Looking to build a winter capsule wardrobe in 2024? Scroll down for your ultimate winter capsule wardrobe checklist plus some style inspiration for the cold season.
How many pieces are in a winter capsule wardrobe?
Do you have a capsule wardrobe for each season?
How do I even start curating one?
If you’re asking yourself these questions, this is the capsule wardrobe post for you. Below you’ll find my winter capsule wardrobe 2024 checklist, as well as my top style tips for building a sustainable minimalist capsule, and a complete shopping list with the best places to get your winter closet must-haves.
The ULTIMATE Capsule Wardrobe Bundle
4 x Seasonal Capsule Wardrobe Guides, Printable Checklists, Travel Capsules, Over 290+ Outfit ideas, and more!
A timeless year-round capsule wardrobe you can’t wait to wake up to.
Whether you’re interested in minimalist wardrobe and want to apply some changes in your lifestyle to live more intentionally, or you’re just looking to declutter and get rid of what’s no longer needed, creating a capsule wardrobe is a great step to start with.
If you’re a newbie looking into the whole concept of a capsule wardrobe for the first time, I encourage you to check out this guide.
If you’re a newbie to the whole concept of a capsule wardrobe, I encourage you to check out this guide.
How many pieces are in a winter capsule wardrobe?
There is no set amount of pieces that you should have in your closet, as seasonal capsules look different for everyone. That’s because we all have different styles, wants, and needs. Mastering your outer layers is a skill. Don’t worry, I’ll teach you.
Personally, when it comes to my seasonal capsule, I like to keep it simple. Again, ‘simple’ means different to everyone, but I find that around 30 items (including shoes) work best for me.
Scroll down to find the high-quality pieces that go into my capsule wardrobe winter 2024 to get inspired to edit your own closet and learn how to style your winter outfit with less.
I took a similar approach to my Fall Capsule Wardrobe and have split my winter essentials into categories for easier navigation. You’ll find a shopping list of winter clothes under each photo or, alternatively, you can just click on the “shop here” button when you find a great option to get the product info you need. You’re welcome.
WINTER CAPSULE WARDROBE 2024 – WHAT TO WEAR THIS WINTER:
Shop essential winter tops:
1. White Cotton Long Sleeve Crew
In the colder months, I’m replacing the basic white tee with long-sleeved crewneck. They make a great base layer. I love the Everlane ones as they are soft, comfy, and look really good on. You can style them with a cardigan or wear them on their own, it’s a wardrobe staple that will never disappoint.
2. Beige Cotton Long Sleeve Crew
When it comes to basic staples on your winter capsule wardrobe checklist, my tip is to have at least a couple on your hands. So when one of them is in the wash, you can rely on the other one. This long sleeve crew is another essential winter staple.
3. Short Sleeve Bodysuit
I’m one of those people who are always cold, and I really struggle in winter, so getting my hands on high-quality warm clothes is so important. I got this gorgeous ethically sourced bodysuit last winter, in black, and I couldn’t stop wearing it from the moment the temperatures went down. This winter, I’ll be adding a neutral one to my winter capsule wardrobe essentials, as I know I will make great use of it.
4. White Cotton Turtleneck
I’m bringing my white cotton turtle neck from my autumn capsule wardrobe to my winter one as I consider this item an absolute must-have not just for the cold season, but all year round, really. I found some of the best basic turtlenecks in Everlane.
5. Brown Cotton Turtleneck
Similar to the long-sleeved crews, it’s good to have options when it comes to fundamental closet essentials like the turtlenecks. Adding a brown one to spice up my neutral palette and allow me to create even more stylish looks with ease.
6. Relaxed Shirt
Don’t put away the classy button-down just because it’s winter. That’s the perfect piece when you’re going for a chic elegant vibe. My advice is to opt for a relaxed fit, so you can style it up or down without sacrificing comfort. I’d wear it with skinny jeans, suede-heeled boots, a neutral-colored blazer, and a wrap coat. Just an idea, but I know you’ll love it.
The best places for stylish white shirts are COS, & Other Stories, and Everlane.
Related Post: Autumn Capsule Wardrobe 2024: What To Wear This Fall
Shop winter sweaters:
7. Black Cashmere Turtleneck
Having a warm black turtleneck sweater in your autumn winter capsule wardrobe is a must. I have one, so I’m not looking to purchase a new piece this winter. Remember, at the end of the day the most sustainable practice you can do is to wear the clothes you already own. However, if I was to invest in a new one, I’d go for this beautiful cashmere piece from Nordstrom. It’s just the perfect addition to your classic winter capsule wardrobe.
8. Gray Turtleneck Sweater
Wool and cashmere are the warmest fabrics you can bet on in the cold season. Unfortunately, they are not cruelty-free. The best thing you can do, if you don’t want to contribute to the exploitation of animals but want to keep your body warm as you can’t handle the cold, is to get clothes made of recycled or at least responsibly sourced materials. Like this sweater from Reformation.
