How To Build A Capsule Wardrobe

How To Build A Capsule Wardrobe

If you often feel overwhelmed at the thought of choosing an outfit when you look in your wardrobe, you're not alone. Trying to find matching items that can cope with the British weather and still make you look stylish, often first thing in the morning when you're rushing out of the house, isn't easy!

That's where a capsule wardrobe comes in - a carefully selected collection of versatile pieces that mix and match seamlessly. It's about quality over quantity, saving time in the morning, and cultivating a personal style that you truly love. 

Below is our 5 steps of How To Build A Capsule Wardrobe, sprinkled with our best classic picks from our own range that you'll reach for again and again.

Step 1: Define Your Style Goals

Before diving into your wardrobe, ask yourself:

  • What’s my lifestyle? (e.g., corporate, creative, stay-at-home, travel-heavy)

  • What do I feel confident and comfortable in?

  • What colours and silhouettes do I naturally gravitate toward?

  • Would you feel comfortable wearing one of our more casual outfits similar to Katie below?

Step 2: Clean Out Your Wardrobe

Take everything out. Literally.

Sort your clothes into these piles:

  • Love it & wear it often

  • Like it but rarely wear it

  • Doesn’t fit / outdated / never worn

Be honest and ruthless. The goal is to keep only what fits your body, your lifestyle, and your current taste.

If you're local to Alnwick and have discarded any items suitable for workwear, drop them off with us in-store as we collect on behalf of Smart Works Newcastle, a charity that supports women into work with suitable interview clothing and coaching.

You can read more about our work with Smart Works here.

Step 3: Identify Your Essentials

A capsule wardrobe typically consists of 25–50 pieces, depending on your needs. That includes tops, bottoms, outerwear, dresses, and shoes—but excludes workout gear, underwear, and accessories.

A basic starting capsule might include:

Tops (7–10):

  • 2–3 neutral T-shirts

  • 2 blouses or button-downs

  • 1–2 sweaters or knit tops

  • 1 tank or cami for layering

  • 1 statement or trend piece

We love this Lily & Me Vale T-shirt for £39.50. A classic white short sleeved tee will always stand the test of time.

Bottoms (4–6):

  • 1 pair of jeans

  • 1 pair of tailored trousers

  • 1 skirt (neutral or printed)

  • 1 pair of casual pants (like joggers or linen)

Our Barbour Essential Slim Jeans at £79.95 are an all year classic - we sell loads of these and for good reason, they're comfortable, stretchy and reasonably priced.

Dresses (2–3):

  • 1 day-to-night dress

  • 1 casual dress (e.g., t-shirt or wrap)

  • Optional: 1 formal or event piece

This Seasalt Chappelle Dress at £65.95 is a classic day-to-night dress for the summer months. 

Outerwear (2–3):

  • 1 blazer or structured jacket

  • 1 lightweight coat or trench

  • 1 warm winter coat (if needed)

The Dubarry Hudson Chino Field Jacket at £199.00 is a great lightweight option for a cooler night.

Shoes (4–5):

  • Casual trainers or loafers

  • Flats or sandals

  • Ankle boots

  • Heels or special occasion shoes

Our Lunar Shoes Albania Metallic Trainers at £49.99 are a great option that can be worn day and night with multiple outfits.

Optional Accessories:

  • 1–2 handbags (neutral & statement)

  • Minimal jewellery

  • A scarf or hat for seasonal flair

We love the Barkworth Reeve brand of handbags - they're so stylish and functional that they will be a versatile addition to any outfit. Our favourite is the Middleton at £195.00.

Step 4: Choose a Cohesive Colour Palette

Stick to a base of neutrals (black, white, navy, beige, grey) and add 2–3 accent colours that complement each other. This makes mixing and matching a breeze.

Step 5: Fill in the Gaps

Now that you've edited your wardrobe and defined your essentials, look for missing pieces. Prioritise quality over quantity—you want items that last and feel great on your body.

When shopping, ask:

  • Can I wear this at least 3 different ways?

  • Does it pair well with my existing wardrobe?

  • Is it timeless, or will I tire of it quickly?

Once you've mastered the above, your wardrobe will reflect you and bring you the confidence that you need to dress to impress!

If you need any help with styling or have any questions about any of our ranges, please pop into our Alnwick store, or call us on 01665 602135 or email us on jobsonsofalnwicklimited@gmail.com

Much love

Rachel and the Jobsons team x

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