Fashion writer Emma introduces us to the capsule wardrobe.

The term ‘capsule wardrobe’ was first coined by fashion boutique owner Susie Faux in the 1970s.

Consisting of transitional pieces that see you through the seasons, a capsule wardrobe is at the heart of a well-stocked closet.

The rules

1. Choose a neutral colour scheme of beige, navy, black, white or grey that is going to work well with the rest of your wardrobe.
2. Invest well and invest wisely. Buy quality items that will repay you with years of wearability. Now is not the time to sift through the bargain bin – save that for your seasonal spends.
3. If they ever snag or stain, hand your clothes over to the professionals to mend and clean – they will soon look like new again.
4. Ensure that your clothes fit you perfectly; this will make all the difference to the end result. Too big looks slouchy, like you can’t really be bothered, too small and you risk looking larger than you actually are.

If you don’t feel confident about choosing for yourself, it’s a great idea to opt for a Personal Stylist. Most department stores offer wardrobe stylists free of charge, or you can book a professional, independent stylist who will spend the day helping you with your wardrobe dilemmas. Book in advance of your shopping day to ensure availability.

Whether you are in your 30s, 40s or 50s plus, this capsule wardrobe will never let you down.

The essentials

The white shirt

The white shirt is the perennial wardrobe staple that can be worn in an infinite number of ways.

Wear with a blazer and jeans for the ultimate smart-casual look, under a sleeveless suit dress for office chic in the colder months, layered with a thin sweater for the ‘preppy’ you, or simply on its own with a pair of black trousers à la Pulp Fiction’s Mia Wallace.

 

The LBD (little black dress)

Whether you love wearing dresses or prefer the comfort and style of trousers, the undeniable truth is that every woman needs an LBD in her closet.

What’s more, this is one item of your wardrobe where you should take your time in getting it right. If your closet space or amount of pennies in the purse is limited, you need to ensure your LBD works hard for you and, much like Mary Poppins, is practically perfect in every way.

That means: a dress for all seasons that flatters you from every angle, takes you effortlessly from day to night and looks just as fabulous with flats as it does with heels. That’s an awful lot to ask of just one dress. For inspiration, look no further than Audrey Hepburn, who did more for the little black dress than Givenchy or Chanel could ever have prayed for.

 

The tailored trousers

Audrey Hepburn wore cigarette pants, Katherine Hepburn wore wide-leg palazzo pants – both looked equally elegant, graceful and superbly stylish.

Whichever style of tailored trousers you opt for, ensure they are cut well and flatter your figure to perfection.

 

The pencil skirt

The pencil skirt is office and evening attire gold. It is smart, sophisticated and ultra feminine.

Wear with a crisp white shirt, pretty blouse, camisole-under-blazer or a thin sweater for a never-ending array of elegant looks.

 

The well-fitted pair of jeans

Although jeans have a reputation for being every woman’s favourite item of clothing, they are actually quite the minefield.

There are so many styles and variations to choose from that it can be daunting not to mention tear-inducing trying to find a pair that fits you well.

As a rule, a bootcut flatters the most, but again, it is worth taking your time to find a pair that you feel comfortable in and that you can wear just as well on casual days as you can dressed up.

The blazer

Ideally in black or navy, the blazer instantly adds a new dimension to your outfit.

Not just a classic pairing with jeans, try also with pretty dresses for a contrasting look.

 

 

 

The t-shirt or camisole

Wear the simple T-shirt or camisole with jeans, under a blazer, tucked into a pencil skirt or as a layer piece with knitwear on chillier days.

 

 

 

The simple sweater

A thin, close-fitting (but not too tight) sweater is handy to pull out of the closet on cooler days and pairs well with almost everything from the pencil skirt to a pair of jeans.

Layer with T-shirts and camisoles to create different styles.

 

 

The trench coat

Synonymous with the name Burberry, the trench coat is a classic piece of outerwear that you will wear a thousand times over throughout the seasons.

 

 

 

The sundress

Your sundress should be figure-flattering yet easy to wear. Avoid showing too much flesh by ensuring you would be as comfortable arriving at the school gates wearing it as you would be strolling along the promenade on a warm summer’s day.

Team with flat sandals, ballet pumps, wedges or even Converse for understated chic.

The high heels

Every woman deserves a pair of striking high heels that make her feel utterly fabulous. It is incredible just what a single pair of shoes can do for your confidence in the split second that it takes to slip them on.

Today, there is no designer more celebrated than of Christian Louboutin and those breathtaking red-soled heels. However, high street stores such as LK Bennett also produce excellent classically-styled heels.

 

The ballet pumps

A favourite with the late Princess Diana and many other celebrities, French Sole are the epitome of beauty in ballet pumps, and are comfortable yet hardwearing too.

With so many brands launching their own version of this classic shoe, it’s tempting to buy the less expensive versions. If you’re looking for quantity, that’s fine. But for the pair that you need to look fabulous in on any given day of the week, quality should reign supreme.

The long boots

‘These boots were made for walking…’ and that is just what they should do. Make sure your long boots are comfortable and stylish, with a heel that allows you to walk all day in them. Team with jeans, trousers and skirts in the cooler months.

 

 

 

The tote bag

This may well be one of the most expensive wardrobe items that you ever purchase. So for that reason alone, make sure you fall head-over-heels in love with your constant companion.

 

The clutch bag

Think evening dinner dates, girls nights out and daytime wedding engagements.

 

 

 

The silk scarf

The silk scarf is another hardworking member of your capsule wardrobe. Choose one that compliments your tone of skin and hair colour and fashion over the head on a bad hair day, as a neck scarf or even a belt – the possibilities are endless!

 

The sunglasses

Again, another item where it pays to get it right. Our faces are as unique as our bodies and what looks good on one person can look terrible on another.

The size of the forehead, nose and chin determine what shape and style suit us. It’s always best to visit a store where trained professionals can determine your face shape and which style will flatter you most.