27 Dec Less is More: How to Build a Versatile Capsule Wardrobe
We can all agree that most guys don’t have a plan when they shop for clothes. That’s why so many of us face the daily wardrobe dilemma of what to wear.
This scenario might sound familiar to you:
You are getting ready for work in the morning, you open your wardrobe and you think to yourself ‘I have nothing to wear’ yet it’s packed full of clothes. Overwhelmed, you throw on the first thing that you see, which is often a far cry from a sleek look you were hoping for.
Deciding what to wear every day can be a real struggle, especially if you’re looking to put together an outfit that is both stylish and functional. That’s why we’ve built a capsule wardrobe that works as hard as you do, offering endless outfit combinations with minimal stress.
WHAT IS CAPSULE WARDROBE?
A capsule wardrobe is a selection of clothing staples that are versatile enough to create a variety of outfits for different occasions. Think of it as a streamlined wardrobe full of your favourite, most-worn pieces that never go out of style.
Building a capsule wardrobe isn’t about having less but choosing better. It’s about choosing better quality pieces that you truly love and would wear often. It’s about building a wardrobe that’s as versatile as it is sustainable.
What are the key principles of building a successful capsule wardrobe?
FOCUS ON Neutral COLOURS
Building your foundation with neutral-coloured classics is a key principle of a successful capsule wardrobe. Neutral colours are versatile, which means you can create multiple outfits without needing a ton of clothes. They’re perfect for creating a blank canvas for pops of colour, patterns, and statement pieces.
INVEST IN VERSATILE PIECES
It is important to invest in versatile pieces, as it essentially boils down to maximising your clothing’s potential and minimising wardrobe overwhelm. Versatile pieces let you create many outfit possibilities from a limited selection. Keep reading to find out what those pieces are.
PRIORITISE classic and timeless designs
When building a capsule wardrobe, investing in classic and timeless designs is like a rock-solid foundation. If you only invest in trendy clothes, they will most likely need to be replaced by the next trend. It’s about building a wardrobe that’s functional, versatile, and sustainable in the long run.
THE PERFECT STARTER CAPSULE WARDROBE
We’ve handpicked timeless staples that effortlessly interchange, featuring classic styles in neutral tones. Going for neutral colours as your foundation will act as a blank canvas upon which you can layer bolder accents and statement pieces.
Here is an example of how you could alternate the pieces throughout the week, creating timeless yet effortless looks.
COATS
The three most versatile coat types that we would recommend for building a capsule wardrobe include Overcoat, Peacoat, and Trench coat.
Overcoats are perfect layering pieces, especially ideal for layering with sweaters, cardigans, or jackets for colder temperatures. A well-made overcoat can last for years, making it a worthwhile investment for any wardrobe.
Peacoats are ideal for colder weather, providing excellent insulation, and can be easily adapted based on formality. The tailored silhouette of the peacoat adds sophistication to any outfit, making it perfect for work or formal occasions.
Trench coats have a classic appeal and are typically equipped with features like belts, buttons, and flaps, offering wind and rain protection without sacrificing style.
JACKETS
One classic piece we would recommend is the Paul Smith coach jacket which is versatile enough to adapt to different settings. However, if you are looking for more casual options when building a capsule wardrobe we would definitely suggest going for options of jackets from BOSS or Polo Ralph Lauren.
BOSS’s clean lines and relaxed tailoring translate well to casual looks, while Polo Ralph Lauren’s classic American style offers timeless silhouettes for everyday wear. The specific pieces we recommend are a BOSS bomber-style leather jacket that is definitely a statement piece as well as a Polo Ralph Lauren repellent jacket that is practical and functional.
SMART JACKETS/BLAZERS
A blazer can instantly elevate your look, making it a worthwhile investment. They’re not just reserved for formal occasions; they’re versatile pieces that can instantly make you feel more put-together and confident.
KNITWEAR
Knitwear can be a fantastic addition to a timeless wardrobe, offering warmth and comfort, especially during colder seasons. We highly recommend choosing natural materials like cashmere, wool, or cotton for a timeless aesthetic that goes beyond trends. Having different textures will also create a visual interest which can be crucial when layering.
If you need to more guidance on how to find the right knitwear for you, check out our latest article “Timeless knitwear every man should own.”
TOPS
When choosing the right shirts and t-shirts, there are key things to consider to help you choose the right pieces.
We would recommend going for versatile colours like white, black, grey, navy, and olive green. These hues seamlessly pair with numerous bottoms, creating a cohesive and adaptable capsule wardrobe.
Classic styles like button-down oxfords offer polished versatility, effortlessly transitioning from work to dinner whereas Polos adds a touch of sporty sophistication, complementing both jeans and chinos.
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JEANS
Dark jeans should be a new go-to when building a capsule wardrobe. Unlike lighter washes, dark denim acts as a neutral base, seamlessly pairing with a wide range of colours and styles.
It can effortlessly transition between casual and formal settings. We would recommend dressing dark denim with blazer and polish shoes to work, or dress it down with a t-shirt and trainers for weekend outings.
If you want to find out the right fit, check out our guide to ‘Choosing the right men’s jeans’.
CHINOS
Chinos offer flexibility and comfort without compromising on style. You can conquer the day without feeling constricted. Opt for versatile classic colours like navy, khaki, or dark green to create endless outfit combinations.
SHOES
Shoes can make a big difference in your outfit, as well as be a longterm investment for your capsule wardrobe. When choosing trainers we would recommend a clean and minimalistic design as those are more versatile options for a casual work day, a special occasion, or for everyday wear.
Boots, on the other hand, offer stylish practicality during colder months while adding a touch of ruggedness or sophistication. If you are looking for something more classic and elegant, we suggest brogues as they can add a touch of sophistication and formality to any outfit.
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