The ultimate work capsule wardrobe

This is probably my most popular workwear request, and I’ve been working on this post for a while! This blog post sets out my idea of the perfect work capsule wardrobe.

These are the items I would buy if I was starting out building up my workwear collection afresh, with the benefit of what I know now.

With this selection you’ll end up with a small, focused collection of classic workwear pieces which are complementary to each other, provide you with loads of interchangeable outfits, and – most importantly – arm you with a work capsule wardrobe which you love, and which reduces the amount of time spent staring at your wardrobe in the morning!

I know lots of you are on a budget. However, I do get requests for premium/luxury workwear, too – so I’ve picked out some of my fave workwear pieces to suit a variety of budgets. (You may also want to check out this more detailed post I wrote on building up a work capsule wardrobe, with a focus on affordable workwear pieces.)

I’ve done my best to source items I already have and love, that are currently in stock – stock levels are a ‘mare at the moment!

Okay, let’s get into it…

Your ultimate work capsule wardrobe

Your work capsule wardrobe checklist – and some options for various budgets

Tops

1 x white shirt

1 x blue shirt

  • Affordable options at H&M and Mango (I have the Mango one and ADORE IT)
  • Mid-range options at Everlane and Reiss

1 x neutral silky blouse

1 x black silky blouse

1 x neutral knitted tee/roll neck

1 x dark knitted tee/roll neck

(The exact knitted tees in the picture – from Mango – are the ones I have and love. The black is linked here (currently on sale!). I’ve also linked the cream option in case it comes back in stock!)

Bottoms

1 x neutral trousers

1 x black trousers

Dresses

1 x black shift dress

Outerwear

1 x black blazer

1 x tweed/boucle jacket

Shoes

Leather loafers

Slingbacks

Long time followers will know that the Marks & Spencer leather slingback Chanel dupes – pictured – are my fave, however those are sadly sold out. They do tend to come back each year, so keep an eye out!

In the mean time, here are some alternatives…

  • Affordable option – the new season updated versions at Marks & Spencer
  • Another great affordable option at ASOS

Black court heels

Neutral heels

Accessories

1 x black (ideally) leather tote bag

My favourite brands for workwear

Affordable workwear

  • Mango
  • H&M
  • Zara
  • Uniqlo
  • Marks & Spencer

Mid-range workwear

  • COS
  • Everlane
  • Reiss
  • The Outnet

High-end workwear

  • Theory
  • Frankie Shop
  • Toteme
  • The Curated
  • The Fold

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