Have you ever thought about downgrading your wardrobe? Yes, you read that right — downgrading. Though it’s not a downgrade like you might imagine; rather, it’s about streamlining your choices in a way that ultimately upgrades your look. I’m talking about a capsule wardrobe, a trendy idea that involves limiting your pieces to interchangeable — and mostly neutral — options that can be mixed and matched to your heart’s content.
I know, I know, it seems scary to scale back your closet. After all, you were just getting ready to wear that sassy red dress. (You weren’t really, though, were you? It’s been hanging there forever.) There’s something ultimately freeing about creating a more intentional closet. The products in this list are designed to help you get started on a capsule wardrobe or perhaps serve as inspiration for pieces if you’re already moving in that direction. You’ll find jumpsuits, button-downs, the perfect “little black dress,” and even a pair of ballet flats that’ll remind you of a much pricier brand. Cue up your own capsule closet with these selections.
Jump for Joy
Does dressing come any simpler than an all-in-on jumpsuit? Yes, I know it’s a pain in the literal butt when you have to visit the restroom but c’mon, that’s like a few minutes a day — max. Jumpsuits are comfy for traveling, not to mention easy to pack. A capsule wardrobe is about trimming your options, but I’m sad to say, you’re going to love this one so much, you’ll want it in every color.
Cute as a Button
You can’t beat a classic button-down, particularly in white. It goes well over leggings, dresses up denim and tucks neatly into work pants and skirts. You can add a scarf, jacket, vest or jewelry to change up your look every time you throw it on. This one has a cotton-linen feel for a relaxed vibe and sleeves you can roll up to a three-quarter length.
Dress to Impress
A little black dress in your closet is a necessity and it’s not up for discussion. You can do anything in one of these, from attending a funeral to delivering a presentation at work. This version is casual and flowy with a pleated waist and pockets. (Gotta love a dress with pockets!) Available in sizes up to 3X, it won’t break the bank at just $34.
If the Shoe Fits
I have a real love-hate relationship with Rothy’s. I mean, I love them and my wallet hates me. You know, those ballet flats that are made out of recycled water bottles? These are a reasonable dupe with an even more reasonable price that’s $100 less than its pricier counterpart. Choose from nearly 30 different color options that’ll go with anything in your closet.
Laced Up
Don’t dismiss the versatile tank top as something that’s only good for summer. This lace-trimmed version works solo or under cardigans or blazers without adding too much bulk. I love the V-neck styling and the pop of lace around the arms and neck. One reviewer said, “Love this shirt! I get many compliments on it! There is no stretch or give in the fabric, which would be nice. But I’m loving it just the same.”
Denim Darling
I live in dresses in the summer. As a Florida resident, it’s 472 degrees in the shade just about year-round so dressing cool means something more than it did when I was a teenager. This dress is chic and casual but will still help you look pulled together. There are seven colors to choose from including a really cute army green version.
Suit Yourself
T-shirts don’t have to be slouchy or overly casual. All you have to do is pick one that’s more fitted. And, surprise! This “T-shirt” is actually a body suit so it stays in place whether you’re pulling a pair of leggings or jeans on over it. Featuring a crew neck and a snap closure, you’ll always look chic and pulled together … while essentially wearing a bathing suit.
Overall Overhaul
Overalls are back in style and if you wore them the first time around, guess what? You’re back, baby! This lightweight option has adjustable straps with buttons, pockets and rolled hems for an easy look that’ll take you from casual Fridays to weekend cookouts. One customer titled her review, “Comfy, cute and downright the best,” and that pretty much sums it up.
Top it Off
There are going to be occasions when you’ll need a blouse that can transition from the boardroom to the drinks after work and this mock neck option fits the bill. One reviewer called it her “go-to work shirt” and judging from the wide range of sizes and colors, I can see why. Go elegant without being over the top with this option.
A Crochet Cardigan
This lightweight, open-front cardigan features long sleeves and a cozy, oversized fit. Its crochet knit design adds a touch of texture and elegance, perfect for layering over outfits in cooler weather.
A Pullover Sweater That Goes With Everything
This cute long-sleeve pullover features a trendy off-the-shoulder design with intricate crochet details. Perfect for dressy casual occasions, it blends comfort and style, offering a flattering fit for effortless day-to-night outfits.
A Pair of Straight Leg Workout Pants
These straight-leg sweatpants offer a casual, athletic fit perfect for workouts or lounging. Made with soft, stretchy fabric, they provide ultimate comfort, while the pockets add practicality for on-the-go days or relaxed moments at home.
A Classic Button Down Shirt
This slim-fitted, V-neck button-up shirt features 3/4 sleeves and a classic design, perfect for business or casual wear. Its flattering fit and timeless style make it a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
A Summer Boho Dress
This casual summer dress features a stylish tie-neck design with tassels, 3/4 sleeves, and a floral print. Perfect for beach days or sunny outings, it offers a flowy, comfortable fit that can even be used as a bathing suit cover-up.
