“Dress for success” is a phrase we’ve heard people tossing around for generations. By force majeure, our clothing choices tell a distinct story about our lives and the way we desire to show ourselves to the world. Fashion is a statement, but even more so, it’s a cultivated habit. More than anything else, our wardrobes help us project a refined image of capable confidence, fierce individuality, and pure finesse.
In our modern workforce, dressing to impress is a response to making first impressions matter. Whether you’re fresh to the scene of professional work environments or hoping to revamp your style, we’ve compiled a list of tips for building a professional capsule wardrobe. Let’s explore a few factors to consider as you navigate your way to a curated style.
Your basic wardrobe should always sync up with the lifestyle you choose to live on a daily basis—and it should also balance with your current livelihood or occupation. When investing in essential pieces, you must focus on fit, feel, and fabric. Keep in mind what fit flatters your silhouette, what clothes you’re most comfortable wearing, and what fetching, quality materials are easiest to maintain.
Remember, a capsule wardrobe tells a story throughout the seasons of the year and the seasons of your life. Signature items will be staples in your closet for years to come. Does the industry you work in have set standards? Or are you thinking about the job you envision yourself in someday? Let these thoughts become the driving force behind creating a tailored wardrobe.
The goal of a capsule wardrobe is to create a stockpile of ready-made outfits satisfying a variety of fashion needs. Besides fit, fabric, and feel, consider color options as building blocks. Wondering how to choose a color palette that works? Don’t be afraid to be different, but do be realistic about how bold you’d like to go.
Neutrals are solid choices for the majority of your clothing items, with a sprinkle of brighter colors on the side to coordinate with an everyday outfit. Consider other key pieces, such as bags, coats, and shoes, to manifest a diversified, fashionable identity.
Accessories that complement your clothing purchases are key to creating a polished statement. As a matter of fact, using coordination as a stylistic means is one of the top tips for building a professional capsule wardrobe. You should know how to match a timeless watch to your outfit of the day. Understand how to use a belt to tie together an outfit or select a coordinating necklace, tie, or scarf to add alluring detail. In any case, be original, and utilize your ingenuity to contribute personality. Fashion is everything with—and nothing without—people and their personas.