I was a VIP Nordstrom Stylist, and I'm updating my capsule wardrobe—these 9 pieces have become essentials.
Creating a capsule wardrobe can simplify the process of getting dressed. For those who may not be aware, it involves selecting a collection of essential pieces that can be combined in various ways to form different outfits. Sandy Koszarek, a former stylist for VIPs at Nordstrom and the creator behind Stylish Sandy, advocates for capsule wardrobes. She has assisted numerous clients over the years in building their personal capsule wardrobes and is currently working on her own. At this time, she is updating her spring capsule wardrobe and is sharing the nine new items that have become essential to her stylish looks. Continue reading to explore and shop Koszarek's current favorites to inspire your own capsule wardrobe.
**White Skirt**
“A white skirt is an essential item in my capsule wardrobe that I frequently choose. I enjoy pairing it with a cashmere sweater, a basic tee, and a denim jacket. It’s one of those pieces that can be easily dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.” — Koszarek
- Reformation: Lucy Stretch Organic Cotton Skirt
- WAYF: Lilly Stretch Cotton Midi Skirt
- ASTR the Label: Kissel Embroidered Eyelet Bubble Hem Cotton Midi Skirt
- Madewell: Smocked Waist Cotton Poplin Midi Skirt
- ELOQUII: Poplin Bubble Hem Midi Skirt
**Cardigan**
“A cardigan is a timeless and adaptable piece that is crucial to a capsule wardrobe. I often wear mine buttoned as a top or casually draped over my shoulders.” — Koszarek
- French Connection: Cozysoft Crop Cardigan
- & Other Stories: Collared V-Neck Rib Cardigan
- Reformation: Clara Cashmere & Wool Crew Cardigan
- BP: Crewneck Cotton Blend Cardigan
- Vince: Double Layer Organic Cotton Blend Cardigan
**White Button-Down Shirt**
“A classic white button-down is a piece I can always rely on. It looks stylish with jeans, trousers, or a skirt. It’s an essential in my wardrobe.” — Koszarek
- MANGO: Linen Button-Up Shirt
- Caslon: Linen Blend Button-Up Shirt
- Madewell: Oversize Poplin Button-Up Shirt
- Henning X Us: Madison Poplin Button-Up Shirt
- LOULOU DE SAISON: Alim Cotton Poplin Button-Up Shirt
**Neutral Shoes**
“I wear neutral-colored shoes almost every day. They complement everything and are a perfect addition to any capsule wardrobe.” — Koszarek
- Dolce Vita: Baylee Sunflower Raffia Flat
- Steve Madden: Cary Heeled Sandal
- Steve Madden: Sag Boat Shoe
- Nordstrom: Babette Slide Sandal
- Veronica Beard: Penny Loafer
**Blazer**
“An updated blazer is a key item in my capsule wardrobe that I wear frequently. It’s the ideal layer to enhance straight-leg jeans or to pair with a little black dress.” — Koszarek
- Open Edit: The Icon Blazer
- Favorite Daughter: The Favorite Blazer
- Nordstrom: Single Breasted Belted Blazer
- Lauren Ralph Lauren: Linen Blend Twill Blazer
- Almina Concept: Oversized Double Button Blazer
**Straight-Leg Jeans**
“I adore classic straight-leg jeans. They pair well with any shoe and always provide that effortlessly chic vibe.” — Koszarek
- Levi's: 501 Original Crop Straight Leg Jeans
- AGOLDE: '90s Pinch Waist High Waist Straight Leg Jeans
- FRAME: Le Sleek High Waist Ankle Straight Leg Jeans
- ELOQUII: The Naomi Comfort Stretch Straight Leg Jeans
- Unpublished: Rae Wilshire Straight Leg Jeans
**Cropped Trench**
“A cropped trench is an outer layer I often choose. It’s a wardrobe essential and a perfect fit in any capsule wardrobe.” — Koszarek
- Lauren Ralph Lauren: Crop Cotton Blend Trench Coat
- MANGO: Julia Asymmetric Trench Coat
- FRAME: Short Trench Jacket
- Bernardo: Short Belted Trench Coat
- Topshop: Crop Cotton Trench Coat
**Striped Sweater**
“I appreciate how a striped sweater adds a bit of interest to any outfit. It’s a classic print that fits well into a capsule wardrobe and is easy to match with jeans, trousers, or a skirt.” — Koszarek
- Reformation: Stripe Cashmere & Wool Sweater
- Nordstrom: Stripe Cotton & Cashmere Sweater
- Boden: Catriona Stripe Cotton Blend Sweater
- MANGO: Stripe Quarter Zip Sweater
- French Connection: Lily Mozart Stripe Cotton Sweater
**Black Dress**
“A little black dress is a fundamental piece in my wardrobe. I prefer a versatile style that can be easily dressed up with heels or kept casual with flats or sneakers.” — Koszarek
- Nordstrom: Slee
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