With more and more people looking to break out of the trend cycle, capsule wardrobes are becoming the latest trend in fashion and sustainability.
Rather than buying fast fashion items to join in on the latest trends, people are scaling back. They’re building a closet filled with versatile basics and investment pieces that can be mixed and matched to keep things uncluttered and minimal. It’s quickly become a booming industry; a market report from Verified Market Research highlights that the capsule wardrobe market is expected to reach a value of $7.8 Billion by 2031. Despite the appeal of capsule wardrobes, it’s not easy to create one. Changing seasons can make it difficult to find appropriate staples that won’t gather dust for most of the year. Fortunately, some items can work anytime and anywhere, making them valuable pieces that can serve their purpose regardless of season.
Here are some must-haves for an all-season capsule wardrobe.
Cardigan
Cardigans are one of the most versatile pieces you can own. They come in many different designs, from thick and cozy to light and airy, making them perfect to wear all year round. You can wear one under a bulkier coat during cold winter days or throw it on over a sundress or T-shirt for during the summer. You can pair it with casual jeans, a business casual button-down, or even wear it as a top. A Barefoot Dreams cardigan showcases how it effortlessly adds a touch of sophistication to any look. The CozyChic Lite Ribbed Island Wrap Cardigan can be worn for any occasion, whether having a night in at home, shopping, or going to work. The CozyChic Lite Contrast Rib Pocket Cardigan can look stunning paired with a dressier look while elevating a more understated one. While you can have a couple of cardigans for various seasons and occasions, you can keep it minimal for your capsule wardrobe by choosing one with a versatile knit and design so you can wear it anytime and anywhere.
Maxi dress
A capsule wardrobe is all about blending practicality and style, and a maxi dress is one of the best pieces that combines the two. It’s the standout part of your outfit, and it’s a great foundation for mixing and matching other staples depending on the seasons. Pair it with ankle boots and a leather jacket for an edgy autumn look, or wear it with strappy sandals and a sun hat for a chic summer vibe. Layer on belts, experiment with jewelry and mix prints and textures for a unique look. They’re also incredibly comfortable, thanks to the breathable material and flowy fabric. Long-sleeved maxi dresses also allow for a bit more warmth while still staying light, making them great pieces for transitional seasons, like when the weather starts to cool during the summer or when winter gives way to spring. You can find great maxi dresses at Nordstrom Rack, which features high-quality brands like Free People and Vince Camuto but won’t break the bank. H&M also has trendy finds since they’re constantly on top of what’s in style.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses aren’t just a beach or summer must-have; they’re something you can—and should—wear all year round. They’re essential for protecting your eyes from harsh UV rays, which can affect the eyes whether you’re indulging in a tropical getaway or hitting the ski slopes for the winter. Aside from being practical and protective, they’re a fashion statement that can capture your style and personality while elevating your look. There’s no shortage of styles, shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns to choose from, but opting for a timeless and flattering option is the way to go for a minimal capsule wardrobe. Ray-Ban sunglasses are the go-to for classic shades, with the Wayfarers and Aviators still in style even after decades. Black hues are easily paired with anything in your wardrobe, but you can also go for a glamorous tortoiseshell pattern or have fun with colored, transparent frames.
Denim jeans
Denim jeans have long been a classic fashion item, and for good reason. They’re the right balance of casual and put-together, making any ensemble look chic. You can wear them if you want something more elevated than yoga pants or leggings while staying laid-back. They also go with almost anything in your closet, such as graphic tees, tank tops, blazers, leather jackets, and much more, allowing you to keep them on your usual rotation no matter the season. Jeans are a trickier piece to shop for since you have to consider your body type, comfort, and wardrobe, but once you find a pair with a flattering fit and cut, you’re all set. You can’t go wrong with straight-cut jeans from iconic brands like Levi’s, which are high-quality and enduring in the ever-changing trend cycle. The 501 Original Fit Jeans are timeless, thanks to their versatility and comfort. Depending on your preferences and other wardrobe items, you can also explore other styles like skinny, boot-cut, or flared.
Everyday bag
Your bag is your trusty companion wherever you go, enhancing your outfit while carrying your precious items. Many like to collect them since they’re fun to pair with different looks for different occasions. However, if you’re scaling back to a capsule wardrobe, having an everyday bag that can work with various outfits and seasons is best. Whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or going out for dinner, it’ll blend in nicely with any ensemble. You can go wrong with neutral and simple tones like beige, brown, or black, but you can take it to the next level with a classy pattern. Bags in vibrant hues can add a pop of color to your outfit and stand out against a more basic look. Blues, reds, and greens can be bold without looking overwhelming. Invest in bags from trusted brands that are made with high-quality materials like leather so they can be worn for ages. Coach bags like The Tote are known for their timeless style, and you can find something that appeals to you from its many versions.