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.
-
Here's Every Winter 2025 Trend Taylor and Gigi Just Wore With Their Chic Black Coats in NYCJust two best friends with the same taste in coats.
-
I'm a Senior Shopping Editor—29 Pieces I'm Eyeing Ahead of Black Friday That Will Get You Envious Stares and ComplimentsThese are guaranteed to elevate your wardrobe.
-
I'm a Senior Shopping Editor—29 Pieces I'm Eyeing Ahead of Black Friday That Will Get You Envious Stares and ComplimentsThese are guaranteed to elevate your wardrobe.
-
If Chic Sweater-and-Jeans Outfits Are the Goal, Don't Miss These Standout Picks From Zara, Madewell, J.Crew, and NordstromHere's to a stylish fall and winter.
-
Wait, Nordstrom Released a Surprise Early Black Friday Sale—These 31 Chic Items Will Sell Out FirstLiterally 30% off clearance items (including coveted staples).
-
Look Cool and Rich But Spend Under $100: These Are the Chic Nordstrom Sweaters That MatterElevated and expensive-looking finds.
-
I Just Don't Think These 29 Premium-Looking, Affordable Nordstrom Items Will Even Be In Stock by Cyber WeekStart that holiday shopping now.
-
Ralph Lauren Is the Blueprint for Timeless Dressing—Shop the Pieces That Prove ItEffortlessly put-together.
-
People Always Compliment My Winter Outfits for Being Polished—These 7 Chic Items Are My SecretSimple pieces, big impact.
-
Fashion People Have Their Eyes on These 30 Chic Nordstrom Fall Sale Items Ahead of Black FridayTrench coats, suede totes, cashmere sweaters for less.