Capsule Wardrobe Inspiration for Every Budget

A strong capsule wardrobe can completely transform your outfits because no matter what, you always have a reliable base to build upon. Despite what you may think, investing in a capsule wardrobe doesn’t have to cost thousands of dollars! I pulled together three different capsule wardrobes at different prices, and even styled some outfits as inspiration. Enjoy!

Blogger Hoang-Kim Cung curates a capsule wardrobe under $100

Less Than $100

Let’s start with tops! A white tee is a capsule wardrobe staple, and I love the polished look of this one – not to mention the extra soft pima cotton. Linen is another elevated fabric that’s surprisingly affordable, and it adds a slightly casual element to the classic white button down. Of course, you can’t go wrong with a cashmere sweater! Especially when it’s only $75. A denim jacket can be layered almost anything, and a cropped one like this is a modern take.

Now for dresses and bottoms. This poplin shirt dress is easy to just throw on and go, while this floral midi is great to pull out for slightly dressier occasions like a baby shower or family photos. Jeans, especially pairs like these with a skinny leg and medium wash, are super versatile and can be worn a lot before needing to be washed – perfect for capsule wardrobes. I’ve also owned these leggings for a long time and they’ve held up incredibly well. The high shine fabric makes it easy to wear them with all kinds of outfits!

And finally, accessories! I wear Kendra Scott jewelry almost daily as a part of my personal capsule wardrobe and can definitely vouch for the style, quality, and wearability of their earrings (here and here). I wear these white sneakers quite often as well, and this leather crossbody is perfect for carrying the essentials.

 

Blogger Hoang-Kim Cung curates a capsule wardrobe under $200

Less Than $200

Here’s another affordable cashmere sweater for your capsule wardrobe, coming in at just $120. This mock neck sleeveless sweater is also a favorite of mine! I find it layers really well, as does this polished top, with this knit blazer that can be dressed up or down. Agolde is a great source for denim under $200, both jeans and shorts. These are both in a light denim with more modern cuts, which I think balances nicely with all the tops. I’m obsessed with this satin slip dress that comes in 20 colors and a wide range of sizes. The cowl neck is absolutely beautiful and really adds to the timelessness. Depending on the color you get, you could wear it for a bridal event like I did or for any kind of semi-formal affair.

I’m quite the sneakerhead, but these are definitely my favorite sporty pair (more on that here). When I get dressed up though, these heels are almost always a part of my look because they’re neutral yet still very modern. I mentioned above how much I love Kendra Scott earrings, and this pair is no exception. Pearls are, of course, very timeless, but this take on them is very unique without being overly trendy. Lastly, there’s a reason why everyone loves this tote! It’s super classic and is the perfect size – not too big or too small. 

Blogger Hoang-Kim Cung curates a capsule wardrobe under $300

Less Than $300

At this price point, I would definitely recommend investing in a trench coat for your capsule wardrobe. They truly will never go out of style and are the perfect polished layer for in-between weather. A great blazer like this favorite of mine is also a worthy investment! This top is absolutely beautiful and so thoughtfully designed. The lingerie snaps, reversibility, and ribbed silk jersey all make it an obvious go-to. When it comes to bottoms, I find these jeans are the perfect combination of stretchy and structured. These pants are like getting two in one thanks to the adjustable hem. Also, though they seem more formal at first look, I think they can easily be dressed down with white sneakers and a denim jacket. These shorts are the same way, as they’re quite polished and tailored. 

The right pair of shoes can last you a long time, which I’ve found to be true with all three under $300 capsule wardrobe recommendations. These loafers, for instance, are incredibly comfortable from day one and actually mold to your feet. If you can only buy one pair of heels, I swear these classics are the only ones you’ll ever need. Finally, these boots are absolutely fantastic! They have a very classic design as well, look far more expensive than they are, and will help elongate your legs. This chain bracelet in 18k Gold Vermeil leans into a trend that’s also quite timeless, and I love that you have the option to wear it on its own or easily add charms.

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TOPS & SWEATERS

BOTTOMS

BLAZERS & COATS

ACTIVE

ACCESSORIES & SHOES

BEAUTY