Hands up if you’ve ever stood in front of your wardrobe and been overwhelmed by choice? Or worse, had to dig around in your (clean) laundry hamper to find some semblance of a coordinated outfit? For many, getting dressed for the day is a constant struggle, and the answer could be simpler than you think. It starts with a capsule wardrobe: a thoughtfully curated collection of pieces that pair well together – trust us, it will completely revolutionise how you get dressed each day.
The beauty of a capsule wardrobe is that you don’t need to blow a small house deposit to set it up, and you can take your time adding to it. By focusing on timeless essentials, you’re investing in pieces that will remain stylish year after year – which is a win for your back pocket, too. Here are some key items to help you start building your own capsule wardrobe.
Linen shirt
Linen has a way of making you look effortlessly put together without feeling like you’ve overdone it. So when you’re planning an outfit that needs to be stylish and easy, a linen shirt is the perfect pick. Plus, it goes with pretty much anything, so it’s a piece you’ll keep reaching for.
You can dress up this shirt with high-waisted chino pants and loafers for a polished look or keep it casual by pairing it with denim shorts and sandals. If you’re heading out later, switch to wide-leg pants and add some statement earrings.
Chino pants
A smart pair of chino pants will work in just about any situation. Whether you’ve got a full day of meetings or a dinner date, these pants can easily transition with you.
Start with a linen shirt for the office, then switch to a fitted top and some statement accessories for the evening. Chinos are comfortable, stylish and pair well with everything from loafers to sneakers, making them a must-have in any capsule wardrobe.
Australian cotton V-neck tee
Every wardrobe needs that one go-to tee, the one that goes with everything. An Australian cotton V-neck tee is exactly that. It’s soft, durable and just the right fit.
The V-neck adds a touch of style while remaining simple enough to pair with just about anything. Wear it under a blazer for a refined look or on its own with jeans or shorts for everyday wear.
Linen wide-leg pants
If you’re looking for comfort without losing on style, linen wide-leg pants are just what you need. These pants add a touch of breezy elegance to any outfit, whether you’re heading to work or grabbing a casual lunch. The wide-leg cut gives you all the freedom to move, and the linen fabric keeps things light and airy.
Pair these pants with a simple cotton tee for a relaxed vibe or dress them up with a fitted top and statement jewellery. However you wear them, they’re a chic must-have for your capsule wardrobe.
Casual denim shorts
No capsule wardrobe is complete without a reliable pair of denim shorts. They’re the quintessential summer staple, and are perfect for those warm, sunny days when you need something easy and stylish.
Don’t let their casual vibe fool you. Denim shorts can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Pair them with a V-neck tee and sandals for a relaxed day at the beach, or swap in a linen shirt and strappy sandals for an evening barbecue.
This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
