How to Create the Perfect Winter Capsule Wardrobe With Just 16 Items

Outerwear

1. Wool coat

Of course, a cozy winter coat is a must-have. A long wool coat is functional as it keeps you warm and it’s a classic piece that you can wear over just about anything.

I suggest buying a coat in a bigger size, so you can wear it over a blazer or thick sweater. 

When investing in a long coat, pay attention to the length. Too short and the coat will cut off your legs, but too long and it will drag on the floor and be uncomfortable to wear.

The perfect length stops right in the middle of your calf.

2. Puffer vest

Since the first coat is more of a classic number, I decided to change things up with this sporty puffer vest. This will also keep you warm and looks good over black or a contrasting color, like white or beige.

Tops

3 and 4. White t-shirts

Everyone should have a basic white t-shirt in their capsule wardrobe, no matter the season. I prefer to buy high-quality, thicker white t-shirts that aren't see-through at all.

I've also added a white sweatshirt for winter.

5. Sweatpants

The white sweatshirt actually came as part of a set, so I have these white sweatpants as well. These are perfect for casual outfits or for days when you're lounging around at home.

6 and 7. Knits

Other classic items to include in your winter capsule wardrobe include a black turtleneck and a soft cream sweater. These will look great with most items and will keep you cozy and warm! 

Pants

8. Leather pants

Leather pants are on-trend but I think they're also quite classic. I think everyone should have at least one pair as part of their winter capsule wardrobe.

Leather pants can be dressed up easily and also give basic outfits interest and an edge.

9 and 10. Jeans

Next, I opted for two kinds of jeans; an off-white color and a classic blue. My winter capsule wardrobe only includes neutrals, so these light blue jeans work as an accent color against the other items. 

Shoes

11. Chunky boots

Now let’s talk about winter capsule wardrobe shoes. You need to find a pair that matches with any of your clothing items and of course, something that will keep you warm.

So, here I chose these chunky ankle boots that give me extra height. Also, shoes with thicker platforms help keep your feet warm. 

12. White sneakers

The next pair are my white sneakers.

Depending on where you live, these sneakers might not be a practical choice. If you live in a very cold climate, then go for a light-colored boot instead, so you still have a light-colored shoe option. 

However, even back in Russia, I would wear white sneakers during winter, so I believe they're still good to include here.

13. Heeled boots

One thing that's good to include in any capsule wardrobe is a pair of heels for days when you want to dress up. These heeled ankle boots are dressy but also work for winter.

The block heel means they're more comfortable and I love the soft square toe at the front, which is very on-trend for 2022.

Bags

14. White handbag

A white handbag is perfect for a winter capsule wardrobe as it adds a pop of color over black outerwear and makes your outfit look more interesting. 

15. Black handbag

Because the first bag is structured, I opted for a soft and flexible black bag. Having two different types of bags instantly gives you more styling options. 

Accessories 

16. Scarf

Let’s not forget the scarf! Scarves are truly essential in winter and picking a good-quality scarf that matches most of your outfits is a truly winning combination. 

Winter capsule wardrobe outfit ideas

Ok, now that we’ve gone through the winter capsule wardrobe essentials, let’s see how many outfit ideas we can create with just these 16 items.

Winter capsule wardrobe

As you can see, just by mixing and matching items from your winter capsule wardrobe, you can create a ton of outfit options!

I hope this style guide was helpful, and these winter capsule wardrobe ideas have inspired you to create your own.