Must-Have Accessories For Your Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a collection of clothing that you can mix and match easily. It typically consists of clothing that is neutral in color and minimal in design. This allows you to quickly choose an outfit by being able to pull out any clothing items and piece them together harmoniously.

Many people focus on the staple items when building a capsule wardrobe: shirts, pants, dresses, skirts and jackets. However, it’s important not to overlook the accessories. Without accessories, a neutral and minimal capsule wardrobe can result in outfits that are dull. It’s the accessories that often key to elevating an outfit and making it more eye-catching.

There are so many different ways to accessorize an outfit. However, some accessories are more versatile than others. Below are a few of the must-have accessories to include in your capsule wardrobe. 

Belt

A belt can draw attention to your waist – livening up a generic pair of jeans and completely transforming a dress. It’s worth owning a brown, black and white belt to contrast with different outfits. Leopard print belts can also be surprisingly versatile when matched with a monochrome outfit. Feel free to also explore statement belt buckles. 

Bracelet

When wearing short sleeves or no sleeves, arms can run the risk of looking bare if you don’t accessorise them. A bracelet is one of the simplest and most effective ways to accessorize your arm. This could be a simple cuff or chain, or something more unique. 

Earrings

Earrings can help to frame the face. They can be great for pairing with other forms of jewelry like bracelets and necklaces – providing that you stick to the same style. Simple stud earrings are fine for a minimal look, but it’s worth also owning some drop earrings or hoop earrings that you can turn into a focal point.

Sunglasses

While the main purpose of sunglasses is to protect your eyes from the sun, they are also a timelessly cool fashion accessory that can be worn all year round. When choosing a pair of sunglasses, it’s important to find a shape that suits your face. Brightly colored frames can be great for making a statement, and could be possible to color coordinate with other accessories.

Scarf

Scarves are a versatile accessory that everyone should own. It’s worth owning different types of scarves for different seasons – in winter you want a thick wool scarf that’s going to provide warmth, while a summer scarf should be thin to keep you cool. Winter scarves can be color coordinated with hats and gloves. Summer scarves can meanwhile be color coordinated with sunglasses. 

Gloves

A pair of gloves are worth owning for the cool winter months. These could be fabric or leather gloves. When wearing fabric gloves with a hat and scarf, aim to match the fabric color and texture. Leather gloves can meanwhile be selected to match the same tone of boots or a handbag. 

Necklace

Necklaces can draw attention to your neckline. It’s worth owning a few simple necklaces in different lengths. Choker necklaces (14 inches) work well with open neckline shirts and dresses. Opera necklaces (28 to 36 inches) can pair well with high necklines. The most versatile necklace length is usually 18 inches. Feel free to layer necklaces but keep them in a similar style. 

Boots

When choosing shoes for your capsule wardrobe, make sure that you have a pair of leather ankle boots. This footwear can work well with so many outfits and be worn all year round. Try to opt for a simple design and neutral color (black and brown are the best choices, but white leather boots can be pretty versatile too). 

Hat

Hats come in so many different styles. Not all of these styles of hat will complement every outfit. However, there are a few styles that can work well in a capsule wardrobe. The first essential hat is the beanie – this will keep your head warm in winter and is great for pairing with gloves and a winter scarf. A wide-brimmed straw hat is meanwhile a timeless option for the summer. Other versatile hats that can be worn all year round include a beret and a baseball cap. 

Handbag

Finally, it’s worth considering your handbag. When building a capsule wardrobe, the most versatile option is usually a leather handbag. Try to match the color and style to other leather accessories that you own. (if you’ve got brown leather boots or brown leather belt, choose a brown leather handbag). Owning a black, white and brown handbag is worthwhile for matching any outfit.