A Fashion Expert Taught Me How to Build a Winter Capsule Wardrobe for Less

May 2024 · 4 minute read

When it comes to putting together outfits, I often feel like I have nothing to wear — especially in the winter. Even as I stare at a closet full of clothes, I just can’t seem to find pieces that work well with each other. That’s why I’m determined to build out a capsule wardrobe with items I can mix and match all season long, so I turned to fashion expert Alexa Rittman of @what.alexa.wore for guidance. 

According to Rittman, curating a capsule wardrobe is all about “having staples in each category,” allowing you to layer pieces and create an “effortless style.” She went on to map out those categories as denim, trousers, satin skirts, layering tops, and jackets, clarifying that adding in a few inexpensive, trendy items will keep your outfits relevant for the season. 

Below, I rounded up the best Amazon fashion pieces in each of Rittman’s categories, making it easier for us all to get dressed this winter. 

Capsule Wardrobe Must-Haves

Well-Fitting Denim: Gloria Vanderbilt Classic Amanda High-Rise Jean

Amazon

Everyone needs a pair of jeans that fits them like a glove, and this best-selling Gloria Vanderbilt straight-leg style has nearly 58,000 five-star ratings from happy customers. Starting at just $11, the pants come in a whopping 72 washes and sizes 2 through 26 with petite, standard, and long length options. Plus, they’re made from a soft and stretchy blend of cotton and spandex. A shopper described them as being the “best-fitting jeans ever,” and that’s exactly what I need for the base of my new winter wardrobe. 

Tailored Trousers: Funyyzo Wide-Leg High-Waisted Trousers

Amazon

Not only are trousers necessary for sophisticated office looks, but they also make a chic addition to going out outfits. These wide-leg pants are another best-selling Amazon find that “look expensive, fit beautifully, and are so comfortable,” per a reviewer. They come in 28 colorways, including neutral black, gray, and beige, and have elastic on the back of the waistband for a comfortable fit. Style these tailored pants with blouses, sweaters, tees — you name it. 

Satin Skirt: The Drop Maya Silky Slip Skirt

Courtesy

A satin skirt is equally as comfortable as it is elegant, making it ideal for repeat-wear. I’ve had the Maya Silky Slip Skirt from The Drop for years and can confirm it makes getting dressed a breeze; I’ve worn it with an oversized sweater to work, a cropped blouse for a night out, and a graphic tee for a casual weekend day. Not to mention, you can wear it with tights and boots in the winter and go bare-legged in the summer. Excuse me while I order it in five more colors. 

Layering Top: Mangopop Mock-Neck Long-Sleeve Bodysuit

Amazon

A simple layering top is an essential building block for any capsule wardrobe, and Amazon shoppers recommend this Mangopop mock-neck bodysuit to fill that role. More than 10,000 people have purchased the bodysuit in the past month alone, according to Amazon, and nearly 35,000 shoppers have given it a five-star rating. One reviewer even said they had “never felt more confident in [their] body than when [they] saw [themselves] in this for the first time” — now that’s high praise. It’s made from a stretchy blend of rayon and spandex and comes in 35 colors and sizes XS through XXL.  

Timeless Jacket: Calvin Klein Cashmere Wool-Blend Coat

Amazon

Of course, no winter look is complete without a jacket, and this Calvin Klein wool and cashmere coat will never go out of style. The single-breasted overcoat has a classic style with three buttons down the front, two slip pockets, and oversized lapels. A shopper described it as a “classy, well-made coat that [they’ll] keep forever,” adding that it “looks great dressed both up or down” — it’s a win-win. 

Trendy Pop: Avilego Patent Shoulder Bag

Amazon

Now that you’ve stocked up on the essentials, it’s time to round out your capsule wardrobe with a trendy piece that’ll keep your looks fresh. Metallic accessories are everywhere right now, and this $25 Avilego silver shoulder bag is a budget-friendly way to incorporate the trend. It has both a foldover flap with magnetic buttons and a zipper closure, so you don’t have to worry about any contents slipping out. Plus, a reviewer confirmed it’s “very spacious inside and sturdy.” Throw on the silver bag with the aforementioned neutral trousers and tailored jacket for a chic, of-the-moment look you won’t regret in a few years.

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