My 10 Piece Winter Capsule Wardrobe

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I’ve always been turned off by the idea of a capsule wardrobe. They seem too limiting and not realistic. I thought the point was that I only had X number of items, but it’s more about choosing high-quality items that can be mixed and matched. And in reality, I do wear the same types of pieces over and over again anyway. So maybe I actually am a capsule wardrobe person… just an unintentional one.

When you focus on high-quality staples you love and wear on repeat, getting dressed becomes so much easier. You know what works, and everything in your closet mixes and matches without much thought. That’s a big reason I love classic styles – it makes getting dressed simpler and they’re styles I wear year after year. That, and it just feels like me.

Here are the 10 pieces every winter wardrobe needs, plus a few layering basics.

My 10 Piece Winter Capsule Wardrobe

1. Cashmere Knits

A soft cashmere sweater instantly elevates any outfit while keeping you warm without bulk. I have very sensitive skin, and so many sweaters make me itch that I’ve started investing in cashmere whenever possible. If you’re building out your winter capsule, choose classic shades like ivory, camel, navy, or heather gray. You could also go for brown – I’ve been loving this cashmere polo sweater from Splendid.

You don’t have to break the bank to buy cashmere. Places like Abercrombie & Fitch, Quince, and Amazon have great options – here are my favorite cashmere sweaters under $200.

2. Blazer

A structured blazer is something I reach for over and over in the winter, and even in the warmer months. It makes almost any outfit feel more elevated and adds a little warmth too. It also helps denim feel more dressed up, which I appreciate for the office. For the colder months, look for heavier fabrics like wool or tweed – I love this Ralph Lauren one from Nordstrom and this classic J.Crew blazer. You can also use a lighter-weight blazer in a darker colorway (like this LOFT blazer) and just layer it over knits for extra warmth. 

Tip: Stick to neutral shades like camel, navy, or small patterns in those colorways (like check or houndstooth) so it complements everything in your capsule.

3. Dark Denim

A pair of dark-wash jeans anchors your winter wardrobe. I have multiple pairs of dark denim in multiple fits, but you really only need one great-fitting pair. If you get just one, get a high-rise straight-leg or slim style in classic wash (no distressing or rips) like these straight-leg jeans from Pistola. Pair with loafers or booties for the day, or heeled booties for the evening.

Worried about your feet freezing? Here’s how to style loafers with socks and here’s how to style ankle booties with jeans.

4. Wide-Leg Trousers

Finding the perfect wide-leg trousers has been quite the search for me this year. I’m 41 so I want a timeless style that can be dressed up for work or date night, but can still go with sneakers for preschool pick-up. 

When shopping, I looked for petite-friendly options and a tailored waistband. I came across these wide-leg corduroy trousers from Varley and ordered them immediately.

Style them with a tucked-in sweater or a fitted mock neck to balance proportions. Navy, black, or taupe will carry you through multiple winters.

5. Wool Coats

A wool coat is the hero of any winter capsule. Look for a longline cut that layers easily over sweaters and blazers. Camel is the ultimate classic, but navy, charcoal, or ivory are equally chic. I needed to refresh my wool coat this year since the linings on my older ones were past the point of repair, and I found a great wool coat from Banana Republic and one from J.Crew.

If you live somewhere extra cold, add a puffer coat from Canada Goose as a second outerwear option.

Here’s a roundup of my favorite winter coats for women – whether you want something more casual, tailored, or dressy!

6. Heeled Bootie

The heeled ankle boot is your go-to for looking put-together without sacrificing comfort. A mid-heel style in suede or leather works with everything from jeans to midi skirts.

Stick to black or brown for versatility, and choose a slightly pointed toe for a leg-lengthening effect. If I could only have one heeled bootie in my closet, it would definitely be these Margaux Downtown Booties. They’re a rich burgundy, but they are honestly easier to style than my brown or black booties – they go with everything and were comfortable right out of the box.

Tip: Pay attention to where the bootie hits on your leg since different heights will be more flattering on certain people and various heights will be styled differently. Here are more tips for styling ankle booties and choosing the best pair for you.

7. Leather Loafers

A leather loafer is my most-worn shoe in the winter, even more than booties. They’re comfortable and a good swap for sneakers when I want to look a little nicer, but still just as practical (well, usually). Sam Edelman makes my favorite, the Lorraine Loafer. I’ve been buying that same style in multiple colorways for over a decade and replace them every few years. A cognac or light brown pair will be the most versatile.

Wear them with trousers or straight-leg denim. For extra warmth, try a lined or lug-sole version in winter months. Here are more tips to style loafers, and here’s how to style them with socks.

8. Riding Boots

Riding boots (aka boots without a heel) never go out of style because they’re functional and elegant. Pair them with leggings, skinny jeans, or midi skirts. 

Look for knee-high leather in black or cognac for a timeless finish that only gets better with age. Sam Edelman carries beautiful riding boots, but if I had to choose, I’d go for the Anne Boot from Larroudé because Larroudé shoes have my heart.

9. White Sneaker

Even in winter, a clean white sneaker is a must-have, especially with young kids. Choose leather over canvas so they feel more seasonally appropriate. I think white sneakers go with almost anything – jeans, trousers, dresses, and skirts.

Here’s how to style sneakers with dresses, and here are the best white sneakers (and I’ve tried them all). Spoiler alert – if you get just one, get these from Cariuma or these from Veja.

10. Leather Tote

A structured leather tote is the only bag you need (in theory). I have lots of purses I use all winter long, but if I could only have one, it’d be a dark brown leather tote like this that’s big enough for my laptop (plus all the other things I tote around, like gloves, kids’ snacks, and a water bottle). 

Opt for a rich brown tone like chocolate or cognac. Black works well too (and yes, you can wear a black purse with brown booties).

