Capsule wardrobes are all the rage and with good reason. They streamline your clothing options and reuse classic pieces for an effortless, thoughtful approach to style. Simplified is the name of this game. That same philosophy can easily be applied to home decor and we have a few favorites up our sleeves.
Building a Capsule Collection for the Home
We’ve rounded up several items that we consider our time-tested faves. These are the base layer that we spice up with trend pieces, colorful accessories or seasonal decor. No matter your home style, these staples work. They are pieces that are the foundation of classic decor – things like jute rugs perfect for layering or classic linen sheets that will never ever go out of style. Have a look at what’s in our capsule collection.
Interior Design: Erin Fetherston | Photography: Nikki Sebastian
Jute Rugs
We have a thing for jute rugs and here’s why – they ALWAYS work. Not only are they durable enough to withstand high-traffic areas or troops of kids, but they blend in with almost any style of decor and you can find options at every price point. They’re like a rug unicorn. But the best thing about jute rugs is their layering capabilities. We love a large jute rug paired with a smaller vintage rug over top for a cozy, eclectic look.
A few of our favorites:
Aria Rug | Puebla Jute Rug | Chunky Jute Rug | Dunes Jute Rug
Interior Design: Banner Day SF | Photography: Vivian Johnson
Linen Sheets
Have you ever slumbered in luxe linen sheets? There is nothing like it. Crisp, classic and well worth the investment, linen sheets are an absolute must in our capsule collection.
A few of our favorites:
Cavallo Linen Sheets | Belgian Flax Linen Sheets | Parachute Linen Sheets
White Curtains
I have a signature style of white curtains from West Elm that I have purchased for every single apartment and home for the last ten years. It’s a no-fail, quick way to create a finished look in a room and soften the space while providing warmth. Plus, they look insanely pretty paired with woven wood shades.
A few of our favorites:
Belgian Flax Linen Curtains | Ritva Curtains | Cotton Canvas Curtains
Interior Design: Studio McGee | Photography: Travis J. Photography
Linen Sofa
Linen is a timeless fabric which is why it is all up in our capsule collection. One piece that you can not go wrong with is a linen sofa. It provides texture, comfort, design savvy and will work in almost any space. It plays well with patterned pillows, too.
A few of our favorites:
Shelter Sofa | Belgian Slope Arm Sofa | Delphine Sofa
Upholstered Bench
We love an upholstered bench because it is so multi-purpose and works in any and all rooms. It can be used as a table with beautiful books on display, at the end of a bed or as extra seating for guests.
A few of our favorites:
Dorset Bench | Hennie Bench | Leather Director’s Bench
Mid-Century Lamp
With a streamlined silhouette and healthy dose of brass, mid-century lamps are our go-to when we need decorative lighting in a room.
A few of our favorites:
Estuary Table Lamp | Brompton Floor Lamp | Penelope Brass Lamp
via: The Haven List| Interior Design: Gather Projects| Photography: Rennai Hoefer
Natural Wood Dresser
A natural wood dresser is the perfect capsule piece because it is so dang versatile. Whether used as extra storage in bedrooms, as large nightstands, in an entryway or as console tables, this is one piece of furniture that everyone needs.
A few of our favorites:
Ollie Chest | Caledonia Woven Console | Raw Antoinette Dresser
Interior Design: Decorotation| Photography: Lauren Edith
White Dishes
The beauty of white tableware is that you can mix and match styles effortlessly. We have a collection of white porcelain dishes that we pair with more organic, handmade bowls for a beautiful, collected look. All white dishes also look so timeless when showcased on your open shelves.
A few of our favorites:
Mercer Collection | Pillivuyet Coupe Collection | Glenna Dinner Plates
Picture Frames
Art and photographs provide such a personalized layer to a home but custom framing can add up incredibly quick. For semi-custom without the huge price tag, we love Framebridge. Their Irvine Slim frame is our favorite. Another great option is simple white or black frames from big box stores to streamline a collection or pull together a gallery wall.
A few of our favorites:
Gallery Frames | Matted Picture Frame Set | Ribba Frame
Photography: Madeline Harper
Trays
It’s no secret that we love a good tray. One peek at our organizing post, and that becomes abundantly clear. They provide endless ways to decorate, look amazing in a table vignette and help to organize like-minded items in a really chic way. Just say YES! To trays.
A few of our favorites:
Acrylic Tray | Beaufort Tray | Marble Tray
Baskets
Who doesn’t love baskets? Much like trays, they are a workhouse with such versatile uses. From hiding toys to organizing closets, using as entryway catchalls or even plant holders, baskets are a must.
A few of our favorites:
Rectangle Woven Baskets | Round Handled Basket | Silas Storage Basket
Photography: Madeline Harper
A Good White Paint
We recently chatted with a handful of our favorite designers about their go-to paint colors and white was at the tippy top of that list. A fresh coat of white paint can fix almost anything and makes for a beautiful light and bright backdrop.
A few of our favorites:
Simply White by Benjamin Moore | Chantilly Lace by Benjamin Moore | White Dove by Benjamin Moore
All of these items have a few things in common. One, they provide a neutral base (think linen, wood, marble, metals). Two, they have a timeless design. Three, they are easily buildable with more trendy, of-the-moment pieces. Tell us, what’s in your home decor capsule collection?
shop our home decor capsule favorites
Erin Lepperd is an interior designer – turned digital media editor with a penchant for breathtaking interiors. When she’s not gabbing about design, you’ll find her wrangling her wild and wonderful 5-year-old twins, brunching like it’s her job and exploring the wilds of New England as a California transplant.
