We get it: you want to look good, and of course, that takes some effort. But how easy would it be, if that effort was just a little effort? Looking good should be easy – and it is. The Male Report proudly presents you the perfect solution to easy dressing: the Capsule Wardrobe for men. Stylish men. We’ll guide you on the what, the why, and how to start from scratch.
What is a Capsule Wardrobe?
A capsule wardrobe, also known as a minimalist wardrobe, is a collection of clothing that is simple and structured, and as combined, known to be extremely versatile. Originally curated by a lady called Susie Faux, in the 1970’s. Miss Faux was in that time the owner of a boutique in London and, according to her, a capsule wardrobe is a collection of a few essential items of clothing, that never go out of style, which can then be extended with seasonal pieces.
The goal of a minimalist wardrobe is to create different types of looks for different occasions, but with the same set of clothing. Think basics, layered together in a minimalist look, for example. Or those same basics, matched with one seasonal trend piece as the cherry on top. Of course, for the fans of shopping amongst us, it doesn’t mean that you’re not allowed to buy any clothing anymore or that you should wear the same 21 items for the next ten years (thank god).
To build that capsule, it’s key to choose a simple color palette, that matches your style, and looks good on you. When you are planning on adding seasonal pieces, it’s most likely that you will pick items in your preference of style – and thus, colors: which makes it, in the end, easy to match up with the key items.
Why a minimalist wardrobe?
Besides the main characteristic of a capsule wardrobe (versatility), there are numerous other benefits to choosing a minimalist style of dressing. Starting with: timelessness. High quality, basic pieces are often timeless. Meaning that you can lean back and let fast fashion trends pass you by without a doubt – and still look stylish.
To go a little more in dept to high-quality fabrics: since your capsule wardrobe is one that will last at least four seasons, spending a few extra dollars on that part is appropriate. For example, make sure to avoid tempting prices like basic $10 t-shirts – there’s a high chance that they won’t last any longer than two washes. More firm or thicker fabrics are often suitable options.
With that being said: since forming the basics for your minimalist wardrobe, you will at least think twice before purchasing an item. This results in having less bad buys, meaning you will proudly wear all the clothes you own and your closet will be accessible, clear, and tidy.
Now imagine yourself standing in front of your wardrobe, filled up with 21 capsule pieces of clothing, and let’s say four to five seasonal items of your choice – think shorts in summer, for example. Thanks to the clear view of what you actually own, and the fewer pieces to choose from, getting dressed every day will be an easy choice. Just the way we like it.
What you need to build a minimalist wardrobe
To guide you in the right direction, we’ve broken down the list for you onto an easy overview of the different categories of clothing, both casual and professional, along with examples of how to get started. Worthy basics, neutral colors, and fabrics that last long. For this fundamental list of wardrobe essentials, we’ve left out the underwear and socks – these categories can be adjusted according to your personal preferences.
A tailored suit
Every man should own a well-fitting suit. No exceptions. And here, let’s focus on well-fitting. There are plenty of brands that sell ready-to-wear, high-quality two pieces, but unfortunately, you’ll not get away with that. Good tailoring is the most important part – save some extra dollars on the side to get your brand new suit altered by a tailor who is specialized in this line of work. Hands down that you will look sharp and outstandingly professional.
For the most adaptable option, and multi-purpose, we’ll advise you to go with a single-breasted, navy-colored version, preferably with two buttons (can’t miss with this combo). This type matches every other basic color, as well as every occasion. Bonus: given the fact that a suit consists of two parts – there you have it – it’s extremely versatile. Meaning that the suit jacket, and the pants, can be worn without the other part. Both easy to dress up and to dress down.
A jacket
A jacket is a piece of clothing that just adds a little extra to each look – you’ll step up your game in the blink of an eye. For this item, an ‘overshirt’ is, according to our stylist, your best buy. Looks like a shirt, but is often made out of thicker fabric, like denim or a mix of wool and polyester, for example, and has a comfortable regular fit – which creates space to layer different fabrics underneath.
An overshirt, or shirt-jacket, is easy to pair up with your favorite t-shirt and pair of denim jeans for a casual look. It goes great with any neckline of your choice, as well as another shirt collar. When you’re aiming for a more sophisticated appearance, add a layering effect to your outfit by wearing a dressed shirt or oxford shirt underneath. You’ll instantly look like you know what you’re talking about.
Is your style of dressing a bit more professional? A casual blazer will do great in that case. If preferred, a subtle printed or structured version will be the right choice for you.
5 shirts – a combination of dressed and casual
Most men already own a wide range of shirts. In that case, it’s key to ask yourself a few questions to decide if they’re worthy of a spot between the essentials of your wardrobe:
- Does this shirt still fit me? Is the slim fit I bought, still a slim fit?
- Is the collar still true to color?
- Is the fabric free from damages?
- Do I feel good in it? (And, look good in it?)
If you have answered no to any of the above questions, it’s probably best to continue on the search for your new favorite shirt(s). How?
When it comes to the perfect shirt, well-fitting is, again, key. Are you narrowly built? Avoid buying big, regular fitted shirts in which you and your physique are likely to disappear. Instead, go for a slim-cut or a fitted option. For the larger guys upon us, find yourself something that is not too tight, like a regular fit. Plain colors you’ll never go wrong with are for example white and icy blue. Next to that, a subtle, small print in neutral colors will do as well.
