The Wardrobe Staples To Build On
Since fall of last year, my approach to shopping and building my wardrobe has completely changed. This is due in part to trying to embrace the capsule wardrobe method, but I’ve come to learn that this is a rather loose term that’s going to look different for each person. Rather than having a set number of items that I need to buy every 3 months, I’ve decided that my shopping habits are much slower than that and it can take three months just for me to decide on the perfect piece. And yes, i realize that the goal of a capsule wardrobe is to slowly build one with pieces that will last for years, and this can take the course of several seasons. The most recent piece I’ve added to my wardrobe, and which was on my Spring wishlist since around February or March, is this white cardigan from & Other Stories and I am so happy with it! So today I thought I’d share my process for choosing those staples that you can build the rest of your wardrobe on and some pieces which I consider vital to a healthy wardrobe.
Choosing Perennial Pieces
When thinking about the foundation of your wardrobe, it’s best to look at your day to day schedule, where you spend most of your time. For most of us, our days are spent in a work environment or school. My job has a pretty relaxed dress code so I can wear jeans to work every day. Granted, there are certain styles that I love but feel are a little too casual for workwear denim so I save those styles for the weekends. I basically live in denim because it’s what I feel most comfortable in. So naturally dresses and skirts take up a much smaller portion of my wardrobe. For many of you, it might make more sense to have the bulk of your wardrobe be workwear, like blazers and tailored pants that you can wear separately and mix and match. My mom is the queen of the workwear wardrobe and it’s something I quite admire.
Think about your overall color palette and what colors you like to wear most. When considering more expensive pieces to invest in, I always look for neutral colors because I know that’s what I like to wear most and it’s easiest to build a cohesive wardrobe with. My favorite colors to wear are black and white, blue denim and usually a black or brown leather accessories. The color in my wardrobe tends to come out in my love for floral dresses, but honestly not much elsewhere. I don’t think it’s necessary to limit a capsule wardrobe to a neutral palette. If you love a bit of color, then by all means go ahead and wear it, but the idea to think more cohesively about your color palette still applies. There are also some bloggers who do this oh so well; Megan Ellaby instantly comes to mind.
Outfit Details: Cardigan: & Other Stories | Jeans: Zara | Sandals: Nordstrom Rack | Bag: JW Pei | Necklace: Missoma | Necklace: Mejuri
Lastly, I like to spend a bit more on pieces that I always reach for, no matter the season. Think about the items that year wear year round and would be lost without. They usually take the form of basics, or the things you mix with all the seasonal pieces. For me this means cardigans that I layer with various t-shirts and tops year round, and of course jeans. I wouldn’t suggest investing in t-shirts because grease stains don’t care if your tee is designer. I’m also someone who doesn’t love changing up my handbags often, so I try to invest in pieces that will go with everything and can be styled differently every season.
Staples To Invest In
Knits: The important thing to remember here is that we are referring to knits you can wear all year round. For me, a cardigan is essential throughout the year because I always like to have a layering piece. I also love having thin long sleeve knits around all year because they’re perfect for summer days spent in the office and for layering with denim shorts into those brisk summer evening.
Jeans (or Pants): Touching on my point from earlier, whether you invest in jeans or pants are the bulk of your wardrobe bottoms, will really depend on how you spend most days. It’s a good idea to have a mixture of both, but if you honestly live in jeans most days, maybe opt for more casual style of pants to mix it up a little. There are so many great options for casual summer pants too right now, from pleated linen to jogger styles.
Handbags: I’m sure you’ve come to the conclusion already, that an everyday bag is a necessity for any capsule wardrobe, preferably one that fits a laptop. For me, I love a structured bag with an interesting shape, but in a classic black or brown. I like to spend a bit more on a handbag if I know I can wear it in any season and it will fit in with a bulk of my color options, clothing-wise. Sticking to classic styles will ensure that your bag gets its mileage and you won’t grow tired of it.
So there is my list of wardrobe staples to build on, and some tips to get started. I hope you found this helpful and if you have any brilliant ideas to add, I’d love to chat down in the comment section. Thanks so much for reading and happy building! xx Jessica
