A Beginner's Guide to a Capsule Wardrobe

English fashion critic Suzy Menkes once referred to the fashion world as a carousel - a carousel that, as she put it, “spins ever faster.” Her words are true; trends can often shift faster than we can buy new clothes. But while “in” clothing items may vary wildly from place to place and season to season, there are a few classic pieces that every woman should keep in her closet.

The definition of a capsule wardrobe is simple; it's a mini wardrobe made-up of really versatile pieces that you completely love to wear. 

These staple pieces are simple, flattering, and always in style. So whether you want to minimize your shopping time, minimize your wardrobe to make moving easier, or avoid those “nothing-to-wear” moments, you can build a gorgeous wardrobe with this guide.

So to begin building your capsule wardrobe, here are the following items you need to think about and add to your collection...

The Basics
There are a few wardrobe basics that have endured over the years. Any time and in any place, these items remain chic, fashionable, and wearable. This includes items such as a white button-down dress shirt, a black turtleneck, and a pair of dark blue jeans.

What makes these items so essential to your wardrobe? In a word: versatility. Take the white button-down, for example. You can take this simple shirt and dress it up or dress it down. Pair it with a pencil skirt and blazer so you can crush it in the boardroom, then roll up the sleeves and throw on a pair of slouchy boyfriend jeans to meet your friends at your favorite sports bar!

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Other basic items aren’t as versatile, but they are just as important. Some style gurus suggest every woman have one day dress and one LBD (little black dress). While these may not suffice for everyday wear, these pieces can be reused for any number of social events and last you quite some time. 

Outwear
Finding the right outerwear can be tough. Your needs will vary based on where you live; a woman in London will have much greater use for a raincoat than a woman in Al Sharqiyah. However, there are a few outerwear options that most fashion experts agree upon.

Firstly, a casual denim jacket is a must-have for any woman. This adds a fun touch to any outfit - it can suit a simple tee-shirt or dress down a sundress with ease. Or, for an edgier look, consider a biker or bomber jacket! Once the winter months set in, those of us feeling the chill will want to invest in an overcoat or trench coat.

Believe it or not, for many women this is all you need! No more stuffing closets full of jackets and sweaters. Keeping it simple will save you time, money, and valuable closet space. 

Accessories and Extras
Some of us are accessory hoarders. We hang on to jewelry, shoes, scarves, and hats as if our lives depend on them. But think seriously: when was the last time you ever wore most of your accessories? If you can’t remember, it might be time to purge them.

Most style guides suggest keeping your accessory count low. A few basic shoes (black boots, black pumps, a pair of sneakers) and a few precious jewelry items are all you really need. If you’re having trouble picking your your favorites, we suggest sticking with the items that mean the most to you. Keep the earrings your mother bought you, the silk scarf you bought on your first trip to Naples, or the diamond on a delicate chain you’ve had since you were a teen. Basically, if you can’t remember the story behind it, you probably don’t need it.

SEE ALSO: Chat with other expats on our bustling forum

Getting rid of excess accessories is a great way to minimize clutter in your closet. Plus, with a precious few items available to you, you will have more opportunity to care for and clean your jewelry, which will keep them beautiful even longer.

Fashion moves pretty fast, but with the right purchases you can make sure that you always keep up - no matter where you may be. 

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About the Author
Naomi Shaw is a full-time freelance writer who focuses on parenting, education,
food, crafting and DIY, mompreneurship, writing, and anything family focused. This working mom is married with three children living in sunny Southern California. You can send her a Tweet at @NaomiJShaw