I'm a Fashion Editor—10 Easy Items That Make Up My Workwear Capsule Wardrobe

Getting up in the morning is painful at the best of times, let alone deciding what you're going to wear. The key to a successful approach to workwear is to have a capsule of smart, but comfortable, pieces that are simple enough to be mixed and matched and restyled in lots of different ways. You want to focus on ease too—shirts that won’t need to go to the dry cleaners each time you wear them and loose tailoring that looks put together, but not too restrictive.

Below we have listed 10 items that will make getting dressed for the office a little easier, from a beautifully tailored blazer to a belted wrap coat to wide-leg trousers with a loose fit. It’s also important to pay close attention to the accessories. You’ll want a smart handbag big enough to carry your laptop (they look so much better than a scruffy tote bag), a trusty pair of loafers, an elegant belt and perhaps some subtle gold jewellery to finish off any outfit. Keep scrolling to see the 10 items that will make getting dressed for the office again so much easier.

1. Wide-Leg Trousers

workwear capsule wardrobe: @emilyjdawes wears a blue shirt with wide-leg trousers

Photo:

@emilyjdawes

Style Notes: Wide-leg styles have become a modern classic thanks to their elegant silhouette and easy styling. 

Shop Wide-Leg Trousers:

This is such a versatile colour.

2. Practical Tote

workwear capsule wardrobe: @monikh carries an oversized tote bag

Photo:

@monikh

Style Notes: If, like us, you have plenty of essentials to carry on your commute, finding a beautiful bag should be high on your list. 

3. Gold Jewellery

workwear capsule: @ch.phr8ph wears gold earrings and a necklace

Photo:

@ch.phr8ph

Style Notes: A simple trousers-and-tee look can go from mid to major with the addition of staple gold jewellery. 

Shop Gold Jewellery:

Laura Lombardi creates the most beautiful jewellery.

So many Who What Wear UK editors own—and adore—Missoma earrings.

4. Boucle Jacket

workwear capsule: @emilyjdawes wears a boucle jacket with tailored trousers

Photo:

@emilyjdawes

Style Notes: Along with their classic nature, boucle jackets add a contrasting texture that feels so elevated, no matter the pairing. 

Shop Boucle Jackets:

I'd style it exactly like this for weekend wear.

5. Simple Blazer

workwear capsule: @_jessicaskye wears a blazer with jeans and loafers

Photo:

@_jessicaskye

Style Notes: A simple blazer is a key part of our uniform that instantly adds polish to even the most casual outfit. 

Shop Blazers:

This is one of the most popular items on the high street.

6. Knitted Dress

Style Notes: We'll never stop celebrating dresses for creating an instant outfit. Simply add boots and grab your tote and you're on your way. 

Shop Knitted Dresses:

Let this dress convince you to embrace winter whites.

7. Leather Belt

workwear capsule wardrobe: @femmeblk wears a leather belt

Photo:

@femmeblk

Style Notes: Investing in a leather belt will add a refined touch to your looks, along with being a useful accessory. 

Shop Leather Belts:

8. Tailored Coat

Style Notes: An elegant coat is the easiest way to instantly upgrade an outfit. As we move into autumn, look for wool versions that you'll rely on for years to come. 

Shop Tailored Coats:

9. White Shirt

workwear capsule wardrobe: @modedamour wears a white shirt

Photo:

@modedamour

Style Notes: Is there anything more versatile than the classic white shirt? Wear under knits, tanks and dresses or tucked into trousers, skirts and jeans. The possibilities are endless. 

Shop White Shirts:

Of course Toteme makes a simple yet gorgeous shirt.

10. Loafers

Style Notes: All hail the simple loafer, the comfortable (and cool) flat shoe that looks just as dressy as a heel. Wear with cropped trousers and oversized shirts in summer and with socks, jeans and a cosy knit in winter. 

Shop Loafers:

Penny loafers are having a moment this season.

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Next Up, The Winter 2023/2024 Fashion Trends That Really Matter