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 2023 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 white tank tops to little black bags and chunky loafers, these are the pieces you need to master the art of the capsule wardrobe.

Your coat needs to be able to tie your whole outfit together in one easy move. And luckily for you, that’s what these coats do. Simple, easy and understated, these outerwear pieces from the likes of Jil Sander, Miu Miu and Prada will never go out of style. And in the depths of winter when your coat becomes your whole look, they’ll work hard for you – in more ways than one.

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 2023, silhouettes are looser, moving towards a more baggy, androgynous style. The key picks? Miu Miu’s Wide Leg Jeans are a style stalwart while Diesel’s iteration cut with raw hems adds a level of streetwear edge. Dress up with heels or down with sneakers and a button down. The possibilities are endless.

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 Jil Sander’s pearly white iteration to Prada’s Logo embossed take on the trend, these boots were made for walking, and that is just what they’ll do. Pair with a chunky knit and jeans come day, miniskirts and trench coats come night.