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Teen Vogue's Twentysomethings Guide is your go-to resource for the more confusing parts of going out on your own.
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Let's be real: Not all of us can whip up an outfit in just a few minutes. Some days require a bit more planning and inspo and, depending on your mood/vibe for the day, your style choices can change drastically, making a capsule wardrobe that much more clutch.
“Take the pressure off of yourself and start building your capsule wardrobe slowly,” says Cindy Conroy, celebrity stylist and TV host. "As you curate your collection, be mindful of the pieces you pick. Select pants, dresses, jackets, and tops that work well with your body type and embrace your silhouette. Your wardrobe should make you look in the mirror and smile." You should also take into consideration what your week will look like. Maybe you've got lots of lab work that will require durable pieces that can be washed easily or you may have some events to attend that will require upscale attire (enter: suits). And when it comes to personal wellness time, you may prefer opting for comfy, cute sweatpants or matching loungewear sets.
Spending money on a whole new wardrobe is not necessary. Instead, you can build off items you own, like a basic T-shirt and jeans. “For those with limited budgets, splurging on tons of new clothing and designer items is a recipe for guilt and stress,” says Conroy. “It means less money for typical everyday expenses. Avoid the guilt trip and build your capsule wardrobe with a mix of budget-friendly and designer pieces. Focus on wardrobe workhorses like black and indigo denim, crewneck sweaters, layering pieces like a bomber and trench coat, casual dresses from Amazon, poplin shirts, and polo T-shirts (they’re back!).”
To help you curate the capsule wardrobe of your dreams, we asked Conroy for some outfit suggestions, rounded up some of the trendiest styles to shop this season, and included a bunch of elevated classics that are versatile for all kinds of occasions.
Our favorite capsule wardrobe pieces:
Trench coat
We know coats can take up a lot of space (especially in a tiny apartment closet), so we suggest just keeping a lightweight trench coat handy for cooler, rainy days.
Save on the best trench coats with these Nordstrom and ASOS promo codes.
Blazer
Add a blazer to your wardrobe mix to always be ready for interviews. “If you can afford it, have your suit tailored for that truly bespoke look. It’s worth the investment. A stellar suit might get you your next job and, when you’re not in interview mode, you can dress it down with other pieces in your closet,” Conroy says.
Save on the best blazers with these ASOS promo codes.
Tank top
A tank top is a must-have for a capsule wardrobe. You can wear it with a suit, under a blazer, with a pair of jeans, a skirt, and pretty much everything else. Be sure to invest in a few in multiple colors.
Save on the best tank tops with these Amazon promo codes.
Jeans
From high-waisted options to classic mid-rise and extreme baggy silhouettes, Amazon has a vast assortment of denim from designer labels (think 7 For All Mankind) and more affordable brands, like Levi’s and Amazon Essentials.
Save on the best jeans with these Amazon promo codes.
Button-down shirt
This classic wardrobe staple is another must-have. We suggest going with a few different styles, including a fitted button-up (to wear with a suit) and an oversize loose style. For the latter, you can layer it over a tank top and leave it unbuttoned for a chill look.
Save on the best button-down shirts with these Urban Outfitters and Amazon promo codes.
Tailored trousers
If you're attending a job fair, put your best foot forward in some stylish trousers. The picks below are sleek, polished, and versatile.
Save on the best trousers with these Amazon promo codes.
Work-ready dress
You're guaranteed to get compliments all day while sporting any of these work-approved dresses. You can dress them up with ballet flats and a chic tote bag.
Save on the best dresses with these Nordstrom promo codes.
Belt
We believe you can never go wrong by adding a belt – a simple, yet chic accessory – to your look. You can wear one with a dress, too.
Save on the best belts with these Amazon promo codes.
Statement handbag
Aside from a backpack (we've got a bunch of stylish picks here), we also suggest having a cute handbag that you can use to carry your laptop and other essentials. It's the perfect accessory for any interview or office outfit.
Sunglasses
Throw on a pair of sunnies with your ‘fit and immediately elevate your look. We're obsessed with the Y2K throwback styles, including oversize and rectangle-shaped.
Save on the best sunglasses with these Amazon and Nordstrom promo codes.
Denim jacket
A classic denim jacket is useful no matter the season. You can add more coverage to your outfit by throwing it over your shoulders or tying it around the waist.
Save on the best jean jackets with these Revolve promo codes.
Special-occasion dress
There will be times that'll call for a fancy dress, like date night with your boo or a friend's graduation ceremony or a birthday party. Be ready with one of the cute styles below.
Save on the best dresses with these Amazon promo codes.
White sneakers
Like a basic white tee, white sneakers are also a wardrobe staple. You can't go wrong with the classic Air Force 1's or a trendy chunky silhouette from New Balance.
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Save on the best white sneakers with these Nike and Urban Outfitters promo codes.
Loafers
The best loafers aren't just a part of your school uniform. Over the last few seasons, the classic silhouette has morphed into an edgier option that supermodels, fashion icons, and style editors like us can’t get enough of.
Save on the best loafers with these Amazon promo codes.
Cardigan
Cover up with a cute cardigan while on your way to class or the office. Bonus points if it's got cute floral print motifs or bows.
Save on the best cardigans with these Hollister promo codes.
T-shirt
From graphic tees to plain white T-shirts, there are plenty of options. So, if you're looking for somewhere to start, we suggest opting for neutral and solid colors. Next, add your favorite band tees.
Save on the best T-shirts with these H&M and Amazon promo codes.
Ballet flats
We're seeing ballet flats everywhere — on the runways, all over the fashion-forward streets of NYC, and in our offices. Add a cute pair to your wardrobe; mesh fabrics and bows are trending right now.
Save on the best ballet flats with these Nordstrom and Amazon promo codes.