9. Oversized Turtleneck Sweater
Everybody needs a stylish versatile sweater in a neutral color in their wardrobe. You probably have a go-to one already, but if you don’t, I found the perfect piece I’m planning to get this winter. The flattering fit will work on every body and it’s made of renewed materials, meaning it’s not just soft and warm but also eco-friendly. Cold winter capsule wardrobe, here I come!
10. Cotton Crewneck Sweater
We all have a tendency to fill our closets with bulky knits in the winter, but let’s not forget to add a good basic cotton crewneck sweater. An ideal layering piece as it’s lightweight. You can wear it on its own, with a cardigan or a blazer, or as an extra layer under a chunky knit for extra warmth when the temperatures hit below zero.
11. Cream Sweater
Cream sweaters might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they make an appearance in my fall winter capsule wardrobe as I love neutral shades. Sweaters like these look amazing with dark high-waist bottoms like mom jeans or wide-leg pants.
12. Knit Vest
Last year I re-discovered the knit vests for winter, and I’m definitely bringing this stunning garment back to my capsule wardrobe winter hit list. Personally, I prefer sleeveless ones, so I can style them with a white shirt underneath, black leggings, and knee-high boots. That’s my go-to look for a date night out and the best way to dress to impress without compromising on comfort.
The ULTIMATE Capsule Wardrobe Bundle
4 x Seasonal Capsule Wardrobe Guides, Printable Checklists, Travel Capsules, Over 290+ Outfit ideas, and more!
A timeless year-round capsule wardrobe you can’t wait to wake up to.
Shop winter outerwear:
OUTERWEAR
13. Cream Cardigan
14. Gray Cardigan
15. Wool Blazer
16. Long Puffer Coat
17. Black Long Coat
18. Teddy Coat
13. Cream Cardigan + 14. Gray Cardigan
A classy cardigan is a must-have essential in any womens winter capsule wardrobe, and it will be in my winter one too. It’s a lovely everyday staple that you just can’t go wrong with. My favorite places to shop for cardigans are Everlane and & Other Stories.
15. Wool Blazer
This wool blazer has always been my top recommendation for any timeless autumn winter wardrobe. It’s made of responsible wool, and it’s a classy heavy coat that can be mixed and matched in so many different outfit combinations.
16. Long Puffer Coat
Last Christmas I got a beautiful long cream puffer jacket as a Christmas gift that I’ve been wearing all winter long. I couldn’t find a link for it but here’s a gorgeous versatile option from Nordstrom.
17. Black Long Coat
Not having a classy black long winter coat in your collection is a big faux pas, if you ask me. This is the ultimate winter staple that will never ever run out of style. My tip is to invest in a high-quality sustainable option that will serve you for years like the option above.
18. Teddy Coat
I don’t know about you but when it comes to winter outerwear, I’m all about comfort and convenience. Although I like to have something feminine and timeless like the long black coat, I also need something more casual for everyday wear when I just want to be warm and look cute on cold days. That’s where my beloved teddy coat comes in.
You’ll Love This: An Easy To Follow Guide To Building A Minimalist Wardrobe
Shop winter bottoms:
19. Black Leggings
The black leggings are part of my fall capsule, and I’m bringing them to my winter one too, as I can’t think of a more comfortable and versatile bottom piece than these. You probably already have a pair, but if you don’t, I can’t recommend the Lululemon ones enough. Just because it’s cold, doesn’t mean they need to be thermal leggings.
20. Blue Jeans
Classy blue jeans, but make them slim-legged, so they can be worn with ankle boots in the cold season. A great pair of jeans is an underrated item for winter closets, if you ask me! Can you have too many pairs of jeans?
21. Black Skinny Jeans
I have a love-hate relationship with skinny jeans but I can’t deny that they pair so well with winter boots and any style or type of coats, so I’m giving these black trousers another chance in winter this year, and I think you should too!
22 + 23. Wool Pants
If you don’t have a classy pair of wool pants in your winter closet, I’d recommend adding at least one. They are so easy to style and you can create so many beautiful effortless outfits with them.
24. Gray Straight Jeans
Some say jeans make the look, but I say it’s all about finding the style that fits you best. Being the most popular item of clothing after T-shirts, I’m sure you have some. But in case you don’t, here is a gray pair of denim that you will love.
Shop winter shoes:
SHOES
26. High Cream Boots
25. Classy Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are timeless and a great investment piece for a winter capsule wardrobe. They pair effortlessly with most outfits, whether you’re dressing up or down, and provide great style for any winter outfit.
26. Knee High Cream Boots
These cream boots are perfect for adding a touch of seasonal colors to your winter capsule. They are not only stylish but also versatile, complementing different ways to style both dresses and jeans for a minimalist look.
27. Chunky White Trainers
Chunky white trainers are a staple for a casual, relaxed winter fashion vibe. They work well with a range of clothing items and are a more affordable option compared to heavy-duty boots, making them a key piece for everyday wear.
