Winter capsule wardobe

Create a Winter Capsule Wardrobe

Have you wondered how to put together a winter capsule wardrobe that can transition to spring? I am going to share with you 21 key pieces to include in your winter to spring capsule wardrobe. In addition, I will give you 30 outfit ideas to show you how to easily mix and match your winter capsule wardrobe to style a month’s worth of winter outfits that can transition to spring.

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What is a Winter to Spring Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a limited collection of pieces of clothing that are complementary to each other so they can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. Usually the pieces are essential to your wardrobe and a classic style that can stand the test of time. Thus, they are normally not too trendy so that they won’t go out of style. 

However, a capsule wardrobe doesn’t have to lack style and doesn’t mean you can’t build around your personal style. For example, if a piece in the capsule is a coat, choose a coat in your preferred style.

A transitional winter to spring capsule wardrobe will focus on about 20-30 items that are essential to creating winter outfits for colder weather that will eventually transition to spring.  Therefore, a winter capsule wardrobe will focus on warm fabrics and layers for the colder winter season.

If you are looking for more style inspiration check out these fall outfits.

How Many Clothes Do You Need in a Winter Capsule Wardrobe

You can include as many pieces of clothing as you want in your winter capsule wardrobe since it’s your closet, your choice! However, a capsule wardrobe is characterized by a minimalist approach to clothes and you should try to stay around 30 clothing items or less. These items should also be considered essential to your closet, meaning they are must-haves for winter that you will definitely wear, such as a pair of winter boots or a winter coat, depending on the weather you live in.

What You Need to Make a Complete Winter Capsule Wardrobe

I’ve compiled 21 clothing items that can be included in your winter capsule wardrobe. Depending on the weather conditions you live in and your own personal style you may want to swap out certain items, but this will give you a general idea of how to build a collection of essential and complementary clothing items for your winter capsule. 

Therefore, I am keeping the list general, but will go into detail of what I have included in this specific capsule wardrobe, and what you can always choose as an alternative.

Where You Can Buy Winter Wardrobe Essentials

All of the winter and spring essentials I’ve chosen are linked and can be shopped directly with the links.  My favorite store to shop for essentials is Nordstrom because they have a large variety of clothes, brands, sizes and price points. Nordstrom also offers free shipping and returns. In addition, if you don’t like to shop yourself, you can use a styling service, like Frontdoor Fashion.

Is a Winter to Spring Wardrobe worth the cost?

Absolutely! There may be an initial upfront cost for the 21 items, depending on what you may already have in your closet. However, a winter capsule wardrobe should be classic enough that it can be worn year after year, so that it’s a one-time cost, with minimal recurring costs to maintain or add to your capsule wardrobe.  

A capsule wardrobe will save you money in the long-run by buying quality, classic pieces that can be worn many times in a variety of outfits.

21 Essentials to Include in a Transitional Winter to Spring Wardrobe

Without further ado, here are 21 essential for a winter capsule wardrobe that can transition to spring:

how to put together a winter capsule wardrobe
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Coat: A classic camel coat is a must-have for winter. Try black, ivory or any other color that fits your personal style!

Rain / Snow Jacket: Having a waterproof jacket that can be worn in rain or snow is a winter essential for a weekend getaway for a weekend running errands.

Long Cardigan: A long cardigan is so cozy for a winter weekend spent at home or around a fire.

Short Cardigan: I love to layer in winter, and a short cardigan makes a perfect winter layer.

Heavyweight Sweater: Winter calls for a few sweaters in different weights depending on how chilly it is outside.

Medium Weight Sweater

Light Weight Sweater: I love this camel colored sweater with short sleeves.

Long Sweater: I love a long sweater for a cozy and comfortable look you can easily throw on over a pair of jeans or leggings for a casual outfit.

Long Sleeve Top: A couple of long sleeve tops are essential to mixing and matching your outfits.

Long Sleeve Top: I love this boho style top that can go with jeans or skirts.

Dress: A sweater dress is a great option for winter to keep you stylish but also warm that can be worn on a date night or to a holiday party.

Skirt: A skirt is essential to mixing and matching.

