Capsule Wardrobe Pieces

If you never read Marie Kondo’s book, “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up”, you can now watch the new show on Netflix with a similar premise. The point here? Tidying up, getting rid of clutter, buying less – all signs point towards minimalism trending more than ever in 2019. After doing a major cleaning of my apartment recently, I realized just how much stuff you tend to accumulate. You may not even realize it, but chances are you have a lot more clutter than you realize. After throwing away countless bags of stuff and donating others, I made a commitment to buy less and focus on the things that are truly functional or bring joy to my daily life. Think about it this way – if half the stuff in your home went missing, would you even notice? This philosophy applies to your wardrobe as well.

That’s why my focus for this year is to build a capsule wardrobe – timeless, classic pieces that go with everything and can be worn for years to come. Trendy, seasonal pieces can be supplemented by Rent the Runway Unlimited (I’m also breaking up with fast fashion – but that’s a post for another time).

Here are some of the pieces in my capsule wardrobe that I think could work in anyone’s closet.

Capsule Wardrobe Essential Pieces

Cashmere Sweater

You can wear this with almost anything in the fall and winter, I love it as a layering piece. High quality cashmere will hold up for years, and a basic sweater like this one will always be in style. Start with your favorite color and work to incorporate other neutrals in various fitted and slouchy shapes. For a less expensive version, I like Everlane.

Basic Tees

Once you find the perfect everyday tee, you’ll want to stock up. I love the fit and fabric of these Z Supply tees, and the fact that they aren’t as pricey as other brands.

Everyday Denim

Re/Done makes my favorite jeans, but in my experience finding the perfect denim is very trial and error process. Fit is everything, so pick a day when you’re feeling great and go try on a dozen pairs until you find the perfect one. Denim is always worth buying. I actually read in a recent article that denim brands (such as Levi’s) are jumping onto Rent the Runway in hopes that customers will first try the denim through their subscription, and then buy. How cool is that?

Classic Silk Blouse

I hate pieces that have to be babied and dry cleaned constantly, but a silk button down always looks chic and works in professional and more casual settings. Equipment makes the best version, but you may be able to find less expensive versions that you won’t feel as bad about tossing after a few years. Fun fact – sweat stains on silk are a result of the ingredients in your deodorant, not the actual perspiration. Another reason to use natural deodorant (no aluminum).

Casual Sneakers

Way more than I’d like to spend on a pair of sneakers so I haven’t pulled the trigger but these look good with everything (especially if you can keep them clean).

Black Mules

An office essential. Wear with skirts, denim, trousers, dresses – for those of us that hate wearing heels, a black slide on shoe is way more practical.

Silk Camisole

I’ve talked about this tank top so many times and have since gotten it in more colors. It’s great to have a default top to wear with anything on days I just don’t feel like digging into my closet for clothes.

Leather Jacket

If you’re going to splurge on one item, make it a leather jacket. The leather softens and improves with age, it really will never go out of style, and you can wear it forever.

Capsule Wardrobe Essential Pieces:

What are your go-to, essential pieces?

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