The idea of creating a capsule wardrobe may sound overwhelming to you, and you may not know where to start. It’s one of the reasons clients reach out to me, so I want to simplify it for you. The great part is that it doesn’t start with a spreadsheet or a style quiz. It starts with something way easier and yet more empowering.
Start with three tops.
That’s it. You can start creating a capsule wardrobe with three tops. You want to choose three tops that you love, that fit well, are comfortable, versatile, and appropriate for your life and lifestyle.
And if you don’t have three tops that fit the criteria above, that can be where you start.
Why 3 Tops?
Capsule wardrobes are about creating a wardrobe that makes getting dressed fun and easy, helping you maximize your style and budget with fewer pieces. When you start with three quality tops (that meet the criteria above), along with several bottoms, layers, and shoes, you can create 20, 30, or even 40 outfit combinations from just 10–12 pieces.
I recently popped into J.Crew Factory in search of a few updated tops and left with an entire mini capsule wardrobe. I found ten pieces that totaled around $700. When I laid everything out, I realized I could easily create 40+ outfit combinations. That’s enough outfits and looks for work or weekends for more than 5 weeks.
That means the cost per wear is minimal, meaning you could get dressed with clarity, confidence, and consistency. No more decision fatigue because you know it all goes together.
How to Choose the Right Tops
To get the most mileage from your capsule wardrobe, choose tops that meet these criteria:
✅ Fit well and flatter your body shape
✅ Feel good (no tugging, no fussing)
✅ Work for your life and lifestyle, whether that’s a boardroom, virtual calls, networking meetings, or school pickup
✅ You can create at least 2–3 different outfits (The Power of Two)
✅ Reflect your personal brand and style
Don’t know where to start and need a little inspiration? Consider button-down shirts, a simple sleeveless shell or camisole, lightweight knits, or a beautiful print blouse as great starting points, especially in colors and patterns that complement your existing wardrobe well. You get to do you.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Try this exercise:
- Go to your closet.
- Pick out your top three tops.
- Ask yourself: Do I love them? Do they fit and flatter? Can I wear them in multiple ways? Are they appropriate for my lifestyle?
If the answer is no, good news. You know exactly what you need to shop for first.
Style Tip of the Week
🧥 Shop for the life you’re actually living.
I know your social media feed is full of all sorts of options, but think about what our life looks like and who you want to start showing up as. Do you want quality fabrics that are soft and breathable? Are you okay with dry cleaning, or do you prefer washable?
Final Thoughts: A Capsule Wardrobe Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
A capsule wardrobe is about having the right clothes that you can mix and match. Clothes that serve you, fit your lifestyle, and help you show up on brand and with confidence.
Whether you’re refreshing your closet for fall or just tired of decision fatigue in the mornings, starting with three great tops can lead to a complete transformation.
✨ Want to see what 10 pieces and 40+ outfits actually look like?
Check out my Capsule Wardrobe Webinar, where I walk you through how to build one for your lifestyle using my 3+3+3+1 system.