So, you’re thinking about living more minimally! Whether it's a seasonal shift sparking change or spring cleaning inspiring you to live with fewer things, I’ve got your back. Hi I’m Lisa and I am here to help you take practical steps toward building a capsule wardrobe and living with more intention.

What Is a Capsule Wardrobe?

Doing things with intention often leads to better results—and shopping is no different. When you shop intentionally instead of chasing fast fashion, you naturally present yourself with more sophistication and elegance.

A capsule wardrobe is a closet of versatile, functional pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. The pieces can easily pair with each other to make many different outfits for a variety of occasions. I also firmly believe you can build a capsule wardrobe without breaking the bank or relying solely on luxury items. 

It’s about quality, not price tags. I’ve learned and experienced first hand that a high price doesn’t always mean high quality.

Benefits of a Capsule Wardrobe and Living Minimally

With spring in full swing, many of us feel the urge to deep clean, I know I do. And it often starts with our closets. One of the biggest benefits of a capsule wardrobe is reducing waste. Overconsumption is everywhere: I’m constantly seeing TikToks with 18 Stanley cups, dozens of ice trays, and overflowing closets of unworn clothes.

When you build a capsule wardrobe, the “I have nothing to wear” problem disappears. Your clothes are designed to work together, helping with that overwhelming feeling when looking for something to wear. Every piece serves a purpose and fits into your lifestyle. 

Living minimally is also more cost-effective over time. All those frequent hauls from TEMU or Shein add up. When you shop with intention and focus on what you truly need, you get much more value and use from your purchases.

What to Look for in Quality Clothing Pieces

Quality

When building a capsule wardrobe, quality is key. Basics from Shein, Temu or similar brands often don’t hold up. You end up replacing them much sooner than if you'd invested a bit more in something well made.

I always inspect the stitching: high-quality items have clean, even seams with no pulling or unevenness. Poor stitching is a product of fast fashion since it's rushed and mass produced.

Pay close attention to small details. Are the zippers sturdy? Do the buttons feel secure and well-made? Is the fabric soft or scratchy? Materials like cotton, wool, and linen often outperform synthetics in both comfort and longevity. Quality is about craftsmanship, not cost. Craftsmanship is so incredibly important when it comes to quality clothing and something I am very passionate about in my own brand. I knew when designing Womads products that they were going to be handmade by leather experts, people who know exactly how to work with the high quality material I was using. 

Versatility

A capsule wardrobe should consist of minimal pieces that can create many outfits. Each item should be easy to style and work with other pieces in your closet. Of course, treat yourself to something fun and colorful—fashion should be enjoyable! But a $400 Shein haul with 50 bedazzled tops? Probably not necessary.

Overall, focus on pieces you can mix and match effortlessly.

Comfort and Fit

The “nothing to wear” feeling often comes from having too much stuff that doesn’t fit right. Choose materials that make you feel good while wearing it. If you live somewhere cold for most of the year, make sure your wardrobe includes warm, cozy layers—not just summer outfits.

Wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Don’t buy a trend just because it’s popular. If flowy pants or maxi skirts aren’t your thing, skip them. Find pieces that feel like you and build around them.

Favorite Pieces in My Wardrobe and Why I Chose Them

Shoes: Womads

Let’s start with a girl’s best friend—her shoes! When it comes to shoes and living minimally, versatility is key. A neutral everyday pair can take you from the gym to the airport to brunch. A fun pair can double as a wedding guest look or a date night option.

Shoes support us through every part of our day: work, errands, workouts, and everything in between. Here are a few must-have pairs:

• A comfortable everyday shoe. Think Womads peep toe flats, something simple but still breathable and flexible. Easy to slip on and slip off for heading to the gym, farmers market, shopping and basically anything. 

• A fun pair for going out (think bright colors or lacy heels)! For options check out my go-to dress shoe blog, it's the perfect list for shoes that are comfortable, affordable and easy to dress up and down.
  
  

• A professional shoe for the office that can also be dressed up! Think Oxfords, a timeless shoe that offers luxury and comfort. Shop the Womads Oxfords here for a high quality leather Oxford that is closed toe so perfect for work or for everyday wear.

Comfort is everything! Choose shoes made from breathable, durable materials. They should feel good from the moment you put them on. Womads are designed to be just that. I decided to make my own shoe when I struggled to find quality shoes that were flexible, supportive but also affordable. 

Womads are perfect for minimal living because a couple pairs of Womads and you have a shoe for every occasion. 

