Top-Quality Essentials You Need to Start a Capsule Wardrobe
Some basics are worth splurging on. Capsule wardrobes are all about high-quality, versatile items you can wear day after day for years to come. We rounded up our favorite finds to ensure your everyday wardrobe is complete.
Fact: Every closet needs a classic white button-down shirt that's appropriate for both the office and the weekend. Tuck it into twill pants for work or toss on a leather jacket and leave the buttons a tad undone for a casual-yet-cool look after hours. We like this comfortable version because it's made of soft cotton that's both structured and a little oversized. ($60, everlane.com)
True blue skinny jeans will never go out of style. This pair is mid-rise with a touch of stretch, so they're comfortable without sacrificing the classic vintage look you want from great denim. Style them with the white button down above and a pair of standout shoes for a look that'll take you anywhere, for any occasion. If medium blue isn't your style, these jeans are available in black, too. ($98; reformation.com)
Mules are the new flats. All you need to do is slip them on to instantly upgrade any outfit from "meh" to stylish and cool—plus, they're comfortable for all-day wear. These mules are available in a light tan color or black, and honestly we recommend investing in both pairs for maximum versatility. ($99; macys.com)
A timeless blazer is the cornerstone of many great outfits. It pairs equally well with jeans and slacks, not to mention dresses in the awkward in-between winter and spring months. This blazer features a neutral plaid print, that can easily be perked up with bright accessories and fun accents. ($270; net-a-porter.com)
The best purse is one that you don't have to switch out every season. A classic leather purse like this one is a great investment because its color is always stylish, and it only gets better with wear, so you can even pass it down once you're through with it. Plus, it features a zipper top, so your essentials are always secure inside. With eight colors to choose from, you might even want to splurge on multiple options. ($195; cuyana.com)
You might not want to splurge on a t-shirt, but when you find a quality tee that actually lasts for years, you'll appreciate making the investment. This everyday v-neck will look great under blazers for work, and also with shorts and sandals for play. It's available in five color options so can stock up for even more outfit options. ($48; shopbop.com)
Meet your new go-to office pants. Their knit twill material means they're soft and stretchy for all-day comfort, and their ankle length keeps them fresh and modern (not to mention a great choice for the petite ladies out there). We love the fun burgundy color, but everyday black and classy navy hues are options, too. ($36, usually $64; qvc.com)
A denim jacket might just be the most versatile item in any closet. It's an incredibly stylish layering piece, perfect for those still-chilly spring mornings and fall afternoons. Whether you dress it up with office-friendly pants and a button-down or dress it down with jeans and a t-shirt, it looks effortlessly cool all year round. ($118; nordstrom.com)
It's a fact: Gold hoops look good with every outfit without exception. This 14-karat gold pair is the perfect in-between size. They're not so big that they get caught in your hair, but they're still noticeable in your ears. We like Mejuri because it makes high-quality minimalist jewelry for a reasonable price, and its wide variety of size options means you can pick the fit that's best for you, for less. ($85; mejuri.com)
No matter the season, this wool blend coat is always a solid choice. It will keep you warm from fall to spring, with an impeccably stylish shape that will flatter just about everyone. We're partial to the always-in-style camel color, but equally chic navy blue, burgundy, and gray are available too. ($165, usually $220; nordstrom.com)
Shiny, soft black leather boots aren't just comfortable, they're also a closet must-have. Just like your favorite leather purse, leather boots only get better with age, breaking in to perfectly fit your foot over time. We like this modern Chelsea version because they're just the right height, and feel sleek, not bulky. ($198; everlane.com)
For a slightly edgier look, try a moto jacket like this one. We like that it's made of vegan leather, so it's a look you can feel good about. And it still has that timeless moto jacket shape, so tossing it on will instantly add a "cool" factor to your outfit, no effort necessary. ($128; anthropologie.com)
