Capsule Wardrobe Pieces: What to Shop This Sale Season
Holiday sale season can feel overwhelming! Some brands have already kicked off early promotions, others begin later this week, and a few timeless staples rarely go on sale at all. With everything happening at once, it can be hard to know what is actually worth paying attention to!
This guide is here to simplify that. It highlights the capsule pieces I rely on in my own wardrobe and the ones that are especially smart to watch during sale season. Many of the categories below include items from brands that consistently offer great promotions this time of year!
And if you are reading this outside of sale season, the guide still applies! These are the foundational essentials that build a repeatable, intentional capsule wardrobe any time of year!
With that in mind, let’s walk through the capsule essentials worth watching this season and beyond! We are still at the beginning of Cyber Weeks, so many deals are access only! If you have an account with a brand, make sure you are logged in to see early pricing. The percentage off may increase as we get closer to Black Friday, but pieces can sell out quickly, so choose the timing that works best for you!
Tailored Trousers
A beautiful pair of tailored pants instantly elevates a wardrobe. They work for the office, weekends, dinners, and everything in between. I reach for mine constantly because they pair effortlessly with sweaters, tees, button-downs, loafers, or ballet flats.
What to look for:
a flattering mid or high rise
a long, clean leg line
drapey fabric that moves well
a tailored but comfortable fit
What I own: My most-worn trousers are the Aritzia Effortless Pant. I have them in black, white, and white linen, and they have become such a core part of my capsule that I reach for them several times a week. I have linked the exact pairs below, along with other trousers I am loving this season and some sale options.
Everyday Denim
Denim is one of the smartest things to shop during sale season because it is something most of us wear several times a week. The right pair can completely change how your wardrobe feels. I gravitate toward classic straight legs, mid washes, and those slightly relaxed silhouettes that give a chic, effortless shape without feeling oversized.
What to look for:
a rise that feels good both sitting and standing
denim that has structure but softens with wear
lengths that work with both flats and boots
washes that blend easily with the rest of your wardrobe
What I own: My denim rotation is a mix of Madewell and Levi’s recently and I truly love them all. From Madewell, the Perfect Vintage Fit and the Stovepipe are my forever staples. From Levi’s, the Baggy Dad and the Barrel Jean have become my go tos for everyday looks (I’m a size 27 in both). I have linked each pair below along with a few others I am loving this season!
A Crisp White Shirt or Tees
A simple white top is one of the most timeless basics you can own. Whether it is a clean tee or a structured button-down, it anchors almost any outfit. It layers perfectly under knits, works with denim or trousers, and adds an instant sense of polish.
What to look for:
tees that hold their shape after washing
shirts with structure in the collar and cuffs
fabrics that feel soft but are not overly sheer
What I own: My go to white shirt is the Tomboy Shirt from Sézane. It is perfectly oversized while still looking polished. It rarely goes on sale since it is part of their core line, but you can sometimes find pre-loved options on Poshmark or Vinted. For tees, my favorite is the Clean Cut Tee from COS. I have it in both white and black and wear it almost every day. It is my most-used layering piece. Here are a few other basics I reach for when building a simple, intentional wardrobe as well as some options that are part of the Cyber Weeks sales.
Knitwear
Knitwear is one of the hardest working categories in any wardrobe for fall and winter. Classic crewnecks, ribbed turtlenecks, flattering cardigans, and simple knit dresses bring softness, warmth, and refinement to any outfit. These pieces work with trousers, denim, skirts, boots, or ballet flats and always make your look feel intentional.
What to look for:
neutrals like cream, camel, grey, or black
fabric that feels soft on the skin
ribbing or structure that keeps its shape
lengths that layer easily under coats and blazers
What I own: I own several knits from Sézane and truly believe their knitwear category is their strongest. My favorites are the Betty, the Gaspard, and the Barry cardigan. They rarely go on sale since they are part of the core collection, so I have linked similar options below that are more likely to be discounted. I also love Quince! Their knitwear is beautifully made and very wearable. I own a knit dress and several sweaters from them! Here are more of my favorite knits for easy everyday dressing, including some that will be on sale this season.
Blazers
A beautifully fitting blazer instantly elevates even the simplest outfit. It is one of the most versatile layers you can own and works across every season. Whether I pair it with denim, trousers, a white tee, or a knit dress, it brings structure and polish without feeling overly formal.
What to look for:
a slightly relaxed fit that still feels tailored
neutral tones like black, beige, camel, or charcoal
quality lapels and clean lines
a length that hits at or just below the hip
What I own: I have a Veronica Beard blazer that has become a true wardrobe staple! The quality is incredible and it has held up beautifully over time. I also own a few blazers from Gap that are surprisingly well made and create the same polished look at interesting price point. I have linked options below!
