
Whether you’re a fan of funky technicolor prints or consider yourself more of a minimalist muse when it comes to fashion, the capsule wardrobe is the one thing your closet has been missing. Curating your closet definitely has its benefits: Impulse buys and the dreaded “I have nothing to wear” declaration become a thing of the past (big news for your sanity and your wallet). If you’re gearing up to get your spring capsule wardrobe into full swing — or are simply looking for a few on-point pieces to segue your style into the new season — consider this list your definitive guide. Beyond closet basics (tees, jeans and a killer day dress), you’ll find some of spring’s trendiest shoes, bags and accessories too. Scroll on for 21 pieces that would make a killer contribution to your pared-down wardrobe.
1. & Other Stories Belted Trench Coat ($195): An elegant trench is the answer to spring showers and blustery winds alike. Modern tailoring lends itself to a fluid and effortless silhouette, which partners perfectly with all-occasion denim and a silky blouse for your new favorite off-duty ensemble.
2. ASOS Topic Slip On Mule Sandals ($51): Forget ballerina flats — mixed-media mules are the shoes you need in your arsenal this season. The neutral hue and on-trend style can hang with everything in your closet (a capsule wardrobe must) and will instantly give basic pieces major of-the-moment edge. Oh, and they show off your toesies too, which makes for a great excuse to get a pedi.
3. H&M Viscose Dress ($25): Your favorite throw-on-and-go dress gets a graphic makeover for spring with a chic mosaic print. Dress it up for brunch with your BFFs, or toss it on with a belt and relaxed-fit denim for an afternoon of thrift shopping and cafe hopping.
4. Mango Flap Cross-Body Bag ($40): If you thought capsule meant lack of color, think again. Accessories are what will help give those 37 pieces in your slimmed-down wardrobe a punch of personality, and this sunny yellow saddlebag is ready to rise to the challenge.
5. Banana Republic Medium Wash Crop Flare ($98): No capsule wardrobe is complete without a good pair of jeans. Whether you wear them with a ribbed high-neck tunic or a simple striped tee, this shortened-up set pulls everything together.
6. Express Brow Bar Aviator Sunglasses ($30): Consider these street style-approved shades a critical component of any outdoor concert series or leisurely picnic in the park. Throw a white leather jacket and colorful silk scarf into the mix for endless It-girl appeal.
7. Madewell Whisper Cotton Crewneck Tee ($32): This super soft tee is the building block on which endless on-point #OOTDs are built. Tuck it into a swishy skirt, then tack on mules and drop earrings for an easygoing outfit that makes the transition from desk to dinner an exercise in effortless. The only thing that’s missing? A flirty cat eye and a swipe of berry lipstick.
8. Jeffrey Campbell Berwyn Booties ($200): You’ve been living in ankle boots all season long, but with warm weather on the horizon, lightened-up stompers are definitely in order. Cool cutouts and an open toe give the wear-with-anything silhouette you love seasonal appeal. Elevate joggers and flirty floral dresses in seconds by simply slipping these bad boys on.
9. Babaton Jude Skirt ($110): Why let dresses steal the spotlight? A trusty pleated midi works overtime to deliver both boardroom-appropriate ensembles that bring it and date-night getups that straight-up slay. Switch up your look from day to night with a quick shoe change and statement baubles.
10. Norma Kamali Sleeveless Tie Front Jumpsuit ($150): And because you’re over that LBD routine, better add this OMG-worthy jumpsuit into the mix too. Step into this stunner with a pair of rose gold criss-cross mules and watch as the double taps roll in. #nailedit
11. Reformation Camille Top ($98): Layered up or worn on its own, this slip-style cami will quickly become the piece you reach for again and again. Paired with a blazer, wide leg trousers and a funky flower crown, it has major wedding guest potential and breaks away from the party dress routine.
12. Zara Belted Blazer Robe ($149): This easygoing blazer was made with lazy girls in mind. Layering is a no-brainer (we love it with those cropped jeans and silky cami, just sayin’), but if you’re feeling daring, rock it solo with layered necklaces for va-va-voom effect.
13. Forever21 Suede Lace-Up Flats ($25): When sneakers are too casual but pumps feel a bit over the top, a pair of next-level ghillies will always do you right. Case in point: these sweet suede steppers that could easily be jazzed up with a metallic skirt or leather-look culottes.
14. Dynamite Wide Brim Straw Hat ($23): Say sayonara to your stockpile of beanies and wooly wide-brim toppers. Enter, the perfect finishing touch to all your new season ensembles: the straw fedora. Whether you’re chillin’ on the beach or just wishing you were, you’ll look for any excuse to bust this one out.
15. Nasty Gal In Bare Form Off-the-Shoulder Lace Top ($48): Shoulder-baring tops are the must-have item this season, and this lacy number is everything. Pop it on top of a frilly blouse and boyfriend jeans right now, then switch it up once the temps start to rise with cutoff shorts or a flirty A-line skirt.
16. Bauble Bar Sunbelt Drops ($34): Hit refresh on a fatigued tee and jeans routine with boho baubles in a brilliant shade of blue. For maximum impact, give bold blue eyeliner and a glitzy mani a try.
17. Silence + Noise Eggshell Vegan Moto Jacket ($149): Style laws might be old fasioned, but there’s still one that rings true — new season, new moto jacket. Toughen up feminine separates in seconds by draping this dreamy number on top.
