Let’s create your 25 piece capsule wardrobe but what actually is a capsule wardrobe & how do we create one? So much has been written on this topic, it can seem overwhelming to say the least. Lets get right to it.
Firstly, consider your lifestyle. There is no point filling your wardrobe with smart workwear pieces if you are a stay at home parent. What you really need in this instance are some day to day pieces, that can be elevated with a few key items to smarten them up. Sprinkle in a hint of evening wear, some vacation pieces and there you have it, the perfect capsule for this specific lifestyle.
Before we start with the ultimate list, here’s a few things to think about.
When you find the perfect pair of trousers, consider buying two pairs so you can have one tailored to wear with flats and one with heels.
Also, when I refer to ‘neutral colours’ I mean base colours that work for you. For me that is white, grey, black or navy blue but you might prefer something more colourful and that’s ok. You need to find the right mix of colour for you. Just try sticking to colours that all compliment each other and your skin tone. What we want to create here is hundreds of different looks from the same pieces, so they all need to go together.
Back to creating the perfect capsule wardrobe which can be done in around 25 pieces plus accessories, which can be endless by the way, as they add personality and a point of difference to each look.
Here’s a handy cheat sheet:
- Neutral wool coat in either camel, taupe or cream
- Black leather jacket or neutral blazer depending on your style.
- Shirts – I recommend a white & a denim shirt at a minimum. Both can be worn in multiple ways.
- Neutral Jumper – either crew or V neck depending on your body shape
- Neutral cardigan – perfect for layering
- T shirts & Tank Tops – White & grey in each style at a minimum
- Smart trousers – I personally find grey more wearable than black
- Black leather trousers – A true wardrobe hero, my leather trousers are the single most worn piece in my wardrobe.
- Jeans – You need at least two pairs. A mid wash blue and a white pair
- Shorts or mini skirt – Pick a neutral colour and whichever style you feel most comfortable in.
- A silk slip dress – invest in the best quality fabric you can find and it will take you from day to night with ease.
- Shoes
A Sporty trainer.
A covered toe flat think ballet pump, loafer or dressy trainer depending on your style.
An open toed flat sandal.
A pairs of flat boots
A closed toe pump like a court shoe
A dressy evening sandal.
- Bags
An everyday bag that fits your lifestyle
A beach bag
An evening bag
- Accessories
A great belt that can be worn on the waist and on the hip
Scarves – something warm & a silk scarf which if big enough can also double as a sarong.
Sunglasses – a tortoise shell rim works with all neutral colour combos and will take you from casual to smart occasions.
This is the basic list of everything you will need to create hundreds of outfits. You can of course buy more than these items but be careful to not buy too much. The more clothes you have the more overwhelming getting ready is in a morning. Less is most definitely more.