The beginning of the year is always a time when I feel the urge to purge my closet and get back to basics. So, this year I decided to put together a winter capsule wardrobe full of items you can style multiple ways. From the best faux leather leggings you can wear with cozy sweaters to stretchy white jeans and the perfect white button up, you’ll have dozens of outfits with just a handful of items. In today’s post I’m sharing each of my winter fashion essentials.
Winter Capsule Wardrobe Must-Haves
What is a capsule wardrobe?
The concept of a capsule wardrobe isn’t revolutionary or new. It’s actually been around since the 1970’s. Build your closet with some classic pieces you can interchange throughout the season and you’re set! Like I always say, finding your “uniform” makes getting dressed easy and less of a burden each day. But, that doesn’t mean you have to wear the same thing every day. And, it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your personal sense of style. For me, I love a neutral palette with some feminine details like ruffles sprinkled in. Now, especially after the year we’ve all had, I’m drawn to comfortable fabrics like cotton and easy silhouettes I can throw on while I work from home. Winter is the perfect time to pile on the layers and stay cozy.
Shop the Post
Tan Sweater // Taupe Sweater // Faux Leather Leggings // White Button Up // Sweater Dress // Cashmere Beanie // Veja Sneakers // White Denim // Plaid Shacket // Classic Turtleneck // Tan Booties // Black Chelsea Boots
Sweater: Free People // Denim: Everlane (also love these) // Boots: Vince Camuto // Hat: Lack of Color (similar here)
Honestly, winter is my favorite season! Strange, since I live in Florida, right? But, I actually prefer to be cold and make myself warm. So, my closet is full of cozy clothes I already love which goes to show that you may already have things in your closet you can use to build a winter capsule wardrobe too. Ultimately, my must-have’s might look a little bit different from yours. Remember, the list below isn’t exhaustive and your collection can be unique (just like you!).
1. Cozy Sweaters
I’ll start my recommendations with something you likely already have – sweaters. Season after season many of my most-worn are by Free People. Right now is the perfect time to buy too because so many are on sale, like this one and this one. The length on their sweaters is ideal because they normally cover the bum and are great to pair with faux leather leggings (#4) or the next item on my list, white jeans.
2. White Denim
Other people may tell you it’s all about black denim in Fall. But, I prefer white jeans (or winter white). For example, the outfit I’m wearing in this Instagram post is as good as it gets! Obviously, its better to find yourself a non-ripped pair. I hear great things about Madewell denim. So, those are at the top of my winter fashion essentials list for 2021.
3. (Not So) Basic Long-sleeve Tops
Every capsule collection needs it’s basics and for winter it’s long-sleeves. A classic black turtleneck is essential. The jersey and cashmere pieces from Vince are a great investment that I re-wear time and time again.
4. Faux Leather Leggings
There may forever be a debate about which faux leather leggings are the best – Commando or Spanx. But, if you’re a regular here you know I’m extremely loyal to Commando (as seen here and here)! They look more real in my opinion. Although, they are a little dressier. So, it comes down to preference! Faux leather leggings look great with sweaters, shirts and bodysuits. So, you have lots of options for styling.
5. Classic Coat
There are countless options for outerwear for winter. A wool coat is always a classic, like this camel coat from Topshop. Lately, my faux fur coat has been getting the most wear (love this one). But, when the cold is overwhelming I prefer my long puffer coat. Bernardo makes some of my favorite styles. My tip – if you only have one coat, consider getting another this season. Having a few outerwear choices really varies your outfits.
6. Plaid Shacket
This year’s winter capsule wardrobe wouldn’t be complete without a shacket. Haven’t heard of it? It’s basically the best parts of a shirt and jacket combined into one item that’s a perfect layering piece. Of course, I love this neutral style from Line & Dot.
7. Comfortable Sneakers
When the snow is falling or the roads and sidewalks are wet, comfy sneakers are the perfect choice for the weather. I just ordered this pair of Veja sneakers that are super popular right now and I regularly wear this velcro style.
8. Chelsea Boots
This year’s must-have winter boot is the Chelsea boot. I have yet to get myself some, but this waterproof pair are the ones I’m eyeing and you’re likely seeing all over Instagram. They keep selling out, but they do restocks! Another affordable brand favorite, Marc Fisher makes really cute pairs too. My personal favs are these and these.
Using my guide above, your winter capsule wardrobe is easy to put together with just a few foundational pieces you can wear year after year. Before you purchase anything, do a quick audit of your closet so you know exactly what you need. Then, you can buy exactly the items that bring you joy and you’re certain you’ll wear at least 10 times. If you stick to classics, you can’t go wrong!