Accessories 

Crossbody Bag

When it comes to accessories in a capsule wardrobe, practicality is everything. Accessories elevate simpler outfits, which is key when your wardrobe is made up of versatile basics.

The Womads crossbody bag is my top pick. It’s practical, stylish, and works for all occasions. It can easily fit all your essentials while sitting beautiful across your body so your hands can stay free to text, hold a coffee and basically anything. 

Womads also has interchangeable straps so instead of buying a whole new bag you can customize the straps instead, getting more use out of your one bag.

Pants

The Darted Leg Barrel-Leg Jean from Madewell are one of my favorite high-rise pairs for casual everyday pants.

Since I live in Miami I always opt for a high rise jean and a crop top, it's breathable but also looks casual and put together. The neutral black shade is super versatile and the pants itself are baggy so perfect for not feeling constrained and can be worn all day. You can also make so many outfits with just a simple pair of jeans. Everlane is also another great option for high quality jeans that will last you years. 

A pair of trousers is another staple. A couple pairs of trousers and you will have a bunch of outfits to create. You can pair it with a blazer and tucked in blouse. Or you can dress it down with sneakers and a basic tee. I also have been loving the oversized look, so I’ve been pairing trousers with an oversized sweatshirt for a chic but comfy outfit. I love the Effortless Pants from Aritzia—they're sturdy, neutral, and have lasted me years

Flowy Elastic Pants are such a great piece to incorporate into your wardrobe.

These are the perfect mix between jeans and sweatpants. They are structured and often pleated so they look like you’ve put in effort but you’re actually just as comfortable as sweats. I love the pair I have from Oak and Fort, they also have a matching blouse that is high quality and easy to pair with the pants for a relaxed look. The button up can also be worn up with a basic tank underneath or with jeans, trousers or over a skirt… you see what I mean with pieces that just pair with everything ;)

Dresses and Jumpsuits

I'm a big dress lover, and I swear by a few staple pieces:

A long, flowy dress that is elastic and wrinkle-free is a gamechanger. It’s my go-to on warm days when I want to look put together with minimal effort.

I love color and I also love painting bright colors with bright accessories. Of course you pair a bright dress with neutral accessories, but if you can play around with complimentary colors. What I love about dresses isn't one piece but an entire outfit. You can easily add on with a cardigan or blazer or just leave the dress as it is with a beautiful crossbody bag and some accessories. 

A jumpsuit (yes, it belongs here!) is so comfy and so versatile. You can add a belt and it kinda looks like a two piece while still having the comfort of basically a onesie. 

The only annoying thing and I know my girls will get this is going to the bathroom. Madewell has beautiful Satin Jumpsuits that come in different colors and are so flattering.

A capsule wardrobe has a lot of neutrals but that doesn’t mean color can’t also be incorporated. I absolutely love colorful dresses paired with a colorful shoe or bag. 

It's the perfect way to add some fun to your capsule wardrobe. Pair it with neutral shoes and a blazer for a chic, effortless look

Tops

Basics are your best friend. Look for quality t-shirts and long sleeves that pair well with jeans, skirts, or trousers. I love shopping for basics at Banana Republic. When looking for basics, aim for something structured, with high quality material like cotton. Then choose a few neutral and fun colors so that it is easy to pair with simple bottoms while also having variety. 

An oversized blazer or a cozy cashmere sweater or cardigan is a perfect piece to invest in. It is a great way to create new outfits with simple pieces or to add layers to your outfits. The best part about a blazer or cardigan is you can use it to dress up an otherwise simple outfit for a nice dinner or a professional space. I really love the blazers from Artizia, Madewell and Club Monaco.

Skirts

I’m a big skirt girl—skirts are simple, feminine, and easy to wear.

My long black leather skirt is one of my favorite investment pieces. It may not be the most casual, but it’s surprisingly versatile. If leather is not your favorite, a Satin or pleated skirt is also a great piece that can easily be paired with a tucked in blouse or a simple basic tee.

I also love patterned skirts. They're great for adding interest to your outfit, especially when you already have lots of neutral basics. Dress them up for date night or down for a farmer’s market trip. I recommend checking out Farm Rio for standout prints.

Conclusion

One of the best things about a capsule wardrobe is that when you find a fun patterned piece or a bold shoe, you already have basics to pair it with. Your wardrobe is made of timeless, versatile staples that feel and look good. 

And because the pieces are high-quality, you're not contributing to overconsumption. You have what you need, plus a few things you love. 

For more fashion tips, tricks, or to shop Womads, head to our website and follow us on social media.