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You’ve been hearing about capsule wardrobes for ages — just pare your closet to a handful of mix-and-matchable essentials, and you’ll be set (and chic) no matter the situation. While, personally, I’m not quite ready to say goodbye to picking up a trend piece or two each season (hey, I’m a fashion writer!), I do love the idea of having a go-to set of blue-ribbon basics — and getting to say “Oh, thanks, I’ve had it for years” when, say, my trench coat nabs compliments.
The first step on my journey to building my perfect capsule collection? Making sure I’ve got everything I need to stay warm. We settled on five crucial coats and jackets for any wardrobe. Keep scrolling to see our must-haves, including the best outerwear to add to your cart (and your closet) today.
#1. Puffer Jacket
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The winter chill doesn’t stand a chance against a faithful black puffer. Choose the type that works for your needs: those who dwell in Arctic conditions will probably want a longer coat packed with down, while denizens of LA or Miami can get away with a light quilted number.
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#2. Moto Jacket
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Add a little edge to your capsule closet with a leather moto jacket. It brings cool contrast to summer florals and acts as the perfect companion to slinky dresses on nights out. Real leather will be the most durable; however, high-quality vegan leather options offer a great alternative for anyone who wants to skip calfskin.
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#3. The Blazer
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This is the spot in your capsule collection to play with patterns — a plaid or herringbone blazer in neutral colors will pair beautifully with solid trousers, camis, and button downs to add visual interest to your office outfits. Select the shape that best flatters your figure and your fashion sense. I’m partial to more oversized fits; your dream blazer might be cut slimmer and nipped at the waist.
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#4. Denim Jacket
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A comfy denim number is the outerwear piece you’ll be reaching for all year long — wear it to the beach on summer evenings and layer it over a hoodie for extra warmth during the cooler months. Invest in a roomy jacket in non-stretch medium, dark, or black-wash denim for a capsule item that’ll hold up forever. While the words “denim jacket” probably conjure up a boxy trucker cut in your mind’s eye, those who prefer longer silhouettes can invest in a just-as-timeless utility style.
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#5. Trench Coat
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Perhaps the most classic outerwear ever, the trusty trench coat rounds out any good capsule wardrobe. A calf-skimming beige trench is a must for rainy days. It’ll also be your MVP of transitional dressing — toss it over a midi skirt for those days when it’s cold in the morning and toasty by mid-afternoon.
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Do you already have these outerwear essentials in your closet? What’s your favorite way to style coats and jackets this season? Let us know in the comments!
For More Winter Style Tips, Read These:
These 15 Chic Rain Gear Pieces Will Have You Begging For A Downpour
The Velvet Jacket Is Winter’s Latest Trend, And These 12 Will Keep You Chic And Cozy