16 Tokyo Styles for the Perfect Capsule Wardrobe

As a travel content creator, I’ve had the privilege of visiting many beautiful countries over the past few years. One that’s always been high on my bucket list is Japan, and I was finally able to visit the amazing country this past March. During my week-long journey through Tokyo and Kyoto, I became quite inspired by the culture, food, and most notably the styles I observed in the two cities. 

It became instantly clear that these Japanese fashion trends would make for the perfect capsule wardrobe (you know, a minimalist wardrobe pared down to a few select, basic pieces you can wear with anything, usually neutral and of high quality, so they last a long time). From your classic cool-girl sneakers to the perfect oversized blazer and leather crossbody bag, I’ve rounded up my favorite versatile, classic looks inspired by the local-approved looks I saw strolling through the vintage shops in Harajuku, admiring cherry blossoms in Kyoto, and getting lost in the Shibuya crossing shuffle.

Madewell Poplin Oversized Button-up Shirt

I observed the trend time and again in Japan: an oversized button-up shirt paired with a blazer, trench coat, or even simply by itself, depending on weather conditions. And of course, a lightweight oversized button-up shirt is arguably one of the most versatile base pieces you can have in your capsule wardrobe. Whether you add layers to this piece or wear it with a pair of shorts, you’ll find that this item will add a level of comfort and sophistication to your look.

I love that this Madewell poplin shirt is crisp and strong, yet also delicate, which really embodies the fluidity that is present in Japanese style. When going for a more relaxed, timeless vibe, I love adding a pop of color in my bag or sneakers to tie everything together.

New Balance 2002R Sneakers

Does anyone else remember the scene from Crazy, Stupid, Love when Ryan Gosling’s character threw Steve Carell’s character’s New Balance sneakers away and then proceeded to take him shopping? Well, clearly Steve Carell’s character was actually ahead of the time, because everyone was rocking dad sneakers in Japan. I personally love the 2002R styles, and they are super walkable shoes, which make for a perfect addition when traveling abroad. The impact-resistant cushioning will keep your feet supported all day as you’re on the go in Japan, making them the perfect accompaniment for your capsule wardrobe. 

Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag

If you have this Uniqlo bag, then you totally get the hype. As someone who has this bag in three colors, I can’t emphasize enough how perfect this shoulder bag is for traveling. I found it was very common in Japan to see a variety of shoulder bags/fanny packs, and this one is especially popular given how prevalent Uniqlo is throughout Japan—it is its birthplace, after all! T

he bag has convenient inner pockets with plenty of storage, and its water-repellent finish will ensure that all of your items inside stay safe during those one-off rainstorms. Given the affordability of this product, I highly recommend getting creative with a few colors that you can mix and match to your outfits while traveling.

Everlane The Craft Dress in Linen

When I think of my favorite iconic Japanese looks, I instantly think of oversized linen dresses. Add a cute pair of sneakers or kitten heels, and you can basically wear a version of this look all spring and summer, making this shirtdress a perfect capsule wardrobe staple. I’d opt for a shirtdress with no prints to ensure that your linen investment pieces stand the test of time and can carry you through season after season.

Onitsuka Tiger Serrano Slip-on Shoes 

Onitsuka Tiger is a Japanese fashion brand that started in 1949, and since then has become known to blend Japanese heritage with a modern feel. My favorite silhouette has to be the Serrano slip-ons, which are perfect for adding a touch of Japanese style to any look. I loved observing locals rocking a wide variety of colorways, but I find the classic black and white to be the perfect addition to your shoe rotation. 

Dollger Black Rectangular Sunglasses

I’ve tried to adopt the ethos of balancing simplicity with practicality, which is a common theme I picked up from Japanese style. One piece in a capsule wardrobe, in particular, that I believe should follow this same spirit is a really solid pair of sunglasses. One that balances a unique vibe with good UV protection. I love Ganni, the Danish contemporary ready-to-wear fashion brand, but you can get this solid lookalike for a more affordable price at Amazon. Overall, I love the boldness of this shape, and given its strong rectangular base, these sunglasses are the only pair you’ll need.

Uniqlo Ribbed Knit Socks

It wasn’t until I was sitting on the Tokyo metro and I snapped a picture of a guy wearing really cool New Balance shoes with ribbed socks that I realized how important it is to have a great pair of socks to elevate any shoefie (a shoe selfie). I found this pair from Uniqlo, and I have now purchased them in so many colors because they truly are the perfect pair of socks. The fit is comfortable without being too tight, ensuring that they don’t slip, while also providing a nice length for cropped pants where you don’t want your leg visible during colder months. I’d recommend bulk buying in a few different colors to coordinate with any outfit.

