As you know we're big fans of a capsule wardrobe, where you curate an edit of clothes that can all be styled together easily. It’s an approach we like to keep in mind when building and shopping for the whole of our wardrobe, but it is also something we review and edit every season. We also find this approach works well for different sections of your wardrobe, like a workwear capsule, or even a pregnancy capsule.
Because everything goes with each other, the idea of getting dressed in the morning seems a whole lot easier, and whole less daunting. It also means we’re more considered with our purchasing habits, and avoid impulse buying as we have a closet of pieces that we can easily keep stock of and understand when and where gaps need to be filled.
As the temperature drops we’re curating our winter capsule wardrobe which will take us through the next few months.
Get your checklist ready, here are our winter wardrobe essentials to build out your winter capsule wardrobe.
Jeans
An obvious starting point for any capsule wardrobe is a classic pair of jeans. More casual than a trouser, but still incredibly versatile, a great pair of jeans will work with every other piece in your winter wardrobe, for almost every occasion. We opt for a straight or wide leg style — low or hi-rise, it doesn’t matter — in the core colours of blue, black and white.
Above: St. Agni Mid Rise Wide Leg Jean
Tailored Black Trousers
A more formal bottom, the tailored black trouser is the piece you reach for for more prescriptive settings. Whether you’re heading to the office — pairing them with a blazer and streamlined boot — or to after-work drinks and dinner in heels and a knit top, the trouser is a true wardrobe hero in winter.
Above: A.Emery Goddard Trouser
Knitwear
Whether you prefer a v-neck or crew neck, a knit will be one of your most-worn pieces in the winter months. Perfectly worn alone, or layered over a t-shirt and under a coat, the knit jumper will be your wardrobe workhorse. We’re loving wool and cotton knits in chocolate, black and grey colourways — or white, if you prefer to dress in a lighter palette. And don’t forget to check out our knitwear care guide to keep your knits in perfect condition all winter, and for years to come.
A Long Sleeve Top
An essential layering piece during the winter months. We like to invest in good quality and natural fabrications that are breathable but also keep us warm. We always make sure that our layering pieces can also be worn on their own to make sure all our capsule wardrobe essentials are hardworking pieces.
A Button Up Shirt
A button-up shirt is yet another piece that ticks the versatility box within the winter wardrobe. A great addition to a work outfit or a more casual day time look when worn simply buttoned up or layered over a t-shirt or a thick ribbed tank top, pair it with a jean or tailored black trouser.
A Black Long Sleeve Dress
A black long sleeve dress is a staple in our capsule wardrobe. In the shoulder months of winter, you could get away with wearing this piece on its own, particularly during the day. And as you approach winter’s peak, simply layer it under a warm coat. Pair the long sleeve dress with a boot, a heel or even a closed in flat.
A Tailored Blazer
Sometimes we want to feel a little more pulled together — for a more structured, polished look, reach for a tailored blazer. We love a classic black blazer, but greys and even ivory tones offer versatility and are perfect for those who prefer softer colours. Wear it over a plain white t-shirt, a knit tank or silk top (if temperature permits), and pair it with a trouser for a more formal look or jeans for a more pared back feel.
A Hero Coat
We’ve already sung the praises of this piece, but the coat is a true winter wardrobe hero. Not only does it shelter you from frosty weather, it also makes for a very chic topper to any outfit, and slots seamlessly into every dressing context. For us, we can never go past a black, charcoal or beige full length wool coat and rotate between a tailored take to a softer silhouette.
Black Ankle Boots
If you opt for a pair of black ankle boots, and care for them properly, they’re guaranteed to see you through many winters to come. Whether they have a higher or lower heel, a pointed toe or one that’s more almond shaped, the ankle boot goes with just about every piece in your winter capsule wardrobe. To ensure they stay in top condition throughout winter, and really go the distance beyond the current season, make sure you’re giving them a good buff and polish when you bring them out every season.
Ballet Flat
Seeking comfort, with a side of polish and ample warmth? The ballet flat is exactly what you’re looking for. A sleek silhouette, the style slots into almost any outfit, from a trouser and button-up shirt combination, to a jeans and long-sleeve top configuration.
Above: A.Emery Briot Ballet Flat
White Sneakers
For a more casual take on winter footwear, reach for the white sneaker. To keep them super versatile, look to a more minimal design with little to no added colour so that you can pair them effortlessly with trousers, jeans and knit midi dresses in any and all colourways.
Accessories
This is a no brainer for keeping our capsule wardrobes interesting. We love to add a classic leather belt to a winter outfit to add a touch of hardware and help break up an outfit.
Your Winter Capsule Wardrobe Checklist
Screenshot the below checklist as a starting point for curating your own Winter Capsule Wardrobe.
