How To Build A Minimalist Wardrobe – Step by Step Guide

Ever wondered what the difference is between a minimalist wardrobe and a capsule wardrobe? Aren’t they basically the same thing?

Not exactly! While they share some similarities (hello, fewer clothes and less stress), they each have their own unique vibe.

If you’ve been thinking about simplifying your closet but aren’t sure which approach is right for you, you’re in the right place.

In this post, we’ll break it all down so you can decide whether you’re more of a minimalist wardrobe kinda gal or if a capsule wardrobe is more your thing. Let’s dive in!

Get ready to learn about how to build a minimalist wardrobe VS a capsule wardrobe!

Estimated reading time: 14 minutes

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_{This post was originally shared in June 2023 – Updated on February 18th 2025.}

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What is a minimalist wardrobe?

A minimalist wardrobe is all about keeping things simple, intentional, and stress-free. It’s not about having a specific number of pieces. It’s about only owning what you truly love and wear on repeat. Think of it as a closet that works for you, not against you.

No more staring at a pile of clothes and thinking, I have nothing to wear! 

A minimalist wardrobe is filled with pieces that fit your lifestyle, feel good, and make getting dressed easy. Whether that means 30 pieces or 100, the key is quality over quantity and making sure everything in your closet actually serves a purpose.

Sounds like a dream? Let’s talk about how it’s different from a capsule wardrobe!

What is a capsule wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is like your closet’s greatest hits album! Just the best pieces, all working together to make getting dressed effortless. It’s a curated collection of versatile, mix-and-match items that you rotate seasonally, so you always have outfits you love without the clutter.

Unlike a minimalist wardrobe, which is about owning fewer clothes overall, a capsule wardrobe is more structured. You might have a set number of pieces per season (20-30 pieces), carefully chosen to fit your lifestyle, personal style, and the weather.

The goal? Less decision fatigue, more confidence, and a closet that makes sense.

If you’re tired of impulse buys and a wardrobe full of “meh” pieces, a capsule wardrobe might be just what you need! Now, let’s break down the key differences between the two.

Minimalist Wardrobe vs. Capsule Wardrobe: What’s the Difference?

Both a minimalist wardrobe and a capsule wardrobe help you simplify your closet and make getting dressed easier, but they do it in different ways.

⭐️ Here’s how they compare:

Minimalist Wardrobe	Capsule Wardrobe
Focuses on owning fewer pieces overall	Focuses on curating a set number of pieces per season
No strict number of items—just what you actually wear and love	Typically follows a structure (e.g., 20-30 pieces per season)
Timeless, everyday essentials that fit your lifestyle	Seasonal swaps—your wardrobe changes based on weather and needs
More flexible—keeps only what’s useful, no matter the season	Built around mix-and-match versatility for maximum outfit potential
Works well if you want to reduce clutter and shop less	Works well if you love variety but want an organized, intentional wardrobe

Which One is Best for You?

• If you love the idea of owning fewer clothes overall and never having to do a seasonal closet swap, a minimalist wardrobe is your best bet.
• If you enjoy switching things up each season but want an easy-to-mix closet without overstuffing it, a capsule wardrobe might be a better fit.

The good news? You don’t have to pick just one! You can have a minimalist wardrobe and use capsule wardrobe principles to keep things fresh. It’s all about finding what works for you and your lifestyle. 😊

How to Get Started with Your Chosen Wardrobe:

Now that you know the difference between a minimalist wardrobe and a capsule wardrobe, let’s talk about how to build one that actually works for you.

🎯 If You Want a Minimalist Wardrobe:

A minimalist wardrobe is all about owning less but better. Instead of cramming your closet with items you might wear someday, you focus on keeping only the pieces you truly love and wear regularly. Here’s how to start:

1️⃣ Declutter with Purpose – Go through your wardrobe and ask yourself: Do I love this? Does it fit my lifestyle? Would I buy it again? If the answer is no, let it go.

2️⃣ Stick to Your Personal Style – A minimalist wardrobe should reflect what you actually wear, not what looks good on someone else. Pay attention to the colors, fits, and fabrics you reach for most.

3️⃣ Invest in Quality Over Quantity – A few well-made essentials will last longer and look better than a closet full of fast fashion. Focus on versatile pieces like a great pair of jeans, classic t-shirts, and a neutral blazer.

4️⃣ Be Intentional with Shopping – Before buying anything new, ask yourself if it fills a gap in your wardrobe. If it doesn’t, skip it.

5️⃣ Prioritize Versatile Pieces – Your goal is to have clothes that mix and match effortlessly. Neutral colors, timeless silhouettes, and layering-friendly items are key.

