Capsule Wardrobe: Top 14 of 2014
Since I began dressing in a seasonal, 33-item capsule wardrobe in March, I’ve noticed certain clothes emerging as most-worn favorites. Some of these items were worn so much that I ended up replacing them along the way.
This is by no means a list of must-haves, but these pieces all saw a lot of wear, and they’ll form the basis of my year-round capsule wardrobe going forward.
Dark wash skinnies, chambray shirt under wide stripe sweater
I wore my last pair so much that I replaced them this fall with a high waist version. Other styles (straight leg, wide leg) are growing in popularity again, but I still like my skinnies best. They make an oversized sweater and sneakers feel polished, they work cuffed or long, and they compliment heels as well as they fit under boots. I’m a fan. I liked the flap pockets on my old ones, but my new ones are stretchier for an even better fit.
2. Chambray shirt.
After months of searching, I finally found the perfect one at the thrift store. I layer this under sweaters, over tops, wear it tucked or untucked, tied or belted, with a skirt or jeans…it’s incredibly versatile. My version has button tabs so I can roll up and secure the sleeves in warmer weather.
Chambray shirt with pleated silk skirt, black tights, and black suede ankle boots
This was a full-price purchase more than two years ago and has been a three-season wardrobe staple for me. I loved wearing it with sandals in the summer and with leggings or tights and boots in the cooler months. Before I found my chambray shirt, I would fold and tuck this one into skirts or pants.
The first version wore out and was replaced in the summer. Both were found at the thrift store. This was another three-season piece with plenty of layering and styling possibilities. It will retire briefly for winter and likely return for my spring capsule.
Striped shift dress under sleeveless trench
I purchased this braided leather belt with brass buckle in the men’s department of the thrift store, so it has a long tail to knot or wrap. Since there are no holes it can be buckled anywhere and works with a variety of outfits. It was my favorite accessory with my striped dress or jean shorts, which brings me to #6…
6. Denim shorts.
I already had a couple pairs of flowy shorts and was on the lookout for something a bit more casual and structured. It took a while to find denim shorts that weren’t distressed or cut offs. Oh, and they had to be the right length! This secondhand find made the hot month of August so much more bearable!
This lightweight sweater is just my color and goes with more than you might expect. I like to be prepared for cool temps, even in summer (wishful thinking?), and this folds up small enough to fit in my purse. It adds no bulk under a jacket and works under or over a belt.
One of my few “dry clean only” items, this vintage find was probably my most-worn piece this fall. I especially liked it over button down shirts.
Navy cashmere over plaid with jeans and over stripes with leggings and boots
This lightweight long sleeve tee feels perfectly, casually comfortable with jeans or shorts and makes a great base for a scarf or necklace.
10. Bronze swing tee.
After beginning my capsule wardrobe and taking a shopping hiatus, this was one of the first pieces I bought. I had scouted it online and love the sleeves and neckline. It’s an interesting basic.
11. Brown boots.
I replaced my falling apart synthetic boots with these Frye leather boots (purchased gently used for 80% off retail!). I did have to stretch the calves a little in a really un-glamorous process involving screwdrivers (seriously DIY), but now they are a great fit with tights or jeans. They cost more than Target boots, but I’m glad I waited for a deal and made the investment. I plan to have these for years to come.
Another pair of Frye shoes, these were a gift and purchased new. They are super comfortable, work with laces or without, and I like that I can chase my daughter around the playground in shoes I also wear around town. These are a very “me” substitute for gym shoes.
Faux leather jacket, chambray shirt, dark wash skinny jeans, brown leather sneakers
13. Faux leather jacket.
I added this piece for fall, and I love it! I had planned to save up for a leather jacket, but this synthetic version works better for my life right now. I don’t worry about wearing it in the rain, working setting up vintage displays, or playing with my daughter. I’ll still save up for the real thing at some point, but in the meantime the pleather is perfect.
Technically jewelry is not part of my capsule collection; I don’t count it in my numbers or swap it with the seasons. But I did find myself reaching for these pieces most days, and not just because my friend makes them! The stamped metal cuffs go with everything and feel like a signature look for me.
Whew, you made it through the whole list!
What were some of your favorite or most worn pieces this year?
Note: I included links to the exact items or similar ones when necessary. You can see my actual wardrobe (on hangers or worn by me) here, here, and here. Much of my clothing was purchased secondhand or in previous season/years, so some links point to sold out or unavailable items. Visible prices are no indication of what I actually paid.
Hark at Home 
It’s really interesting to read your recap, because i found the same – certain items of my 33 were worn far more than others. That made me realize that maybe even 33 is too many! But for now I’ll stick with 33, and see how I feel in another three months.