Capsule Wardrobe: Minimal & Versatile
The beauty in limiting one's closet to a select number of pieces…
The idea that less is more…
Excuse me? Did you read my bio? The inner hoarder in me is not about that life. The love for my worn out A&F denim jacket circa 2009 is far too strong to let it go (that’s gotta be vintage at some point, right?).
Nevertheless, the idea of coordinating a few of your favorite pieces to create endless outfit options is something I can get down with.
Here are a few tips for you go-getters that might take on the challenge…
When it comes to capsule wardrobes, stick to solids. Mix in a few printed designs to keep things interesting or pair your favorite look with colorful accessories for a touch of personal style.
If a neutral color scheme is your jam, keep the hues of your favorite accessories in line with that. Avoid going off the rails and buying that pink/purple scarf just because it’s on sale when the rest of your capsule wardrobe is navy and white. (Let's be real, I definitely do that. No judgements here.)
Check out my 24 capsule-esque pieces for inspiration and click the links below to shop my favorites and similar styles!
My must-haves:
These high-waisted black skinny jeans are my go-to for nights out. The button-front design keeps everything sucked in, making them comfortable, yet sassy when you're dropping it low on the dance floor. Side note - I was definitely skeptical to buy jeans from Charlotte Russe because sometimes their clothing quality is not ideal (sorry, CR.), but on the real, these jeans offer the perfect fit. For everyday wear, these destroyed boyfriend jeans from Gap are my favorite. Gap just knows how to jeans. Simple as that.
I can't get enough of these black combat boots. It might be borderline gross how often I wear them (oh well). They add a touch of edgy style to almost any outfit. I love how they look with everything from leggings to dresses (ps. they sell them in brown, too!). Casual and comfortable, these strappy black sandals are my favorite for adding easy style to any warm-weather look. They are hella cheap too, woo! To top it off (lolz, pun intended) this off-the-shoulder white top from Forever 21 is both sweet and chic. I love wearing it with solid denim or a printed skirt.
So, I haven't shopped at A&F in years (probably since I bought the denim jacket mentioned above), but I'm so, so glad I stumbled upon this faux-leather gem. I think we can all agree that the struggle is real when it comes to finding the perfect faux-leather jacket. It's always too bulky or has too much hardware. I promise this beaut from A&F isn't too heavy and offers just the right amount of edgy. Even better, it's on sale! Black is selling out fast, but (yolo) just buy the burgundy.
Look-a-likes:
I was lucky enough to snag my oversized GAP denim jacket from my mom's closet. If I didn't though, this jean jacket would be in my shopping bag. It has a distressed, vintage vibe that you can only imagine you'd find at a thrift shop. Instead of digging through racks on racks, you can score a vintage look for under $35 (not that thrift shopping isn't fun, but not so much fun when you're looking for something so specific).
Unfortunately, I couldn't find my exact H&M duster cardigan (sigh). But, this ribbed cardigan is just as charming. The draped, open-front design is perfect for layering over any of your favorite looks. Like my combat boots, I wear my duster cardigan almost TOO regularly. Also, I love, love, love chambray anything (clearly). This shirtdress from Lulus is an adorable pick for spring, summer or fall.
I got lucky when I found my Kenneth Cole d'orsay flats at T.J. Maxx (hence the blue stickers), but these leather flats make for a nice runner-up. A little pricey for flats, but a good investment for dressy and business casual looks. To finish off your shoe game, these slingback peep toe booties are super chic and lend a versatile look that can be dressed up or down.
Last but not least, my favorite: the midi skirt. This striped skirt is quite the trendy pick with its button details and pockets. What more could you ask for?
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