How to Build a Sustainable Winter Capsule Wardrobe

With long, dark days and colder mornings, it’s easy to dread getting dressed on Winter mornings. Let me help make it easier with this Winter Capsule Wardrobe: around 20 pieces that mix and match to make endless winter outfits.

Let’s dive into the essentials first, and then I’ll show you how to effortlessly combine these items for endless outfit possibilities. Like, truly endless. (More on layering and how it makes the options endless later down this post!)

But first, if you want to skip right to just the essentials, you may want to read this post called My 10 Fall & Winter Essentials first.

Each piece in this capsule wardrobe I’ve chosen for its versatility, comfort, and chic, Parisian style. Let’s break down the categories:

Outerwear:

Trench Coat: It’s the backbone of a classic wardrobe. Wear it running errands or heading to a holiday gathering. (SALE) (similar one here)
Puffer Coat: A warm option, perfect for those chilly outdoor walks or winter outings. (code FINE15 for 15% off)
Quilted Jacket: Stylish on it’s own for mild days and as a layering piece when temperatures drop.
Sweater Coat: This is a last minute addition that I’m wearing nonstop. It’s a perfect extra layer without being as heavy as a coat.

Tops:

Basic Long-Sleeve Tops: A few long-sleeve shirts in solid colors for layering or wearing solo. They’re great under a sweater or jacket for added warmth without bulk.
- Ribbed black long sleeve top
- Ribbed cream long sleeve top
Turtlenecks: A winter staple that’s both chic and practical. Neutral shades make mixing and matching easy.
- Black turtleneck
- Cream turtleneck
Cardigans: Great for wearing buttoned as a sweater or for layering on cold days. I like to have a variety of lengths and necklines.
- Crewneck cardigan
- Longer cardigan
- V-neck cardigan
- (SALE) Denim button-down shirt
- (SALE) Striped button-down shirt
Sweaters: A statement sweater in a textured knit or neutral tone can be your go-to for colder days. Pair it with a trench coat for a polished look or puffer jacket for a casual vibe.
- Striped sweater (KIM15 for 15% off)
- Tan crewneck sweater
- Beige crewneck sweater

Bottoms:

(SALE) High-Waisted Jeans: Choose a classic pair of high-waisted jeans in a dark wash. They’re versatile enough to dress up with boots or down with sneakers.
(SALE) Trousers: My hot take on trousers: they are more comfy than leggings. Stick with neutral tones for easy coordination.
(SALE) Little Black Dress: I recommend the silhouette you most likely will wear, but a LBD is a classic wardrobe staple!

Accessories:

Leather Chelsea Boots: They’re a classic and can be worn with so many jean types.
- (SALE) Nutmeg Heeled Boots
- (SALE) Black Everyday Boots
- (SALE) Almond Chelsea Boots
Winter Sneakers: For days when comfort is key, winter-ready sneakers with thicker soles will keep your feet warm and stylish.

Cashmere Scarf: A cozy, oversized scarf can instantly elevate a basic look while keeping you snug.
Beanie: Duh. It’s about to be freezing outside! If you prefer a cotton option, give this one a try.
Gloves: Duh. It’s about to be freezing outside!

Sling Bag: Convenient for holiday outings!
(SALE) Clutch: Easy enough to dress up or down and coordinates well with the black/brown color palette of this capsule.
Black Purse: It’s classic but also trending right now, minimalist and perfect size for just what you need.

(SALE) Belt: I have this is the black and brown version and wear one of them almost daily.

Note: there are a few additional pieces from my personal wardrobe that I didn’t originally include in this capsule but that been pieces I’m constantly grabbing this winter. Next time, I’d include this Sweater Coat and these high top sneakers as well.

Capsule Wardrobe Outfit Ideas

Making Sustainable Swaps: Why I Choose Quality Over Quantity

When building any capsule wardrobe, my focus isn’t just on reducing the number of items—it’s about choosing quality pieces that will last season after season. One of the biggest benefits of a capsule wardrobe is that it encourages mindful purchasing. Instead of chasing trends, I invest in high-quality, sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, cashmere, or recycled materials. These not only have a lower environmental impact, but they also tend to last longer, which means you won’t need to replace them as often.

50+ Outfit Ideas for Winter Style

In order to keep this post clean, I’ve created a full library of Outfit Inspiration in a 50+ Outfit Ideas post. Head there to see a lot of outfits you can make with these pieces. Here’s a sample of what you’ll find over there, plus many more!

I also invite you to follow along on Instagram to see more styling ideas from this capsule wardrobe! I’ll be wearing and rewearing these pieces throughout the next few months (and winters to come).