Bonus: Basics for Layering

No winter capsule is complete without high-quality layering basics. Stock up on:

• Long-sleeve tees or fitted turtlenecks
• Thin thermal tops
• Neutral camisoles or tanks

These are the unsung heroes that make the rest of your capsule work. They let you layer so you can stay warm without extra bulk. And when they peek out of sweaters, it makes your look even more elevated, like you really know how to layer. Just be sure to add jewelry and accessories so your look is more “staying warm in the city” and less “adding more layers for camping.”

Capsule Wardrobe Dos and Don’ts

Creating a capsule wardrobe is supposed to make your life easier, not box you in. The goal is fewer pieces that all work together, so getting dressed feels effortless. Here are a few quick dos and don’ts to keep in mind when building yours.

DOs

1. Do focus on quality over quantity.

Choose pieces that feel good (no itchy fabrics), fit well (you should feel great in them), and last more than one season. A well-made coat or pair of boots is worth investing in because you’ll wear it constantly in the colder months.

2. Do stick to a cohesive color palette.

Neutrals like camel, ivory, navy, gray, and black mix and match easily. Then add one or two accent colors that you naturally gravitate toward (maybe a soft olive or burgundy for winter).

3. Do invest in versatile staples.

Every piece should work with multiple outfits. If a top or pair of shoes only goes with one thing you own, it’s not really a capsule piece. 

4. Do consider your lifestyle.

Your capsule should reflect your real life, whether that’s school drop-offs, working at an office, working from home, lots of travel, or lots of date nights. You can still get the same type of pieces, but you may consider different styles and price points. 

5. Do focus on fit and fabric.

Even a basic white sweater looks elevated if it fits well and is made from cashmere or a nice wool blend.

DON’Ts

1. Don’t chase trends.

A capsule wardrobe should last years, not months. Skip the microtrends (remember off-the-shoulder sweaters? Hard pass) and instead choose styles that have stood the test of time.

2. Don’t confuse “minimal” with “boring.”

Classic doesn’t have to mean dull. Add texture (like a chunky knit or leather bag) and subtle pattern to keep things interesting.

3. Don’t buy duplicates of the same thing.

If you already have three cream sweaters you love, resist adding another. (I’m guilty of this, so do what I say, not what I do.) Instead, focus on a variety of styles, even within a limited palette. A cream crew neck sweater is totally different from a cream cardigan.

4. Don’t forget accessories.

Shoes, belts, bags, and scarves make a huge difference. They can change the feel of an outfit without adding clutter to your closet.

5. Don’t force yourself into someone else’s version of a capsule.

If you love color or prints, include them. The point is to simplify, not to strip away your personality.

Best Brands for a Winter Capsule Wardrobe

When it comes to building a winter capsule wardrobe, a few brands really stand out for timeless style, quality fabrics, and pieces you’ll actually want to wear year after year. These are the ones I keep coming back to – some investment-worthy, some surprisingly affordable.

1. Sézane

If you love elevated French-girl classics, Sézane nails it. Their knitwear, structured coats, and leather accessories are effortlessly chic but still wearable for everyday life. Their sweaters have that slightly relaxed fit that looks intentional – not sloppy – and their wool coats are true capsule staples.

Here’s my full Sézane Review – what I love, don’t, and recommend!

Favorites: The Julio Jumper, Jacob Jumper, and Rafael Coat.

2. J.Crew

J.Crew has always done timeless really well. Their cashmere crewnecks, structured blazers, and tailored trousers are the kinds of pieces that never go out of style. I also love their wool coats – they strike that perfect balance between classic and current.

Favorites: The Scarf Coat and the Perfect Cashmere Crewneck.

3. Quince

If you love the idea of luxury fabrics without luxury price tags, Quince is a must. Their Mongolian cashmere sweaters, silk blouses, and Italian leather totes are of incredible quality for the price. It’s one of the easiest ways to build a capsule wardrobe on a budget without sacrificing quality.

Here’s my full Quince review (with more pieces I’ve tried and love).

Favorites: The $50 Mongolian Cashmere Sweater and Italian Leather Tote.

4. Abercrombie

Yes, really – Abercrombie has quietly become one of the best places for well-fitting, elevated basics. Their wide-leg trousers, cozy coats, and tailored denim feel way more expensive than they are – here are my favorite Abercrombie jeans over the years. I’ve been consistently impressed by the quality, fit, and versatility of their newer pieces.

Favorites: The High Rise Straight Jeans, Cashmere Crew Tee, 90s Relaxed Jeans

5. Aritzia

Aritzia is basically the cool girl of winter dressing – polished, timeless, and always effortlessly chic. Their wool coats, refined knits, and perfectly tailored trousers are modern but still maintain their class, making any outfit look instantly more polished. They are known for their iconic Super Puffs – my content manager has a few and swears by them every winter. If you want that clean, quiet-luxury feel in your capsule, Aritzia delivers every time.

Favorites: The Super Puff Puffer, The SuperSnug Puff, The Emilie Wool Coat

6. Everlane

Everlane is all about elevated basics – the kind of pieces that quietly hold your wardrobe together. Their structured denim, oversized blazers, and clean-cut knits fit perfectly into a winter capsule wardrobe. They’re great for those “what do I wear?” days when you just want something simple that still looks pulled together.

Favorites: The Boxy Oxford, Cashmere Cropped V-Neck Sweater, and the Luxe Rib Turtleneck

Final Thoughts

Even though I don’t think I’ll ever be the person who limits my closet to 10 items, I do love having a set of reliable go-tos. These pieces are the foundation, the ones I wear on repeat every single year and never get tired of.

A winter capsule wardrobe isn’t necessarily about having less. It’s about having better items that will last you years and go with almost anything in your closet.