How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe for Effortless Daily Dressing, According to a Fashion Designer

We’ve all been there: you have a closet full of sweaters, tops, dresses, and jeans, but feel like you have absolutely nothing to wear. It’s endlessly frustrating, and it seems to happen the most when you’re in a rush or headed somewhere important. One way to make getting dressed feel easier is by curating a capsule wardrobe.

A capsule wardrobe Pops of red can enliven neutral wardrobe staples timeless staples that can easily be mixed and matched. Think quality fabrics that will last for years, easy-to-match neutral colors, and versatile basics that can be dressed up or down.

"Streamlining your wardrobe streamlines your life,” says designer Misha Nonoo. “With a capsule wardrobe, you never feel as though you have 'nothing to wear.' It's reassuring to know you only own pieces that can be paired easily and always look chic. It's also great for the environment, as well as your wallet, to buy better and wear longer.” 

While a capsule wardrobe sounds amazing in theory, it can be difficult to not only streamline your closet, but to start shopping with more intentionality. You might be wondering which pieces are worth investing in, the silhouettes and colors to shop for, and how to make a capsule wardrobe work from season to season. Ahead, Nonoo offers her insight on what a capsule wardrobe is and how can start building one of your own.

What pieces should you add to a capsule wardrobe?

"First and foremost, I believe every woman should own the perfect white button-down. Then, find your perfect silhouettes of skirts and tailored trousers that fit and flatter. Stick with neutral colors such as black, white, and navy. They're professional and are always in style. For casual looks, find the perfect tee and buy it in a few colors to pair with your favorite denim."

Should you double-up on certain items?

"Absolutely! Once you figure out your 'basics,' spend some time paying attention to what you reach for the most," says Nonoo. "Don't buy three trousers with just the hunch you'd wear them constantly — you might surprise yourself! But after a while, if you notice you practically live in that perfect white button-down, stock up! Our customers have absolutely done the same, so we even started offering multi-packs of our best sellers."

How often should you replace these capsule pieces?

"This completely depends on how much you wear it. You likely wouldn't need to replace a well-made trench raincoat for years, even decades! But your favorite white tee that you wear constantly could be threadbare in a few years. If something like a dreaded snag or tear happens, always look into repair or mending options. Don't deem something a 'throw-away' when your local tailor can help you make it like-new. When you feel the piece is truly beyond salvaging, look into a local fabric recycling program to keep those materials out of the landfill."

How do you go through clothes and what do you do with the excess?

"One of my favorite tips is to hang all the hangers in your closet backward, and if something is still hanging backward after six months, it's probably time for it to go. If something isn't appropriate for many situations or isn't easily paired with what you have in your wardrobe, it wouldn't be a good fit for a capsule wardrobe. The excess can be donated to a variety of charities such as Bottomless Closet or A thoughtfully curated wardrobe is the secret to less stress while getting dressed. Local women's shelters are excellent places too. There is now a huge variety of resale sites such as TheRealReal or Vestaire Collective that help give another life for like-new fashion."

How do you make the most of capsule wardrobe pieces?

"Layering is a great way to make the most out of your capsule wardrobe," says Nonoo, who recommends layering a turtleneck underneath a white button-up shirt and tucked into a skirt with stockings. "You're combining really essential, versatile pieces for a chic look that's comfortable on a chilly day. Take away the stockings and turtleneck, and you have a polished look for warm weather."

Do you believe in seasonless style?

"Aside from outerwear, my pieces generally stay the same throughout the year," she says. "The future of fashion is moving towards a seasonless calendar, and consumers are getting increasingly tired of the idea of something being 'so last year.' Living in New York, the weather goes from one extreme to another. I'll need a cashmere jumper here, and a linen dress there, but not much changes otherwise."

Do you feel the same way about accessories?

"I absolutely adore accessories, and I believe them to be essential in maintaining a love for your capsule wardrobe. They're an amazing pop of color to give another life to a classic piece that's already in your wardrobe. Jewelry, bags, and shoes are such an easy way to add a touch more personality to an outfit, or just give some pieces a refresh."