Capsule Wardrobe Principles & Visual Guide
If you open your wardrobe and feel like you have nothing to wear - it is probably because your capsule wardrobe needs rethinking. Whether you are at the very beginning of building your capsule wardrobe or would like to revise & refresh an existing one - use this guide.
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of versatile, high-quality items that can be easily mixed and matched to create different outfits. Once a solid capsule has been built combining more unusual designs into the equation is easy.
Basic principles of a capsule wardrobe
- When choosing items for your capsule wardrobe, opt for classic styles that are timeless and versatile.
- Invest in high-quality items. It may cost more upfront, but will ultimately save you money in the long run as they will last longer, look better and need to be replaced less frequently.
- Oversize in NOT capsule style. Well-fitting, proportionate to your height fitting clothes are.
- Too tight on your torso, or too skinny on your legs is not classy or timeless either.
- Avoid screaming logos. LVs or Gucci signs & prints in visible places are tacky. Stick to a neutral muted color palette which can be easily mixed and matched. See table below.
- When building your capsule choose plain colours over prints. Prints can be added into the equation once a solid capsule has been put together. Keep accessories to a minimum. Less is more.
- When it comes to a capsule wardrobe base colours are the foundation of your wardrobe - that is they are 60-70% of your garments.
Items That Form the Capsule Wardrobe
Lightweight Top Layer. You need 8-10 quality items in a variety of main & accent colours.
- Dress shirt: A white, ivory & pale blue dress shirts is a staple that can be worn with a suit or dressed down with dark jeans.
- Casual shirts: in khaki, dark blue for casual outings - perfect for date nights. Linen & denim works well. Nehru collar is a great casual look on a shirt.
- A well fitting T-shirt. I repeat - well fitting: not tight to show your guns, not oversize. It is a versatile piece that can be worn with anything, perfect for layering or on its own. Get a few in a variety of main & accent colours.
- A well fitting polo shirt. Well-fitting is key! A polo shirt is a versatile piece that can be worn with chino trousers, jeans or shorts. Get a few in a variety of capsule colours as per table above.
- Roll neck: simplicity and fit are always key
Warm Top Layer - you need 5-7 items for a capsule.
- A tailored blazer: A blazer is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down and can be worn with a variety of bottoms. Choose linen mix, or a heavier wool. Don't use your regular suit jacket for this purpose. Don't ask why - just don't. Artefact London is the best at making bespoke tailoring - naturally. Get in touch if you are ready to invest.
- A black sweater: A black sweater is a timeless piece that can be worn with a suit or dressed down with jeans. Avoid chunky knits.
- A tailored cardigan: A cardigan is a versatile piece that can be worn with a dress shirt and tie or dressed down with a T-shirt and jeans. Avoid chunky knits. A tailored overcoat: An overcoat is a great addition to a capsule wardrobe as it can be worn over a suit or a more casual outfit to add a layer of warmth and style. Invest in a bespoke with Artefact or look for a classic in retail.
- A classy casual coat: Keep this one simple. Simplicity will allow you to wear it with more items from your wardrobe.
- A quilted gilet: worn over t-shirt or shirt is a rather convenient way to add an extra layer under a jacket, zip hoodie or coat.
- A knitted or denim jacket is a classic piece that can be worn with a t-shirt when a classic jacket feels too dressy.
- An overshirt: for a casual chilly evening.
- A grey knit vest: A grey vest can be worn as an additional layer over a dress shirt, or with a suit to give it a more casual look.
You Can Also Add...
- A knitted or denim jacket is a classic piece that can be worn with a t-shirt when a classic jacket feels too dressy.
- An overshirt: for a casual chilly evening.
- A grey knit vest: A grey vest can be worn as an additional layer over a dress shirt, or with a suit to give it a more casual look.
Bottom - you need 5-7 quality garments to build a capsule.
- A pair of smart trousers: plain and simple trousers are versatile and can be worn with a blazer or a casual shirt.
- A pair of raw denim jeans in dark blue & lighter blue: A good pair of raw denim jeans can be dressed up or down, and will only get better with age.
- Shorts: avoid large patch pockets for your capsule. Reminder: not too skinny, not too wide here
- A quality sports suit for lounging in style.
- A tailored navy suit: A navy suit is a classic and timeless option that can be worn for a variety of occasions. Navy suits every skin tone which is why it is such a popular option. Grey being the second most popular.
Shoes - you need 3-4 pairs for your capsule.
- A pair of dark brown leather shoes: A pair of dress shoes in a classic style such as Oxfords or loafers can be worn with a suit or dressed down with khaki trousers. Brogues work well here to add interest to your outfit, while keeping it timeless. Choose brown over black as it works well with a multitude of pastels as well as whites and blacks
- Ivory trainers. Everyone has white trainers. You can be a rebel here and go ivory.
- Black Trainers: surprisingly don't see enough of these despite how versatile they are.
- Summer shoes: sandals, simple. suede loafers
Accessories
- Invest in a simple high-end watch: This is the only place where you can have a logo show. Cartier, Patek, Audemars - you choose. Choose styles that can be worn with a suit as well as casually.
- A dark brown leather belt: A leather belt is a must-have accessory that can be worn with a suit or casual attire. None of that tacky stuff with big H or LV's please. A versatile scarf: You can choose a simple geometric design or choose textured cloth to add interest to your overall outfit.
- A hat that goes in colour with your scarf.
- A versatile backpack or bag: To be used for work or weekend, such as a leather tote or messenger bag.
- Sunglasses: Ray Bans have plenty timeless designs.
How to incorporate colour in a capsule wardrobe?
For easy mix & match combinations choose muted colours to diversify the main colour palette. Sage, burnt orange, pale blue, burgundy, mustard - these colours will easily combine with the main colour palette.
Remember, building a capsule wardrobe is about quality over quantity. It's about investing in items that you love and that will last for years to come. With some planning and careful curation, you can create a wardrobe that is stylish and versatile.
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