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Creating A Capsule Wardrobe
Fashion magazines constantly extol their virtues, but until recently, the Capsule Wardrobe had for me remained something of a myth.
With so many great clothes to buy, why on earth would I want to favour the less-is-more approach?
This season, however, I’ve devised a hassle-free summer capsule, which will take you gorgeously from work to play, day to night.
Choose a scheme of 3 great colours, and hit the shops! You’ll find these great basics anywhere from Primark to Prada. Just find what works for you.
The Capsule
1 pair of lightweight trousers – the lighter the better. Side fastening, wide and straight styles are most flattering, and go with just about everything. Avoid side pockets. In summer, streamlined is better.
1 pair of tailored shorts – knee length for an elegantly flattering look. These can be dressed down with ballet pumps or flip-flops, or worn with killer heels for added va va voom.
2 skirts – 1 denim, I lightweight cotton or silk. Alternatively, you could snap up this season’s most ingenious must-have – the Gap reversible skirt. In gathered cotton, it’s just below knee length, and has one side plain and one side printed.
At least 1 dress – Make it versatile, something you can wear sightseeing, but also dress up for dinner. A classic shift or shirt dress would fit the bill, but wrapover styles are still the order of the day for curvy girls.
3 plain cotton jersey tops – halter neck, t-shirt or camisole, it’s up to you. Choose one in each of your colours.
1 floaty kaftan – My absolute must-have. Great as a cover-up on the beach, but also great for day or evening with your lightweight trousers, dressed up or down.
2 casual tops – a crisp white shirt would tie in well here. So would a short-sleeved cotton or silk tunic
1 evening top - choose something in your strongest colour
1 lightweight cashmere cardigan – an elegant cover-up when the sun goes down. V-necks will work with almost anything. Choose one of your 3 colours, and then add:
A soft sarong in a different colour. You can wear this as an evening cover-up, or skirt-style on the beach.
1 pair of comfy flats – ballet pumps or moccasins
1 pair of fabulous flip-flops – jewelled or floral are fun
1 pair of heeled sandals – wedges are great. Opt for metallic. They’ll blend with absolutely anything.
Now all you need do is throw in some up-to-the-minute sunglasses, aviator or large 70s style, a floppy hat, a bikini, a one-piece swimsuit and a large canvas tote.
And that’s pretty much it.
No doubt you’ll have some of these items already. Add the rest, and you’ve got a fail-safe summer survival kit. From the capsule described, you can achieve over 50 different looks.
Sounds to me as if a sartorial summer is well and truly sorted.
