The arrival of Spring means time to ditch heavy coats and knitwear and transition into more lightweight pieces for the warmer weather.
The start of a new season can cause panic, making some of us feel we need to buy lots of new clothes, and even people with jam-packed wardrobes often struggle to find something to wear.
This dilemma can easily be solved by creating a Spring capsule wardrobe, a concept that will save you time and money. A Spring capsule wardrobe is a collection of clothing and accessories you can mix and match to make many different outfits.
The term ‘capsule wardrobe’ was coined in the 1970s by fashion boutique owner Susie Faux, whose philosophy was to invest in high-quality and timeless pieces that could be re-worn for years, and many people live by this rule.
The number of many pieces to include in a capsule wardrobe ranges depending on your requirements and budget. For those looking for a more affordable Spring capsule wardrobe, the Style Cadet has selected 20 essential pieces that can be styled in many different ways to see you through the season in style.
How Do I Get Started With a Spring Capsule Wardrobe?
Go Through Your Existing Wardrobe
To create a Spring capsule wardrobe, the first step is checking what clothes and accessories you already have; look through your clothes and check what items you wear often, what fits well and is it still in good condition. Donate or recycle anything you have not worn for a while or doesn’t fit you.
Define What Styles You Are Comfortable Wearing
There is lots of Spring capsule wardrobe advice out there on what to add to your collection, but adapt any suggestions to choose items that look good on you. You don’t need to buy the exact style of jeans an article suggests when you know they won’t be flattering on you; always purchase pieces that suit you and you feel comfortable wearing.
Identify What Essential Items You Need
Look at the items you already have that work and make a list of new pieces you still need to buy for your Spring capsule wardrobe. Avoid following trends and invest in pieces that look good on you. This guide advises how to dress for your body type for those who are unsure.
Invest, Invest, Invest
You are creating a collection of clothes and accessories you can wear year after year, so buying high-quality pieces is essential! A fast-fashion brand can churn out clothing at low prices, but many are not made well and use cheap materials.
The best way is to opt for quality over cheaper options, and buying second-hand is an affordable way to do this. Here is a in-depth guide to the best second-hand designer shops in London for those who live in the UK or who are planning a visit.
Take Care Of Your Clothes
Read and follow the care instructions for each item and allow clothes to dry naturally, a better alternative to the dryer, which can cause damage and shrink clothes. If you are often on the last minute but don’t want to wear creased clothes, a steamer is an efficient and quick alternative to an iron available to buy for an affordable price. You are investing your hard-earned money into your Spring capsule wardrobe, so look after it. By doing this, you can re-wear these items into the summer season and beyond.
The Style Cadet’s 20 Piece Spring Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
Credits: Trench Coat-ANYDAY–John Lewis/ Denim Plait Pocket Jacket-Oliver Bonas/
Black Textured Jersey Blazer-New Look/ Mimi Mohair Jumper-Monsoon
Stripe Collar Co Ord Top-F&F/ Jersey Rib Racer Neck White Vest-F&F
Black Seamless Crop Racer Vest-New Look/ Slim Fit White Shirt-PRIMARK X RITA ORA
Frayed Hem Denim Short Light Wash-Michelle Keegan x Very
High Waist Relaxed Fit Jeans-V by Very/ Tailored Trousers-Matalan Et Vous
Copper & Black Hibiscus Lace Maxi Dress Black-FATFACE
Light Green Satin Scoop Neck Midaxi Slip Dress-New Look
Leather Buckle Kitten Heel Slingback-M&S/ Nude Quilted Ballerina (Flats)-Accessorize
Gola Grandslam Trident in White, Coral and Blue (Trainers)-Oliver Bonas
London Chelsea Premium Black Leather Bag-Dune London
Collection Bag (Tote) M&S/ Collection Sunglasses-M&S
The Chunky Bold Base Huggie (Earrings)-Betty & Biddy
When brainstorming your Spring style outfits, the best way is to focus on buying classic pieces in neutral colours that you can create different looks from. Investing in timeless designs and versatile pieces means your capsule wardrobe will stand the test of time, which is a more sustainable and affordable option. Let’s dive into how to create the ultimate Spring capsule wardrobe with just 20 pieces.
**No Affiliate Links Were Used**
A Trench Coat
A trench coat is a valuable item in a Spring capsule wardrobe as it is a timeless classic, available in many different colours and lengths. A double-breasted camel or beige trench makes a great neutral staple for the spring season that you can also wear to the office.
A Blazer
A blazer is an essential basic that everyone should own and instantly makes an outfit look sophisticated and ideal as a jacket on warmer days or nights.
A Denim Jacket
Denim jackets are going nowhere and for good reason, this versatile piece makes the perfect addition to your Spring outfits. You can always swap out a denim jacket for a leather jacket if that is more suited to your personal style.
A Black and a White Tank Top
A black or white tank top is a great layering piece as they are neutral colours and can be worn under a blazer for a smart look or with a pair of jeans and trainers for a more casual look.
White T-Shirt
A plain white t-shirt will never go out of style, and Spring is the perfect time to buy one. When choosing a white t-shirt, check the material is not transparent and that the neckline suits you.
A Striped Long-Sleeve Top
A striped long-sleeve top evokes Parisian vibes that look so chic tucked into jeans with ballet flats and a trench coat or a pair of tailored trousers and heels.