Snuggle Up With This Nightgown
This short-sleeve, comfy nightgown offers a relaxed fit and is available in sizes S-3XL. Perfect for a good night’s sleep or lounging at home, it offers both comfort and style in soft, breathable fabric.
Cardigan Up
This V-neck cropped cardigan features button detailing and long sleeves, making it the perfect fall layering piece. Its knit design adds warmth and style, ideal for pairing with jeans or skirts for any occasion.
Don’t Sleep On This Pajama Set
This two-piece loungewear set features a floral print short-sleeve top and comfy capri pants with pockets. Perfect for lounging or sleeping, it offers style, comfort, and relaxation all in one cozy package.
Blaze(r) a Trail
Just like the “little black dress,” a good blazer is a must-have. This open-front jacket has a basic lapel collar, a single front-button design, two functional flap pockets and sleeves that look effortless pushed up just a smidge. It’s the perfect piece to pair with the lacy tank above or to throw on over a dress for an effortless look.
Jog Your Memory
If I can convince you to try just one thing on this list, it would have to be these soft and casual joggers. While they come in a variety of neutral animal prints, they’re easy to pair with a T-shirt, blouse, or denim jacket. Enjoy an adjustable smocked elastic waist, deep pockets and jogger-style ankles that’ll look as good with heels as they will with tennis shoes.
Pencil Pusher
If you work outside the home (or even if you don’t), you need a good pencil skirt as an option in your closet. This one is stretchy, soft and comfortable with an asymmetrical wrap front that features a zipper in the back. A hip-hugging silhouette will make you look like the goddess you are. This comes in so many colors they had to add a dropdown menu to display them all.
Kick in the Pants
OK, wait, y’all, I’m not done extolling the virtues of jogger pants. This version offers a variety of solid colors that you can transition from the gym to the office and back again quite easily. The four-way stretch material is all kinds of comfy and these have both an elastic waist and ankles. Dress them up, dress them down, just wear them.
Go Undercover
When we’re thinking about wardrobe changes, we sometimes forget that undergarments are part of the package. This six-piece set of lace bralettes makes a perfect foundation for a variety of outfits where you don’t want to show too much but want it to be worth the peek when you do. The assortment is a perfect blend of neutrals and popular wardrobe colors.
Good Jeans
If I had to choose just one favorite wardrobe piece of all time, for me it’s definitely a denim jacket. This version has the classic button-up design with the retro pockets and turndown collar but a frayed hem that adds a modern touch. You’ll want to throw this one with everything, from leggings for a trip to the grocery store to those joggers above.
Sneak(er) Attack
You’re going to need a good pair of tennis shoes, even in your streamlined capsule wardrobe. This pair will remind you of the old-school Converse sneakers from your childhood but without the Converse price tag. Choose from nearly two dozen colors or keep it simple and go with white. Reviewers love how comfortable and stylish they are (and the $12 price tag doesn’t hurt).
Shorts Story
Add some shorts to your closet, by all means, but choose shorts that’ll look great whether you’re spending the day at the beach or meeting friends for brunch. These shorts are linen so they’re lightweight but have some interesting features including a delicate ruffle, an elastic waist and pockets (which are really the most important part). At just $25, it’s a no-brainer.
Wide Open
Wide-leg pants are a whole mood and you’ll look like a million bucks in them (with only a $30 investment). Featuring a high waist and loose leg, these create a flattering silhouette with front pleats, back darts and side slant pockets. Don’t overthink these! Pair them with a simple top and heels for a classic and elegant look that’ll work year-round.
Swing into Gear
You can’t top a jersey dress for comfort and especially not this one that comes in at less than $20. A short-sleeve swing dress, it has a scoop neckline and a feminine drape for easy, everyday styling. I mean, an A-line cut is flattering on just about everyone and the jersey material won’t cling to the spots you’d rather forget.
What’s the Skinny?
I don’t care what millennials say, skinny jeans are in, have been in and will continue to be in as long as I have breath in my body. And, that’s exactly why they’re on this list. If anyone knows jeans, it’s Levi Strauss and this pair is stretchy with a snug fit that won’t lose its shape. They also have this vintage, lived-in look and — oh, yeah! — a tummy-slimming panel.
Shoot Some Hoops
If you’re looking for earrings you can live in, these lightweight, gold-plated hoops are a good place to start your search. At less than $14, these have a cult following on Amazon with reviews numbering in the tens of thousands. The brilliant finish on them won’t dull and are hypoallergenic for those who have nickel and lead sensitivities. Choose from different finishes and sizes.
