My 2024 Winter Capsule Wardrobe (So Far)

I’ve started the soul-searching portion of uncovering my personal style. It’s humbling, to say the least, to look at all of my clothes and feel like something just isn’t quite right. It’s not a complete dumpster fire, but it’s nothing to write home about.

To help me curate a winter capsule wardrobe that makes the act of getting dressed more of a ritual, and less of a chore, I’m taking an honest look at what I have and trying to do two things:

• identify wardrobe gaps
• dream about ways to fill in those gaps in a more aligned way

Once upon a time, I chose the pieces in my closet. I had reasons for buying what I did. I felt some kind of emotional response.

I’m determined to use the pieces I already have as a foundation to build something special.

Since I’m still in the fog of figuring out my style, I decided to pull these pieces together to clarify my vision. So, I put them in a collage, like this:

How to Make a Wardrobe Collage

To create this wardrobe collage I pulled pieces that I reach for constantly and put question marks where I knew I needed a little help.

I simply uploaded everything in Canva, removed the background from the images, and got to work! Keep it simple and don’t overthink it.

The question marks are meant to be placeholders, not how I feel about the items I already have! Visually, they help me see where I can refine.

I need to see everything together because it gives me a sense of cohesion. My brain is telling me that nothing matches or even looks like me, but that’s not entirely true.

When I look at all of the pieces as a whole, I actually feel hopeful that with a few simple additions, the overall vibe will evolve.

In my post about deciding to uncover my personal style, I said that I wanted my style words to be “classic,” “neutral” and “cool.”

Honestly, I think I have the “classic” and “neutral” elements down. Innately, that’s just who I am. I love blazers, tees, jeans, and sneakers – classic pieces that always feel current, but are essentially timeless.

Where I want to start getting more creative is with accessories and statement pieces. This is where the “cool” will come in (more on that later).

What I Included In My Winter Capsule Wardrobe (so far)

• Adidas Sambas
• High Top Converse
• Citizens of Humanity Horseshoe Jeans
• Everlane Way High Curve Jean
• Abby Alley Big Sling Bag
• Black Turtleneck
• Everlane Ribbed Turtleneck
• Sezane Max Shirt
• AYR Deep End Shirt
• Babaa Jumper no17
• A very old and beloved grey wool coat

All of these items are going to serve as a base for the rest of my winter outfits. The neutral color palette makes me happy but also gives me the flexibility to play with other colorful elements.

What’s Missing In My Winter Capsule Wardrobe

I’m intentionally leaving out things like activewear, pajamas, and my super ugly sweats that I can’t live without. What’s missing is determined by the vibe I’m trying to achieve and what I consider to be functional pieces or accessories.

• A neutral cardigan or crewneck sweater
• A tote that has a bit of edge
• Loafers – I love the classic style, but want to try a more updated style
• Occasion pieces
• Chunky scarf and hat
• Oversized blazer (preferably thrifted)
• A fun “third piece” like a vest or duster

Creating a wardrobe collage for my winter capsule helped to clarify what I already have, love, and what I need to work on.

For anyone going through a style rut and feeling totally frazzled, this is an excellent exercise in getting some clarity.