With our world becoming ever more time sensitive, not to mention more eco-conscious, the capsule wardrobe is more popular than ever. The point of a capsule wardrobe is to create a more focused collection of essential clothing – year-round pieces that are guaranteed to never fall out of favour in the style wars, whilst promoting a reduced impact on the plant around us.
In the world of fashion, we often come across the term ‘capsule wardrobe’. But what exactly does it entail? The concept of a capsule wardrobe originated in the 1970s when Susie Faux, a London boutique owner, proposed an innovative approach to dressing. She suggested owning a minimal yet versatile collection of timeless, high-quality pieces that can be effortlessly mixed and matched to create numerous outfits.
A capsule wardrobe is a compact collection of clothes that coordinate well and can be augmented with seasonal items. It aims at simplifying life, decluttering closets, and refining personal style. Embracing this approach ensures that you love every item in your wardrobe and that each one fits you perfectly, both in size and style. It’s not only practical but also sustainable, as it promotes buying less and choosing well. The focus shifts from quantity to quality, from trend-chasing to personal style development.
Of course, what goes into your capsule wardrobe is completely up to you but, by definition, you should be filling it with items that sit at the core of who you are and how you like to dress. If you’re looking for a bit of guidance, here are 10 staples we think look great in any collection.
10 – Handbag
A handbag is a girl’s best friend, and you should have at least one high quality bag in amongst your wardrobe that you can trust to go with you anywhere. Probably an item worth spending a bit more on, a good handbag can be a trusty assistant for years. If you prefer a minimalist wardrobe, a classic black or brown handbag in leather or faux leather can be a great choice.
09 – Black shoes
Next on the list is a pair of versatile black shoes. They can be heels, flats, or boots depending on your comfort and style preference. A quality pair of black shoes can be dressed up or down for various occasions, making them an indispensable addition to your capsule wardrobe. Remember to prioritize comfort along with style.
08 – Breton top
The classic navy and white horizontal striped Breton is a piece you’ll want replicated in different colours as it’s a perfect weekend number that’s incredibly versatile. Mix with jeans, a skirt or shorts as you please – you’ll look good in any combo. Originally worn by French sailors, this piece has become a fashion staple thanks to its versatility.
07 – White shirt
Office or casual, the white shirt brings a fresh touch to any outfit. There are plenty of styles to choose from, from fitted office appropriate types to more effeminate balloon sleeve and oversized options. It’s one of those wardrobe essentials that works for all, irrespective of age, body type, or personal style. This timeless piece can be worn with jeans for a casual look or smart trousers for a more formal ensemble.
06 – Jeans/smart trousers
Is there a woman on the planet who doesn’t own a trusty pair of jeans? Straight leg or slim are perfect as an all year round, pull on and go solution that will never let you down. If you’re looking for formal office attire, a smart trouser should find its way into your collection as well. Better look for a pair that fits you well and complements your body shape.
05 – Blazer
Be the boss of your office by adding a blazer to your outfit. Likewise, they work well over a weekend outfit too as another versatile piece. Be it a formal meeting, a casual day out, or a date night, a well-tailored blazer can be your go-to piece. Opt for neutral colors like black, navy, or beige as they pair well with most outfits.
04 – Plain tees
You’ve got to have a good base layer to each of your outfits, not to mention a few items you can just slob around in or put on when you’re nipping out. Plain tees in neutral colours fit the bill perfectly, so get a bunch in. These tees can be dressed up with a blazer or down with a pair of jeans, making them a must-have in any capsule wardrobe.
03 – Black dress
The LBD (little black dress) will never go out of fashion, but yours doesn’t have to be little. It can be whatever style you want it to be, but a simple, pretty black dress will help you in virtually any scenario. This timeless piece is known for its versatility and ability to transition from day to night effortlessly. Whether it’s a simple shift, an elegant midi, or a classic LBD, every woman needs a go-to black dress in her wardrobe.
02 – Jumper
A single layer for a cool summer’s night or a base to a winter’s outfit, a round neck jumper made from quality material should see you through any season with style. It’s perfect for layering during colder months and you can use with jeans, trousers, or skirts. Choose a neutral color for maximum versatility.
01 – Long floral dress
Add a splash of colour and seasonal fun to your capsule with a long floral dress. Pretty, airy and always a good look, you find a long-sleeved option perfect for wearing through summer. When winter comes, pair it up with some tights and ankle boots to keep the sunshine vibes going through the colder months. It’s perfect for spring and summer, and you can use them with heels or down with flats. Choose a dress with a flattering cut and a print that reflects your personal style.
So, here are your ten, but the list above isn’t exhaustive. You’ll want to add your own pieces and seasonal items in, perhaps some nightwear and more splashes of colour, but the above will give you the foundation of you year’s look. Remember to stay relatively neutral with your capsule items for the sake of versatility, then what you add in beyond that is up to you.
Now, go forth and shop!
The Perfect Capsule Wardrobe: How Many Items Should Be In It?
Coming to the end of our exploration into the world of capsule wardrobes, a question often asked is, ‘how many items should be in a capsule wardrobe’? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this, the most common suggestion is around 37 items. This might include shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, coats, shoes, and accessories. However, it’s essential to note that the idea isn’t to be stringent about the numbers but to create a collection of items that can be effortlessly mixed and matched.
Remember, the purpose of a capsule wardrobe is to make life simpler, not harder. If limiting your wardrobe to a certain number of items feels restrictive, then it’s perfectly okay to adjust this number to suit your lifestyle and preferences. Ultimately, the goal is to cultivate a wardrobe that serves you, not one you serve.