Building an excellent capsule wardrobe takes time and patience. Looking at what you already have – and what you might be missing – is a good place to start (refer to Vogue’s step-by-step wardrobe detox guide for tips).
What does a capsule wardrobe consist of?
There are certain timeless staples that the Vogue editors swear by. Let’s start with the basics: white T-shirts are team Vogue’s wardrobe MVP. Find a style that fits just right, focusing on the hemline and sleeve lengths. Excellent shirting, too, is a necessity. Pair with trousers, a blazer and loafers – other essentials – for smart occasions, or jeans and white trainers for more casual moments.
Outerwear-wise, you can’t go wrong with a trench coat. Twists on the classic silhouette from Toteme and Arket are worth the investment. As for bags? Opt for a sturdy tote that’s roomy enough to hold everything you could possibly need.
Read more: The 30-Second Styling Tricks To Take Into 2024
How do I start a capsule wardrobe?
This will vary according to what is already in your wardrobe, but a good starting point is working out what you actually wear. Our top tip? Turn all your coat hangers to face the same way, then every time you wear something, turn it around. By the end of the month, you’ll have a good sense of the wardrobe heroes that you can’t live without – be it a white shirt or straight leg jeans – as these are the pieces you should be basing your capsule around.
Vogue’s capsule wardrobe wish-list:
- The white T-shirt: Cos The Clean Cut T-Shirt, £30
- The jeans: Arket Cloud Loose Jeans, £97
- The trench coat: Toteme Double-Breasted Trench Coat, £740
- The black leggings: Leset Stirrup Leggings, £117
- The blazer: Arket Oversized Wool Blend Twill Blazer, £159
- The hoop earrings: Mejuri Dôme Hoops, £58
- The loafers: Arket Penny Loafers, £169
- The tailored trousers: Filippa K Darcey Wool Trousers, £225
- The white shirt: With Nothing Underneath Classic White Shirt, £95
The reliable shirt
Never underestimate the quiet power of a good shirt. Be it clean and crisp poplin, breezy linen or silk, there’s one for every situation. “I love a shirt that fits loosely over the mid-section and skims over the hips, and British brand With Nothing Underneath has some great options in this department,” says British Vogue’s commerce editor, Joy Montgomery.
The hard-working jeans
Finding the perfect jeans is no mean feat, but great ones will last you a lifetime. “I always favour a no-fuss classic straight leg jean, ideally in a washed but true-blue denim and with a raw hem,” explains Sarah Harris, British Vogue’s global network lead and European deputy editor. “This shape literally works with everything. Top tip: if you’re looking for denim inspiration, Google the late Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, I love her in jeans.”
The trench coat
There’s a reason why trench coats have stood the test of time. Easy to throw on, they instantly pull a look together.
The sporty trainers
Trainers are a failsafe essential suitable for work, play and everything in between.
Read more: The Best White Trainers
The tailored trousers
Tailored trousers are not only a failsafe office essential – they’re a capsule wardrobe necessity. If off-the-rail styles don’t fit quite right, visit a tailor to make tweakments. “Classic, minimal and transitional. I think everyone needs to have a pair of classic black trousers in their wardrobe,” says British Vogue’s fashion editor Eniola Dare “ Cos’s straight-leg trousers are such a great fit and look perfect with either trainers or heels.”
The white T-shirt
“I’m forever looking for the perfect white T-shirt because I pretty much wear one every day,” remarks Sarah Harris. Follow her lead with our pick of the best styles.
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The hoop earrings
No jewellery box is complete without a great pair of hoops.
The black leggings
No longer reserved for gym outings, let black leggings be one of your greatest style companions for 2024.
The do-it-all tote bag
Tote bags are an accessory that you can trust. These roomy styles will fit anything and everything.
The vest top
“When it comes to white tank tops, you can’t beat Agolde,” says Joy Montgomery. “It’s definitely an investment, but the sturdy fabric means that, even after multiple washes, it looks good as the day I got it.”
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Read more: Shop Vogue’s Edit Of The Best Black Boots
The blazer
When done right, louche tailoring can be exquisitely chic. Our tip? Ensure the oversized fit doesn’t swamp you. “I'm not typically a blazer fan, but Filippa K’s tailored offering convinced me to wear them more often,” says commerce writer, Alice Cary. “The cut and fit of the single-breasted Davina style is really flattering, whether worn with the matching Darcey trousers, jeans or a skirt.”
The versatile jumper
When it comes to spring layering, a simple crew neck or rollneck will do the job nicely. Don’t be afraid to try a bright colour.
The smart shoes
Facing a footwear conundrum? Loafers will add polish to any outfit.
The throw-on skirt
A throw-on skirt is a capsule wardrobe staple for all seasons. Pair with boots and a coat for winter, and sandals with a tucked-in T-shirt or tank top for spring and summer.
The classic belt
A classic leather belt with an elegant metal clasp will be one of the hardest working pieces in your capsule wardrobe.
The leather jacket
Whether oversized and rugged or upgraded with minimal embellishments, you can’t go wrong with a great leather jacket.
The versatile dress
An effortless option for all occasions, a versatile dresses will never let you down.
The statement bag
A well-chosen grab-and-go bag is the easiest way to transition your daytime looks into evening. Look out for styles that boast colour or embellishment.
