Capsule Wardrobe Ideas: Build One From Clothes You Already Own

The simple formula

• One base neutral (black, navy, camel or grey) for bottoms, shoes and outerwear.
• One light neutral (white, cream or light grey) for tops.
• One or two accent colors you love, repeated in a top, a scarf or a bag.
• Aim for roughly 5 tops, 3 bottoms, 1 dress, 2 layers, 3 pairs of shoes and 2 bags.

How to pull a capsule out of your closet

• Take everything you wore in the last month and lay it out. Those are your proven pieces.
• Find the neutral that keeps coming up. That is your base.
• Pick the unworn items that match the base. These are the pieces a capsule finally gets you wearing.
• Take a photo of each orphan item and style it three ways before deciding to donate it.

A 5-day travel capsule (carry-on only)

• 2 bottoms: dark jeans and one dressier trouser or skirt.
• 4 tops: 2 tees, 1 shirt and 1 evening top.
• 1 layer that works with everything (blazer, cardigan or trench).
• 2 pairs of shoes: walking sneakers and one dressier pair. Wear the bulkier pair on the plane.
• Accessories carry the variety: a scarf, simple jewelry and a crossbody bag.

Frequently asked questions