A Lightweight Jumper
The Spring weather does not always play ball, so a lightweight jumper is an essential piece to layer over items and for when it gets a bit chilly.
A White Shirt
A white button-down shirt works well for formal and casual outfits and looks just as good with tailored trousers or jeans. You can also wear a white shirt as a cover-up over a tank top or T-shirt.
A Black Dress
A black dress is a ride-or-die item everyone should own, and there is a style to suit everyone, from a mini, midi or maxi black dress. Wear with sandals on warmer days or with a blazer and heels for a special occasion.
A Pair of Tailored Trousers
Tailored trousers in a neutral colour are a go-to piece that will instantly make you look together, wear with a white t-shirt and denim jacket for a more casual look or with heels and a white shirt when you want to dress up.
A Pair of Blue Jeans
A pair of blue jeans is in most people’s wardrobes and ‘the jeans and a nice top’ dress code is almost iconic. What style of jeans is personal to the wearer as what suits one person may not suit another. Straight leg denim jeans transition easily from day to night and wide-legged jeans are still very much on trend, but at the end of the day find a pair that works for you.
Denim Shorts
A Pair Of Denim Shorts are ideal for warm weather and come in a variety of lengths and styles to choose from. They are perfect for running errands on a hot day with a tank top, ballet flats and a tote bag.
A Satin Slip Dress
A Satin Slip Dress is the epitome of elegance and looks gorgeous with heels, a blazer and some statement earrings for a night out. A slip dress is a great layering piece that doubles as a skirt, so pop a lightweight jumper over the top with a pair of trainers for a more casual look.
Ballet Flats
Ballet flats have never gone out of style probably due to the fact they go with everything, and a pair in a neutral colour will be a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
Slingback Heels
A pair of slingback heels will elevate any outfit, opt for a neutral colour such as black or tan as it will go with more items in your wardrobe.
White Trainers
A pair of white trainers is a purchase you won’t regret making, and works with most items from jeans, dresses, skirts and shorts.
Handbag
A handbag is an essential item to carry all our day-to-day things in, so it is worth investing in a good quality one made of leather or vegan options so you can wear it for many years to come.
Tote Bag
A tote bag is ideal when you need a little extra space but still want something that looks chic. A tote can be used in a variety of ways and is perfect for running errands and also for the office.
Gold or Silver Hoop Earrings
A pair of gold or silver hoops are the perfect accessory to bring an outfit together. Smaller hoops work well during the day but you could also buy some statement earrings for when you want to dress up an outfit, it all depends on your personal style.
Sunglasses
A Pair of Sunglasses-a pair of black or tortoiseshell-coloured sunglasses is a great option that will go
Additional Items to Include In Your Spring Capsule Wardrobe
-
A Graphic T-Shirt
-
A Coloured Handbag (Red/Neon/Silver/Gold)
-
A Blue and White Striped Shirt
-
A Long Waistcoat (In classic black, beige or camel)
-
A Pair of Ankle Boots
What are the Benefits of a Spring Capsule Wardrobe?
Creating a capsule wardrobe will mean you always look coordinated and put together while saving time and money through all the seasons. Putting together a work capsule wardrobe is a good idea to avoid a last-minute scramble in the morning.
This concept is also useful when you go on holiday and perfect for those travelling with hand luggage who don’t want to feel limited with outfits. The benefits of creating a capsule wardrobe are endless, so let’s go through them.
Making Deciding What To Wear Easier
Having fewer pieces in your wardrobe to choose from makes the process of getting dressed in the morning quick and simple, leaving more time for sleep and coffee in the morning.
A Happier Wardrobe
Each piece in a capsule wardrobe is carefully selected with a quality-over-quantity approach that frees up space, leaving you with a more organised wardrobe.
Boosts Your Confidence
When you wear well-made clothes that fit perfectly, it will make you feel comfortable and confident.
You Will Spend Less Money
Instead of buying lots of random items that remain at the back of your wardrobe, invest in quality pieces that will last a long time, which is a more cost-effective approach and means you will also have a lot of options for your summer capsule wardrobe.
Better For The Planet
A report by the think tank the Hot Or Cool Institute found the countries with the highest carbon footprint related to fashion consumption were Australia, Japan, the U.S., and the U.K., with cheap fast fashion at the root of the problem. A capsule wardrobe focused on investing in timeless and neutral clothing rather than on-trend pieces, which fuel the throwaway culture, so always think before you buy.
What is the 333 Method?
Working with a small collection of clothes won’t limit your outfit choices, as the ‘333 Method, created by fashion influencer Rachel Spencer has shown. For those who haven’t heard of it, Spencer selects nine pieces from her wardrobe, including three bottoms, three tops, and three pairs of footwear. She mixes and matches them into many outfits, inspiring her followers to do the same to get the most out of their wardrobes. YouTube creator Christina Mychas jumped on the trend and created a whopping 27 outfits from just 9 items; check out her video below.
Creating a Spring capsule wardrobe is a great way to plan your outfits so you will always have something to wear. It’s up to you how many pieces you include, but you can get started with a minimal collection and add to it as you want to. By prioritising quality, fit and versatility, you will always have something to wear.
