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.
