Building a spring capsule wardrobe isn’t all that different from filling your closet with wardrobe essentials; many of the building blocks overlap, which means you’re probably already halfway there.
What you’ll find in the ultimate spring capsule wardrobe? The usual suspects, for sure: white T-shirts, a few tank tops, the best jeans and perhaps a designer bag. New additions for the season come in the form of familiar silhouettes — think a silky slip dress or a denim skirt, throw-on-and-go spring jackets done up in lighter-weight fabrics (or at least ones more attuned to spring’s mercurial temperatures). Shoes, of course, get a refresh too — now’s the time to wear those open-back mules, white trainers and ballet flats you’ve been stashing in boxes under the bed.
The key really is to curate your wardrobe around a handful of pieces you can wear over and over again without getting bored or tired of them — think less but better, without having to spend a ton either on quality staples. Below, you’ll find some tried-and-true favourites that GLAMOUR editors rely on for their spring capsule wardrobe.
1. The white tee
You’ll wear a white T-shirt all the time — the best move is to invest in a couple at once so you can rotate them out without having to do laundry every single day (unless that’s your thing, in which case, fair play). Amazon, Uniqlo, COS and ASOS have some of the best to buy in bulk.
2. The minimalist tank top/vest top
Baggy cargo pants, satin maxi skirts, wide-leg trousers — there’s something about a tank top that makes everything you wear look that much cooler. A monochromatic tank is timeless, but don’t forget about neutrals and earth tones that’ll look great and can hold up to countless washes.
3. The white trainers
Two words: convenience and versatility. Subtle Vejas are royal favourites (literally, Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle love them) for anchoring a ’fit, though if you actually want something chunkier, New Balance are loved by editors for being comfy and stylish.
4. The workhorse jacket
Denim jackets and leather jackets are the happy medium when you’re not in the mood for your winter coat or a trench anymore.
5. The cool mule
Leather or suede — an open-back shoe is spot on for now. Russell & Bromley’s slip-on loafers are perfect for the office, while Birkenstock’s Boston clog will get loads of mileage on the weekend.
6. The ballet shoe
For those who prefer a closed-shoe style, consider the ballet pump. You can go with plain leather, Mary Jane style with a strap, or maybe even modern and mesh.
Just right for warmer days, spring dresses have endless appeal. We’re loving Nobody’s Child picnic-perfect gingham frock and Zara’s denim shirt dress for that retro look.
8. The sultry slip
These can be dressed up or down, which makes them a great basic for your spring capsule wardrobe. Simply slip one of those t-shirts we mentioned earlier on underneath on chillier days, and maybe even droop a blazer over your shoulders.
9. The effortless shirt
Tuck it into high-waisted trousers, style it unbuttoned over a top, or throw it casually over a one-piece swimsuit or bikini as a cover up on holiday — there’s no wrong way to wear one.
10. The striped knit
Coastal grandmas, unite! The Breton stripe takes on many forms, but we’re loving these two knitwear staples in particular. They’re what you’ll reach for when the temps don’t call for jackets but it’s not quite sleeveless weather just yet.
There’s a lot of talk right now about stealth wealth and quiet luxury — especially when it comes to accessories — but investing in a well-made handbag that isn’t excessively branded or trend-driven is nothing new. Here are two elevated designs you’ll wear for years to come.
12. The canvas tote
Whether or not your Saturday afternoons are dedicated to browsing your local outdoor market, a durable canvas bag is a necessity. Bonus points if it has pockets and some sporty branding on the front.
The denim skirt (midi or maxi lengths preferred) looks great paired with almost everything in this article. Between us, it’s hard to miss when styling this piece.
14. The cargo skirt
Pockets, pockets, pockets! The cargo skirt bypasses the slip (which you probably already own anyway) to stake its claim as a contemporary must-have. We love how effortless it looks with a simple tee or tank.
Skinny jeans might have made a comeback, but baggy styles still reign supreme. The way to wear them? Low-slung and puddling over your shoes — though maybe not when it’s raining.
16. The white jeans
As much as we love a white-on-white moment in winter, the look is especially fresh in spring. Good American offers them in virtually every fit and length, while P&Co offer an eggshell/ecru iteration that isn’t quite so stark. Should you get both? Probably.
17. The wedding guest dress
Celebratory lunches and dinners stack up from March onwards, so start your search for the perfect wedding guest dress with these two wear-again favourites from Pretty Lavish and Reformation.
18. The sunglasses
No squinting in these bad boys. Prada’s logo-stamped silhouette is still our favourite, but we also adore Le Spec’s Outta Love pair and classic styles from Ray-Ban and Quay.
19. The hat
A cute and travel-friendly sun hat is just what’s needed for your upcoming OOO days. Go straw and beachy or branded and sporty.
20. Not your grandma’s pearls
There are plenty of noteworthy spring fashion trends, but pearls stand out. Wear yours on a necklace, layered with other chains, or as earrings for a pop of contrast to your hair.
This article originally featured on GLAMOUR US.