Beauty...
By Danielle Naer
When it comes to shopping, there’s one pro-tip that experts agree on: avoid pieces that can only be worn one way. A well-considered closet is filled with styles that keep giving all year long, regardless of shifting seasons and trends. One of the pandemic-era changes to, well, life is that we’ve mostly tabled shopping for individual occasions. Now, in 2021, it’s all about pieces with multi-wear functionality. To that end, it’s time to familiarize yourself with the art of capsule wardrobing.
But first, a bit of background. London-based boutique owner and stylist, Susie Faux, first created the strategic shopping method back in the ’70s. The idea was simple: establish a tightly-edited assortment of core basics that you can wear year after year, whether, say, running errands or dining out. Its benefit was two-fold: For designers, capsules helped them distill their signature codes down to seasonless options with a more enduring appeal. For shoppers, it helped to ensure an unfussy and affordable road to eternal style. Capsule pieces don’t have to be boring, either — fun stilettos and statement coats are both fair game, so long as they can be worn multiple ways.
For 5 key pieces that every woman should build their capsule wardrobe off of, read on.
A silky slip skirt can be easily dressed down with a denim jacket, a pair of sneakers, and a t-shirt for errand days. For dinner, style it with a crisp blouse and slingback pumps.
A versatile pair of heels with just enough attitude is central to your capsule wardrobe. Consider going with an option that’s low to the ground and comfortable, as to ensure it gets the most use. Dress it up with a beaded midi dress for weddings and other functions. On casual days, wear it with a sweater and jeans.
All hail the trench coat. The cross-seasonal staple looks just as good over a pair of denim shorts and a blouse as it does over a long sweater dress and boots — not to mention its prowess shifting from casual to elevated occasions. Don’t be afraid to choose one in a timeless print, like glen plaid, florals, or houndstooth.
Last but not least, you’ll want a basic black turtleneck to go with absolutely everything. Tweed skirts, blue jeans, trousers, you name it — this piece will come in handy. Need an above-the-waist styling hack? Simply layer a button-up over the slim-fitting top. It’ll change up the look and help you perfect your layering.