A classic coat
Every wardrobe and especially every work wardrobe should have a classic coat. If you can afford to, choose a wool coat or a cashmere mix which will be soft and keep you warm on a cold day. Cashmere can be expensive but it is worth paying for as it is super soft and warm. This dark grey coat above is simple, stylish and elegant and will go with most things. The tie will also define your waist. A perfect coat for your capsule wardrobe.
A little black dress
If you don't have a little black dress or LBD in your wardrobe you should get one now. A little black dress is one of the most versatile items you can own. You can pair it with sensible shoes for work, team it with jewellery and heels or boots for night outs and I have even seen people wear a little black dress with trainers. Of course, a LBD, is great for your capsule wardrobe. I would buy the best quality you can afford as you will get a lot of wear out of it. This double crepe dress above is simplicity in itself.
A summer shift dress
As well as having a LBD, it's good to have something lighter in colour, especially for the summer months. A classic shift dress is a light blue, would be perfect for this. This is the sort of dress that can take you to a summer occasion too like a wedding or day at the races. The quality of this dress is outstanding with perfect finishing of the seams, and the darts nip in your waist.
A smart winter suit
A smart suit in a neutral colour is a business wardrobe essential. Traditionally a black or navy suit is a great idea. If you want to be slightly different a grey suit like the one above is stylish and smart too. I like the black detailing on this wool mix suit. It's cut very well and would look super flattering on.
This matching pencil skirt can be worn with the jacket above or on its own with a top like the cream one below.
A light summer suit
So you have a classic warm woollen suit in your wardrobe, pair it with a different suit for summer in a lighter colour. This beige suit is great for summer when you don't want to wear a dark colour. Again it is super smart and has a button to accentuate your waist. This is the sort of suit you can also wear to a special occasion like a garden party at the palace, or your niece's wedding as well as business lunches with you top clients.
These beige trousers match the summer jacket perfectly and the slightly wide leg make them a flattering fit. Match with boots or court shoes for some height, and you have a summer suit with pieces that can be worn on separately too.
Pearl earrings
Some pearl earrings are a great choice for your work wardrobe. They are always in style and although they can be thought of as a conservative choice, you can pretty them up with a little sparkle or wear them as a drop earring. Accessories like this can really finish your look.
A tote bag
Now, I don't know about you but I seem to have everything in my handbag, including the kitchen sink! For work, this roomy tote bag is just perfect. Big enough to carry around your purse, makeup, laptop and even your kid's toys, it's size is great and this leather bag in a croc print adds a touch of detail to your wardrobe. I personally feel it's worth investing in a quality leather bag like this as it can last you a lifetime, and because of that has a low carbon footprint. You definitely pay for quality.
So these are some of the items I would use to build a capsule wardrobe for work. Check out Lalage Beaumont, for more capsule wardrobe inspiration.
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