Everything You Need to Build the Ultimate Spring Capsule Wardrobe

The most important item in any spring capsule wardrobe is the all-purpose jacket. This is the topper that will take you through any and all types of weather, and should be roomy enough to layer over lightweight blouses as well as thicker knits. Classic options include denim jackets, trench coats, sporty anoraks and barn coats, but you can also opt for leather (faux or real) or shearling, if that’s more your style. Just be sure whatever you choose will look chic worn over all your other capsule wardrobe separates.

I love a good oversize blazer for any time of year, but in spring it can double as a jacket on warmer days, making it a key item you won’t want to skip. Similar to your workhorse coat, your blazer should comfortably fit over a thinner knits to really maximize the number of outfits you can work it into. As for color, opt for lighter patterns or colors over super-dark hues (a beige plaid will feel more spring-y than red-and-green or chocolate brown). That goes for fabric as well—cotton, lighter wools, leather and even linen are better options than thick tweed.

It’s not quite sundress season just yet, but midi dresses are a phenomenal option for spring when you just can’t stand to wear pants yet again. On colder days, you can layer them over knee-high boots or under a sweater. And when true spring warmth hits you can pair them with flats and a light jacket. Styles you can layer over (or under) will be most versatile, but if you just can’t resist a good puff sleeve, then I say go for it.

At this point you’ve probably figured out that building a spring capsule wardrobe is all about picking items that can be layered to fit whatever weather Mother Nature has in store. Which is why the lightweight knit is such an important piece to include. Whether you prefer cardigans or pullovers, these sweaters should work both with your favorite pants and skirts, as well as your go-to spring dresses. Natural fibers, like cashmere, cotton and wool, are more breathable than synthetics and are more likely to feel comfy and cozy all season long.

Tank tops, T-shirts and long-sleeve tees are staples I just can’t live without come spring. Layer them under a sweater for some extra warmth, or tuck them into jeans or a skirt for an easy, breezy outfit onto itself. Much like knits, the best versions are made of natural fibers, but feel free to invest in whatever colors or even patterns you like best—so long as they can be worn with at least three bottoms in your wardrobe.

You can never really go wrong with a classic button-up shirt (yes, even if you have big boobs), but in spring they often pull double duty as a quasi-jacket or shacket, if you will, making them a definite must-have. Look for one that’s just a little bit oversized—casual, but not baggy—to give you the most versatility when it comes to building your outfits. And while white will never go out of style, I also love a good washed blue or even stripes.

Put down the indigo and black-wash denim and step into the light. Even if the weather isn’t cooperating, you can still transition your go-to denim to feel more seasonally appropriate. Look for light blue washes, or even white or cream, to ring in the change of seasons. As for silhouette, I say go with whatever you find most comfortable, be it a trendy low-rise pair or a classic straight leg.

Much like midi dresses, midi skirts are the ideal length to wear with just about any shoe style, from knee-high boots to strappy Mary Jane flats. And mini skirts—even when worn with thigh-high boots and a pullover sweater—can’t help but evoke images of warm weather and the summer days to come. As for fabric, stick with materials that have a bit of heft to them (i.e. not linen or floaty cotton) to ensure your skirt doesn’t feel totally out of place and can mix well with those cozier pieces in your wardrobe.

Whereas in winter it’s imperative you have a good pair of winter boots you can walk and stand in, for spring that pivots to a good pair of everyday comfortable sneakers. Retro silhouettes, like the incredibly popular Adidas Sambas or the Meghan Markle-approved New Balance 327 sneakers, are easiest to wear with both pants and skirts or dresses, but if you prefer a chunkier, sportier or funkier design, then by all means go forth.

Ballet flats have been enjoying a long-awaited comeback over the past few seasons. Spring is truly their time to shine as you transition from heavier, full-coverage boots toward minimalist sandals for summer. If a bow-adorned flat isn’t your ideal, you can also opt for loafers, backless mules, slingback flats or a closed-toe sandal (like huaraches). This way you don’t have to stress over maintaining that pedicure just yet.

The best way to round out your capsule wardrobe is with a suite of accessories that can dress up or down your outfits to fit any mood. The beauty of these items is that they don’t take up a lot of space. So while you may be hoping to pare down the number of clothing items stuffed into your closet, you likely have more space for multiple pairs of sunnies or a handful of fun hats. Other spring-y options include straw hats, baseball caps, colorful jewelry, lightweight bags, statement socks and sunglasses (both classic and kitschy).