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). This sounds like a laborious task, but you’ll gain awareness of what you actually wear (and what you don’t), and you’re more likely to get a grasp of your personal style; meaning you’re also more likely to then only invest in pieces that you know will work with your favourite wardrobe heroes.
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. Be sure to try different materials and weights before settling on the one – we recommend 100 per cent cotton, which promises softness and durability. Excellent shirting, too, is a necessity. Pair with trousers, a blazer and loafers – other capsule wardrobe essentials – for smart occasions, or jeans and white trainers for more casual moments.
Outerwear-wise, you can’t go wrong with a trench coat, especially during autumn. Twists on the classic silhouette from Róhe, Toteme are worth the investment, while high-street brands like Cos and Arket also specialise in stylish trenches. As for bags? Opt for a sturdy tote that’s roomy enough to hold everything you could possibly need as your everyday companion, or look to a statement shoulder bag to see you from desk to dinner table.
How do I start a capsule wardrobe?
This will vary according to what is already in your wardrobe, but a good starting-point – as mentioned above – 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.
Consider donating any unwanted items to charity, or if you’re savvy with resale, try listing on eBay. You might even find some vintage and pre-loved pieces that fill your wardrobe gaps in the process. Scroll on to see the staples that the Vogue editors consider foundational aspects of a capsule wardrobe, which will last for many seasons to come.
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 tote bag: Aspinal Zipped Regent Tote Bag, £395
- The trench coat: Toteme Double-Breasted Trench Coat, £870
- The black leggings: Leset Stirrup Leggings, £200
- The blazer: Arket Oversized Blazer, £159
- The hoop earrings: Mejuri Dôme Hoops, £88
- The loafers: Grenson Hattie Loafers, £330
- The tailored trousers: Filippa K Darcey Wool Trousers, £225
- The shirt: Anine Bing Plaza Shirt, £220
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 shopping editor, Joy Montgomery.
The hard-working jeans
Finding the perfect pair of 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 editor-at-large. “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 do-it-all tote bag
Tote bags are an accessory that you can trust. These roomy styles will fit anything and everything from laptops and chargers to your gym kit and snacks. Plus, the right tote will act as both a useful accessory and an outfit elevator, so consider styles from Khaite, Loewe or The Row to add an air of elegance to your everyday wardrobe.
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 and can be worn throughout the seasons. For winter, layer up with jeans and a chunky knit, or pair with a pleated skirt and loose white T-shirt for warmer weather. Opt for a good quality iteration like any of the below, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it year after year.
The sporty trainers
Trainers are a failsafe essential suitable for work, play and everything in between. Retro-inspired styles from Adidas, such as the Handball Spezial, SL 72, and various collaborations with Wales Bonner are instant wardrobe wins, acting as colourful accompaniments to everyday-wear. Likewise, Nike’s Cortez model is having a welcome renaissance – and we can attest to its comfort and versatility.
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
There are a roster of brands that team Vogue relies on for white T-shirts. For styles that won’t break the bank, try Cos’s Clean Cut T-shirt, which is the perfect boxy fit, or opt for Arket’s Heavyweight style that feels luxuriously thick and won’t show any bra lines. It’s also not a bad idea to invest in a premium take when it comes to something that you might wear regularly – styles from Dries Van Noten, The Row and Toteme will tick all the boxes.
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The hoop earrings
When buying jewellery, it’s important to implement the “buy well, buy once” rule. Invest in a good quality pair of hoops from the likes of Mejuri, Missoma or Ottiumberg, which won’t fade or tarnish – even after multiple wears. If you have several ear piercings, try mixing and matching metals.
The black leggings
No longer reserved for gym outings, let black leggings be one of your greatest style companions for 2024. Wear them with a tailored blazer, crisp shirt and smart loafers for a day at the office, then switch to a kitten heel to take on the town. Try a pair with a flared hem or stirrup straps for a chic twist on the classic silhouette.
Read more: Best Black Leggings For Women
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.” And Agolde isn’t the only denim brand offering premium tanks – take a look at Frame’s scoop-neck vest or Citizens Of Humanity’s ribbed style, both of which will last several wears and washes. Whichever iteration you settle on, be sure to enjoy the countless outfit opportunities the humble vest can offer – it might just be the most versatile item in a capsule wardrobe.
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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 senior shopping 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.”
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The versatile jumper
When it comes to layering, a simple crew neck or roll-neck will do the job nicely. While safe colours like black, beige or grey are undeniably versatile, bright shades are also welcome, as they can break up an otherwise neutral-based wardrobe. Mohair and cashmere are equal parts soft and enduring, and if you opt for something that risks pilling, we suggest trying a fabric shaver which will help to elongate the life of your knits.
The smart shoes
Buckled, backless, patent or un-polished, there are so many iterations of loafers to choose from – and just as many ways to wear them. Try styling Vagabond’s Naima loafer with a pair of loose-fitting jeans and a statement jacket, or pair Duke & Dexter’s mules with tailored shorts and a simple T-shirt. Top tip: experiment with different sock pairings to add an unexpected element to your 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 with sandals and a tucked-in T-shirt or tank top for spring and summer. Long denim styles from Levi’s or Frame will improve with age, while a wrap skirt from Toteme will be your saviour when the dress code says “smart casual.”
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The classic belt
A classic leather belt with an elegant metal clasp will be one of the hardest working pieces in your capsule wardrobe. Like a great pair of shoes, a good belt will soften and mould with your movements, making it a priceless piece that you will value more with every wear.
The leather jacket
Whether oversized and rugged, or upgraded with minimal embellishments, you can’t go wrong with a great leather jacket. Designer options from the likes of Prada and Miu Miu are everything they’re cracked up to be, but don’t doubt the durability of Cos’s moto jacket or & Other Stories’s oversized bomber. If you’re looking for something premium for a less than premium price, browse the endless listings on eBay, where there are plenty of preloved options on offer.
The versatile dress
For those times when you want to “throw on and go” and still feel fabulous, a versatile dress is an effortless option for all occasions. Try a block colour in a textured material like seersucker or silk to keep things simple but elevated.
The statement bag
A well-chosen bag is the easiest way to transition your daytime looks into evening. Look out for styles that boast colour or embellishment, like a monogrammed Gucci Blondie bag, that can pull a look together, or a red top-handle from Ferragamo that will go with anything and last a lifetime. Other styles from Bottega Veneta and Fendi will offer sophisticated glam for when a tote won’t cut the mustard.
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