A capsule wardrobe is a wardrobe made up of a few pieces that can almost all be combined with each other. You own less, but still wear something you like every day. Here we show you how to get started, plus three looks from a small base.
How to get started
People often talk about 25 to 40 pieces. The number is a guide, not a rule. What matters more is that every piece works with at least three others. Before you clear anything out or buy something new, answer four questions:
- Which colours do you really like wearing most?
- Which pieces do you reach for again and again in everyday life?
- Which cuts and fabrics feel good on you?
- How many outfits do you need for work, free time and evenings?
Then clear out. What's left is your base. Something new only gets added if it fills a gap. A calm basic palette of white, navy, black and earth tones makes combining easy. One accent colour is enough.
Look 1 · Everyday, women
White shirt, dark jeans, knitwear
The simplest capsule wardrobe formula: a light T-shirt, dark jeans and a knitted layer on top. With trainers it works for everyday; with ankle boots and a coat, for the office. Just swap the shirt and you have a new look.
Look 2 · Everyday, men
Navy, off-white and light denim
The same idea works for men: a basic shirt in navy, jeans and a jumper in off-white. The jumper also goes with chinos or joggers. If you own three shirts in white, navy and grey, you'll get through almost any week.
Look 3 · Office and evening
One blouse, two occasions
A clean shirt blouse takes the same basics to another level. During the day you wear it with jeans; in the evening, open over a top with simple jewellery. Poplin is smooth and holds its shape, so the blouse still looks neat after a long day.
Tips for your capsule wardrobe
- Look first, then buy: for two weeks, wear only what you already have and note down what you're really missing.
- Pay attention to the material: organic cotton is soft and breathable, TENCEL™ Lyocell drapes fluidly, linen stays airy. You can read which fibre suits you in our overview of natural fibres.
- Check the certificates: depending on the item, our pieces are certified to GOTS, OCS, GRS, RCS or RWS. What applies to a product is shown in the "Production" tab on the product page.
- Look after them well: wash less often and cooler, dry in the air. More on this in our care instructions.
- Pass on instead of throwing away: what no longer fits can find a new owner through swap events or second-hand.
You'll find more basics in our articles on the perfect basic T-shirt and on jeans in organic cotton.
FAQ
How many pieces belong in a capsule wardrobe?
25 to 40 pieces are often mentioned, with shoes and accessories added depending on how you count. What matters is that the pieces can be combined with each other.
Do I need a separate capsule for every season?
Not necessarily. Many people keep a fixed base of shirts, jeans and knitwear and only swap a few seasonal pieces such as a coat or lightweight trousers.
