by season and work within each season. Once you set those items out, you’ll be able to determine what pieces you need to complete your capsule wardrobe and maybe some pieces you have been missing for some time and wanted to add in.

2. Audit Your Current Pieces.

The base of your wardrobe should be timeless items and basics. It’s good to sometimes add trendy items but always make sure they fit YOUR style. You don’t want to just purchase items because they look good on someone else or just because someone recommends them. Your pieces have to be a reflection of you and what you are about. And the most important part is you want them to FIT you and make you feel good. If items don’t serve you, get rid of them. Here are a few things to think about while sorting through your current wardrobe.

Have I worn this item in the last 6 months? If not, why and will I ever wear it?
Does this item fit me well?
Does this item make me feel good wearing it?
Does this item have stains/tears/rips?
Does this item complement your skin tone based on your color test?

Favorite Capsule Items

Crop Tanks - This is one of my favorite crop tanks with a built-in bra. I tried them on in-store thinking they would maybe be too short because they are technically a “sports bra” but they work perfectly with high-waisted pants! These tanks come in a variety of colors and some really good neutrals.

White Tee - This tee comes in sooo many different colors and having basic colored tees are important for your capsule wardrobe.

Mock Neck Long Sleeves - This long sleeve comes in all the neutrals as well. I dress these up and down. I wear them with skirts, jeans, overalls, and sometimes shorts!

Graphic Tee - You can find so many different graphic tees. My favorites always end up being ones with wildflowers on them for some reason. But for a neutral color, this one is a good place to start.

Beige Crop Sweater - I love this sweater and it’s softness. I wear it with jeans, shorts, sometimes over long maxi-dresses and with skirts! It’s super versatile!

White Button-Up - Having a white button up in your wardrobe can add to any outfit. Wear it as a swimsuit cover-up, tuck it into a skirt or jeans, or dress it up with a pair of dress pants.

Crew Neck Sweatshirt - This is my absolute favorite crew neck. It’s SO comfortable and I actually almost find myself wearing it every day.

Crop Hoodie - This is a favorite crop hoodie (it’s a lulu scuba dupe). Super comfortable material and you can get an extra 10% off with code: MARYVANOO.

Jean Jacket - You always have to have a jean jacket in your closet. It’s such a great layering piece for dresses, colored blouses, you name it!

Black Midi Dress - This basic midi dress can be dressed up or down and it’s SUPER comfortable. It does come in a ton of different colors as well!

Everyday Leggings - These will forever be my favorite leggings in the world and they are super affordable. Get an extra 10% off with code: MARYVANOO.

Classic Mom Jeans - The most comfortable jeans I have found! They are light in color, high-waisted, and give you all the stretch you need!

White Pants - Super stretchy white pants. I love the rough hem on the bottom to provide just a little extra detail on a flat-colored pant.

Linen Shorts - The most comfortable shorts in my wardrobe. I love the feel of linen fabric and these are a little loose fitting so they feel light and airy in the summer.

Jean Shorts - Love the frayed detail on these shorts. They make them seem less rigid than many shorts I’ve tried. Super comfortable and stretchy.

Chelsea Boots - I have always had a go-to boot in my wardrobe. I usually stick to brown or black because those two colors are so versatile.

Black Mules - I love having some mules in the wardrobe because they can make an outfit seem more dressy.

Brown Sandals - Everyone has to have a comfy pair of sandals in their wardrobe. This is my primary shoe in the summer because they are comfortable and supportive.

White Sneakers - A shoe that can be worn with so many different outfits - from everyday wear to summer dresses.