Ever had an “I have absolutely nothing to wear moment”? Ever been late for work due to a serious wardrobe malfunction that left your bedroom strewn with clothes? Of course you have, but getting dressed in the morning needn’t be a chore. Clever, stylish ladies (who always turn up on time looking fabulous) all share one fashion secret – they all own a capsule wardrobe. A reliable, classic collection of timeless pieces that can be called on in any fashion emergency, whether you can’t find anything to go with a new skirt or need a neutral accessory to tone down a striking dress, the capsule collection is every troubled fashionista’s friend.

Creating your Capsule Collection

Creating your very own capsule isn’t difficult, in fact you probably already own some key pieces without even realising it. The key to spotting great capsule pieces is finding neutral, timeless clothing that isn’t part of a specific trend. A flattering pair of black tailored trousers gets the thumbs up whilst a pair of low slung, flare jeans should be avoided. Capsule pieces transcend trends and are transferable through the seasons, easily mixed with different types of clothes. Mix your capsule pieces with your on-trend clothing, for example a perfect capsule piece such as a knee-length pencil skirt will look great this season with bright block colour scoop neck tops or a pretty, frill detail shirt, giving you two very different looks using the same basic but timeless skirt.

Rules of the Capsule Wardrobe

When shopping for your capsule wardrobe, look for key neutral colours such as white, black, cream, navy and charcoal grey. It may seem boring when compared with a scarlet shirt or gorgeous purple shoes, but think of this as a style investment – these basics will get you through every possible fashion dilemma.

Avoid on-trend pieces and detailed clothing, capsule garments should be simple, fitted and easily transferable from outfit to outfit, season to season. Make sure all items in your capsule are completely flattering, simple, comfortable and made out of the best quality materials – remember this is a style investment which will take you through the seasons, not throw away trends that you’ll only ever wear a few times. Choose cotton, cashmere, silk and fitting shapes and tailoring that flatter your body in every possible way.

Items in the Capsule Wardrobe

Think of this list as a guide for choosing your capsule wardrobe – you will probably already have some life-saving pieces of your own that get you through a wardrobe malfunction every time, such as that reliable, nude push-up bra, those make-an-outfit kitten heels or an ageless tailored jacket. Have fun finding new additions to your capsule collection and remember to only choose pieces you feel gorgeous in:

- A fitted white shirt
- A chic black, knee-length pencil skirt
- A light-weight, belted mac
- A medium-sized leather handbag & a simple clutch bag for evening dos
- A flattering pair of straight-leg jeans (black or stonewash)
- A comfortable, fitted cardigan
- A beautiful pair of court shoes with a leg lengthening, sturdy heel
- A timeless, unfussy pair of sunglasses
- And last but not least…you guessed it, a wonderful little black dress.