I want to share how I view a capsule wardrobe and the five women’s clothing basics I’d buy again if I were starting from scratch. I think of a capsule wardrobe more as a foundation wardrobe with key pieces that work for your personal style, suit your body, and make you feel good. These are the women’s clothing basics that I believe everyone can benefit from. Your foundation wardrobe will look different from someone else’s, and what someone might be missing depends more on their lifestyle than a generic capsule list.
When you’re building a capsule wardrobe, it’s important to be clear on your personal style. Most of us have elements of more than one type, and our style evolves over time. Also, take the time to really understand your personal style first. Next, pay attention to the colors you’re drawn to. Traditional capsule wardrobes stick to white, black, gray, and camel because those colors are easy to mix and match. But I want you to think beyond that. While most foundation pieces won’t be in bold colors, they don’t have to be limited to just these.
Finally, consider your lifestyle. What do your days look like? What are you doing on weekends or in the evenings? Build your wardrobe to reflect that. Think of your foundation wardrobe as made up of the practical, versatile items that support your real life.
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5 Women’s Clothing Basics I’d Buy Again
5 Women’s Clothing Basics I’d Buy Again | Video
5 Women’s Clothing Basics I’d Buy Again
1. Elevated Tee
An elevated tee is a must-have capsule or foundation wardrobe essential. I love wearing an elevated tee almost every day because it’s something I feel great in and can style easily. I like pairing it with jeans and ankle boots or trainers, throwing a layer over it, or even wearing it with a silk skirt when I want to dress it up. Having an elevated tee that aligns with my personal style, which leans a bit edgy, gets a lot of wear because it suits my lifestyle and my style.
Related: “The Elevated White Tee”
2. Dark Blue Wash Jeans
The next item that’s an absolute must-have is a pair of dark blue wash slim straight jeans. Over the years, my preferred style has evolved, but the dark blue wash has always been a staple. A pair of dark wash jeans without rips or embellishments, in a simple, streamlined silhouette, is incredibly versatile and likely the jeans you’ll get the most wear out of. The dark color works for daytime looks but can also be dressed up for evening, making it a go-to in your wardrobe. I wear mine over and over again, and it’s the pair I reach for. During the day, I’ll style them with my elevated tee, and for evening, I’ll wear a silk blouse and a pair of heels to elevate the look.
3. Silk Shirt
My next foundation item is a silk blouse or silk shirt. I can dress it up for evenings out with trousers or jeans and heels, or dress it down for daytime by adding a cardigan and pairing it with jeans and trainers. Additionally, it gives me a more polished and put-together look than a t-shirt.
4. Structured Jacket
The next piece in my foundational wardrobe is a structured jacket. Think of a structured jacket as something in between a cardigan and a blazer. Depending on your style, you might prefer a traditional blazer. Personally, this style feels the most versatile. It adds a polished layer that feels more refined than a cardigan yet softer and more relaxed than a classic blazer. I own a blazer and a cardigan, but I still choose the structured jacket because of its versatility, timelessness, and how it aligns with my personal style.
5. Silk Skirt
Finally, my last must-have item is a silk midi skirt. You can pair it with a sweater and trainers or style it with an elevated tee and sandals on warmer days. If you want to add a bit more polish, you can throw on a structured jacket, and for evening, dress it up with heels. I love the classic silhouette and fluid feel of a silk skirt. It works with my personal style and what I enjoy wearing most. A high-quality silk skirt has become a staple in my wardrobe.
When building your capsule wardrobe, the key is to consider your style and preferences. The goal is to build a foundational wardrobe that reflects you with pieces you’ll wear. The idea is to have items that make getting dressed feel simple. You can use a capsule wardrobe checklist as a starting point, but it’s important to tweak it based on what suits you best.
Think about the details: What colors do you feel best in? What silhouettes flatter you most? Do you prefer something oversized or more fitted? These details are what will make your wardrobe feel truly personal and functional. If you’re not sure where to begin, simply start paying attention. Look for pieces that are easy to mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe. Those might already be the beginnings of your capsule or foundation wardrobe.
Related: “The Ultimate Capsule Wardrobe Checklist”
5 Women’s Clothing Basics I’d Buy Again | Video
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