Between school drop-offs, work, errands, and the occasional night out, moms juggle multiple roles, often with little time to think about what to wear. The problem is usually not lack of options, but lack of strategy. Enter: the Capsule Wardrobe. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to pull together over 50 looks with just 15 items– all priced under $100.
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A Capsule Wardrobe is a small, intentional group of clothing & accessories that all work together. Instead of having a closet full of random pieces that don’t always mix and match, a capsule allows for easy, hassle-free dressing. When everything works together, getting dressed becomes quicker and a lot less stressful! With the right combination of tops, bottoms and accessories, you can easily turn 15 items into over 50 looks.
The Base Layer: 5 Items
Every Capsule Wardrobe needs to be anchored by a strong foundation. These are the base pieces you will reach for again and again. These items should be comfortable, versatile, and easy to style with multiple other pieces already in your closet. For Houston moms especially, it’s important to choose items that can handle our ever-changing weather. The pieces listed below will allow you to go from a cool 50 degree morning to an 80 degree afternoon while still looking put-together.
- Seamless Black Camisole, $29.00, Yummie Tummie
- Striped Down Shirt, $55.00, Gap
- Black T-Shirt Dress, $29.99, Old Navy
- Wide Leg Jeans, $41.99, Amazon
- Black Leggings, $49.99, Spanx
The Accessories: 5 Items
This is the second layer and where you start to add your personal style. Think of these pieces as the ‘bridge’ between your base layer and your wild cards. Sticking to neutral solids and prints here compliment what you already own, while giving you the flexibility to mix, match and elevate your outfit. This is where your go-to sneakers come in, jewelry you can layer and wear daily, and an alternate pair of shoes for when you are needing a little extra oomph.
A cable knit cardigan in a neutral color is a great layering piece and easy to throw on over anything. For additional interest, a subtle leopard print sweater adds texture without being overpowering. A gold chain necklace adds some polish and warmth. White sneakers are often a wardrobe workhorse- comfortable, practical and versatile. Lastly, I suggest a pair of booties for when you are needing a more dressed-up vibe without sacrificing comfort.
- Cream Cable Knit Cardigan, $28.69, Amazon
- Gold Chain Necklace, $48.00, Baublebar
- Grey Leopard Sweater, $48.00, Asher Kate Boutique
- White Sneakers, $25.99, Amazon
- Ivory Booties, $81.60, Kohl’s
The Wild Cards: 5 Items
These are the pieces that make an outfit feel like you- not necessarily ‘trendy’, but personal. A sentimental necklace you wear everyday. A favorite pair of comfortable shoes. A fun skirt you couldn’t pass up. These are the items that add personality and authenticity to your wardrobe.
For me, it starts with my grandmother’s antique Liberty coin necklace that lives on my neck almost every day. Heirlooms and items that carry stories will always outlast fashion trends. Next are my well-loved, broken-in tan loafers that I have had for almost 10 years and are still in constant rotation. Super comfy, very lived-in, and they go with everything from jeans to dresses. I also swear by a large tote that holds everything. This jacquard leopard tote is big enough for all of your ‘mom’ essentials while still adding some personality. Lastly, I always like to have a touch of whimsy in my wardrobe- a brightly colored sweater and a maxi tulle skirt are my current ‘wild cards’.
- Alice Woven Mules, $78.00, Prickly Pear Boutique
- Gold Pendant Necklace, $45.00, Nordstrom
- Maxi Tiered Tulle Skirt, $29.88, Amazon
- Poppy Striped Sweater, $74.00, Altar’d State
- Jacquard Tote, $40.99, H&M
The Wrap Up
The main takeaway here is that building capsule wardrobe doesn’t mean starting from scratch and chasing every trend. The most functional closets are built in layers, starting with neutral basics and adding versatile pieces that make your style your own. When you focus on items that mix and match easily, they make getting dressed a lot easier- and a lot more fun!
Need somewhere to try your new outfit approach? Check out our list of things to do this weekend in and around Houston.
