9 Capsule Work Wardrobe Essentials for Easy (but Effective) 'Fits

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Having a capsule work wardrobe — a limited selection of pieces that work together to build a variety of outfits — is a win-win-win situation. It’s better for the environment, because you’re buying fewer clothes. It’s better for your wallet, because you’re spending less. And it’s better for your morning routine because, with fewer choices, you’re more easily able to pull together an outfit.

“Having those go-to pieces on rotation that you can mix and match takes the stress out of trying to think about what to wear every day to work,” says The Iconic’s Head of Style, Nicole Adolphe.

So, what should you be including in a capsule work wardrobe? Ahead, Adolphe’s picks for the nine core pieces to help build your work wardrobe, and, if you scroll further down, you’ll find my suggestions for which specific pieces to buy from that edit.

9 Core Pieces for a Work Wardrobe

Black Blazer

Black Pants

White Shirt

Scoop Neck or Round Neck Top

Flat Loafers

Kitten Heels or Block Heels

Designer or Sturdy Handbag

Other Tips For Building a Capsule Work Wardrobe

In addition to the above, Adolphe also suggests adding another pair of pants, a midi skirt in a shape you love, and a trench coat for the trans-seasonal weather.

For starters, pick neutral colours for pieces, so that they don’t go out of style and are easy to style with other pieces in your closet, says Adolphe. She suggests black, white, caramel and grey.

“Then when you see what fashion colours are trending each season, you can add a piece you love in that colour,” she says. “For instance, green really had a moment last year, so you could have added a green pair of pants or green shirt to your existing wardrobe. This season, pink is the colour to add.”

Next, you’ll want to have a good idea of what sizes and styles you feel most confident in. If you don’t already know this, spend some time trying things on at an in-person store. If you know you prefer more fitted pants over wide-leg pants or a slimline blazer over an oversize boxy blazer, it makes it easier to shop, says Adolphe.

“That being said, sometimes we get so used to wearing a certain cut it’s hard to get out of that routine, and I would encourage women to try new styles each season so that your style can remain fresh,” she says. “For example, high-waisted pants and jeans have been around for so long that when low-rise slouchy pants came into play, it was a no from me at first, but now I love it.”

Adolphe says to also pay attention to accessories, as they can be the perfect way to tie your outfit together. “I’d extend a capsule work wardrobe to include a small pair of huggies or hoop earrings that can be worn on the daily, some fine gold jewellery, and, if you wear reading glasses, invest in a designer pair,” she says.

Finally, Adolphe suggests you prepare your outfits for the week at the start of it. “It’s a great way to take the stress out of getting ready in the morning, especially if you’re in a rush,” she says.