Dress shirts are easy to pair up with a crewneck knit, a jacket, or a suit. But they also look great on their own, simply combined with a pair of chinos or unwashed jeans. This goes as well for more casual shirts – like oxfords. For the capsule, we’ll go with two casual variants. Picked a denim shirt as one of your casual options? Wear with the shirt-jacket, semi-dress pants, and white sneakers for your go-to weekend look.
5 tops: varied styles
T-shirts are the best basis for your capsule wardrobe. As listed above, they go incredibly good with an unbuttoned oxford or a shirt jacket. A high-quality piece can even be combined with your suit jacket. Choose, in this case, colors such as white, black, and navy. A Breton stripe is a nice change between the plain colors. Step up your game with structured fabrics, like a waffle or even a knitted t-shirt or long sleeve.
Next to the three t-shirts and one long-sleeved t-shirt (a henley for example), our personal favorite to complete this category with is a well-fitting polo shirt. The best year-round option is without a doubt, a merino woolen version. Keeps you cool in summer, gives you a warm and soft layer in wintertime. The fabric looks luxurious and goes well in a smart casual look, combined with a suit jacket and semi-dress pants. The polo partners up great with a pair of jeans and sneakers – but with shorts – in summer – they look great as well.
Sweaters and knits
A good example of a casual essential in your wardrobe is the basic sweater. Our advice: invest in a plain colored, long-sleeved sweater, with a small chest embroidery, for example. Given the fact that this is a more casual option, a playful touch is approved. This piece of clothing is perfect for a Sunday afternoon but also great for a drink – in that case, wear with an oxford shirt underneath and let the collar peek out a little bit.
Speaking of merino woolen polo shirts: a merino woolen crew neck sweater is an item with the same features and benefits: cool when it’s hot outside, warm when it’s cold outside. Next to this big advantage, you’ll get away with almost every combination around this piece.
Pick a light grey (melee) color, black, or try a soft beige, if that matches with your skin tone. Both colors go great with the navy blue from your suit and the crew neck lends itself to be worn with or without a shirt, both dress and casual. Not a big fan of wool? A cotton or cotton blend will, likewise, do the trick.
Pants: 3 pairs, 2 different styles
The perfect example of a must-have wardrobe essential is undoubtedly a pair of jeans. Most washings are wearable with any color of your choice, and given the wide range of fits and sizes, there is always a model that fits you like a glove. To get the most out of your pairs of jeans, make sure to invest a dark, unwashed version. Perfect to wear to work, combined with a dress shirt and a merino wool crew neck.
For the second pair of denim, go with a dark-grey, slightly washed version. A worthy basis to put together a relaxed weekend look. In our opinion, this type (preferably slim fit) goes well with a pair of boots, a t-shirt, and a shirt-jacket. A combination of denim and a small amount of stretchy material, like elastane, is the key to comfortable, long-lasting jeans.
To finish off this category, we’ll go with semi-dress pants. To give you a little freedom in this part, this could be either a good pair of chinos or a sporty-looking trouser – depending on what you prefer. Chinos are great in colors such as army green or grey, or plain navy.
Explaining you a little bit more about the sporty-looking trouser: the style we are talking about is in this matter, a dressed pant with a drawstring. Can be dressy, but not too much, can be relaxed and laid back, but not too much. Often these pants are made out of materials with a more luxurious look, for example, a wool blend.
3 pairs of shoes
Now, what is a cool outfit without a pair of shoes? Exactly. To cover all the occasions and types of looks, we advise you to invest in three different pairs of shoes. First: a comfortable pair of white sneakers. As white is nice and basic, you’ll be able to wear them with everything. Go for a leather sneaker that lasts long and is easy to clean.
Second: a good pair of dress shoes. Also for this style, leather is the best option as it’s known to be long-lasting. Look out for a brown leather version, with laces. Refined, basic, but not boring and easy to match. Most high-quality dress shoes will last you years instead of seasons, especially when you take care of them in-between wears. Key tips: stick with the classics, and invest in quality when you can. You won’t regret it.
Last but not least: a pair of boots is the final item to complete your capsule wardrobe. We recommend you to go with a classic lace-up pair, but for a more minimalistic, refined look, choose a Chelsea boot. Preferably in soft, brown suede. Make sure to treat them with water repellent product to avoid unwanted staining or damaging, when unexpectedly facing a rainy storm. This pair of boots go well with jeans and any top of your choice.
Final tips on creating the perfect capsule wardrobe
Make sure you feel good in your clothing. A minimalist wardrobe can be great and all, but if stocking up on clothing in more outstanding styles is typically you, maybe it’s just not you.
Take time to invest. And we’re not just talking money-wise. As we talked about above, the essentials will be there in the long run. Spend time in thinking and deciding what looks good on you, what fabrics and fits are the most comfortable on your body, and of course, what occasions you’ll have to cover with the set of clothes.
Leave out accessories. Some men love them, others hate them. (Luckily) accessories such as bags, ties, pocket squares, sunglasses, don’t count. As they are often small, they won’t take up a lot of space in your closet, and these small add-ons to your outfit are exactly what adds personality to your look.