A Classic Trench or Wool Coat
Outerwear is one of the best categories to watch during sale season and one of the most rewarding pieces in a capsule wardrobe. A beautiful trench or wool coat can make even a simple tee and jeans feel polished.
What to look for:
timeless neutrals
a comfortable shoulder fit
lengths that complement trousers and denim
high-quality lining and buttons
What I own: All of my trench coats are from Mango and they have been such staples for me. If you want a classic trench without breaking the bank, I recommend exploring Mango’s outerwear. Their Mango Outlet site often has great deals. I found both of my trenches last year for under fifty dollars during their sale! I also own the Quince brown Italian wool coat and love it! I have linked similar options below that may be discounted this season!
Chic Everyday Jewelry
Simple, refined jewelry can completely transform a look. Sculptural earrings, delicate gold pieces, and minimal necklaces add quiet polish and elevate an outfit without overpowering it.
What to look for:
timeless shapes
pieces suitable for daily wear
materials that hold up over time
What I own: My most-worn pieces are by Heaven Mayhem and Agapée. You have probably noticed their earrings in nearly all of my content because they are my go to. I love how sculptural and versatile they are. Each year I look at their holiday sale and add another pair. This season I am considering the micro knots for everyday wear. I have linked my favorites below plus other brands I own, and others that I love!
A Structured Purse
A structured purse is one of the most lasting and versatile pieces you can bring into your capsule wardrobe. The right silhouette instantly elevates even the simplest outfit.
What to look for:
clean, structured silhouettes
neutral, versatile colors
minimal hardware
crossbody or adjustable straps for practicality
What I own: I have a small rotation of structured black and tan bags that pair with almost everything in my wardrobe. I also own a Freja Caroline bag and love how minimal, functional, and lightweight it is. For chic and more affordable options, Anthropologie and Mango have beautiful silhouettes that look far more expensive than they are. I have linked several styles worth watching this season and some that are on my dream wishlist!
Boots and Everyday Shoes
Footwear is one of the first categories to sell out once promotions begin, which is why I always keep an eye on it early. A classic boot, ballet flat, or loafer is something you will rely on for months, and the right pair helps your wardrobe feel polished and cohesive.
What to look for:
a comfortable heel height
durable soles
classic colors
silhouettes that work with trousers and denim
What I own: I recently added the Sam Edelman Sylvia boot to my wardrobe and absolutely love them. They are so comfortable and chic for everyday wear. I am hoping to pick up the brown suede ankle boot version next and will be watching to see if they get marked down. I have linked the pairs I own below along with other options I’m loving and some that are on sale as well!
A Few Helpful Shopping Tips
These are the tips I find most helpful during sale season and the ones I personally follow to shop with clarity and intention.
Compare the price of items you already wear often. Staples are worth investing in.
If possible, try on pieces in store before buying. Fit varies by brand and style.
Save your favorite items now so you can watch for price drops.
Focus on categories you reach for weekly instead of impulse purchases.
What Is a Capsule Wardrobe?
In case you aren’t sure what a capsule wardrobe is or if it is for you, here is a simple way to think about it!
A capsule wardrobe is a small collection of thoughtful, versatile pieces that work together in many different ways. Instead of having a closet full of clothes you rarely wear, a capsule focuses on the items you reach for again and again. These are the staples that make getting dressed feel simple, polished, and repeatable.
A great capsule includes pieces you can mix and match without much effort. Classic trousers that work with every sweater. Knits that layer under coats and blazers. Neutral shoes and bags that make an outfit feel complete. When each piece has a purpose, your entire wardrobe feels more cohesive and calm.
The goal is not to own less for the sake of minimalism. It is to build a wardrobe that supports your lifestyle and helps you feel confident every day. A capsule evolves with you through the seasons and makes it easier to notice gaps, shop intentionally, and enjoy the pieces you already have!
Final Thoughts: Timeless Pieces, Season After Season
These categories are the heart of a timeless wardrobe. They are the pieces that make everyday dressing feel simple, elevated, and repeatable. If you are reading this during sale season, it can be a great moment to keep an eye on the essentials you have been wanting to add, especially the ones that rarely get discounted.
If you are reading this at another time of year, the guide still applies. Capsule pieces earn their place through versatility and frequent wear. Let this list help you notice any gaps in your wardrobe and choose pieces that truly support your personal style.
I hope this guide brings clarity and inspiration as you continue building a wardrobe you love, at any time of year! Shop the Capsule edit above and here!
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With Amour,
M.