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Now is the Perfect Time to Purge Your Closet – Let’s Do It Together!

If you’ve been meaning to clean out your closet but keep putting it off, consider this your gentle nudge. This ‘Closet Score Quiz‘ will help you figure out where your wardrobe stands and how to get it where you want it to be!

Plus, once you take the quiz, you’ll get a free email course with actionable steps to help you declutter, refine your style, and build a wardrobe that actually works for you! Get started today ⬇️

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🎯 If You Want a Capsule Wardrobe:

A capsule wardrobe is all about seasonal rotation and mix-and-match versatility. The idea is to create a curated collection of clothes that work together so you can create tons of outfits with fewer pieces. Here’s how to get started:

1️⃣ Choose a Color Palette – Stick to a mix of neutrals and a few accent colors so everything pairs well together.

2️⃣ Pick a Set Number of Pieces – Most capsule wardrobes have between 20-30 items per season, including tops, bottoms, dresses, shoes, and outerwear. (Accessories and workout clothes are usually separate.)

3️⃣ Curate Pieces Based on Your Lifestyle – If you work in an office, your capsule will look different from someone who works from home. Make sure your pieces fit your daily needs.

4️⃣ Focus on Versatile Staples – A well-fitted blazer, basic t-shirts, classic denim, and comfortable yet stylish shoes will give you endless outfit options.

5️⃣ Do a Seasonal Closet Refresh – At the start of each season, swap out pieces to match the weather while keeping your wardrobe streamlined and clutter-free.

• 😎 Learn how to build a summer capsule wardrobe here.
• 🌸 Learn how to build a spring capsule wardrobe here.
• 🍁 Learn how to build a fall capsule wardrobe here.
• 🥶 I don’t have a winter capsule wardrobe – but this post can give you an idea of the pieces you need.

Whether you choose a minimalist wardrobe or a capsule wardrobe, the key is to build a closet that makes your life easier, not harder. Keep it intentional, practical, and true to your style!

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Simplifying Your Wardrobe 🚫

Now that you’re ready to create a minimalist wardrobe or a capsule wardrobe, let’s talk about the biggest mistakes people make, so you can avoid them and make the process easier!

1️⃣ Holding Onto Clothes “Just in Case”:

We’ve all done it… kept those “maybe one day” jeans or that dress we swear we’ll wear to the right occasion. But let’s be honest: If it’s been sitting unworn for months (or years), it’s just taking up space (and mental space too). A truly functional wardrobe only includes pieces you actually wear and love.

Instead of hanging onto things out of guilt or habit, ask yourself: Would I buy this again today? If not, it’s probably time to let it go.

2️⃣ Not Considering Your Lifestyle:

A wardrobe full of office attire won’t help if you work from home in comfy clothes most days. And if you travel a lot, your wardrobe needs to reflect that, too! When simplifying your wardrobe, don’t just focus on aesthetics. You have to make sure it fits your actual daily life.

Before decluttering, take a moment to think about how you spend your time. What percentage of your wardrobe fits your everyday activities? If your closet is full of things that don’t align with your routine, it’s time to rethink what’s taking up space.

3️⃣ Decluttering Without a Strategy:

Ever tried to clean out your closet, only to end up surrounded by piles of clothes with no idea what to do next? Without a plan, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and give up halfway through.

The best way to avoid this? Have a clear system before you start. You can take the “everything out at once” approach, or go category by category (tops first, then bottoms, etc.).

If you’re someone who gets decision fatigue easily, start small and declutter in short bursts instead of tackling everything at once.

4️⃣ Shopping Right After Decluttering:

One of the biggest mistakes? Getting rid of a bunch of clothes… then immediately filling your closet back up with impulse buys. The goal isn’t to create space just to refill it. It’s to build a wardrobe that truly works for you.

Before adding anything new, take time to live with your newly simplified wardrobe. See what gaps (if any) actually exist.

And when you do shop, be intentional! Choose high-quality, versatile pieces that truly add value to your wardrobe.

👉🏻 Also read: how to actually shop less!

5️⃣ Thinking a Minimalist or Capsule Wardrobe Has to Be Boring:

A minimalist wardrobe doesn’t mean dressing in all neutrals if that’s not your thing. A capsule wardrobe doesn’t mean giving up variety. You can absolutely simplify your wardrobe and still express your style. You just need to be intentional about your choices.

If you love color or prints, incorporate them! The key is balance. Make sure your standout pieces still work with the rest of your wardrobe so you’re not stuck with a closet full of items that don’t pair well together.