Comme de Garçons Play Men’s Twin Hearts T-Shirt

A basic T-shirt is the foundational building block of every travel wardrobe, and this coveted street-ready style is from Japanese brand Comme des Garçons. The classic silhouette ensures you can layer this with your other capsule wardrobe classics, and the red heart gives a hint of personality. If you like the brand, you’ll definitely want to check out their Comme des Garçons Converse, too.

JW Pei Mini Flap Crossbody

I purchased my first JW Pei bag last summer, and I was pleasantly surprised at how great the quality is, especially for the price point. While the goal of building a capsule wardrobe is to ensure you’re buying fewer products that last a really long time, my experience with JW Pei is that it’s totally worth the price point, and the bag serves as a durable piece to add to your rotation. I love a classic vegan leather black crossbody, and the fact that you can wear this during the day and night is perfect when traveling and ensuring that one product gets as much use as possible.

Madewell Crochet-knit V-neck Sweater Vest Tank

I loved spotting locals in Japan wearing both fitted and oversized vests with their looks for a touch of a preppy vibe in an otherwise more minimal, masculine look. To achieve that look, make sure your capsule wardrobe has a solid, multifunctional layer like the Madewell crochet vest tank that can be worn on top of a cute boxy T-shirt, and also by itself. A classic vest like this is a perfect quality piece because it adds a touch of sophistication that can make the most basic outfit look put together.

Everlane The Utility Barrel Jeans

When traveling to Japan, I convinced myself that there was a need for only one pair of jeans, and this barrel style from Everlane was that perfect pair. These jeans have a relaxed fit and are mid-rise, which is perfect for my gals who want something to sit right in the middle waist. I also love the darker color, because it can be dressed up for nighttime occasions with a black blazer and chic blouse. I noticed a common theme in Japan is to embrace darker colors and baggier silhouettes, and I’m a huge fan of the quality, cut, and color of these Everlane jeans.

Everlane Cotton Box-Cut Tee

You can’t go wrong with investing in a classic box-cut tee. I love that this silhouette sits right around the hip, making it perfect for both tucking in and wearing solo. The classic crewneck and pocket detail of this 100 percent organic cotton tee from Everlane is a great lightweight basic to include as a wardrobe staple. I personally love how Japanese style can really dress up something as simple as a white tee, and by throwing on top any of the jackets or layers mentioned above, you can take this basic staple into a stylish and effortless Japanese-inspired look. 

Sam Edelman Slingback Pumps

During my morning commute to get coffee, I noticed many women (of all ages) on their way to work rocking a variety of kitten heels. When you’re bopping around a city as busy as Tokyo, you have to ensure that your heels will keep you on the go all day. I am obsessed with a cute but functional, slingback pump, and this heel comes in at just under 2.5 inches, making for a perfect accessory. When packing light and sticking with a capsule wardrobe, you want to ensure that you get as much use as possible from your items, and I love that these Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pumps can be dressed down or dressed up depending on your vibe. 

Quince Comfort Stretch Short Trench Coat

Can you really build a capsule wardrobe without having a trench coat? I’d argue that the answer is no. I was absolutely blown away to see that what felt like every third person in Tokyo was wearing a trench coat, and the styles and colors really did run the gamut. While I am biased toward a classic khaki trench coat, I did notice a wide variety of colors in Japan. Having visited in March, I loved that I could wear my trench coat from day to night, but it’s so genius because it’s great for any season, even summer, since you can dress it up or down.

PrettyGarden Boyfriend Blazer

Can we all agree that a solid oversized blazer has to be the MVP of a capsule wardrobe? Whether you’re wearing it in the office or strolling through Shibuya City, this boxy yet structured blazer is perfect for dressing up any casual jeans and sneakers outfit combo. Once you get a blazer you love, you’ll be sure to have this piece included weekly in your outfit rotation! Plus, it nails that slightly businessy look that is so prevalent in Tokyo street style.

Zeagoo Satin Bomber Jacket

If you want to build a chic and versatile capsule wardrobe, with hints of inspiration from Japanese street style, a classic bomber jacket will enable you to embody that edgy Tokyo Drift vibe. I love how lightweight this Zeagoo Bomber Jacket is; it won’t feel overwhelmingly bulky when you’re packing it in your suitcase. The combo of the neutral color with the satin finish makes for a perfect streetwear look.

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