28. Suede Ankle Boots
Suede is the ultimate choice for a chic winter look. These black boots are especially great when paired with a tote bag and wide-leg pants, offering a balance of comfort and style for those cold days.
29. Dr. Martens Boots
The Doc’s black boots are heavy-duty items that are essential for winter, especially for those who love a bit of edge in their wardrobe. They are a great style addition for a capsule that needs durable, waterproof boots that will stand up to the elements. So you’ll get the most wear out of them.
The ULTIMATE Capsule Wardrobe Bundle
4 x Seasonal Capsule Wardrobe Guides, Printable Checklists, Travel Capsules, Over 290+ Outfit ideas, and more!
A timeless year-round capsule wardrobe you can’t wait to wake up to.
Shoes, shoes, shoes! Who doesn’t love them?! I know I certainly do! And although you will see me wearing probably two, at most, three pairs all winter, I always get so tempted to add more and more. I guess it’s true that as humans we are prone to accumulate due to our survival instinct. I can definitely notice that when I look at my shoe collection. Anyone else get decision fatigue?
This winter though, I’m committed to sticking to 5 pairs only and letting go of everything that I no longer find appropriate for me and my lifestyle. You can see above my winter capsule wardrobe footwear collection. These are the shoes that I know I will wear as not only do I find them extremely comfy but I also like them.
All of these pairs can be easily styled with everything else in my winter wardrobe and that’s why they made the cut. Of course, for you, this list will look different depending on what suits your personal needs.
Capsule wardrobes are all about simplifying your life and narrowing down your collection to your own FAVORITE clothes in order to be able to mix and match easily and save yourself time and energy. Refer to this guide as a manual whenever you need it on your journey to create a perfect winter capsule wardrobe.
Winter Capsule Wardrobe Outfits:
For a Sunday Brunch
Effortlessly chic and winter-ready: this look combines a cozy cream knit cardigan with edgy black jeans and chunky Chelsea boots, balancing comfort and style. The minimalist nude crossbody bag and sleek geometric earrings add a sophisticated touch, making this ensemble perfect for a Sunday Brunch.
For The Office
Elevate your workwear game with this sophisticated ensemble: a cozy brown turtleneck layered under a structured beige blazer brings warmth and polish to your outfit. Pair it with classic black pants and sleek ankle boots for an effortlessly chic look that transitions seamlessly from office to evening. Minimalist yet powerful, this outfit is a masterclass in understated elegance.
For A Dinner Date
Keep it classy and cozy on your dinner date with this refined outfit: a soft beige knit sweater paired with sleek black skinny jeans offers both warmth and style. The structured black coat and chic ankle boots add a touch of elegance, making this look effortlessly polished. Perfect for a night out, this ensemble exudes sophistication with a hint of understated allure.
Fashion For Thought
As we approach the chilliest time of year, having a winter capsule wardrobe is not just a good idea—it’s a stylish strategy. Including these 29 key items, a winter wardrobe capsule ensures you’re well-equipped for the winter months with cozy sweaters, a classic wool coat, and versatile pieces like black pants and jeans that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits every day.
Prioritize personal style with neutral colors; think black jeans, leather pants, or the timeless leather jacket that seamlessly blends with other pieces. Chelsea boots, for instance, and that oversized sweater are winter wardrobe essentials, providing both fashion and function.
An essential benefit of this approach is the clarity it brings to winter dressing. No more mornings spent in confusion! With your own personal capsule wardrobe, every choice feels right. Whether you’re layering with a long-sleeve tee beneath bulky sweaters or throwing on a puffer coat for those, especially colder days, you’ll always look and feel your best.
And for those who love a pop of color, the blue color of denim or an oversized scarf can elevate your outfit just a little bit. Not to mention, turning to a sustainable brand during your shopping spree is a great way to sidestep fast fashion and focus on good quality, classic pieces.
Winter travel plans? Your winter travel capsule wardrobe is sorted, with outfit ideas suitable for any special occasion or casual looks you might need. The best part? Each piece, from the black blazer to warm leggings, is curated to offer maximum wear, eliminating the constant need to refresh every season.
Remember, the goal isn’t about having the most clothing but the best buy—those perfect options that represent your personal preference.
Now’s the perfect time to embark on building the building blocks of your winter wardrobe. Whether you’re looking for inspiration from a blog post you read last week or are starting from scratch, this list of items is a great starting point.
Why wait until the end of the year? Make your winter both chic and efficient by embracing the beauty of a capsule wardrobe. And, without further ado, step confidently into the colder season, knowing you’re dressed your best every single day of the Winter season.
This post was all about winter capsule wardrobe: what to wear in winter 2024.
The ULTIMATE Capsule Wardrobe Bundle
4 x Seasonal Capsule Wardrobe Guides, Printable Checklists, Travel Capsules, Over 290+ Outfit ideas, and more!
A timeless year-round capsule wardrobe you can’t wait to wake up to.
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This post was updated on 04/11/2024