Blue Jeans: Every closet should have a couple pair of jeans, in blue and/or black, since these can be paired with anything.

Black Jeans

Plaid Pants: If you don’t have a need for black pants, try another pair of jeans in a different silhouette or color.

Leggings: Leggings are essential any time of the year for an easy and comfortable outfit. I chose a pair of faux moto leggings for a bit of edge.

Sneakers: A casual pair of sneakers is essential not only for winter, but any season, and can work across all your season’s capsule wardrobes.

Ankle Boots: I chose these ankle boots by Blondo because not only are they stylish, comfortable and inexpensive, but they are also waterproof! I have worn these in rain and snow, and they have kept my feet warm and dry. Check out these outfits if you like white boots.

Knee Boots: Knee boots over jeans or with a skirt are so cute for winter. If you aren’t a fan of knee or over the knee boots, you can do a second pair of ankle boots with a heel that can still be worn with a pair of jeans, a skirt or a dress.

Tote Bag: When you need something bigger than a purse,  try a tote instead. Perfect for errands or work.

Hat: Show your personal style with a hat. I’ve chosen a felt, wide brim hat, but feel free to try a beanie, baseball cap, or hoodie that suits you instead.

A Month of Winter Outfit Ideas: 30 Winter Outfits with 21 Pieces

1. Faux Leather Leggings and Winter Coat

Faux leather leggings are a great way to add some style to an outfit, and they can be paired with a variety of items. A camel coat is a great way to keep warm in the winter, and it can be worn with many different types of clothing. When combined, these two pieces make for a stylish and comfortable winter look.

Black faux leather leggings and camel coat with sneakers
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2. Boho Top and Ankle Booties

A boho top and felt hat are the perfect accessories to complete your look. They are both stylish and comfortable, and they will help you stand out from the crowd. If you’re looking for a unique and stylish outfit, be sure to give these two items a try.

blue denim jeans with black booties and white cardigan
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3. Cargo Jacket and Faux Leather Leggings

A cargo jacket and faux leather leggings are a great outfit for a chilly day. The cargo jacket is perfect for keeping you warm, while the faux leather leggings add a touch of style. So, next time you’re looking for something to wear on a cold day, consider a cargo jacket and faux leather leggings.

Black faux leather leggings and olive raincoat and wool hat
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4. Long Cardigan and Faux Leather Leggings

A long cardigan and oversize bag can be the perfect outfit for a variety of occasions. A long cardigan can be dressed up or down, making it a versatile piece in your wardrobe. An oversize bag can hold everything you need while you’re on the go. So if you’re looking for a comfortable and stylish outfit, consider a long cardigan and oversize bag.

Black faux leather leggings with cardigan and boho top
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5. Grey Sweater and White Sneakers

A grey sweater and white sneakers can be a great combination for a casual look. The sweater can be dressed up or down, while the sneakers add a touch of casualness. Whether you’re going out with friends or just running errands, this outfit is sure to keep you comfortable and stylish.

Winter outfit winter black jeans, olive jacket, grey sweater and sneakers
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6. Camel Coat and Black Jeans

A camel coat and black jeans are a classic pairing that can be dressed up or down. The camel coat is perfect for colder weather, while the black jeans can be worn all year round. A combination of these two pieces can create many different outfits, making them a versatile duo worth investing in.

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7. Black Shirt and Boots

A black skirt and long suede boots are perfect for a range of occasions. They can be dressed up or down, making them versatile pieces for any woman’s wardrobe. So, next time you’re in need of an outfit for a special event, or just want to update your look, consider these two classic pieces.

Winter outfit with black skirt and camel coat
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8. Black Skirt and Chunky Knit

A black skirt and cream chunky knit is the perfect outfit for a winter day. The black skirt is warm and the cream chunky knit is stylish. Together, they make a great outfit for a winter day.