🎯 Also read: how to find your true, personal style!

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No matter which approach you choose, the goal is the same: a closet that makes your life easier and getting dressed effortless. Simplifying your wardrobe doesn’t mean sacrificing style—it just means making sure everything in it serves a purpose and makes you feel good. 😊

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Minimalist wardrobe essentials:

🌸 For Spring:

1. White T-Shirt​ 
2. Long Sleeve Tee​ 
3. ​Top & Bottom Set​ 
4. Crewneck Sweater ​
5. Striped Sweater​ 
6. Denim Jacket​ 
7. Utility Jacket​ OR ​Trench Coat ​– Pick one based on your style!
8. Chic Blazer​ 
9. Chambray Shirt​ 
10. Long Cardigan​ 
11. Blouse or Going-Out Top​ 
12. Plain cami or tank top​ 
13. Midi Skirt​ 
14. Maxi Skirt​ 
15. Jeans​ 
16. White Jeans​ 
17. Wide Leg Pants ​
18. Linen Pants​ 
19. A Midi Dress​ 
20. Maxi Dress​ 
21. Jumpsuit ​
22. Espadrille Wedges​ 
23. White Sneakers​ 
24. Going Out Sandals​ 
25. Neutral Crossbody Bag​ 

😎 For Summer:

1. (3) plain t-shirts
2. (1) linen button-down shirt
3. (2) camis or tank tops
4. (2) going-out tops
5. (1) mini dress
6. (1) midi dress
7. (1) maxi dress
8. (1) Jumpsuit
9. (1) Top-and-Bottom Set
10. (1) pair of linen shorts
11. (1) pair of linen pants
12. (1) pair of lightweight wide-leg pants
13. (3) skirts: mini skirt, midi or maxi (up to you!)
14. (1) pair of Birkenstocks
15. (1) pair of going-out sandals (flats or heels)
16. (1) pair of espadrilles (flats or heels)
17. (1) beach cover-up
18. (2) swimsuits

🍁 For Fall:

1. (3-4) sweaters (make sure they are different from each other)
2. (1) going out top or blouse
3. (2) Long Cardigans
4. (1) Leather Jacket
5. (1) Coat or Trench
6. (1) Blazer coat
7. (1) A good pair of wide leg pants or cords
8. (1) Black jeans
9. (1) Midi Skirt
10. (1) Maxi Skirt
11. (1) Spanx Leggings
12. (1) Sweater dress
13. (1) pair of casual booties
14. (1) pair of going out booties or OTK boots
15. Rain Boots
16. (1) Hat
17. (1) Chic Scarf

🥶 For Winter:

1. A nice coat (yes, you only need one)
2. (1) Going out sweater dress
3. Flannel shirt
4. (1) Puffer Vest
5. (1) Puffer Jacket
6. Snow boots
7. OTK boots
8. Tights

🎯 Also read: 34 cute winter outfits with basic pieces!

*Note: A lot of the Fall and Spring pieces outfits you can also wear for Winter. Just need to add warmer boots, tights and a coat.

Things to remember about building a capsule/minimalist wardrobe:

At the end of the day, whether you choose a minimalist wardrobe or a capsule wardrobe, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s ease, confidence, and feeling great in what you wear.

This isn’t about rules, restrictions, or forcing yourself to live with exactly 25 pieces. It’s about clearing the clutter, making space for the clothes you actually love, and giving yourself permission to let go of what no longer serves you.

Remember, this is a process, not a one-time event. Your wardrobe will evolve as your style, lifestyle, and needs change—and that’s a good thing! So take it one step at a time, trust yourself, and know that your closet should make your life easier, not harder.

If getting dressed has ever felt frustrating, overwhelming, or just blah just know that a more effortless, stylish, and functional wardrobe is 100% within reach.

You’ve got this! 💛

XO,

Aimara

PS: remember I can help with this and it’s absolutely free! When you take the closet score quiz, I will send you customized recommendations based on your answers. It’s truly a game changer if you want to start working on creating the wardrobe of your dreams!

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About The Author:

Hi, my name is Aimara and I am the voice behind Ways of Style. I was born and raised in Venezuela until the age of 27 when I moved to Chicago, and 2 years later I met my best friend and husband. We now travel full time and live out of a carry-on bag, so believe me, I know a thing or two about how to maximize every single piece I own. 

I love creating new looks, and looking cute while I’m traveling. And in this blog, I try to share all my outfits, even if I don’t have the best photos ;) My goal is to help you maximize every piece you have in your closet and to encourage you to live with less things.

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