From the hardworking white tee to the tailored tote bag, let's hear it for these timeless pieces that make up the ultimate capsule wardrobe!
We hate to break it to ya, but if you’re constantly complaining about not having anything to wear, chances are, you haven’t invested in the proper clothing essentials. Yes, the world of fashion is ever-changing and trends come and go. But if you shop smart, you’ll always have classic all-purpose pieces that never go out of style. We’ve put together a useful checklist to help you reduce closet clutter and build a well-rounded capsule wardrobe. Hot tip: find out more about your body shape and type to suss out the exact pieces that flatter your every curve.
Build your capsule wardrobe with these fashion staples
1. Plain white or black t-shirt
Whether you like it scoop, v-necked, loose-fitted or capped-sleeve, this utilitarian darling can be paired with anything from leather mini skirts to masculine-inspired chinos. We personally can’t get enough of Uniqlo‘s Supima cotton crew tee. It features a classic design and slimming silhouette that’s suitable for all body types. Get one in each colour for your capsule wardrobe, and swap them up for different moods and occasions.
2. Denim jeans
We love a good pair of classic denim jeans. These are a wardrobe staple that works for brunch with friends or casual date nights. You can even dress them up with a pair of booties or heels if you’re popping by the office for the day. Skinny jeans were once a trend, but straight leg and wide leg jeans have come back in style (and they’re way comfier!). Pick em’ how you like em’, but we recommend a high-rise pair that accentuates your waist and gives you the illusion of longer, slimmer legs.
3. White button-down shirt
Like its more casual counterpart, the white t-shirt, this functional beauty is often overlooked for more on-trend pieces. But don’t be fooled by its simple appearance. This universally flattering piece deserves a long-standing place in your capsule wardrobe. It offers myriad outfit options and lends a crisp polish to any ensemble. We prefer to get ours from the men’s section for that relaxed, boyfriend fit.
4. A little (or not so little) black dress
Whether you’re a fan of the little black dress or prefer its longer midi or maxi counterpart, this remains a supremely chic capsule wardrobe staple. A uniform of choice for female icons over the years – Coco Chanel and Audrey Hepburn included – think outside the (little black) box to keep things fresh by switching up your accessories and layers.
5. Black ankle boots
A good pair of ankle boots can instantly add a touch of glam to any outfit. Depending on your overall style, you might want to opt for a sleek, pointed pair for a sophisticated look; or get one with chunky soles for an edgy feel. Our dream ankle boots are the ones from Coach: perfect for jazzing up any fit. But for now, our wallets will have us settle for an affordable (yet comfy) pair from H&M.
6. Blazer
A functional blazer can elevate your outfit’s status from basic to boss babe in a matter of seconds. Throw it over a t-shirt and jeans for a casual chic look. Or drape it over a button-down shirt and tailored pants for a successful career woman vibe. We prefer the non-padded sort as it doesn’t look overly formal, but go for whatever cut makes you feel like a queen.
7. Classic leather jacket
We’ll admit: this investment piece isn’t entirely practical for Singapore’s sweltering heat. But it’s a wardrobe addition that can seamlessly take you from day to night. We throw ours on in the office, after sunset when the weather’s finally breezy and never leave it home on our travels. Rock it with ripped jeans, over a mini dress on a night out, or pair it with a white tank and roomy trousers on a lazy weekend.
8. Minimalist jewellery
We believe minimalist jewellery can have a maximum impact on your overall style. Don’t look down on these tiny essentials. Invest in a pair of chunky gold or silver hoops, then top it off with dainty rings and a delicate necklace. They’ll amp up all your favourite outfits and give off a sense of effortless style.
9. White sneakers
Sneakers may be so in now, but white kicks are a forever style and complement any street-chic outfit. They go with everything, including midi skirts, ankle-grazing pants and any of the capsule wardrobe essentials on this list. We get ours from crowd-favourite brand Superga. Keep an eye out for its frequent collabs with big names like Emily Ratajkowski and Drea Chong.
10. Cross-body bag
Nothing says effortless accessory like the tried-and-tested cross-body bag. It looks impeccable with everything, from a tailored, monochrome outfit to a lazy, Sunday brunch sandals-and-swishy-skirt ensemble. We recommend getting one in a neutral shade that makes pairing with different outfits easy.
11. Tailored pants
A good pair of tailored pants can take you places. And honestly, they make you feel so empowered. Throw this on with a plain t-shirt and blazer and you’re all set for that important business meeting or sales pitch. We love the ones from Love, Bonito that come in different cuts like straight-leg, wide-leg, barrel or cuffed.
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