The idea of a capsule wardrobe has become an attractive blueprint in fashion and style spheres for taking the guesswork out of choosing an outfit every day. The purpose behind a capsule wardrobe is to amass a collection of essential or classic clothing and accessory pieces that you can easily mix and match together, usually fitting a particular color palette of your choosing. This practice streamlines and revolutionizes the way many of us dress, saving time, space, and even money when you invest in high-quality pieces that can be recycled into your looks daily – without becoming threadbare or tarnished quickly. With many people nowadays rejecting fast fashion and looking to declutter their spaces, the capsule wardrobe is a worthwhile project. Here is your guide to the five essential items for building one.
A sturdy handbag
An important item for any woman’s wardrobe is a great handbag. Whether you are partial to designer items like YSL bags, or you’re just looking for a roomy tote for daily use, the key is to look for high quality, durability, and authenticity. Combining practicality with chicness, a sturdy handbag with plenty of space and compartments makes for an essential addition to your closet. Handbags are fantastic statement pieces that also allow the wearer to express their personal style. It’s a win-win.
A decent blazer
You might be surprised by how much dimension a simple black blazer can bring to your look, taking it from drab to fab. Consider this, you’re off to a job interview and you’re fossicking through your wardrobe for a little something to cover up with: that shabby cardigan in the back? Too casual. That red knitted poncho? No way. However, a neutral-toned blazer would make the perfect addition for this scenario, adding an air of professionalism to your outfit. Here are some other fashion tips on how to style a blazer.
A pair of denim bottoms
Where other fabrics falter, denim is forever. From an economic standpoint, investing in a great pair or two of denim bottoms from a reputable brand and taking care of them according to Levi’s definitive denim care guide just makes good sense. Whether your preference is a bootleg cut or you opt for figure-hugging spray ons, a pair of classic blue jeans can be paired with almost anything to create a range of outfits that can be dressed up or dressed down. Why not pair some blue skinny jeans with a funky blouse and a black blazer next time you hit town for brunch?
A crisp white shirt
An abundance of fashion blogs have sung the praises of building your closet out with the basics such as neutral-toned tank tops, t-shirts and black leggings, but there’s one standout article of essential clothing that has been slept on and under-celebrated – the plain white shirt. A collared white shirt is one of the most versatile pieces a woman can add to her wardrobe, easily worked into the day’s outfit for a professional setting, married with a pair of slacks for an afternoon out, or even as a light pullover in summer. This one is a must have.
A chunky pair of shoes
With the revival of 90s fashion, as well as Balenciaga’s 2017 fall/winter collection, it’s no doubt that over-the-top, bulky shoes have made a titanic comeback. Not only have they proven to be a stalwart of the fashion and style community in recent times, but the hype doesn’t appear to be slowing down. Combining edge with practicality, a chunky shoe of some variation is essential to every woman’s wardrobe. Whether you prefer a platform boot, 90s style oversized trainers or you’re after some weighty loafers, there’s a pair out there to suit every style and budget.
Whether you are looking to build a capsule wardrobe from the foundation up, or just trying to flesh out an existing closet with items that are versatile, durable and likely to last, sticking to these staples sets you off on the right foot. No matter your style and manner of self-expression, these items of clothing and accessories will set you up for a wardrobe that takes the stress and procrastination out of styling yourself as each morning comes, saving you time and effort. Be sure to shop around but always remember to invest in high-quality, reputably branded pieces that are sure to last!