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How a Guy Can Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Work and Efficiently Nail Your Work Outfits
There are many reasons to join the military. You can serve your country. You earn money for college. You can pursue adventure, get in shape and learn new skills.
But here’s an advantage of military service that you may not have considered: you always know what to wear.
The military uniform is the ultimate efficiency cheat. You don’t have to worry about mixing and matching and wondering if this shirt goes with those pants. All of that was decided long ago by the folks who designed your uniform.
Of course you don’t have to join the service to get that sort of peace of mind when choosing what to wear. Civilians have a version of the uniform called the capsule wardrobe.
In brief, a capsule wardrobe is a collection of items that work together in multiple combinations, helping you save time while ensuring you look polished and put-together with minimal effort.
Melissa Slavick, a Taelor stylist, is a fan of capsule wardrobes. She urges all her clients to build one over time.
“You can start with a navy suit,”
“Then you get a white button up, you get a black button up, you get a gray button up, all the neutral colors, and they all go together with that navy suit.”
- Melissa Slavick, lead stylist of Taelor
Melissa also points her clients toward a video of comedian and gameshow host Steve Harvey talking about how a capsule wardrobe with five suits becomes a 75-suit wardrobe if you add the right shirts.
If the idea of dressing well in the most efficient manner possible appeals to you, here’s your guide to creating a capsule wardrobe for work that will help you efficiently nail your work outfits every day.
Understanding the Capsule Wardrobe
A capsule wardrobe is a collection of timeless clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. The goal is to have a functional wardrobe with versatile items that cater to your work needs while maintaining a stylish and professional look.
The Essentials of a Work Capsule Wardrobe
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The Foundation Pieces
Classic Suits
Invest in two high-quality suits in versatile colors like navy and charcoal. These suits form the backbone of your professional attire and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Dress Shirts
Opt for five to seven dress shirts in neutral colors such as white, light blue, and gray. These can be paired with any suit and provide a crisp, clean look. Ensure they are well-fitted and made from quality fabrics.
Trousers
Alongside your suit trousers, include two to three pairs of well-tailored dress pants in colors like black, gray, and navy. These can be paired with blazers or shirts for a polished look without the full suit. Learn more about the work pants.
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Versatile Layers
Blazers
A couple of blazers in classic colors like navy and gray can be mixed with your trousers and dress shirts for a business-casual look. A blazer adds structure and sophistication to your outfit.
Sweaters and Cardigans
For cooler months, include a few fine-knit sweaters and cardigans in neutral tones. These can be layered over your dress shirts and worn under blazers for added warmth and style.
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Accessories and Shoes
Ties
Have a selection of ties in solid colors and subtle patterns. These should complement your shirts and suits without overpowering your look. Don’t know how to tie a tie? Read our guide.
Shoes
Invest in two pairs of high-quality dress shoes, such as oxfords or brogues, in black and brown. Ensure they are polished and well-maintained to complete your outfit.
Belts and Socks
Match your belts to your shoes – one black and one brown will suffice. Stick to dark, solid-colored socks to maintain a professional appearance. Don’t know how to choose a belt? Read our guide.
Building the Capsule Wardrobe
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Quality Over Quantity
When curating your capsule wardrobe, focus on quality rather than quantity. High-quality pieces not only look better but also last longer, making them a worthwhile investment. Look for well-constructed garments made from durable fabrics.
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Neutral Colors and Timeless Styles
Neutral colors like black, white, gray, navy, and beige are the foundation of a versatile wardrobe. These colors are easy to mix and match, ensuring you can create multiple outfits from a limited number of pieces. Choose timeless styles that won’t go out of fashion quickly, ensuring your wardrobe remains relevant year after year.
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Mix and Match
The key to a successful capsule wardrobe is the ability to mix and match items effortlessly. Ensure your chosen pieces can be combined in various ways to create different looks. For example, your dress shirts should pair well with all your trousers, and your blazers should complement your suits and dress pants.
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Personal Touch
While the capsule wardrobe focuses on versatility and simplicity, it’s essential to incorporate pieces that reflect your personal style. This could be through unique accessories, subtle patterns, or tailored fits that enhance your overall look.
Expert stylists assisted by AI to pick items that match your preferences and occasions.
Rent up to 10 items per month to get ready for the week and achieve your goals.
Easy return to get your next shipment or buy to keep your favorite items.
Maintaining Your Capsule Wardrobe
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Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Keep your wardrobe in top condition by regularly cleaning and maintaining your clothes. Follow the care instructions on each garment to ensure they remain in good shape. Regularly polish your shoes and use shoe trees to maintain their shape.
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Seasonal Updates
While the core of your capsule wardrobe remains consistent, you can make seasonal updates to keep things fresh. In winter, add heavier fabrics and layers, while in summer, incorporate lighter materials and colors. This helps keep your wardrobe functional and stylish throughout the year.
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Periodic Reviews
Periodically review your capsule wardrobe to ensure all pieces are in good condition and still fit well. Replace any worn-out items and consider adding new pieces if your job role or style preferences change.
Conclusion
Creating a capsule wardrobe for work is a smart and efficient way to simplify your daily routine while ensuring you always look your best. By focusing on quality, versatility, and timeless styles, you can build a collection of clothing that meets your professional needs and reflects your personal style. Embrace the capsule wardrobe approach, and you’ll find dressing for work becomes a stress-free and enjoyable part of your day.
Want some help finding clothes that will make your career stand out? Let Taelor help. Taelor is a menswear rental subscription service dedicated to helping men look their best when it matters most. Our styling service, powered by a human stylist and assisted by artificial intelligence, finds the clothes that help you win – at work, on a date, at a party, or wherever you spend your time.
