Here at Stitch Fix, it’s no secret we love capsule wardrobes! Looking to build one for the office? The key is stocking your capsule workwear wardrobe with quality, versatile, tailored pieces that can be styled endless ways season after season.
Keep reading to learn how to build a capsule work wardrobe!
WHAT’S A CAPSULE WARDROBE, EXACTLY?
First things first—a capsule wardrobe is a collection of a few essential clothing pieces that don’t go out of fashion. Capsule wardrobes were popularized by American fashion designer Donna Karan who, in 1985, released an influential capsule collection of seven interchangeable workwear pieces.
CAPSULE WORK WARDROBE TOPS
Rely on a Neutral Button-Down Blouse
Splurge on a silk blouse in a versatile neutral shade such as black, navy, white, cream or grey. Tuck this timeless top into a pencil skirt or wear it with trousers and pointed-toe pumps for a chic coupling.
Add Vibrancy with a Solid-Colored Blouse
Discover the best blouse for your body shape and stock up on solid-colored blouses in shades that flatter your skin tone. Need help finding your power palette? Check out our helpful post, “Which colors look best on me?”
Stay Warm with a Knit Sweater
Come winter, staying cozy is crucial. Add one (or three) super soft knit sweaters to your work wardrobe to help keep you warm. Keep your sweaters in tip-top shape with our handy guide, A Step-By-Step Guide To Sweater Care.
CAPSULE WORK WARDROBE JACKETS
Polish with a Black Blazer
The MVP of the workwear capsule wardrobe, a black blazer can take any look from basic to boss. When picking out a new blazer look for one that’s snug across the shoulders, but doesn’t pull or restrict your arms. The tapered fit (at the natural waistline) is figure-flattering on all frames. For more helpful info on how a blazer should fit, check out our post “How should a blazer fit?”
Layer on a Trench Coat
A timeless trench coat is a posh piece that can elevate any 9-5 ensemble. Throw it over a sleek LBD paired with pumps or flats and finish the look with an on-trend accessory. For more helpful info and #inspo on accessorizing a capsule wardrobe, visit our post “How can I accessorize a capsule wardrobe?”
CAPSULE WORK WARDROBE BOTTOMS
Dress up in a Pencil Skirt
Pencil skirts are figure-flattering and can be styled endless ways to keep your office outfits fresh. For unlimited options, keep both a solid and a printed pencil skirt in your closet. Add modern vibes to your look with a classic moto jacket or a pop-of-color blazer.
Stay Grounded in Neutral Trousers
A true workwear workhorse, classic trousers that fit just so are a must. Opt for a versatile color like black, brown or navy. Couple your pants with a fitted blazer of the same color for a suit-inspired style. Pair this dashing duo with a bold-colored blouse and booties or pumps.
CAPSULE WORK WARDROBE DRESSES
Add Flair with a Wrap Dress
Why are wrap dresses so flattering on everyone? With a tie-waist that cinches on the slimmest portion of the torso, it offers a universally-flattering effect for all body shapes. Select a faux or classic wrap dress in a bold color that makes you feel like you can accomplish anything.
Keep It Classic with an LBD
An LBD (aka Little Black Dress) is a staple for both casual and work capsule wardrobes. This power piece gives you unrivaled versatility that can take you from coffee to cocktails in a twirl. During the day, pair your LBD with a colorful blazer and ballet flats. Come happy hour, swap your flats for pumps and your blazer for a sparkly statement necklace. If you need a late-night layer, top the look with a classic moto jacket in a rich texture like faux suede.
—Tiffany
Now that we’ve shown you what to stock for a workwear capsule wardrobe, take your style quiz and order a Fix. Ask your stylist for tailored pieces in classic cuts with a pop of color for variety. Then sit back, relax and wait for your five items to arrive. Try on everything in the comfort of your home. Keep what you like and send back the rest, plus shipping and returns are always free.