18. Loft Faraway Floral Drawstring Pants ($70): An exotic floral flourish sends these flowy trousers into anytime-appropriate territory. Denim jackets and ribbed t-shirts feel right on cue for window shopping on the weekend, while classic button-downs and strappy heels are just what the office calls for.
19. Everlane Leather Street Shoe ($135): Pieces that can pull a little double duty are key for a capsule wardrobe, and that applies to your shoes too. Once the work week rolls around, these sleek leather slip-ons offer a crazy comfy (and totally polished) alternative to your standard pair of loafers.
20. Topshop Moto Stripe A-Line Skirt ($55): Stand out (in a good way) this season with a denim skirt that breaks the button-front mold. For a totally unexpected look that packs straight-from-the-runway appeal, layer it over a shirt dress or knee-grazing tunic. Bold bangles and block heeled mules are highly recommended.
21. Kendra Scott Tristan Hinge Station Choker ($120): Despite its minimalist aesthetic, this understated choker will do big things for your on- and off-duty style. Team it with delicate chains or a one-of-a-kind pendant to step up your #details game as the week progresses.
For more style inspo, check out our Pinterest!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Your relationship with your finances is one of the most important relationships you'll ever have, and you can't avoid it. That said, for many of us, the pandemic only added to our financial stress. If you find yourself feeling frazzled, just remember that financial insecurity isn't a net-worth issue — it's a mindset issue. And, we happen to have plenty of advice on how to turn your money mindset around so you can take charge of your funds once and for all.
To start, feeling secure begins with a strong foundation, and there's no better time than now to get started stacking the bricks. It's easy to get swept up in the January "new year, new me" mentality, but really? Any time is the right time to get yourself in order. You don't need to wait for a new year, a new moon, the right moment, or a sign from above. You don't even have to start on the first day of the month — you just need to start.
Introducing NerdWallet: A Safe and Reliable Money App
To help with that, we've put together a list of the just-right-for-you ways that NerdWallet can help you monitor your financial outlook. Haven't heard of them yet? NerdWallet is a personal finance company that helps consumers make smarter financial decisions. Their website and app let you compare different financial products, find articles and tools to make financial decisions with confidence, and keep tabs on your finances (hey there, credit score, I see you!) all in one place. Plus, NerdWallet has over 75,000 glowing reviews in the App Store (and a 4.8 star rating) if you want to read up on any more testimonials.
Tim Chen, NerdWallet's CEO and co-founder, started this financial journey in 2009 after his sister needed help finding a credit card. Even with an economics degree and a Wall Street background, it took awhile for Tim to find the right recommendation (so don't feel too bad when it takes you a while, too). Their mission is to bring clarity to all of life's financial decisions.
So it's safe to say that NerdWallet is a pretty good sherpa for your journey, too.
Get the most from your money
Did you know that the money you park in a savings account can lose value? Harsh, but true. If your money isn't earning interest that's on pace with inflation it will actually be worth less to you in the future. And if the bank charges fees? Forget about it. Make sure you're earning the interest you deserve and come out on top. NerdWallet has researched dozens of financial institutions to help consumers find the best options. The hard work has already been done for you, so you can just select the account that works best for you and your nest egg.
Keep an eye on everything, securely
Once everything is set up, tracking and managing your finances is what will keep the money machine running smoothly. You can create an account either through the site or the app and link your bank accounts, then keep tabs on all your finances in one place. Get a clear picture of your saving and spending, get insights into how to master your money, and even build your credit score all in one place.
Get extra credit points
Do you have the best credit card for your lifestyle? Some cards give cash back on every purchase, ones with travel perks, and ones that charge way less interest than you're paying now. NerdWallet takes the guesswork out of choosing the right credit card with simple side-by-side comparisons of different credit cards so that you feel confident choosing the right one. Whatever you want to do, NerdWallet can help you find the best credit card to get it done.
Know your options for settling down
Mortgage rates are pretty low and it looks like they're going to stay that way for awhile, so buying a home might be the move sooner than you think. But there's so much more to a mortgage than just the interest rate! To help you choose a mortgage lender, NerdWallet has in-depth reviews on multiple lenders in a mixture of categories so you get the home loan with the mortgage rate, term, and fees that's right for you.
Settle an old score
NerdWallet helps you monitor your credit score for free and helps you see how little things (like raising the limit on your credit card or paying your bills on time) can increase your score. NerdWallet partners with TransUnion® to provide your VantageScore® 3.0, based on information in your TransUnion® credit report. Your score and credit report information are updated weekly. But that's not even close to all:
- They provide you with tips from experts on how you could build or optimize your credit score
- You'll get a detailed look at your credit score and all the factors that go into it—your payment history, credit utilization, the age and type of accounts, balances, and any recent inquiries
- The credit simulator tool gives you an idea of how your credit score would change if you applied for a new credit card, closed your oldest credit card, or got a new auto loan
- You also get free, unlimited access to your credit report
When it comes to managing your money, safe and reliable is where it's at. Establishing a healthy relationship with your finances begins when you take control and practice habits that build wealth. Signing up just takes a few minutes. Set your intentions to build a solid financial foundation, it will only strengthen your relationship with your finances. And don't be afraid to get a little nerdy while you're at it.
Photo via Shutterstock