Are capsule wardrobes really worth it?

Someone recently asked me if I could help her create a list of must-have pieces to start building a useful, functioning wardrobe. Whenever I’m asked a question like this, it causes me to really think about which items are the most important to own. And, this time of year when we’re all in cleaning, purging mode, there’s always a lot of talk about capsule wardrobes. In theory, I think it’s interesting to pare down our closets. And, I do really believe in my heart of hearts that having less is more — ish! But, could I get dressed for a certain period of time strictly using a capsule wardrobe?

Probably not, and here’s why …

My experience helping women get dressed tells me that we all need the basics. I guess you could say we all need a “loose capsule wardrobe.” I’m thinking pieces like denim, a great basic blazer, a few go-to shoes, a couple of layering pieces, etc. But this can get a little boring, and besides, I’m not good at following rules or adhering to any kind of plan. Also, if you’re like me and LOVE fashion, then there needs to be room to add the fun stuff — regularly!

What’s the trick?

The trick is not too much of the fun stuff, because those pieces are the ones that tend to quickly fade in and out of style. Today’s post answers the question: are capsule wardrobes really worth it? And, it will hopefully give you a few ideas to help you get started building your wardrobes. I’m not sure I can fit it all into one post, but follow along and let’s see! 😌

P.S. This past week I shared “6 Essential Items That Work For Everyone” — and they all happen to be black! It’s my way of saying thank you for subscribing to So Susie. ICYMI, the link was in this past Saturday’s newsletter. Not a subscriber? Click here to join me now — you’ll receive the link in the welcome letter that will arrive in your inbox. We also added a style boards section to make it a little easier to shop the blog. Click to see them all, and click here to see the featured snapshots!

Street style inspo

 

Images via Pinterest – Emily Ratajkowski and Felicia Akerstrom

First, you must own a few black basics … I’m talking about black coated denim, cool black coats, bags, blouses, etc. They’re the backbone of your wardrobes, and they make all the cool stuff stand out. Below are a few tried and true black basics I think you’ll love. For more ideas on investment pieces, check out my new shop on the website here.

Veronica Beard blazer | Frame coated denim | Nordstrom &79 cardigan | Frame blouse

And, you must have great jeans … I believe in spending a little more in this category and getting at least two you LOVE and wear all the time — ideally a nice medium or light wash blue, and a black (or grayish black). These will cover you for every outfit. They should be updated and fit amazingly well, and of course be hemmed to the right length! Below are favorites I highly recommend — you can also check out the denim shop (hand-picked by me) here. Trust me on this one, these make (or break) every single outfit.

Paige Cindy | Mother Rider | Mother Tomcat | Paige Cindy

Right now, outerwear is key, so have a couple of stylish coats on hand … some good choices include a wrap coat and a sportier style. Think versatility and you’ll have outfits for days!

Theory flowy trench | Michael Michael Kors | Anine Bing | Michael Michael Kors

Apparis | Moncler | Bernardo | Sam Edelman

Build your shoe collection around a handful of basics that work with many outfits … See yesterday’s post for more info, but here are a few I highly reccommend!

Prada | Stuart Weitzman | Gucci | Schutz

Aquatalia | Stuart Weitzman

Handbags are a key outfit maker, so make sure you have a great black and a neutral bag. This is another piece I suggest investing a little extra. A great Gucci bag like this or a YSL bag like this takes your outfits up several notches.

YSL puffer | YSL shoulder bag | YSL tote | Gucci crossbody

White sneakers always work no matter what time of year it is … plus, they’re comfy and super trendy right now!

Alexander McQueen | Loewe | Paul Green | Veja

Basics style board

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Trends style board

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Now for the fun part … add trendy accessories, like this year’s baseball hat, seen on every fashion girl; a scarf in colors you love; and big, bold sunglasses. These pieces elevate everything!

Isabel Marant | Saint Laurent | Ganni | Burberry

Add a fun bag … I love this green Bottega one, and anything white always looks fresh. You’ll be surprised at how much you wear them, and they’ll add so much interest to your outfits!

Gucci | Alexander McQueen | Gucci | Fendi

Under $600

Mansur Gavriel | Frame | Rebecca Minkoff | Marc Jacobs

Beautiful embellished shoes, or party shoes, are showing no signs of slowing down … and I absolutely love them with denim just as much as I do with a dress! I have my eye on these and these — so gorgeous!

Buy a few trendy pieces … Anything that catches your eye, and that can easily be worked into your wardrobes. For example, a brightly colored top, patterned blazers, cool coats or even a print blouses. They will work nicely with your black investment staples and all your denim. These are the pieces that keep your outfits on-trend. Right now, I’m eyeing tweed textured blazers like this, and this. Also anything bright like this dress and this sweater. all perfect heading into early spring!

On-trend jewelry has the ability to make your outfits look more expensive. Remember, the pieces don’t need to be expensive, and ideally mixing in trendier, less expensive pieces with your personal collection is even better. The key is layering: several necklaces at different lengths, and several rings across your hand is what all the fashion girls are wearing right now.

Thank you for reading! xx