The ultimate guide to creating a capsule closet

The building blocks of basics are all you need for your wardrobe, regardless of your age or gender

How many times have you stood in front of your overstuffed, overflowing closet and declared that you have nothing to wear? The problem is that while the latest seasonal launches can be enticing to splurge on, their return on investment in the long run may not be as high. So how do you build a wardrobe that serves you well? Let’s start by dialling it down to the basics. But first, repeat after me: basics are not boring.

By basics I don’t mean turning your wardrobe into shades of black, white and grey. While those are essential colours, your wardrobe should include basics that are fundamental to you. Rather than falling prey to every trend that ends up barely being worn, curate your closet with pieces you keep going back to, whether it's your trusted pair of jeans or a chikankari kurta. Every item of clothing in your closet should be able to reflect your personality.

The concept of a capsule wardrobe is simple: have a selected collection of ‘basics’ that makes dressing up easy for you and will stand the test of time as well as trends. The idea is to buy less, wear more and own quality pieces. It also makes you value your clothes more. Instead of adhering to a fast-fashion and consumerist culture, a capsule wardrobe is a mindful way of consuming fashion.

So here are the bare bones, or your ‘hall of fame’ essentials that you can invest in, regardless of your age, size or gender.

Let’s start by suiting up

While you may argue that in this hybrid work scenario, you don’t really need a suit in your closet, but a well-tailored one can be handy when you have sudden work events or important meetings to attend. It is perfect for a cocktail party or even a mehendi ceremony, if you team it up with a polki necklace. You can even wear it separately by pairing the jacket with a pair of jeans or wearing the trousers with an oversized T-shirt. When it comes to suits, don’t be afraid to experiment with fabrics and colours. Silk, brocade, or even linen suits are a unique addition to your wardrobe, and can be worn together or as separates on different occasions.

Buttoned-up shirts

There’s a reason why a shirt is so timeless. You can pair it with anything and style it anyway you want: it's a good cover-up for a beach day and also looks great with a skirt. What's not to love? A good quality shirt will make you look well put-together. For a shirt to work for you, you need to do your leg work: when trying them out, button it all the way up to make sure there are no gaping holes between buttons.

Basic denims

Look away from those washed and distressed denims—nope. Look for a go-to pair, think: no-wash, no-stretch, straight fit, dark blue or black jeans. Find a fit and style that works for you and while you don't have to go buy what Gen Z (who hate skinny jeans say), straight cut is always a good bet. But make sure you get a pair that fits right and get it altered so that your jeans aren't dragging on the floor or need to be folded.

Oversized T-shirts

Ever felt more comfortable in your boyfriend's t-shirt than yours? Because same. When it comes to oversized T-shirts, the trick is to find the right fit, which is a bit contradictory. You don’t want it to be so oversized that you’re floating in it. Opt for one or two sizes up. Neutral shades work best if you want to mix and match with most other pieces in your wardrobe, though it’s always fun to have that statement T-shirt with bold prints...and we are all about fun.

Outerwear and knits

If you live in a relatively hot and humid environment, a lightweight in linen or denim jacket will last for years and are great for layering. For those blessed with a variety of seasons chunky knits are great to cosy up to. While knits are having a moment in the spotlight, when chosen carefully they could last beyond seasons: buy a colour you know you'll love forever. Don't forget to raid your mother's closet for some quality shawls that you can throw it on and secure it with a belt on your waist or drape it over your shoulder.

Kurta-pajama sets

Nothing spells Indian summer like a kurta-pajama in sorbet colours. If you are fan of traditional embroidery and handicraft traditions, pick up a white chikankari piece to take from office to brunch and a block-printed set for a day of lounging and errands

Loungewear and activewear

The pandemic has changed the way we dress. As we spent more time at home, our style became more relaxed. A good quality loungewear can also double up as activewear. But gone are the days of slouchy sweatpants try slim track pants—they go from Zoom meetings to the airport (and with the right kind of accessories for dinner as well!).

Footwear

Believe it or not, your basic wardrobe only needs few pairs of footwear. With sneakers, a pair of white ones will go with every look and every outfit, including your suit. Invest in a pair that will last you a long time. If you are not a fan of heels, for a formal look, a pair of brown or black loafers will do the trick.

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