How to build a capsule wardrobe step-by-step
create a travel-friendly capsule with me
Picture this:
You roll out of bed, grab any piece of clothing from your closet, and boom—it all works together perfectly. No stress, no mess.
That's the magic of a capsule wardrobe. It's like having a cheat sheet for looking good.
And here’s the deal:
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all capsule wardrobe perfect for everyone. Each capsule is crafted with a specific goal and occasion in mind.
Here’s an easy guide to making a capsule wardrobe without making your brain hurt, step-by-step.
Capsule wardrobe 101
Step 1: Choose a goal/occasion
First things first, think about:
what’s the goal or your capsule, meaning where are you planning to wear the clothes. Is it for work? Vacation? Just chilling on the couch?
what activities are you planning to do? City errands, client meetings, hanging out with friends… The more things you’re going to do, the more items you'll want in your capsule. Aim for like 11-15 pieces - this includes shoes and bags too.
what weather/climate you’re creating the capsule for?
Some ground rules:
In your capsule wardrobe, all bottoms have to combine with all your tops. Everything should mix and match like a culinary masterpiece.
Include more tops than bottoms - this will create variety in your outfits. Aim for 1:3 or 1:2 ratio of bottoms to tops.
I’ll show you a capsule I’ve made for my upcoming trip to my hometown as a visual example.
The background: I’ll spend time with family, hang out with friends, do shopping etc. I want to feel comfy (no heels!) yet ready for a spontaneous hangout at a café. I love grungy, vibes and modern silhouettes. Also, it’s spring, it’s warm so I crave some color.
Step 2: Choose your bottoms
Always kick off your capsule with bottoms - they're your MVPs. Stick to what works for your body shape and the goal of your capsule.
I’ve chosen a pair of technical straight pants that are perfect for airport as well as running errands and a grey skort. The skort is still comfy and practical, and could be easily dressed up for a party.
Step 3: Add tops
The more tops you pick, the more outfits you can create—it's like fashion math.
Aim for variety. If you’re adding two T-shirts, make sure they have a different fit.
I’ve chosen a variety of tops: an oversized grunge T-shirt, a slim fit cropped tee, off-white semi-transparent longsleeve, and a bright sweater.
I also threw in a simple black dress into the mix.
Step 4: Layer up
Now it’s time to add some layers and outwear.
Think, a blazer, an overshirt, a tailored coat or a puffer if you’re creating your capsule for a cool climate.
Try to keep the whole capsule looking clean and cohesive.
Since it’s already going to be warm during my trip, I skipped the outwear and added a denim shirt and a checked flannel shirt.
Also, take a good look at this longsleeve - it's a real team player in the wardrobe game.
In my capsule, this isn't just any longsleeve; it's the glue that holds everything together.
I can rock it under a denim jacket, under the dress, under an oversized tee, or wear it solo and keep things breezy and simple. This longsleeve is like the bestie that gets along with all your other friends.
Step 5: Add shoes and bags
My capsule must be travel-friendly, so comfort is the king.
I’ve chosen a pair of chunky black loafers for colder/rainy days and a pair of red ballet flats to tone down my grunge pieces and to add some more color. Plus, red ties nicely with my tees and pairs great with blue.
The bag is practical and neutral and goes with every possible outfit combo in this capsule. I am planning to decorate it with bag charms to make it more fun.
Step 6: Accessorize
Finishing off the outfit with accessories is like adding a cherry on top of a sundae.
The earrings are the quiet type that still have loads of personality. I’ve also included chunky rings to add character to more neutral outfits.
The necklaces double as bag charms.
The final capsule in action
All in all I’ve got 12 pieces, including shoes and a bag + accessories.
Let’s see just some of the outfits I can create.
I can also play with dress/skirt over pants trend and get even more outfits out of these pieces.
It’s all about the mix and match magic.
At first, you might feel like you're doing a puzzle in your head trying to figure out what goes with what. But just start playing around with combos, and you'll get the hang of it.
It’s like learning to cook; at first, you follow the recipe, but then you start jazzing things up on your own.
Let me know how you liked the final capsule in the comments below!
With love ❤️
Kathy - "There's no place like home, and no style like your own."