I Was a VIP Nordstrom Stylist, and I'm Reworking My Capsule Wardrobe—These 9 Items Are Now Staples

Building a capsule wardrobe can make the process of getting dressed even easier. If you're not familiar, it's the idea of curating a collection of staple pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a range of outfits. Sandy Koszarek, a former VIP Nordstrom stylist and content creator (she's behind Stylish Sandy), is a huge fan of capsule wardrobes.
She's helped many clients over the years develop their personal capsule wardrobes and also works on her own. On that note, she's in the process of reworking her spring capsule wardrobe and is sharing the nine new items that are now staples of hers to create her most stylish ensembles. Keep scrolling to check out and shop Koszarek's current must-haves to inspire your own capsule wardrobe.
White Skirt
"A white skirt is a key staple in my capsule wardrobe and something I always reach for. I love styling it with a cashmere sweater, a simple tee, and a denim jacket. It's one of those pieces that's easy to dress up or down, depending on the day." — Koszarek
Cardigan
"A cardigan is a classic and versatile piece that is a key staple in a capsule wardrobe. I wear mine often buttoned up as a top or draped over my shoulders." — Koszarek
White Button-Down Shirt
"A classic white button-down is one piece I can always count on. It looks chic styled with jeans, trousers, or a skirt. It's a must-have in my wardrobe." — Koszarek
Neutral Shoes
"I reach for neutral-colored shoes almost daily. They go with everything and are the perfect addition to any capsule wardrobe." — Koszarek
Blazer
"An updated blazer is a key staple in my capsule wardrobe and one I wear often. It's the perfect layer to elevate straight-leg jeans or to throw on over a little black dress." — Koszarek
Straight-Leg Jeans
"I love classic straight-leg jeans. They work with any shoe and always give that effortlessly chic look." — Koszarek
Cropped Trench
"A cropped trench is an outer layer I reach for often. It's a wardrobe essential and the perfect addition to any capsule wardrobe." — Koszarek
Striped Sweater
"I love how a striped sweater adds a little interest to any outfit. It's one of those classic prints that fit into a capsule wardrobe—easy to pair with denim, trousers, or a skirt." — Koszarek
Black Dress
"A little black dress is a staple in my wardrobe. I like a versatile style that's easy to dress up with heels or keep casual with flats or sneakers." — Koszarek

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
I’m Shopping for Sweaters, Shoes, and Jackets From Nordstrom’s Epic Fall Sale—Here’s What’s in My Cart
Up to 50% off.
-
My Mom Is in Her 50s and Asked Me for Fashion Advice—8 Chic Nordstrom Outfits I Put Together for Her Under $425
Outdated prints and "ugly" shoes included.
-
If You Want an Elegant-Looking Fall Wardrobe, These 35 Nordstrom Sale Finds Belong in Your Cart
Up to 50% off.
-
I Just Want to Be a Cool Girl This Fall, so I'm Shopping These 7 IYKYK Brands on Nordstrom
These chic pieces will blow you away.
-
I Know Parisians Would Love These 29 Stylish Nordstrom Fall Sale Items (FYI, They're Going to Sell Out)
Elevated staples to shop on sale before Black Friday.
-
My Mom Loves My Shopping Advice—These Are the 34 Chicest Items From the Epic Nordstrom End-of-Season Sale
Huge discounts on coats, sweaters, denim, sneakers, and more!
-
Nordstrom's Fall Sale Is Almost Over: Tory Burch Shoes and Ralph Lauren Jackets to Shop Before It Ends
Only two days left.
-
My Mom Only Shops Affordable Fashion—I Sent Her These Rich-Looking Picks From Nordstrom and Old Navy
All but three of these chic pieces are under $100.