A few days ago I sat down and thought about things I'm really good at. A few things came into my mind, like photography, sourcing beautiful things and “doing” Social Media, but another thing stood out: I'm good at creating a Capsule Wardrobe.
When I used to be a blogger this was my core. “Sophisticated Simplicity” the blog claimed. As a Minimalist I love putting together simple yet functional Outfits. Working with existing pieces while adding a few new hits. In fact I've even done that for clients in the past. Wardrobe curation. I love the concept of a Capsule Wardrobe since it's much easier to focus on a few high-quality pieces that you get to wear frequently rather than spending your money on cheap trend pieces that probably won't make it to the next season. It's a waste of money (trust me, I've been there! Although I also add a few Zara & Co pieces here and there if I really wanna “try” a trend. Fair enough)
Simplicity is a state of mind. It sets us free from fast fashion and commercialism and gives room for the bare essentials. And most of all it gives room for our personality.
So Basics and timeless classics are my forte. While I talked about it on my blog all the time, Instagram wasn't really the channel to share some useful wardrobe tipps. But I feel the Inspiration Club could also include Wardrobe Inspiration, no? As Winter is the season where I usually feel pretty uninspired with my wardrobe, I figured you might feel the same way. And we both could get back to the core of basics and talk our way up to a Spring Capsule Collection. Should we do that? Let's go:
CHAPTER ONE – THE BASE LAYERS
Whenever I'm uninspired I return to the hardcore basics since they give me a feeling of security. You can never go wrong with basics. It's kinda funny but I tend to feel more confident wearing a Tee and Jeans than any fancy schmancy look.
THE TANK TOP
My most worn piece in my wardrobe? A simple white Tank. I love to wear it in summer with Culottes or Linen Pants or style it with a Blazer and Tailored Trousers. When it's cold a Tank Top adds some extra warmth and can be a great base underneath a button down shirt or blouse. Fit wise I prefer a classic racer back but I also own a few fine rib singlets with slim shoulder straps (for some a racer back feels to “boyish” so this is a great alternative). My ultimate ultimate favorite which I've been wearing constantly for almost 4 years now:
ANINE BING Eva Tank – it is not see-through (I rarely wear a bra in summer) and sits so nice on the body. + it still holds color and shape after many many washes (tested it for you)
Another all-time favorite of mine:
FILIPPA K Fine Rib Singlet – definitely more see-through but made from very soft organic cotton.
These two might not be the cheapest options BUT given the fact how much I've worn them over years it was so much worth the money. I also own cheaper options but they aren't as sublime. Investing in better quality should be your priority when building up a Basic Wardrobe.
THE WOOL LONG SLEEVE
My go-to winter base layer? A classic, fitted wool longsleeve. It looks good with just Jeans and a Blazer or underneath a colourful shirt. Or simply with Tailored Pants and some bold accessories. Done. I swear on this black ARKET Wool Number and also this chocolate brown semi-sheer Merino Wool Top. I do own it in white too and am currently on the hunt for a charcoal version.
THE CAMI TOP
I must admit I own 2,5 black cami tops, one in semi sheer fabric, one silky version and my alltime favorite Fine Strap Knit Top from one of my favorite brands St. Agni. Except for the latter I rarely wear them. Do I still think it's a must-have basic? Absolutely! A Cami Top is the sophisticated sister of the Tank Top and whenever I don't know what to wear on a night out, I could always grab a chic pair of pants and said Camisole. A classic no-brainer which is just good to have in your wardrobe.
THE SINGLET
Technically more underwear than top, a simple Singlet can also function as a solid base layer. So I didn't want it to go unnoticed.
A BASIC T-SHIRT
Oh the mother of all basics! There is so much to say about a T-Shirt that I could easily write a full Post on just that topic. But I try to keep it short. A basic t-shirt is one of the easiest and most versatile wardrobe staples. It can be worn on the weekends, running errands, or even at a business casual workplace. Important for me is the quality! Pay attention to the fabric (only go with good cotton or linen, stay away from non-breathable fabrics like polyester!!)
The basic t-shirt also helps you provide a resting place for your eye when you are styling a statement jacket or trouser. It helps to balance a look since not every piece in your outfit should be an “attention-grabber”. A Tee is a trusty canvas and therefore it once more would be wise to invest a little more money on a good quality number.
I own a wonderful oversized Linen Tee from one of my favorite brands St.Agni, which has several wholes in it that's how often I've worn it. Sadly it isn't reproduced any more but you might keep an eye on the following brands who do pretty good T-Shirts:
Helmut Lang / Toteme / Acne Studios / Arket / By Aylin König / Viktoria Louise
THE POLO TEE
Too hot for a classic shirt but you need to wear something more elevated than a basic T-Shirt? Choose a Polo Tee. I like this slim fitted version by Filippa K because it looks very much put together yet gives you the comfort of a relaxed clothing.
THE TURTLENECK
Steve Jobs knew what's good. And yet it's not everyones taste. Some feel locked in in fabric, some like the extra warmth a turtle-like collar adds. As for me I prefer semi-sheer, very light turtleneck tops like the one mentioned above. A light wool or cashmere fabric isn't too itchy and doesn't give you that dreaded “choking feeling”.
Styling Inspo: Go through all your base layers and examine them for stains, holes, wrong sizes etc. Get rid of everything that's non repairable or donate pieces you don't wear anymore (I'll write more on that dilemma soon). Then let's start the BASE LAYER FESTIVITIES. Create 2-3 Looks out of your favorite basics. Basic Tops that boost your confidence. Add your favorite pair of Jeans, Skirt, Trousers and add 1 piece of statement accessory. It could be an eye-catching bag, stunning earrings or necklaces, a cool hat or a pair of interesting shoes (think color, shape, fabric). Et Voila – you've just styled a simple yet elevated look that will work in your favor every single time. And the best: it all came from your wardrobe.
Always take one thing off before you leave the house. - Diana Vreeland
If you tried this challenge please let me know in the comments. I'd looove to hear about your experience. Was it difficult for you? How did you feel? What's your favorite Base Layer? What brands make the best basics in your eyes? Spill the tea or shall I say tee?
Hope I could inspire some of you to review your closet
xx,
Carola