20 pieces women need for a complete capsule wardrobe

A trench coat is a classic piece that can be worn with a casual or dressy outfit. It will never go out of style, and if you purchase one of high quality and take good care of it, you'll never have to buy another one again. It's the ultimate investment piece. 

How many outfits can you base on a basic white T-shirt? An infinite amount. You’ll probably want a few basic white T-shirts in your collection, but make sure you have at least one that fits well and washes up nicely. 

Blazers are great for the office — great for nights out, great for casual days. Honestly, they're great for almost every occasion. It's hard to come up with an environment where a blazer is not appropriate. A good basic blazer will get lots of use throughout the years. 

Just as versatile as a blazer, every woman needs a denim jacket in her capsule wardrobe. The garment is excellent to have on hand for more casual affairs when you need a piece that's easy to layer. Whether oversized, cropped, lightwash, or darkwash, you need a denim jacket you absolutely love in your closet. 

For occasions when you need something a bit edgier than a denim jacket, you need a leather jacket. Like the denim jacket, there are several routes you can go when choosing which one is best for you, but no matter which you take, you’ll end up in a good spot. 

Even if you only leave the house at night once a year, you need a little black dress. There's some sort of magic in putting on a little black dress, something that only that particular article of clothing can bring. Find a little black dress that you feel totally confident in. Take great care of it so you can wear it for years. 

Every woman needs a pair of sneakers to walk in and a pair of sneakers to flaunt. You'll likely have to replace your exercise sneakers on more than one occasion, but a good pair of dress sneakers that aren’t used for physical exertion can be kept forever. 

The right pair of pumps can be worn repeatedly. Depending on your particular color palette and lifestyle, you'll want either a nudė or black pair (and you'll likely want both). Make sure you find a pair that fits well, is comfortable, and comes in a height that isn't too miserable to walk in. 

Even if you don't work in an office, a good pair of trousers will serve you well. It might be that item of clothing that you don't wear often but that you're always glad you have when you need it. Get a pair in a neutral color, and if it's the only pair you own, it may be worth the money to get them tailored. 

A good pair of jeans is hard to find, but it's worth the search. For a comprehensive capsule wardrobe, you'll want a few pairs of good jeans that run the gamut of washes and cuts. And don't be afraid to shell out the big bucks. These are items that'll get worn again and again. 

There will always be an occasion that calls for a sweater. Whether it's what you bring with you in case you get cold or the top you leave the house in, a sweater is a vital garment in every person's closet. Most of us probably have more than we need, but we all need at least one. 

You can absolutely get away with only having a few pairs of shoes in your closet, but you've got to make sure you have the right pairs. Boots are one of those pairs that you need. Find a style and color that fits your wardrobe.  

It's not always boots weather. For beach vacations, casual summer days, and when you need to slip on a pair of shoes as quickly as possible, you need a pair of sandals. Find a pair in a neutral color and a style that will last for years. 

Everyone could use a cardigan or two. The essential fall article of clothing, a cardigan is a useful layering piece that can be unbuttoned over T-shirts or buttoned up under jackets. It's versatile and cozy, and the right one can be worn with almost everything else in your closet.

Hear us out: A fur coat is a timeless piece of outerwear you'll most certainly use. If you can't get down with wearing a fur coat, substitute for a piece of outerwear you'll never get rid of and can throw on with whatever you're wearing. 

Blouses of all sorts are good to have in your closet, but button-downs are especially good. Whether white, black, chambray, or cotton, a standard button-down blouse is the ultimate versatile piece that can be dressed up or down. You’ll get your ROI within weeks of buying one. 

Skirts, like many garments, are not one-size-fits-all. Don't take someone's advice and buy a mini or pencil skirt just because they have one, too. Buy a skirt that is flattering on you and can be worn with lots of other items in your closet. 

Everyone can benefit from having an investment bag. You know the type. It is a classic style that looks good with even the most casual of outfits but would also look great displayed on a shelf. You don't have to make an actual investment in this bag, just find one that gives off the vibe that you did. 

Whether cut-offs or cuffed, Daisy Dukes or Bermuda, a good pair of denim shorts you feel confident wearing is essential in every woman's wardrobe. Some pairs of denim shorts go in and out of style, but others always look good. Find a pair of the latter you love, and never let them go. 

Finally, every woman needs a set of versatile go-to jewelry in her wardrobe. These are pieces that you never tire of wearing and can literally weather storms — or at least shower or sleep in them. You don't have to put these pieces to the test, but buy some of a quality you know could pass those tests if necessary.