A business capsule wardrobe is built around 3 essential categories: shirts in simple shades (white, pale blue, pale pink), sport jackets and trousers in navy, grey and black, and quality footwear (Oxfords, Derbies and Chelsea boots). A limited number of well-chosen pieces produces a wealth of combinations, and does away with wardrobe chaos and the minutes lost in front of it every morning.
1. What is a capsule wardrobe, and how does it work?
A capsule wardrobe is a set of truly essential clothes, limited in number but versatile in colour. They combine easily into a large number of distinct outfits. The concept was born in the 1970s and favours quality over quantity. We wrote recently that the quality of a suit comes down, in essence, to measure, motif and material. The aim of a capsule wardrobe is to give men a wide range of combinations for any occasion, without overloading the wardrobe. For men in business who feel the time has come to build a proper capsule wardrobe, here are a few landmarks worth keeping in mind.
2. Primo: which shirts are indispensable?
There are three shirts every gentleman should own: white, pale blue and pale pink. These are the shirts that allow the greatest freedom of combination. They are classic, understated, discreet and elegant: the perfect base for a stylish suit. Beyond these, navy-striped shirts are a good option. Navy shirts with a white collar and cuffs are excellent for added authority in meetings. Shirts that are shiny, in “cheerful” colours, with an enormous logo, too sheer or made of synthetic fabric are best avoided. They are the last thing business calls for.
3. Secundo: which sport jackets and trousers belong in it?
Three sport jackets are essential in a capsule wardrobe: navy, grey and black. The first two are essential for smart casual and business casual, and form the backbone of daytime outfits. Black is not as versatile as the others, but it is useful for the events that crop up in life from time to time: a wedding, a funeral or a formal dinner. The same recommendations apply to trousers.
4. Tertio: why are shoes the most important piece?
Shoes are, without doubt, the most important pillar of a gentleman’s wardrobe. The quality, design and refinement of a shoe define any outfit. A pair of shoes is therefore not a purchase but an investment. Which shoes belong in a business wardrobe? First, a brown lace-up. Oxford or Derby is a matter of taste, but it must be made on an elegant last. Second, a black dress shoe, also a lace-up, with a nicely rounded toe. Third, a pair of ankle boots. For business, a brown leather Chelsea boot with elastic sides, a classic cut and a slightly pointed toe is all that is needed, especially once the cold sets in.
In sum, the capsule wardrobe is a tool for maximum efficiency at minimum outlay. It is made up of a limited number of clothes that combine in a great many ways, for any occasion, with immediate results. The only question left is when the work on it begins.