Winter outfit with black skirt and white cardigan and knee boots
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9. Chunky Knit and Boots

Winter outfit with black skirt, suede boots and white cardigan
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10. Knit Dress and Cardigan

The knit dress and cardigan are both versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down. They are perfect for any season and can be worn with a variety of accessories. If you are looking for a comfortable and stylish outfit, then you should consider buying a knit dress and cardigan.

winter sweater dress and cardigan with white sneakers
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11. Plaid Pants and White Sneakers

Work outfit with plaid pants with sweater and cardigan
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12. Black Jeans and White Sneakers

Black jeans and white sneakers are a classic and timeless combination. They can be dressed up or down, and worn with just about anything. So if you’re looking for a versatile outfit that will never go out of style, then these two pieces are definitely worth considering.

black jeans and blue cardigan and white sneakers
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13. Black Jeans and Cardigan

winter outfit with black jeans and boho top and wool hat
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14. Neutral Sweater and Black Jeans

A neutral sweater and black jeans can be styled in many different ways to create a look that is both professional and stylish. By pairing a simple sweater with a pair of black jeans, you can create a look that is perfect for any occasion.

black jeans with tunic sweater with suede boots and camel coat
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15. Camel Coat and White Sneakers

black leather leggings and camel coat with boho top
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16. Cargo Jacket and Faux Leather Leggings

black moto faux leather leggings and olive jacket with sneakers
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17. Neutral Sweater and White Sneakers

black moto leather leggings with tunic sweater camel coat and white sneakers
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18. Black Skirt and Neutral Sweater

black skirt with camel sweater and white sneakers
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19. Bootcut Jeans and Chunky Cardigan

Bootcut jeans and chunky cardigans are perfect for creating a casual and comfortable look. They are both versatile pieces that can be worn with a variety of different items, making them ideal for everyday wear. So next time you’re looking for something to wear, consider these two popular items and see how you can put them together to create a stylish ensemble.

blue jeans with ivory cardigan
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20. Cargo Jacket and Bootcut Jeans

denim jeans with black sweater and olive jacket for winter outfits
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21. Bootcut Jeans and Boho Top

Bootcut jeans and a boho top can be a great combination for a casual day or night out. Bootcut jeans are versatile and can be dressed up or down, while a boho top adds a touch of femininity and style. So, next time you’re looking for something to wear, consider these two pieces together!

denim jeans with camel coat and suede boots and boho top
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22. Bootcut Jeans and Grey Sweater

denim jeans with olive jacket and white sneakers
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23. Plaid Pants and Boho Top

These two pieces can be paired together to create a stylish and comfortable outfit. The camel coat is perfect for the colder weather, while the plaid pants add a touch of personality. Whether you’re going to work, school, or out on a date, this combination is sure to keep you warm and looking your best.

plaid pants boho top and camel coat
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24. Chunky Cardigan and White Sneakers

black skirt with white cardigan and white sneakers
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25. Plaid Pants and Grey Sweater

plaid pants with blue cardigan and grey sweater
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26. Sweater Dress and Ankle Boots

sweater dress and camel coat with black booties
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27. Bootcut Jeans and Ankle Boots

winter outfit blue jeans with black sweater and wool hat
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28. Plaid Pants and Camel Coat

Winter outfit for work with plaid pants camel coat and grey sweater
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29. Cargo Jacket and Ankle Boots

winter outfit with black jeans and olive jacket with black boots
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30. Sweater Dress and Camel Coat

A long dress and coat can be perfect for winter. They can keep you warm and make you look stylish at the same time. If you are looking for something to wear this winter, consider a long dress and coat.

winter outfit with sweater dress camel coat and white sneakers
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What are you including in your winter to spring transition capsule wardrobe?

Creator of My Favorite Hello and Author of this Article

Amy has 10+ years of experience in fashion and beauty launching digital products for global brands Fenty Beauty, Glossier, Marc Jacobs, Men’s Wearhouse and Stitch Fix. She also worked previously as a Senior Stylist at Stitch Fix, and currently as an independent virtual stylist, styling men and women for various occasions from everyday outfits, special occasions, to curating a complete closet. Amy is using her styling experience, fashion and beauty expertise to provide style inspiration and outfit ideas so you can shop for yourself and put together stylish outfits that make you feel confident and beautiful. @styledbymyfavehello

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