CREATE THE ULTIMATE CAPSULE WARDROBE

What do Emily Ratajkowski, Adut Akech and Stephanie Broek all have in common? They’re all impeccably dressed for one thing. Oh, and they also all use a capsule wardrobe.

We’re sure you’re familiar with the concept, but just in case we’ll give you a refresher. A capsule wardrobe is made up of staple pieces that can be mixed and matched for infinite outfit options and looks. Think forever staples, cult pieces and fail-safe footwear. A capsule wardrobe is all about building a backbone to your wardrobe made up of elevated basics you’ll wear on repeat.

The appeal of a capsule wardrobe? It’s hardly surprising. The concept first started to gain traction back in 2018, but over the last year, fashion has really gone back to basics (read: the Prada tank top frenzy, mini skirt craze and the rise of brands like Totême and Jil Sander) and 2024 may be even more sartorially stripped back than its predecessor.

So how do you build a capsule wardrobe? There are a few key pieces everyone needs. To help matters, we’ve put together a FLANNELS-approved edit of the pieces you need to kickstart your capsule wardrobe. From true blue jeans and classic shirts to little black bags and chunky loafers, these are the pieces you need to master the art of the capsule wardrobe.

Ah the Great British weather, it always keeps us on our toes. And for that reason alone, a lightweight jacket is a year-round must. The styles to keep in your repertoire? A trusty denim jacket, an elevated trench and chic waterproof (trust us, thanks to Jil Sander they exist...) Wear your denim jacket as a Canadian tux all year and throw on over summer looks on cooler evenings. As for your trench coat, it doesn't have to be traditional to stand the test of time. Balenciaga have delivered a cropped trench this season that's gone to the top of our wish lists, while Dries Van Noten have given theirs the denim treatment.  

A big old button-up is a key wardrobe staple, whatever the season. In winter, simply layer over a polo neck, under a jumper or with a blazer. In the height of summer? Take it to the beach and wear loose with a bikini underneath. And that sweet middle ground the rest of the year? Tuck it into your jeans. Wear it loose with shirts and skirts. Leave open and put over a tank top. The possibilities from this humble item are endless. The way to keep it timeless? Shirts in fresh whites and blue stripes. 

A pair of classic blue jeans will last you a lifetime, so if you haven’t invested in a pair, what are you waiting for? For 2024, silhouettes are looser, moving towards a baggier, more androgynous style. The key picks? Jacquemus’ Le De Nimes Caraco Wide-Leg Organic Jeans will add a touch of interest to otherwise basic looks, thanks to the raw-edged waistband and in-built twin denim skinny belts. Saint Lauren and Balenciaga have delivered perfectly slouchy jeans, while Bottega Veneta are offering a more structured straight-leg jean. Dress up with heels or down with sneakers and a button down. The possibilities are endless.

A trustworthy accessory that’ll always rise to the occasion, the LBB (little black bag) is a non-negotiable in our eyes. Simple enough to work for day, slick enough to take on a night out, it’s failsafe. Our favourites at the moment come c/o Miu Miu, Gucci and Bottega Veneta. Miu Miu’s ‘Patent Mini Hobo Bag’ is the perfect grab and go size. While Gucci’s ‘Jackie 1961’ plays on the classic silhouette that’s been loved for decades. As for Bottega Veneta? Their bags have everyone in a chokehold right now with everything from the ‘Andiamo’ to the ‘Hop’ filling our Instagram feeds, but when it comes to a cold classic, it’s in the ‘Jodie’ we trust. With real staying power, it’s been a firm brand favourite for years now and is the ideal bag for day and night.

Whether you’re dressing things up or keeping things casual, a chunky loafer is a wardrobe staple that you can’t do without. From solid blacks to statement whites, these loafers from the likes of Prada, Ganni and Bottega Veneta will work just as well with jeans and a tank top as they will with a slip skirt and a blazer or tracksuit bottoms and shorts.

Looking to elevate your look? A pair of knee-high boots will do the trick. Endlessly cool, a good pair of knee-highs will take any look to the next level. From Vivienne Westwood’s heeled ‘Midas Boot’ to Ganni’s chunky biker ‘Tubular Boot’ and Paris Texas’ Cowboy Carter ‘Rosario’ cowboy boots, there’s a boot to suit. The way to wear them right now? With spring’s trending item: the jort.

Come summer, winter, rain or shine, a pair of statement sunglasses are an essential. Look for chunky, oversized shapes that'll protect your eyes and deliver instant cool to any look. Gucci's chunky maroon glasses comes with the brand's name emblazoned across the arm, while Saint Laurent have delivered a slightly more pared back approach with chic tortoiseshell specs, complete with delicate gold arms. Just think Olsen Twins. 

Sports-luxe sneakers are packing big appeal right now. Thanks, in part, to their high-levels of comfort, but also to their Scandi girl vibes that they deliver in spades. New Balance's 1906 and Asics' Gel-Kayno 14s have become firm fashion set favourites, while adidas Originals are following up their cult Sambas with the SL 72, which you may have seen taking over your Instagram feed this spring.  

There was no escaping the ballet flat in 2023, but their reign is set to continue. For SS24, Miu Miu have added to their collection with studded, embellished ballet flats to sit alongside their re-released satin originals. For a ballet-inspired shoe that's a little more subtle, Jil Sander have delivered a super soft leather pair, complete with a gold ankle bracelet, while Ganni's 2023 hit, the 'Feminine Buckle Ballerinas' are back in new colourways for SS24. We're obsessed with the soft candy pink. An elevated pair of flats is a must-have for any city girlie. IYKYK.