Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List – The Top 10

Even non-minimalists can appreciate a good minimalist capsule wardrobe list. Mine consists of the pieces I wear most on a day-to-day basis – the things I couldn’t live without!

I try not to play favorites in my closet, but let’s face it…it happens anyway. I call them my comfort clothes – the pieces I grab when I don’t want to think and want to be 100% comfortable.

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List
Summer Basics

A while back, our friend @modernlyannie made a request for a “Basic Bitch Wardrobe Capsule”. It took me a minute to actually figure out what that would consist of, and truly be minimalist, but I analyzed the things I wear on a daily basis, and I think I have it figured out.

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List
1) Basic T-shirts

My All-Time Favorites

The ATM schoolboy t-shirts have spoiled me for other tees. Their perfect slub material gives these essential basics an elevated look and why I happily wear them even when I’m dressing up.

I used to wear v-necks almost exclusively but not since I found these. They last a long time, but I do replace the white one every year, as it inevitably starts looking worn after a year of heavy use.

Wash Tip! To preserve their life and prevent shrinking, I wash them on a gentle cycle and hang to dry.

Favorite T-shirts – I size up to M

Under $50 T-shirts

When I’m searching for affordable tees, I usually turn to the same brands over and over. These are the tees that have lasted me the longest – Free People, Nordstrom house brands, and Splendid.

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List
2) Affordable Tanks

For basic affordable tank tops, you can’t beat the Topshop u-neck tanks. I have them in all three colors and wear them alone or as a base layer. For $16, this will be my third summer wearing them. So far I’ve only had to replace the white one once.

I find them to be true to size and I order US size 6.

Wash Tip! To preserve their life and prevent shrinking, I wash them on a gentle cycle and hang to dry.

I always have a couple ribbed tanks in my summer wardrobe and these are my affordable picks.

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List
3) A Button Down Shirt

I have a few favorites, but I think the Citizens of Humanity Kayla shirt in Canyon Stripe is no brainer. I have this shirt in white and would buy the newer striped version if I didn’t already have a blue button down.

I wear my button-down shirts as a jacket, tucked in, tied, etc. Love them!

At a slightly higher price point, the Frank & Eileen button-downs can’t be beat. I especially love their soft washed denim versions.

Affordable Button-Down Shirts

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List
4) Cotton Sweater

I’m weird in that I actually wear my lightweight cashmere sweaters year-round, but that’s not especially practical for most people. One good cotton sweater is perfect for nights, beach trips, and just to keep in the car for shopping the cold section of the grocery store, ha!

I’ve actually been looking at this La Ligne sweater for over a year now. @modernlyannie recently bought it and says it meets every expectation she had. That speaks volumes to me!

I’m including the slightly cropped version as well.

Affordable Striped Sweaters

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List
5) Denim Shorts

I tend to wear slightly shorter denim shorts (I have shorter legs and a long torso) but for longer shorts, Agolde is the gold standard for still being cool and not frumpy. This year there are a couple new colorways. I’m particularly drawn to Parade.

Under $50 Denim Shorts

I don’t have a lot of experience with under $50 denim shorts, but I have had these Caslon boyfriend denim shorts in the past and they were soft, stretchy, and super comfortable.

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List
6) Straight Leg Jeans

Straight leg jeans are so easy to wear, even for those who still prefer skinny jeans. If I could have only one pair of jeans in my closet, I would pick a mid-toned straight leg style. They are versatile and can be dressed up or down.

Under $100 Straight Leg Jeans

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List
7/8) Shoes

I cannot live without my Birkenstock Arizona sandals. I’ve tried other brands and styles, but they just do it for me. And I wear my Birkenstock sandals so much that they are probably one of my best buys in terms of cost per wear. I just bought a second pair in navy a few months ago and they make me so ridiculously happy.

If I could only own one pair of shoes in the summer, it would be hands-down the oiled Birkenstock Arizona with the soft footbed. I love them that much.

I also have the waterproof version and they are still like brand new even though they sit outside on my back patio, have been worn daily, and basically been sun beaten for the past three years. They are also stupidly comfortable when wearing at the beach. I swear these shoes will outlive me!

For under $60, these cute checkerboard Vans have been one of the most fun and versatile purchases I’ve ever made. They make every outfit exciting and they are simply just freaking cool.

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List
9/10) Accessories

I am definitely not a minimalist when it comes to bags, but I believe a simple cognac crossbody is the most usable and versatile style. I love a hands-free bag, and the cognac just adds a pop of color to every outfit. At one point, a black tote was my go-to, but it was also incredibly boring.

I only carry essentials with me, so I also prefer a smaller/lighter bag.

Cute Hoop Earrings

When it comes to earrings, I truly am a minimalist. I have a couple pairs I rotate through and that’s it. My favorite pair – the Gorjana G Ring hoops are definitely not what I would call basic, so I’m also including this cute Ettica pair.

I seriously believe if you have a great pair of hoops, you don’t need much else.

My earrings are already what I consider affordable yet probably my favorite jewelry item, ever. Go figure!

Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe List
Final Thoughts

I spent a lot of time refining this list – adding pieces and taking away – and I feel confident in my final list. If I had to part with most of my clothes, except these pieces, I would be ok. Thankfully no one is forcing that on me!

I am working on a Part II to this capsule, where I add a handful of extras to take this capsule to the next level. Still keeping it on a minimalist level, but with the extra pieces that would take someone through almost any scenario.

x Tammy

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