The Classic French Capsule Wardrobe

Welcome back! I haven’t been writing as many blog posts recently as I’m working on a little project that I’m trying to wrap up (and hopefully that you’ll really like!) But, the other day I suddenly felt very inspired to create a Classic French Capsule Wardrobe using items I already have in my closet. So, I thought I’d share that with you today!

Classic French style is the basis for a lot of capsule wardrobes, because it’s both stylish yet functional, and classic but contemporary. These are pieces that will never go out of style and that can work for a variety of occasions and seasons. I hope it helps inspire you for your own capsule wardrobe; it also works great as a packing list for any upcoming trips you might have!

I don’t think there’s any ‘definitive’ classic French capsule wardrobe out there (though most include similar items), so this is my spin on it. I’m using pieces I already own, but I’ve linked to similar options where I can if you’re interested. The only thing I don’t own is the dress, but I just didn’t feel like I had a black dress that really suited this capsule well.

The capsule includes 18 items total: four tops, three bottoms, two layers, three shoes, and a handful of accessories which will allow you to create a multitude of looks for everyday, the office, or more formal occasions. Without further ado, let’s get into the capsule!

The Classic French Capsule Wardrobe

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

Item List:

  • White Tee – old Aritzia (similar here)
  • Cami – old Aritzia (similar here)
  • Stripe Top – old Everlane (similar here)
  • Button Up – thrifted (similar here or here)
  • Leather Jacket – old Zara (similar here)
  • Denim – AGOLDE
  • Trousers – old Aritzia (similar here)
  • Pencil Skirt – old Aritzia (similar here)
  • Black Dress – Everlane
  • Trench Coat – old Aritzia (similar here)
  • Sneakers – Veja
  • Flats – Everlane
  • Heels – old Aldo
  • Sunglasses – Ray-Ban
  • Tote – old Auxiliary (similar here)
  • Side Bag – old Auxiliary (similar here or here)
  • Watch – Rosefield
  • Red Lipstick – I love the RMS Lipsticks for a clean beauty option

Outfit Ideas

There are so many outfits that can be created using these pieces. Here are a few ideas to get you started!

Outfit 1

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

Outfit 2

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

Outfit 3

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

Outfit 4

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

Outfit 5

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

Outfit 6

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

Outfit 7

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

Outfit 8

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

Outfit 9

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

Outfit 10

Classic French Capsule Wardrobe - Emily Lightly

I hope you enjoyed this post! Are you a fan of the Classic French Capsule Wardrobe? Let me know in the comments below.

Thanks for reading,

Emily Lightly

Featured photo by Andrea Maschio on Unsplash

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  • Do you ever get to many items in your closet what where do u send/ donate then or how do u recycle them.if u give them away let me know your wardrobe ideas are awesome. Peacecc

    • My main way of decluttering clothing is through consignment. I find it’s the best way to make sure a piece will be used by someone else and not trashed! There is a local consignment store I go to and if the item doesn’t sell in 3-6 months they donate it to our local women’s shelter. Things that can’t be consigned I usually donate to my local thrift store or try to find a way to re-purpose/recycle/upcycle at home.

  • Hello!
    I love these combos. Question: I’m 5’2”, 145 lbs., and want to purchase a trench coat. Which length would better suit me? (Always looking like a French fashionista )
    Thank you for your reply.

    • Thank you! I’d recommend checking out Dearly Bethany on YouTube/IG. She does a lot of petite fashion and she’d probably have some good tips! I’m 5’9″ and I’m not really sure so definitely check her out 🙂

  • I like the block heel closed toe ankle strap pumps you have featured from Aldo shoes – I’ve been looking for this pair (not this specific pair, of course) or something similar to no avail. I’m fifty years old, 5’7″, and I like block heels that are no taller than two inches. Is there a link for those shoes? I tried the Aldo shoes website, but this pair wasn’t on it.

    • I’m sorry, they were from a long time ago so they’re likely not available anymore. I’d have a look at Everlane or Nisolo as they might carry something similar!

  • I love it! I have pieces so very similar in my closet…yet often I am stumped for how to combine! Thank you for the ideas! Have good year!