Words by Kathryn Mendonca 

The key to an effortless, timeless collection you will want to wear over and over. A capsule wardrobe is a minimal amount of basic pieces that complement each other and work in multiple different outfit combinations. The versatility of a capsule wardrobe helps to maximise the number of possible outfits, from a small number of items. You will never have to ask the question “does this go together” again. The beauty of a capsule wardrobe is that everything complements each other perfectly.  

Capsule wardrobes are centred around buying less and buying better.  

The first step to creating a capsule wardrobe begins with organising your existing wardrobe. Identify the key pieces to keep, and remove anything you no longer wear or need. You could swap or share these unwanted items with friends, sell them online or donate to charity and second-hand stores.   

Base Layers  

Winter is all about layering, looking cool while staying warm. The starting point for any capsule wardrobe is the base layers, plain block-coloured t-shirts. One white, one black, and one nude or neutral tone is a good place to start. Simple oversized shirts suit any occasion and there’s none more versatile than the plain white cotton.   

Jumpers and Sweatshirts  

Knitted jumpers are a girl’s best friend during the colder months, they make any outfit look put together and act as a cosy extra layer to keep you warm. Neutral-coloured jumpers can be worn with anything and are a perfect transitional autumn-to-winter piece. Striped jumpers are all the rage this season and make a comeback every year, a classic must-have garment to add to your capsule wardrobe.  

A simple crewneck sweatshirt is a go-to for those lazy days, heading to the gym, or teaming with a pair of jeans and trainers for a trip to the shops.   

Jeans and Trousers  

A pair of black and blue jeans will go with anything. They are a staple in every wardrobe and are the key to a capsule wardrobe. Consider a pair of wide-leg or tailored trousers, a thicker pair works best for winter, but linen is lighter and cooler for summer months.    

Dresses and Skirts  

Cliché and classic for a reason, the little black dress is appropriate for any formal occasion and can be mixed up with different accessories and shoes.  

A classic maxi skirt will see you through all seasons, perfect with tights underneath and a pair of boots in the winter or paired with some sandals when the sun makes its long-awaited appearance again. 

Coats and Jackets  

A trench coat is timeless, they have the ability to make any outfit look instantly put together and chic. Channel that Parisian girl style with an oversized blazer, perfect for matching with a dress for date night, or over a jumper to head out for lunch. A biker jacket is another must for a capsule wardrobe, instantly dressing up any outfit, an ideal choice for that in-between weather.  

Footwear  

Black boots reappear year in, year out, and with good reason. They are a constant in the world of fashion. Another staple footwear to keep in your capsule wardrobe not just for winter, but all year round is a white trainer.   

Jewellery and Accessories   

Classic jewellery pieces are personal to everyone, whether you have a pair of earrings you always wear or like to switch it up daily. If you lean more towards one out of gold or silver, or like to mix and match, a pair of hoops and a simple pendant necklace will always be the perfect addition to any outfit.  

A large over the shoulder tote bag is a must. The roomy style is perfect for travelling, carrying your work, or days out, you can always rely on them. While the trusty cross-body bag allows you to look stylish and feel comfortable whilst doing so for those days on the go. 

The most exciting part about building a capsule wardrobe is that it’s completely your own, you get to make the decisions and choose, so have fun with it!