How To Build A Modern Capsule Wardrobe

A new season doesn’t necessarily mean you need a brand new wardrobe packed with the trendiest pieces. Classics always work, with just a refresh via new add-ons. Whether you’re a hardcore minimalist or fashion magpie, a closet with carefully chosen staples serves as the perfect foundation.

From tailored jumpsuits and crisp button-downs to trench coats and denim jeans, these essentials can be dressed up for a fancy day out or layered and accessorised to add personality to your fit. Take your cue from silhouettes with the precision of a surgeon’s knife. Look to brands like Givenchy and In Good Company for chic staples, then add layering tricks like scarves and sweaters to elevate your everyday with a fresh and modern edge. And that’s how you build a modern capsule wardrobe.

Up ahead, six must-haves to get you started.

Related Article: Style Files: Jenny Tsang On The Power Of Timeless Fashion

1. The Tailored Jumpsuit

The jumpsuit is a one-and-done piece that we swear by for effortlessly-chic dressing, and perfect for the modern woman on the go. A tailored version will instantly elevate your look. Structured and sophisticated, with a hint of cool nonchalance—dress it up with statement accessories, slicked-back hair and red lips, or go casual with flats, layer with a white t-shirt or tank top, and a devil-may-care attitude.

Halter Neck Jumpsuit With Linen Blend, $109, Zara

Bullet Bustier Tailored All-in-one In Wool, $8,600, Givenchy

The Ward Formal Virgin Wool Jumpsuit, $1,382, REV at Farfetch

2. The Not-So-Basic Tank

For the past couple of seasons, tank tops have reigned supreme both on the runways and on the streets. While they are no doubt wardrobe staples, sometimes we need a little twist for a bit of edge and character. Be it one that is pre-layered, or has ribbons attached at the hem for that romantic touch even when worn with denim or leather, or an asymmetric hem and a little peek-a-boo side detail for a touch of sensuality—tank tops are more than just a basic.

Asymmetric Vest Top, $49.90, H&M

Easy Bow Tails Cotton Tank Top, $335, Simone Rocha at Farfetch

The Peplo Top, about $753, Jacquemus

3. The Checked Trousers

Statement-making without being too overwhelming, checks are probably the most versatile pattern that both minimalists and magpies can style in their own way. Wear yours with a tank top or crisp button-down and loafers for a preppy vibe, or go all out and clash two sets of grids for a high-impact look. Keep things light by pairing yours with a brighter top and effortless thong sandals. Keep your hair tousled for that free-spirited look.

Jody Plaid Wool Pant, $1,989, Ralph Lauren Collection

High Rise Wide Check Denim Jeans, $2,090, Burberry

Ginclub Check Cheviot Tweed Trousers, $2,420, Thom Browne at Farfetch

4. The Timeless Top-handle Bag

The top-handle leather bag is having a moment, and we’re all for it. While Chloé brought back its Paddington bag with a modern approach, Miu Miu’s ’50s and Prada’s ’60s renditions brought nostalgia in an elegant and cool way. Of course, trust minimalist brands like Khaite and Victoria Beckham to take on the top-handle with elegance. Charming and a true class act, the top-handle bag will take you effortlessly through day to night, and even sit prettily as a display mantelpiece for all to admire.

Prada Bonnie Medium Leather Handbag, $3,950, Prada

Capucines East-West Mini, $9,600, Louis Vuitton

Andiamo bag, $15,520, Bottega Veneta

5. The Silk Scarf

A true wardrobe multi-tasker, the humble silk scarf can be worn in more ways than one. Once used by Hollywood starlets as headscarves over their perfect hairdo, the accessory has found itself reimagined as a top on beach vacations, tied around the hips, and of course, looped on bags, and more. A tip while looking for yours: look at a well-made silk scarf like a piece of art (as all Hermès ones truly are). Pick something that speaks to you and of you—a design that you’d be proud to frame up as a painting if you may. That way, it’ll never go out of style.

Jour de Casting Scarf 70, $710, Hermès

Printed Silk-twill Scarf, about $765, Valentino Garavani at Net-a-Porter

Scarf In Silk, $890, Loewe

6. The Transitional Coat

The trench coat has proven time and time again that it is a time-honoured staple that belongs in everyone’s wardrobe, whether you live in a country with four seasons, or like us, with just two—sunshine or rain, which brings the chills too. With its lightweight fabric and timeless silhouette, it makes for the perfect versatile outerwear for effortless layering. Of course, it makes for a travel companion too. Keep to the classics by opting for a double-breasted khaki number, or go for a lightweight leather (or faux) version in a deep green hue for that seasonal touch. Got that feminine feeling running through your veins? We’ve got you covered with a frilly-hemmed number that not only a staple, but lets your style shine through too.

Classic Trench Coat With Belt, $169, Mango

Skane Faux Leather Trench In Khaki, about $458, Frankie Store

Ruffled Trench Coat, $2,875, Viktor & Rolf at Farfetch

Photography: Joel Low
Stylist: Gracia Phang
Model: Ann Kretz/ Mannequin
Makeup: Rina Sim using Guerlain
Hair: Ken Hong/ Evolve Salon
Photographer’s assistant: Eddie Teo
Stylist’s assistant: Laila Mishazira
Special thanks: KINN HABITAT

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