At one time fashion trends might stick around for a season or two, but with social media trends and even microtrends seem to come and go at lightning-speed. Then there’s the question of choosing which particular trend you feel you fit into, versus attempting to form your own sense of personal style.
Ultimately, fashion and style is supposed to be about self expression and creativity, although with so much information available at all times, this particular message tends to get lost in the mix. Luckily for the fashionably perplexed there’s an easy way to keep things simple, starting with the classics.
The Foundations of Fashion
By now, most of us will have heard about capsule basics: those items we keep on rotation. These “timeless” pieces are typically neutral, good-quality items that are designed to go with everything (or, if you’re more of a minimalist) to wear on their own. Our current favorite Grey State Apparel offers beautifully-made basics.
Many of us will also be aware of the typical suggestions for a “capsule wardrobe”. However it’s important to note that while white tee shirts and blazers make an appearance nearly every time, these lists are not prescriptive, in that not everyone will suit (nor necessarily enjoy wearing) all those items.
Finding What Fits
Similarly, the items on a capsule closet list are guidelines: a tee-shirt doesn’t necessarily have to be boxy, or crew-neck, or even short-sleeved, if that’s not your personal preference. It doesn’t even have to be white: some find they suit off-white, or a completely different shade altogether. Here are some more examples of how to tailor capsule pieces to you:
- Blazers: Most guides suggest an oversized blazer. A better question might be, how likely are you to wear one? In addition, if you suit a fitted blazer better, why not wear that instead?
- Button-downs: In some cases, you may find single breasted shirts to look better than two-pocket versions. When it comes to button-downs, it’s all in the details.
- Tailored pants: Cropped or long, wide leg or slim fit, this is another deceptively simple fashion term. Personal style guides can help with finding the perfect fit.
- A basic skirt: Again, this can mean a lot of things, but whatever the length, so long as it’s versatile enough to wear with anything else, it’s a capsule piece.
Another example is “a classic coat”. Most guides will suggest a trench, although that’s not necessarily the most flattering, or practical suggestion (depending on how cold it is). Instead, look for other basic styles that will go with other items in your closet: for instance if you wear skirts and dresses a lot, opt for shorter styles that give balance to your outfit.
Making Your Wardrobe Work for You
Another tip is to look for durable, high-quality (ideally sustainable) items made using natural materials like cotton or wool. While these items tend to be a little more expensive than their fast-fashion counterparts, they last longer, and can be thrifted as well as purchased new.
Remember this isn’t a “check-box” exercise: you get to personalize your wardrobe how you want, including your capsule basics. This includes care: while some items may be dry-clean only or require ironing, so if that’s something you’d rather avoid, skip these items or look for easy-care alternatives.
