Usually, a capsule collection is a refined selection of your most frequently worn pieces, your classic must-haves that you can’t live without, but are versatile enough to last through every season, any event, year after year.
Some of the most wanted wardrobe staples to keep in the closet include a reliable pair of jeans, smart wide-leg trousers, classic layering items like T-shirts and tanks, as well as a timeless leather biker jacket and blazer.
In most situations, you can wear every item in your capsule wardrobe as one complete outfit, or use it as a foundation to style with other clothes.
For example, flattering jeans paired with a white T-shirt, black heeled boots, and a black leather jacket can work for the office, after-work drinks, brunch with friends, or your next shopping trip.
The best thing about a capsule wardrobe is that it’s timeless. So, if you don’t already have certain items in your closet, they’re worth investing in as they’ll see you through any occasion, season, and style.
Typically, a capsule wardrobe consists of classic colours and tonal hues like black, white, greys, navy, and camel. These can be paired with any outfit, which is why they so popular.
While some people might prefer a more colourful wardrobe, you can easily add colour through layering items, accessories, or makeup to elevate a look and make it more personal to your style. And, if your style changes in the future, you can always fall back on your capsule wardrobe.
If you’re looking to declutter your wardrobe, slim down your closet, and start creating a capsule wardrobe, Maisie Bovingdon writing for The Sun shared some useful tips to help you curate the essentials.
The perfect black bag
A classic black bag is a must-have. It goes with any outfit and is suitable for any occasion, day or night.
Jeans
Jeans are a necessity in any wardrobe, and while you might have many styles, from skinny to wide-leg or flares, the top choice is a straight leg in classic blue denim. A pair of jeans is always a safe bet, no matter the season. To keep the capsule wardrobe limited, Maisie suggested jeans in blue denim, ecru and black.
Black oversized blazer
Such a versatile statement piece, an oversized design is flattering and timeless that you can wear all year round – especially if it’s made from cotton.
Black turtle neck
A turtle neck, or roll-neck jumper, is stylish, classy, formal and flattering as they make your arms and neck look longer, said Maisie. They’re perfect for keeping warm in winter, and you can wear them under a blazer, shacket, another jumper, or leather jacket.
Chunky knit jumper
A knit jumper is perfect for layering in winter, wearing on its own, under a blazer or parker jacket, with jeans, leggings, a skirt, over a dress, paired with boots, trainers, you name it.
But you can also keep it with you in the spring and summer seasons too, drape it over your shoulders so it’s easy to put on when the warm nights get a bit chilly at those upcoming garden parties.
White T-shirt
A classic white round-neck T-shirt goes with everything. You can tuck it into jeans, a skirt, or shorts, wear it over leggings, dress it up or down, wear it alone (if in a large size), or layer it on top. No matter how you choose to style a white T-shirt, it will always look stylish.
Black-heeled boots
If you’re only going to buy one pair of boots, go for classic black ones. A block heel ankle boot with a pointed or square toe matches every outfit.
This footwear essential can be paired with jeans, a skirt and jumper for work, or a blazer dress for weekend drinks – the options are limitless.
Cotton shirt
A cotton shirt might seem very formal, but it doesn’t have to be worn with a suit for work. It’s a necessity for those days when you want to look polished and put together with minimal effort.
Paired with jeans and trainers, it looks timeless and works great under a chunky round knit jumper and leggings, or with smart trousers.
Classic white trainers
A pair of classic white trainers is a must-have in your wardrobe. Pair them with skirts and floral dresses in the summer, with jeans or trousers in winter and spring. As long as they’re clean and bright, you’ll look really stylish.
Leather trousers
Whether faux or real, wide-leg leather trousers are so versatile and look effortlessly chic. You can wear leather trousers with a slogan jumper, trainers and a trench coat for a casual but smart look, or with a blouse and heels for evening drinks
Midi dress
Practical, comfortable and versatile, a midi dress pairs well with sandals or trainers in the summer, heels for a wedding or formal occasion, or boots in the winter with tights.
Leather biker jacket
An oversized biker style is preferred rather than a fitted leather jacket, as it’s timeless and matches everything. Plus, if your body changes over time, you can still wear it. After years of use, the worn and weathered look just adds to its cool, vintage appeal.
LBD
A little black dress has been a classic evening outfit for many years and isn’t going anywhere. A little black dress is elegant and timeless that has endless styling possibilities.
Racer vest
This summer piece goes perfectly with trousers, jeans, shorts, and even skirts, so you can really get creative.
Gold Jewellery
An outfit is complete without jewellery. If you’re not sure how to style gold jewellery, Maisie suggested starting with a statement gold hoop, whether it’s a smaller huggie or a chunkier style.