How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe: Method and Essentials List

Step 1: Inventory what you own

Sort into three piles: worn often and loved, worn sometimes, never worn. Photograph what you keep in a virtual wardrobe to see duplicates and gaps.

Step 2: Map your lifestyle

Estimate how your week splits between office, home, sport and going out. Your capsule should mirror that split.

Step 3: Pick a palette

Two or three base colours (e.g. navy, beige, white) plus two accent colours you love. Everything in the capsule should fit this palette.

Step 4: Choose the essentials

Women's essentials (sample of 30 pieces)

• Tops: 3 plain tees, 2 shirts or blouses, 1 Breton top, 3 knits, 1 cardigan.
• Bottoms: straight jeans, dark jeans, tailored trousers, midi skirt.
• Dresses: 1 versatile, 1 dressy.
• Layers: blazer, trench, warm coat.
• Shoes: white trainers, ankle boots, loafers or flats, 1 dressy pair.

Men's essentials (sample of 30 pieces)

• Tops: 4 plain tees, 2 Oxford shirts, 1 linen shirt, 3 knits, 1 plain sweatshirt.
• Bottoms: raw denim, black jeans, 2 chinos, suit trousers.
• Layers: navy blazer, overshirt, light jacket, wool coat.
• Shoes: white trainers, leather boots, derbies or loafers.

Step 5: Test combinations

Every top should work with at least three bottoms. The AI outfit generator makes this quick by combining your pieces automatically.

Step 6: Rotate by season

Swap 5 to 10 pieces each season rather than starting over.