Scarf Down
I love jewelry, let me make that clear. But, I struggle with wearing it, mostly because I just don’t have the time to pair everything in the best manner. If you’re the same, the accessory solution you’re looking for is a scarf and I love a good infinity version. Loop it once for a looser look or double it up for a more sophisticated option.
Tighten Your Belt
Here’s my dupe deal of the post and it’s a doozy. These faux leather belts with O-ring buckles are dead ringers for their more expensive $500 Gucci counterpart and reviewers are here for it: “Great product for your money, fits as expected … with lots of room to spare and they look great.” Snag both of these for right around $15.
It’s in the Bag
I love a good tote bag that can handle your tablet during the day and your essentials at night, and I’m willing to pay good money for just the right one. Fortunately, this Kate Spade dupe is just $10 and has more than 51,000 glowing reviews. I’m particularly fond of the metallic options (like bronze) but for the price, you’re going to have to smack your own hand to keep from buying multiples.
Boot Camp
Ankle boots are the year-round shoes you’ve been looking for, pairing as effortlessly with dresses as they do with skinny jeans. (See what I did there? Long live skinny jeans!) These have a chunky stacked heel, side V cutouts and a pointed toe for an elongated look. A variety of neutral shades will offer more than enough options for a capsule wardrobe.
Sweater Weather
Don’t skip over this lightweight sweater just because it’s summer and you can’t fathom it ever being cool enough again to make a sweater a realistic possibility. This crewneck option is an Amazon Essentials wardrobe addition you need. Wear it solo with joggers or put it under a blazer. I love how inclusive the sizing is, too, with options up to 6X.
Throw Some Shade
I refuse to spend big bucks on sunglasses because I use and abuse them … or break and lose them. These retro polarized sunglasses are a great buy at $15 for one pair or $22 for two. These have plastic frames and polarized lenses but more than that, they just look chic. One reviewer added, “I wasn’t expecting too much for the price but they far exceed expectation!”
Leader of the (Back) Pack
One of my favorite recent purchases from Amazon was a laptop backpack like this one that has allllll the pockets, a built-in USB port and a waterproof design that has some interesting visual elements on the front. I love the gold hardware paired with the light blush pictured, which is perfect for spring and summer, but the black has its own vibe, too.
In the Trenches
Before I moved to Florida, I went on a spree. Not a shopping spree, but a closet-cleaning spree where I tossed all of my coats. Every. Single. One. And, why? I live far enough south that I do not need a big coat. But a few times a year, I need a little something. This double-breasted trench coat is just enough to knock the chill off and looks great paired with everything from jeans to dresses.
Tee Time
Basics tees may seem too obvious but they work well with everything from denim shorts to work slacks. This pocket tee version is called an “all-around great purchase” by one customer and “thick and opaque” by another. A casual V-neck, the material is soft, stretchy and breathable, which are important qualities in T-shirts, if you ask me. White and black are obvious choices but don’t sleep on the gray and green.
Skirt around It
Midi skirts are one of my favorite recent trends, perfectly pairing with everything from simple tanks to chunky sweaters. (They’re also great at hiding imperfections, FYI.) This one has a high waist and elastic waistband as well as the “triple P”: Pleats, pockets and polka dots. This might be the perfect piece for adding a pop of color to your capsule.
Straight Laced
Plain tees have their place but sometimes you want just a smidge more oomph. This top is basically a regular T-shirt with just enough lace detail on the sleeves to give you a bit of a boost over a basic top. One reviewer said, ” Very sophisticated top, I don’t feel that the pictures do it justice.” At $19, what do you have to lose?
Get a Leg(ging) Up
Leggings are life and while I can’t envision myself doing yoga in a pair of faux leather ones like these, I can think of a hundred other scenarios where they’d be perfect (and perfectly comfortable). These have a high waistband to hide your tummy (if you want) and four-way stretch if you really do decide to wear them to the gym. Me? I’d pair them with heels and a chunky sweater.
Came in Clutch
For those times when you don’t want to be hauling around a ginormous tote, you’re going to want to grab a clutch. This one is made of vegan leather and has a sassy tassel as well as a unique loop for carrying it by sliding it over your wrist. Complete with a zipper, these are surprisingly spacious inside and have dedicated card slots so you can abandon your wallet.
Earn Your Stripes
Stripes are always in style and are perfect to pair with pants both dressy and comfortable. This top has a fitted look but a comfortable styling, making it an essential you’ll reach for time and time again. This reviewer understood the assignment: “The medium is perfect for wearing to work without looking sloppy, while the large is great to lounge around the house.” Genius.
That’s a Wrap
We’ve reached the end of our list and what better to conclude it with than a pair of ankle-wrap heels? These have a reasonable two-inch heel, which is just enough to make you look pulled together while being comfortable enough to wear for long periods. I bought a pair of these to wear with jeans and I love how they instantly make any outfit work.