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Style INSIDER.

The New Look guide to building a capsule wardrobe

Capsule wardrobe white shirt

Let’s start with the basics: what even is a capsule wardrobe anyway? In simple terms, it’s an edit of staple pieces that can be mixed and matched with each other in endless ways, so you never run out of outfit options. The idea is that it makes getting dressed way easier - plus it cuts down on spending *and* is better for the planet. These pieces are normally timeless styles in neutral colours that bypass trends to ensure longevity.

So how to go about building a capsule wardrobe? Start by thinking about your day-to-day lifestyle and how you spend your time. This’ll help you work out what you need in your wardrobe – and what can go. Also, think about your personal style and what colours work for you. A capsule wardrobe is all about simplifying things and making getting ready in the morning as easy as possible.

Don’t forget to check what you already have in your wardrobe – you might be surprised to find you already have most of what you need. Take the time to really look at everything and consider if it still has a place in your collection. If you haven’t worn something for ages, donate or sell it to create space in your wardrobe.

Wondering where to begin your capsule collection? Here are the ten pieces we’d pick up to get started.

Capsule wardrobe black blazer

A neutral blazer

You can’t go wrong with a classic blazer. It can be worn anywhere (and with anything), and if you choose a neutral colour that goes with the rest of your wardrobe? The outfitting opportunities are endless. We love a black long-sleeve blazer to take you from day to night and work to weekend.

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Capsule wardrobe little black dress

A Little Black Dress

There’s a reason LBDs are so iconic. They’re classic, you can dress them up or down and they’re just as good for going shopping as they are for brunch or going out-out. Add a little black dress to your capsule wardrobe for a failsafe style you can reach for whenever, wherever.

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Capsule wardrobe classic trench coat

A trench coat

Always in style, easy to wear and versatile – you can’t go wrong with a trench coat. It’s the perfect timeless style for your capsule wardrobe. We love a trench for adding polish to off-duty leggings and sweats, or over tailoring for dressed-up days. Again, choose a neutral colour and classic style you’ll wear for years and years to come. We can’t get enough of this Stone Longline Belted Trench Coat.

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Capsule wardrobe blue jeans

Jeans

Jeans were *always* going to be on the list for our capsule wardrobe, let’s face it. A style no brainer, they’re a go-to on days you can’t decide what to wear, and they’re the most versatile piece you’ll ever own (trust us!). We recommend a blue straight-leg style for a crisp, clean silhouette (black jeans work, too), just steer clear of ripped jeans or trend-led styles for your capsule wardrobe.

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Capsule wardrobe white shirt

A classic shirt

A shirt in any colour is a great shout for your capsule collection, but they don’t come much more classic than a white shirt. You can wear it as an overshirt, beach cover up, with tailoring or paired with leggings and heels to head out. Plus, it’s a great foundation for layering over when the weather gets chilly.

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Capsule wardrobe basic tops

Basic tops

Basic tops are another essential for your capsule collection – and the choices are endless. To narrow down your options, you can’t go wrong with a long-sleeve top or two (not too many though, remember we’re doing minimalism here), a sleeveless top and a roll-neck. Again, choose neutral colours and simple styles so they’re easy to pair and accessorise as needed.

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Capsule wardrobe black trousers

Black trousers

An absolute must-have, black trousers really need no introduction. Day, night, work, fun, you can wear them anywhere and they go with everything in your wardrobe. Choose your fave fit and fabric and you’re good to go. We love tailored trousers for a classic, understated look.

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Capsule wardrobe white tee

A white T-shirt

Just like black trousers, it’s pretty hard to beat a white tee for versatility. Skip the logos or prints and choose a crisp, clean style for a blank canvas you can style however you like. We love the endless choice of cuts and shapes you can find – our favourite being a classic crew-neck fit with short sleeves.

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Stone trousers

A great alternative to black, light-coloured trousers instantly lift your look and are a great option for warmer months. Stone trousers in a classic cut are the perfect addition to your capsule wardrobe (we LOVE a pair of great-fitting wide-leg stone trousers) and can be worn with a white tee or a basic top for effortless style in an instant. You can even pair them with a matching blazer to create a stylish co-ord.

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A cream jumper

A capsule wardrobe isn’t complete without a little bit of knitwear. A warm, neutral jumper will work with everything else in your edit, as well as keeping you cosy. Take your pick of neckline and shapes – our favourite is a long-sleeved roll-neck style. A classic!

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