Setting up a capsule wardrobe has become somewhat of a trend in recent years. The wave of minimalists sharing their 10-piece
collection that can be mixed and matched really is a great idea.
However, I’m a maximalist, but not in the colour and pattern sense – I just really love clothes and some would say it’s a problem. I have 10 pairs of black pants that don’t look too dissimilar. So, if you’re looking to refresh the basics with a bit of pizzazz here and there, you’ve come to the right place.
THE WHITE SHIRT
Black slacks and an oversized white shirt is my go-to look when I’ve got “nothing to wear”. Invest in one white classic shirt and for the rest, have fun and pick options with small embellishments and features such as cool buttons, ruffles, bows or flared sleeves. Elements like this will elevate your look, and make it a little more personal.
Zara Shirt with Open Back
The addition of the split is perfect for summer. You could easily tie it, and leave it open to show any details or colour underneath.
Ruby Fiona Pleat Shirt
The Fiona Shirt gathers perfectly at the waist. A super flattering option to update plain work shirts. My favourite element is the single button which really draws the eyes in.
Mahsa Bow Blouse
The bow blouse has a low cost per wear in my wardrobe. It‘s my go-to for hot days, when you still need to be put together.
Moochi Ruff Shirt
I love an item with multiuse, so it makes sense that the Ruff Shirt can be worn either way for two looks in one!
THE BLACK PANT
A well-fitting pair of black pants are, in my opinion, one of the best purchases you can make. This is an area I would invest in. Spend time trying a few pairs to find the right fit for your shape. Once you find the right one, buy them in every colour!
Taylor Overt Pant
Your everyday work pants – the legs are cleverly tapered giving you a sleek silhouette and lengthening the legs!
Harris Tapper Irving Trouser
These will become your go-to everyday black pants. The lighter crepe fabrication and elastic waistband make them perfect for travel and running errands.
Feele Wide Leg Pants
I’ve recommended these pants to anyone who will listen. Feele have such a great price point without compromising on quality.
THE TRENCH COAT
Why a trench coat over other coats? Pure versatility. It’s easy to throw it over any outfit and look pulled together. A trench coat is also one of those items where you can find great options at all budgets, whilst still looking great!
Karen Walker Classic Trench
If you only buy one trench coat, make it a classic. It’s the perfect beige that will pair well with every outfit.
Zara Oversize Trench Coat
A more affordable option, Zara always has at least one trench on rotation each season. I’ve gone for the classic style here.
Viktoria and Woods College Trench Coat
If rigid coats aren’t quite your thing, a soft floaty trench coat is always an option. Perfect for warmer days when you just want a little something to pop over, I’m loving the Viktoria and Woods College coat – especially in the nutmeg colourway.
Willa Leo Trench Coat
My favourite detailing are the colour-matched buttons, making this trench more versatile for evening wear.
A CLASSIC SNEAKER
You don’t have to lose your style when prioritising comfort. A good pair of sneakers will easily take you from the office to a trendy new restaurant. Stick with muted colourways that will go with every piece in your wardrobe.
New Balance 574 Core
The OG New Balance sneakers. They live up to the hype and comfort of an everyday dressy sneaker.
New Balance 327
This new shape is the perfect addition if you’re looking to add interest to your sneakers. The 327 come in endless colourways to play around with!
Philippe Model Foxy Lamine
The Foxy sits on the investment side of the sneaker-sphere. Purposely distressed to give you an off-duty model without the effort!
Veja V10
Vejas have a cult following, and for a reason. They haven’t put comfort above style, so you’re getting the best of both worlds!
TIMELESS KNITWEAR
Whether you believe it or not, knitwear is definitely an all-year item. A staple piece of knitwear can be layered in winter when you need more warmth or thrown over a t-shirt later in the year for evening BBQs or nights by the beach.
Elle and Riley Cashmere V Neck Sweater
Cashmere is top of the food chain when it comes to knitwear. This sweater will seriously last you a lifetime, if you love it, it will love you back.
Kowtow Composure Cardigan
The ballerina is the most put-together of the Cardigan family. The wrap style gives you versatility to style in multiple ways.
Taylor Stripe Converse Sweater
Mixing the best of both worlds, the Converse Sweater gives you a cardigan and sweater in one! I love styling it as a sweater, giving the back button detailing a time to shine.
Remain Ella Knit
You always need a classic knit in your wardrobe staples. The Ella Knit is such a snuggly option for evenings around the home.
THE TOTE
Take it on a plane, to work, the markets, a tote bag is like Mary Poppins’ bag, and fits everything! Just remember to have a makeup pouch to keep all your small items in one place as you’ll be searching furiously to find that one lip balm when your pout is feeling chapped!
Saben Carter Tote
Time to update the work bag? The Carter is a durable, yet stylish option. Fitting the laptop, makeup bag and spare outfit won’t be an issue!
Hommey Stripe Tote
Everyone needs a summer tote! Be the envy of the beach with my new favourite brand Hommey.
Aere Pocket Tote Bag
The detailing on this tote really stands out from the rest. Monochrome piping in tan is such a summery alternative to black.
Proenza Schouler Morris Canvas Tote
Investment worthy for sure. The Morris might appear precious but is incredibly durable! It will double as your work, pool and weekend tote.
THE PERFECT FLAT
Alright, this is quite a vast category, however, a pair of cool flats is a must for those days when you want to be a little more dressy than sneakers will allow, but don’t want to brave the day in heels.
Kathryn Wilson Shandre Loafer
The loafer is here to stay. The chunky sole detailing gives the shoe a little more personality.
La Tribe Platform Sandal
A little platform really elevates a simple flat! These strappy La Tribe Sandals have been a kiwi favourite for a few seasons now, but the Black Nubuck straps are a new standout.
Mi Piaci Itty Flat
Ballet flats are this summer’s ‘it’ shoes. The straps highlight the ankle, and give you multiple ways to tie, serving a few looks in one!
Spurr Jenna Mule
A classic mule never goes out of style. A mule is often thought of with a small heel, but a simplistic flat pair is your everyday work friend.
THE JEAN
We’re going to round out this list with none other than a variety of denim, from ecru to grey and the classic blue jeans, you will most likely need a pair in every hue. It can be hard to find the right fit, but like black pants, once you’ve found the perfect silhouette, you won’t go back. On a Sunday morning, all you need to do is pair your favourite denim jeans with a white shirt, sneakers and a trench coat – and you’re good to run errands, go to a fancy brunch or pop to the shops!
Levi’s Ribcage Straight
There’s only one pair of jeans I believe suit everybody, and it’s these. They are my new hip-slimming, waist-defining, leg-lengthening obsession!
Kowtow Sailor Jeans
I’ve been making my way through Kowtow’s denim selection, and Sailor has now reached the top of my list. Made from 100% certified Fairtrade organic cotton, these wide-leg jeans are the brand’s best selling pair!
Maggie Marilyn 01 Jeans
Attention to detail really wins me over as a customer. Maggie Marilyn’s jeans went through countless iterations, wear tested by her team to ensure the fit was just right. If you’re on the taller side, they’ve even gone the extra mile and added 5cm to their standard fit to ensure they suit everyone.
L’Agance Wanda Jeans
Everyone needs a cropped pair of denim in their collection. They offer a slightly more casual look for weekend outfits. The Wanda Jean is more of an investment, but is the perfect cut, with the added detail of a raw hemline.
