10 pieces your capsule wardrobe needs

One of the trickiest things about a capsule wardrobe is undoubtedly pinpointing what should go in it. We all have different aesthetics and styles so obviously that is the main driver behind what belongs in our closet, that said there are certain classic pieces that will work hard year round. There are particular things that can easily be reworked in various ways, and those are the clothes that you want in your capsule wardrobe. Wearability is of course key when you’re only working with a limited number of pieces and I’ve found the below items tick that box, along with being the building blocks of numerous stylish outfits.

Trench

I’ve found a trench to be one of the most versatile pieces of outerwear you can have. You can pop it on over a dress, wear it with jeans, the list is endless. If a trench isn’t for you, it’s still important to have a versatile coat that can be worked back with multiple pieces in your closet.

Blue jeans

For most people, great jeans are a must in a capsule wardrobe. I wear denim most days during the week and they’re the lynchpin of most of my looks. They can be dressed up or down and worn to so many different occasions. Finding a style that you love and is flattering is key to making the most of a pair of jeans.

Blazer

I cannot speak highly enough of the sartorial power of a blazer. I usually pop a blazer on whenever I want to dress up a casual ensemble as it can make it look instantly polished. If I was only going to choose one colour, I’d opt for a black blazer as it can work in myriad ways.

Versatile dress

I’m not talking about a sequinned mini dress here! Choose a style that is understated and simple, such as a slip dress for example which can be worked back with multiple pieces and is also appropriate for multiple occasions.

Button down shirt

A white shirt and a striped button down shirt are two great pieces for any capsule wardrobe. It’s easy to pair them with a pair of jeans or trousers, pop it on over a dress or skirt, or wear it open with a pair of shorts and a tank top. Either way, you can get plenty of wear out of it.

T-shirt

Please invest in a nice white t-shirt, you won’t regret it! A white t-shirt is a sartorial workhorse as you can pair it with multiple pieces and get so much wear out of it. Which is essentially the point of a capsule wardrobe, right?

Tailored trousers

If you haven’t yet, embrace the tailored trouser because you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. They’re a slightly more elevated pant when you’re just not feeling denim, but they’re ultra comfortable too.

Neutral cardigan

I’ve really been enjoying the resurgence of the cardigan. Look for a slightly cropped style as you can wear it tucked in as a top or pop it on over a dress. This is a great transeasonal option when the weather goes from hot one minute to cold the next.

White sneakers

Thank goodness white sneakers are now a fashion staple and suitable for virtually any occasion. I usually opt for a plain style as it makes them a little more versatile, and slightly more polished.

Dressy flat

When a sneaker is not an option, it’s always handy to have a dressy flat on hand. Think a loafer or a ballet flat, which has a lot of polish but is comfortable too.

 

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