Then list the pieces you plan to take and set the days to your trip length for an outfit-by-day plan.
How a capsule wardrobe multiplies outfits
A capsule wardrobe is a small set of clothes that all work together. The idea is simple multiplication. Every top that goes with every bottom makes one outfit, so five tops and three bottoms make fifteen outfits. A dress or jumpsuit is an outfit on its own. Shoes multiply again: two pairs that go with everything double the count. Layers such as a cardigan, blazer or denim jacket multiply once more, because each outfit can be worn with or without one.
That is why CapsuleMath can show dozens of outfits from a dozen pieces, and why the right next purchase is usually the category you have least of. Adding a fourth bottom to five tops adds five outfits before shoes and layers; adding a sixth top to three bottoms adds three.
Keeping the count honest
Not everything really goes with everything. Use rules to rule out pairings you would never wear, such as a patterned top with a patterned skirt. Mark bold colours or prints as accents and limit them to one per outfit for a classic capsule, or two if you like more colour. Turn layers off for a stricter count if you only wear a layer when it is cold.
Choosing colours
Most capsules start with two or three neutrals that work together, such as navy, white and camel, or black, grey and denim, then add one or two accent colours. If every top goes with every bottom, the multiplication works in full. The colour swatches in the outfit plan make it easy to spot combinations that look busy.
Day-by-day outfit plans
The plan picks a different outfit each day, spreads wear across all your pieces, and avoids wearing the same top or dress two days running. It only repeats an outfit after every combination has been used. Press Shuffle for a different plan. Pieces that never appear in a long plan are worth a second look: they may clash with too much, or simply not be needed.
Packing for a trip
For travel, the packing suggestion depends on how often you can do laundry. Without laundry, you need a fresh top for most days but far fewer bottoms. With laundry every few days, the list shrinks to one cycle’s worth. Your wardrobe is stored only in this browser.
Frequently asked questions
How many outfits for a week?
Four or five tops, two bottoms and two pairs of shoes give well over seven outfits.
Should I pack a dress?
One dress or smart outfit is useful on trips of four days or more.
What about cold weather?
Tick cold weather for an extra layer, and wear the bulkiest pieces while travelling.
Is CapsuleMath free?
Yes, with no sign-up or ads.
Do I need to upload photos?
No. Just names and colours, saved only in this browser.