How to Build a Spring Capsule Wardrobe With 11 Essentials
3 min readCan you tell I’m really ready for winter to be over? I’ve been mad at that damn groundhog for weeks. But for now, I think a better way to channel my energy is to focus on what lies ahead: sweet, sweet spring. If we forget for a moment that allergies exist, we really couldn’t ask for a better season. And because I know you’re just as eager as I am, what do you say we get a head start on shopping?
Ahead, I’m breaking down 11 categories that comprise the perfect spring capsule wardrobe.
An Anorak
We’re talking about a season that’s known for its fickle climate and rainy weather, so you obviously need the appropriate outerwear. I would recommend a water-repellent fabric and perhaps a hood.
The Legging
I can vividly recall the moment when I overheard a fellow fashion editor declare the return of leggings. What a delight for those of us who prioritize comfort. Of course, that doesn’t mean your athletic spandex are suddenly high fashion; look for stylish details like a capri-length cut, split hems, or stirrups.
Norma Kamali Spat Legging
Tibi Compact Ultra Stretch Knit Stirrup Leggings
Wolford Wow Perfect Legging
A Pop of Spring Plaid
There’s red-and-black plaid around the holidays and autumnal flannels for fall, but spring plaids are the best kind, if you ask me. How else can you incorporate so many colors on one piece of fabric? This season, skip the floral and try one of these accent items instead.
Ralph Lauren Plaid Paneled Sleeveless Dress
Marni Checked Knitted Sweater
Now 60% Off
Cos Checked Cotton-Jacquard Midi Skirt
The Mules
It’s not open-toe season just yet, but almost. Closed-toe mules are my ideal shoe, to be honest, and I love the versatility that these offer. When the weather warms up, if you choose to show some toe, hey, that’s your prerogative. Just watch out for puddles.
Banana Republic Leather Essential Clog
Vince Electra Leather Mule
Now 50% Off
Massimo Dutti Wedge Heeled Mules
A Henley
Layering is important in the fall, but it’s absolutely crucial for spring. The whole crux of your capsule is to be able to mix-and-match, and that requires solid foundation layers.
Gap Factory Ribbed Pointelle Henley T-Shirt
Now 50% Off
Simkhai Giorgia Silk and Cashmere Henley Top
Boden Rib Henley
The Flouncy Skirt
This one is all about movement. While it’s still chilly out, I’ll be masking my fleece-lined tights with flowy maxis, but come May, bring on the minis.
Posse Solene Maxi Skirt
Abercrombie Boho Maxi Skirt
Reformation Layla Polka Dot Midi-Skirt
A Spring Dress
In all my years of closet clean-outs, I’ve noticed something. There are certain pieces that were just made for spring, plain and simple. Pull it out, and try it on at any other time of the year, and you’ll find yourself saying, “it’s too springy.” Well, my dears, the season is upon us, so get out your pastel dresses and wear ’em while you can.
Aritzia Subtext Poplin Dress
& Other Stories Sleeveless Satin Dress
Now 42% Off
Dôen Clover Organic Cotton Poplin Tiered Sundress
The Sneaker
I don’t have kids or pets, and yet I’m busy as hell. I can’t even imagine how some of you do it. You’re on the go, and I get it. Making smart footwear choices is paramount—sciatica hive, rise!—so you need some tennis shoes.
Adidas Original Gazelles
Salomon XT-6
New Balance 1906 Unisex Sneakers
A Bomber Jacket
It’s been quite some time since I felt enthusiasm about jean jackets, but I’m certifiably obsessed with this denim bomber, which brings us to the next category. Bomber silhouettes are popping up everywhere, and spring is the perfect season to take one for a spin. As far as unisex styles go, the best gems might just be in the men’s section.
Anine Bing Leon Bomber
EB Denim Domenico Denim Bomber Jacket
Reiss Suede Funnel-Neck Bomber Jacket
Something Lace
The romantic and boho qualities of lace make it the ultimate accent feature at this time of year. Plus, it’s absolutely ideal for layering, which is key for spring. Wear a lace skirt over slacks, let a sexy camisole peek out from under a sweater, or wrap a vintage doily around the handle of your purse.
Sea Addy Stripe Long-Sleeve Top
Now 60% Off
Maje Triangle Hair Scarf
LoveShackFancy Clyra Silk Lace-Trimmed Balloon Pant
The Jeans
To be honest with you, a capsule wardrobe round-up—no matter the season!—should always include jeans. They are the epitome of a capsule item, so this list just isn’t complete without them.
Nili Lotan Celia Jeans
Madewell The Petite Darted Barrel-Leg Jean
Same Los Angeles The Perfect Jean
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