Office Fashion: How I Built My Office 'Capsule Wardrobe'

Introduction

I have recently started a new job in an office, and for the first time in my adult life, I am not required to wear a uniform. I've never had to think about putting together an outfit on a daily basis until now.

I have a lot of clothes. I simply love shopping, buying new outfits for every occasion, and spending lots of money.

The problem is that when you have too many clothes, you can end up struggling even more to put an outfit together. You get completely overwhelmed by choices, and that is the last thing you need in the morning when you are rushing to get to work.

This is where the concept of a capsule wardrobe comes into play.

If you’ve spent time scrolling through Pinterest or TikTok, you may have come across the term “capsule wardrobe.”

But what exactly does it mean?

The Concept of a Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a small, carefully chosen collection of clothes that you love, actually wear, and can mix and match easily to create lots of different outfits.

The goal is simple: less clutter, more style.

Instead of having a wardrobe bursting with random pieces that don’t really go together, a capsule wardrobe focuses on timeless, versatile clothing that reflects your personal style.

Now I am going to be completely transparent: I don't have this. Much like my hobbies and interests, my style can change massively depending on my mood and what vibe I'm feeling. I've never been able to lock into a specific style, but that's a topic for another day.

I have, however, begun making an 'office wear capsule wardrobe,' and so far it has been working out fantastically.

Building My Workwear 'Capsule Wardrobe'

Below is a rough list of the items I have in rotation for my office wear wardrobe. I have also added bits of information on why I picked these items.

Please remember that you don't need this many items in yours. It's also important to note that I didn't buy all of this in one go. Some of my favorite things for this wardrobe I bought years ago, and some items I've permanently borrowed from my sister. So please don't do a mass haul and spend loads to try and replicate.

1. Plain Trousers

This is a must. If you wear skirts or dresses, then four trousers may be a bit excessive. I personally don't like wearing skirts to work, so I only wear trousers.

I love a wide-leg trouser, so all of mine are the same shape and style, just in different colors. You may prefer slim fit or straight leg trousers—it all depends on your personal style.

I have four main pairs that I rotate. I also have my 'smart jeans' on top of this for casual days.

The colors are:

• Black: It's smart and versatile. It basically goes with everything.

• Brown: I love the autumnal color palette, so these go with a lot of the items in my wardrobe.

• Grey: In the summer, I switch this pair out for a pink pair, just to bring some life into my outfits.

• Navy Pinstripe: Again, something that I believe goes with nearly everything. I've had mine for years, and they've never let me down.

  
  

2. Shirts

I have roughly four shirts on rotation. They are all different shapes, which gives my outfits completely different looks. I also alternate whether I wear them tucked in or out, buttoned or unbuttoned. The change in styling makes it look like I have way more outfits than I actually do.

My shirts:

• Brown (baggy): The perfect shirt because it pairs well with most trousers.

• White (long & short sleeve): A white shirt is simply a staple and pairs well with a lot.

• Pink (baggy & slim fit): Even if I wear the exact same trousers, shoes, jacket, and accessories, the change in fit makes it look like a completely different outfit.

  
  

3. Sleeveless Tops

I have a few sleeveless options. They can be worn on their own or with other items of clothing to offer layering versatility.

They are all solid, staple colors that work well with multiple items in my wardrobe.

• Burgundy and Brown: In the winter, these are worn exclusively under cardigans.

• Black, Brown, and Grey (plain vest): In the summer, I wear these on their own, and I use them for layering in the winter. Having pieces that work for every season is so helpful.

  
  

4. Long Sleeve Tops

This is most important for winter, especially if you work in an open-plan office with interesting winter temperatures. They are also perfect for layering under many of the items of clothing already mentioned above.

Colors: Black, Brown, Grey, White

5. Neutral Shoes

I basically only wear my Adidas Gazelles or Spezials to the office because they are comfy and go with everything. I will continue wearing them until they break, then I will replace them with the same shoe or something very similar.

For interviews, I bring out my burgundy slingbacks, and it makes any outfit 10 times smarter.

6. Cardigans and Jackets

I have two cardigans and fleeces on rotation, and they go with every outfit by force.

I don't compromise when it comes to the cold—comfort over fashion every day!

My office wardrobe is far from perfect, and I still occasionally stress over what to wear. But those days are now few and far between, and my mornings run a lot smoother because of it.

Here are a few examples of items I’ve re-worn in the office, showing how I mix and match or style them differently to give each look a fresh twist.

Switching up hairstyles regularly also helps keep things feeling new! ✨