I'm Ready to Embrace a Capsule Wardrobe—29 Madewell Items I'm Starting With

In case you're not aware, Madewell has a ton of elevated basics in its new-arrivals section. From minimalist yet eye-catching accessories (check out its collab with editor-favorite jewelry brand Agmes) to that one pair of jeans you'll find yourself reaching for again and again, Madewell has wardrobe essentials down pat. As such, it got me thinking about capsule wardrobes, a dressing concept I've never fully adopted but have always considered. Seeing that so many sartorial workhorses are just a click away at Madewell, I figured what better time than now to try my hand at building a capsule wardrobe of my own.

I crafted the perfect capsule wardrobe using just the 29 Madewell items below. Not only will they work together, but their versatile nature will also allow them to pair well with pieces that already exist in my closet. There are layering staples to keep me (or you!) bundled up during these harsh, end-of-winter months as well as some transitional spring items to give me something to look forward to. If they work for me, they'll work for you. Scroll down to follow my lead.

Madewell

The Simone Kitten-Heel Slingback Pumps

A slingback is the epitome of an essential shoe.

Madewell

The Dean Easy Straight Jean

A pair of relaxed, straight-leg jeans is one you'll have in your rotation for years to come.

Madewell

Multi-Keeper Belt

Elevate any pants you wear with this sleek belt.

Madewell

Long Chore Blazer in Suede

Yes, this is a major investment, but if you've been looking for a chore coat with a longer silhouette, then this suede one is just the pick.

Madewell

Shirred Crewneck Button-Up Top

A breezy blouse is something you can wear with denim, a skirt, shorts—the possibilities are endless.

Madewell

The Essential Bucket Tote

A bucket tote that fits all the essentials will always have a place in your wardrobe.

Madewell

Russell Oval Sunglasses

Oval and tortoiseshell sunglasses are always classic.

Madewell

Madewell X Leset Pointelle Slim-Fit Tee

I can never resist a pointelle T-shirt.

Madewell

The Curvy Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Crop Jean

Madewell's jeans are low-key great, and these light-wash cropped ones are no exception.

Madewell

The Idris Ankle Boot

Presenting the only pair of black boots you'll ever need.

Madewell X Agmes

Lennox Bag

This Agmes collab created this gorgeous minimalist bag with eye-catching hardware.

Madewell

Denim Crewneck Vest in Concho Wash

Vests are always a staple piece.

Madewell

Alexa Chung for Madewell High-Rise Straight Jean in Outridge Wash

If you need a pair of black jeans, make it this pair from the Alexa Chung collab.

Madewell

Chunky Chain Necklace

Silver jewelry has been on the rise, and the length of this necklace is perfectly in between a choker and a pendant.

Madewell

Handwoven Leather Tote

An under-$200 tote bag with this intricate woven detail is a must-buy.

Madewell

Denim Chore Jacket in Hodgeman Wash

A chore jacket with a contrasting collar is a must-have layering piece.

Madewell

The Dimes Kitten-Heel Boot

Kitten-heel boots are definitely on my list for these colder months.

Madewell

Silk Utility-Pocket Button-Up Shirt

A silk button-up shirt is always a classic and a little dressier than a typical cotton one.

Madewell

The Plus Perfect Vintage Wide-Leg Jean

Dark-wash wide-leg jeans are ones you can always dress up or down.

Madewell

Cashmere Button-Front Cardigan Sweater

Cashmere is a must for a capsule wardrobe, and I can't get enough of gray cardigans right now. This is the best of both!

G.H.Bass

Whitney Weejuns Penny Loafers

Don't want a pair of plain black loafers? These two-tone ones are still classic but jazz things up a bit.

Madewell

Three-Pack Slinky Ankle Socks

Some might think socks are boring, but pick out the right pair, and your capsule wardrobe won't feel complete without them.

Madewell

The '90s Straight Jean

The waist hits just right on these.

Madewell

Denim Boxy Shirt-Jacket in Maspeth Wash

Wear this denim shirt on its own or as a layering piece over a white tee.

Madewell

The Tennis Collection Bezel Set Crystal Necklace

A tennis bezel necklace will add some shine to any layering stack while keeping things classic.

Madewell

Easy Y-Neck Button-Up Shirt

The solid collar and cuffs on this striped button-down gives it an extra flair.

Madewell

The Darted Barrel-Leg Jean

Sure, barrel-leg jeans might seem like a passing trend, but these ones are so subtle that they're more in the straight-leg territory.

Madewell

The April Ballet Flat

Slide into these flats that will go with literally any outfit.

Madewell

Eyelash-Yarn Crewneck Sweater

A crewneck sweater will always get tons of wear in the fall and winter.