I've Been a Shopping Editor for 7 Years, and I'm Building My Capsule Wardrobe at Madewell's Latest Sale

Mar. 15, 2025

Photo:People

People

ICYMI, a capsule wardrobe is a collection of versatile,high-quality items (typically featuring all neutral colors). Think classic silhouettes likestraight-leg trousers,classic dresses,button-up shirts, andcomfortable flats— all of which can easily be paired with one another, and all of which I’m shopping at Madewell now — and all of the pieces are under $100.

Best Madewell Capsule Wardrobe Essentials Under $100

The Emmett Wide-Leg Jeans

Madewell

$138$60 at Madewell

Madewell’s well-crafted denim is so beloved because it’s soft and comfy with an almost loungewear-esque feel. I own a pair of Madewell jeans that I bought a few years ago, and even my very picky mom loves them so much that she wears them on flights. The quality is comparable to the most expensive jeans I own fromCitizens of Humanity, which cost nearly $250. While I love the structured look of those, these Madewell jeans are admittedly a lot more comfortable and better for daily wear. That’s why I’m grabbing an extra pair while these are on sale.

Ruched V-Neck Floral Mini Dress

$138$50 at Madewell

This dress embodies the classic and stylish silhouettes that have made Madewell such a popular shopping destination — one that’s deservedly all over PEOPLE’s archives. While most of my capsule wardrobe consists of solid black and white colorways, this neutral-toned floral number can still pair with most anything in my closet. I plan on wearing it withfleece-lined pantyhose, a cardigan (the one I’m eyeing, below!), and knee-high boots in the winter, then simply with some sandals in the summertime.

The Mini Bag

$98 at Madewell

I have to hand it to Madewell: It really knows its way around accessories. This best-selling bag has a shape that toes the line between being structured and slouchy, making it the ultimate essential purse for date nights and casual, post-Pilates brunches. The black is a no-brainer, but I’m admittedly also eyeing the shade  Deep Merlot , which I think would pair effortlessly and add an elegant pop of color to my mostly black and white wardrobe.

The Greta Ballet Flats

I’m determined to make 2025 my most fashionable year yet with these finds. Shop more of my Madewell capsule collection favorites, below.

Pull-On Straight Stretch Satin Pants

Whisper Cotton V-Neck Tee, $7 with code LASTCHANCE

$20$7 at Madewell

Easy Y-Neck Button-Up Shirt, $35 with code LASTCHANCE

$70$35 at Madewell

Relaxed Long-Sleeve Polo Tee, $35 with code LASTCHANCE

Wedged V-Neck Sweater, $64 with code LASTCHANCE

$92$64 at Madewell

Ribbed Long-Sleeve Boatneck Top, $46 with code LASTCHANCE

$92$46 at Madewell

The Harlow Wide-Leg Pants, $30 with code LASTCHANCE

$118$30 at Madewell

The Tennis Collection Bezel Set Crystal Necklace

$88 at Madewell

Ribbed Button-Front Cardigan

$58 at Madewell

Satin Maxi Slip Skirt

$98$83 at Madewell

See More from PEOPLE ShoppingWayfair’s Coastal-Inspired Furniture Storefront Has Pieces to Revamp Your Patio for Spring — Up to 60% OffThe 50 Best Amazon Deals Happening This St. Patrick’s Day Weekend — Starting at $7Katie Holmes Can’t Stop Wearing Wide-Leg Jeans — Copy Her Latest Look from $30

See More from PEOPLE Shopping

Wayfair’s Coastal-Inspired Furniture Storefront Has Pieces to Revamp Your Patio for Spring — Up to 60% OffThe 50 Best Amazon Deals Happening This St. Patrick’s Day Weekend — Starting at $7Katie Holmes Can’t Stop Wearing Wide-Leg Jeans — Copy Her Latest Look from $30

Wayfair’s Coastal-Inspired Furniture Storefront Has Pieces to Revamp Your Patio for Spring — Up to 60% Off

The 50 Best Amazon Deals Happening This St. Patrick’s Day Weekend — Starting at $7

Katie Holmes Can’t Stop Wearing Wide-Leg Jeans — Copy Her Latest Look from $30

source: people.com