8 Key Fashion Pieces to Include in Your First Capsule Wardrobe

The capsule wardrobe is a fashion term that describes a limited or small collection of essential, useful clothing that you can use for any season.

The term was coined by Susie Faux, the owner of a London boutique, in the 1970s.

This fashion concept experienced a revival at the same time that the minimalist movement started gaining prominence again around 2007.

This year, capsule wardrobes are expected to continue to trend because of the changes in work settings, limited social activities, and travel restrictions. Moreover, with many fashionistas focusing on versatility, functionality, simplicity, and sustainability today, having a well-curated closet of essentials is something worth doing today.

Things You Need for Your First Capsule Wardrobe

If you want to get on this sustainable, fashion-forward trend, the first thing you have to do is check your closet if you have the essential pieces for your first capsule wardrobe.

If you don’t have the items below or want a new, better one, head to your favorite women’s clothing stores and get them.

1. Black Blazer

This timeless fashion piece is a must-have for your capsule wardrobe.

With this outerwear, you can get that look you’re aiming for: casual, corporate, or sophisticated. Whether you are wearing a button-down shirt or plain white tee, you can elevate your outfit for the day.

The classic black blazer is the best outerwear to put on for a quick Zoom call with your boss or conference with your team. Even if you’re wearing a comfy tank top, putting on this jacket will make you look all dressed up and ready for a power meeting.

If you’re shopping for a new blazer, make sure it fits you; it should accentuate your best features, but not too tight that you can’t bend your elbows. Also, choose one with lapels that are proportionate to your figure.

2. Knitwear

A knitted cardigan or sweater is another option you can go for instead of a blazer when you’re aiming for a casual or office look.

A cropped sweater will serve you well if you’re on the short side. On the other hand, a longer one will look great on you if you are tall.

Make sure you choose a cardigan, sweater, or pullover that flatters your body shape when shopping or rummaging through your closet.

Lastly, consider adding a light sweater dress to your capsule wardrobe. A midi-length style is comfy enough to wear all day at home and looks stylish when you need to step out.

3. Everyday Dress

A simple little dress in black or any color you like that you know looks good on you is a must for your capsule wardrobe.

You can wear the right everyday dress for any occasion – a corporate meeting, ladies’ night out, or a date with your loved one.

This fashion essential is only one of the few pieces you can wear for any season. During the cold months, put on a long-sleeved top underneath and pair your ensemble with your blazer or cardigan and your favorite boots.

In the summer, wear your everyday dress as it is with your sandals or favorite flats.

When choosing one to add to your collection, opt for one with a classic shape and style, like an A-line dress with spaghetti straps.

4. Business Suit

If power meetings, training facilitation, or employee onboarding sessions are on your regular agenda, you also need to have a business suit in your wardrobe.

Choose from among your great-fitting suits or have one tailor-made to ensure you add one you like to your closet.

Whether you are sifting through your current collection or want to buy or have a new suit made, choose one in a dark or light neutral color. A black, grey, beige, or cream corporate suit will serve you well for any occasion you need to dress up.

Consider having both a skirt and a pair of pants for your ensemble so that you can have at least two options to choose from.

5. Trousers

A comfy pair of trousers is also a must for your capsule wardrobe since these are flattering on most body shapes.

You can wear a classic pair of tailored trousers with your favorite tee, button-down shirt, or flowy blouse. With this simple fashion piece, you can have something you can put on for a street-style casual or office look.

For a timeless piece, choose one in plain dark or light neutral color.

If you’re worried that your trousers look oversized, always wear a fitted top and belt.

6. Button-Up Shirts

These fashion pieces are so versatile that you will do well to have more than one in your closet.

A button-up shirt, particularly a black one, can give you an office-ready look effortlessly.

Your button-up black shirt will also pair well with your jeans, shorts, and casual skirts. For a casual look, wear it loose or tie a knot on one side.

Again, if you want to add other colors to your collection, choose neutral tones since you can easily mix and match them with most bottoms.

7. Basic Jersey Tops

Aside from button-up shirts, you need to have a few basic jersey tops, such as T-shirts and long-sleeved tops. You won’t go wrong with having a selection of plain tees in basic hues or your favorite base colors.

As long as you select tees with the right cut and pair them with the right pieces, you can get a totally put-together look.

This wardrobe essential can be your go-to piece if you think you don’t have anything in your closet that you want to wear for the day.

If you are looking through your collection or want to buy new shirts, choose fabrics that are wash-and-wear, and do not fade quickly.

8. Comfy Footwear

Lastly, your capsule wardrobe won’t be complete without a few comfy, versatile, and stylish footwear.

Start by getting a pair of classic white sneakers since these never go out of style and go with everything. Don’t forget to add one or two stylish flats since these are comfy and also look great with most of your capsule wardrobe pieces.

Make sure you also have a pair of high heels for the more formal occasions you have to attend.

Having a capsule wardrobe can help you save a lot of time choosing your OOTDs and maximize your closet space.

If you want to follow this fashion trend, make sure you get these essentials when shopping in Doha.

AUTHOR BIO

Bianca Castro is the digital marketing executive at Doha Festival City, the largest entertainment, fashion, dining, and shopping destination in Qatar. The mall has more than 400 international and local brands, including some of the most anticipated names, many of which made their Qatar debut, such as Harvey Nichols, Charlotte Tilbury, Kiehl’s, Dior Beauty Boutique, ACE and IKEA.