It seems strange to dedicate a post entirely to basics in a capsule wardrobe as by its very nature you’ve already stripped down your clothing collection to the bare essentials. However there are a few items which no matter what season have found their way into my closet.
The Plain Knit
When you limit your clothing to just a few key pieces they have to work hard for you. I’ve found more and more when I look for basics I’m also looking for sweet or subtle detailing which stops the pieces becoming tired and boring. I have last years version of Zara’s plain sweater adorned with cute buttons down the sleeve. This years is even better with a split cuff for a very subtle bit of pizazz. At £19.99 and in six colours you could treat yourself to one in every shade.
The Skinny Black Trouser
I’ve had to turn my back on my H&M basics as they don’t seem to last more than a couple of months without losing their shape. Instead I’ve been favouring Zara’s offering – a mid-rise skinny trouser (which is practically full length on my petite frame). The mid rise is flattering and fits well around the waist and I’ve been told they look far more expensive than their £25.99 price tag. I was slightly worried the zips were a bit Michael Jackson esque but to be honest I now have greater concerns about the model sporting said pair above who looks as though she has left her pjs on. I’ve only washed them a couple of times but so far so good.
The Leather Skirt
Both Charlotte and I have harped on about our appreciation for the leather (or pleather) skirt. As with the white shirt this is an item for all seasons. I was wearing mine in the heat of the summer with a boyfriend shirt and flats but mostly you’ll find me pairing with a knit, thick tights and ankle boots. The Oasis Mary A-line skirt is a flattering length and shape.
The White Shirt
My spring capsule will no doubt see me replace the white draped Topshop shirt which has been in every capsule to date. I’ve found a crisp shirt is perfect for every occasion from the office to bar. I’m loving the subtle back detailing on this French Connection one which is part of John Lewis’ Simplicity Edit (worth checking out if you’re after stylish workwear)
The Jersey Dress
I bought this plain Asos jersey dress (in petite) before I went to New York and it was a godsend. The curved hem adds a bit of interest and the cut of the dress ensures the fabric doesn’t cling around your middle so it’s super flattering too. It’s taken me from day to night on many occasions and I’ll be taking it through to my spring capsule too. Possibly the best £22 I’ve ever spent.
Which wardrobe basics do you take through from season to season? Any fashion essentials you always have hung in your closet?
A leather skirt is most definitely on my capsule wardrobe wish list. I also need a camel coat. Stuff that I actually own and qualifies as a permanent basic are Breton stripe long sleeved tshirts, dark wash skinny jeans and my chambray shirt. Speaking of which, I NEED a sleeveless one for summer – I looked all last year and no joy. That one in the leather skirt pic would be perfect, but doesn’t seem to be on the Oasis website! Lauren, where is that photo from? I think it’s time to resume the search… 😉
I agree Tracy, stripes are a neutral in my wardrobe. You can never have too many bretons!
I bought a sleeveless chambray shirt in Mango the other week. Well it’s actually that tencel fabric but worth a look anyway. They had it in a true denim blue and a bleach wash in the Glasgow store.
Don’t tempt me to look Lynsey I think I have three hundred striped tops. Well maybe five but that’s a lot for a capsuler…
Hi Tracy, gotta love a bit of leather.
The image at the bottom of the post and the link within the body of the post should both go through to Oasis – it’s the Mary Faux Leather Skirt x
Waaaa the ASOS dress is sold out – heart break! 🙁
Oh no Bryony 🙁 All but one size were available when I put the post together,
If you try this link instead there are some in different colours – http://www.asos.com/search/midi-curve-hem?q=midi+curve+hem
Oopsy…. The blue one just fell into my cart and I accidentally bought it… Don’t you just hate it when that happens 😉
It seems to happen to me all the time Alice 😉
I’m with Tracy on the breton stripe, it never gets old. Your ASOS dress reminds me of one I picked up from Whistles last summer – similar shape but sleeveless, with a breton stripe. Bring back the sun so I can wear it again!
Must be my body shape but I always struggle with shirts, I do love that white one though. I don’t have the same problem with blouses or shirts in soft fabrics for some reason so there’s always a couple on my capsule list. Goes with everything x
Love the idea of a striped version – very ooh la la! x
I placed the biggest order with ASOS last night, all being delivered today as well. Can’t believe I missed that jersey dress…although I’m not sure the length would work with my short legs.
White shirt wise, I just can’t find one that’s cut petite enough around the shoulders, I always feel that I look like I’m going to a painting class….petites are always cut too small around the bust I find.
The search continues…
chuckling at painting class!!
I think shirts are definitely like jeans – you need to search until you find the perfect fit, then never buy from anywhere else ever again. x
Try Thomas Pink? I have tiny shoulders and their size 6 fits well unless they’ve changed the cut since I last bought one. They are pricey, but I got so much wear out of mine.
[…] lovely Lauren’s favourite item from her capsule wardrobe was her curved hem jersey dress, which you all loved to and I’m all sure you’ll be […]