Spring Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a set of pieces you can mix and match and wear over and over again. It often saves space in your closet and can help you feel like you always have something to wear. Most capsule wardrobes you’ll find are full of neutrals and basics (a lot like the one I have today) but you can use them as a starting point and build your own.

Capsules can be as big or as little as you want. A very basic capsule will start with a couple of pairs of jeans, a few layering tops, and jackets.

Bottoms: For your bottoms to add variety mix the colors and washes, such as white, black, dark, and light wash. Depending on your weather and style, you may want to add denim shorts, leggings, skirts, and/or trousers/soft wide-leg pants.

Tops: Basic t-shirts are a great choice, but I also love tops with details, like a pretty print. I choose tops that layer well, if it will fit under a jacket or cardigan, it’s fair game. Sweatshirts and sweaters with a classic fit also work well for layering. Button-down tops are another one I personally love for their versatility.

Jacket: You’ll often see denim jackets, cardigans, utility jackets, blazers, and leather jackets in a capsule. Pick options that are comfortable and fit your style.

My capsules are very similar to one another and I will pull some of the same items from a previous year or season. I always gravitate to classic style and simple outfits so many of the things in my closet are things I have worn for years. The key is to stay true to yourself and what you’re comfortable in because that is what you will truly wear regularly.

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My Sizing: I’m 4’10” and my bust, waist, and hip measurements are 32″, 24″ and 36″. My typical inseam is 24-25″. The clothes shown are unaltered and show how they fit me right from the store. I list my sizing beside each item to help you compare when shopping online.

Medium Wash Jeans 24 Extra Short: I went back and forth on what jeans I was going to choose for this capsule and ultimately landed on a trendier option with these full-length straight jeans. This pair is very high-rise, rigid, and hits at my ankle. Whether you go with this exact pair or choose a different style, it will still mix into the outfits the same way. All of the options below hit me about an inch above my ankle bone or right at my ankle bone (the fit you’re used to seeing the most often in my outfits).

White Jeans Petite 24: This pair of jeans was also in my spring capsule from last year. They’re the best white jeans all around – in my opinion. They’re not see-through, they’re comfortable and flattering! I wear them in Petite 24, my true size.

Alternate Jeans Options: Cropped Flare | Budget Cropped Flare (choose short) | Budget Skinny (choose short)

Denim Shorts 24: It feels like it’s forever away, but the warm days will be here soon! I included my top pick for denim shorts, a pair I bought last year and wore over and over again. They’re from J.Crew, they’re well-made and very comfortable. I wear them in my true size, 24. You can swap them in for the jeans in any of these outfits.

Floral Dress XS: I’m someone who wears a dress often so having one in my capsule makes sense. This one from Amazon is comfortable and you can layer with it for versatility.

Trench Coat Petite XXS: I love that a trench coat adds polish to an outfit, but if your style is more casual you may prefer a simple raincoat instead. My exact trench is from J.Crew and comes with a detachable hood. It’s true to size for me. You can find a less expensive option here.

Denim Jacket Petite XXS: I’ve been wearing a denim jacket since I was in high school. It’s a classic. I prefer a style that fits well and doesn’t overwhelm my frame, but an oversized option would be a trendy choice this spring. The one I’m wearing is true to size, I wear it in Petite XXS.

White Gauze Top XXS: I bought this white gauze top last year and loved wearing it so much. It was in my summer capsule last year and will remain in heavy rotation this year. I appreciate the soft crinkled fabric that isn’t fussy like a typical white button-down top. It looks great on its own and also worn on top of other tops, swimsuits, and dresses. I’m wearing this top in XXS and it has a slightly oversized fit. This less expensive version from J.Crew Factory comes in petite and has a closer fit.

Cropped Sweatshirt XXS: Any sweatshirt will do, but I love how a cropped option can be layered as well as worn on its own. My exact sweatshirt is from Madewell and fits me well in XXS. You may also like this option from Target.

Chambray Top Petite XXS: This chambray top is another thing that has been in my closet for some time now. I chose this sleeveless option for warmer weather, but a regular long-sleeve one would work with these outfits as well. My exact top is in Petite XXS, but this color no longer comes in petite. However, it runs small so I think there’s a chance the regular sizing would fit just fine.

Sage T-Shirt XS: This relaxed t-shirt is so soft and comfortable. I love the way it looks tucked into jeans and shorts. I went with XS in this top, but it does go down to XXS if you prefer a closer fit you could size down.

Tie Waist Top XXS: I think this top is just cute as can be. I love the tie waist, but you can also leave it untied to tuck into jeans if you would like. I’m wearing it in XXS and it fits me well.

Striped Top XXS: A classic navy and white striped top is a pretty spring layer. This exact top is thick and well-made. I wear it in XXS. Less expensive option here!

Cream Cardigan Petite XXS: I chose a comfortable relaxed cardigan as my final layering piece. It’s lightweight so it’s great for spring and of course, nothing says spring like white. If you bought the Juliette cardigan from my fall capsule, I think that one would be great with these outfits as well.