I have never been one to follow trends or plea to ‘buy’ every designer bag going because ultimately I am a high street girl at heart. I live in Primark, Topshop and Miss Selfridge with the occasional ‘Zara’ buy but that dosen’t mean that I don’t like designer clothing, because I do. I have never been in a position where I would be able to ‘afford’ a designer bag because every penny, every pound that I work for is spent on rent, bills and travel. It would not be an exaggeration to say that I struggle with finances most months because my income fluctuates but I have always dreamt of having enough money to afford labels like Ellie Saab (haute couture gown realness) , Valentino (floral mania) and Aquascutum ( Girl Boss Realness) and not for the reasons that you think either. I couldn’t care less about its ‘designer label tag’, rather the reason I feel attuned to these ‘premium brands’ is more about the unique nature of their brands aesthetic. While Valentino is known as a designer label that creates fantasy clothing inspired by nature, Ellie Saab’s designs are often rooted in fairytale culture and Aquascutum is a ‘cheaper Burberry’. Not to say that Aquascutum is a ‘cheap knock off’ because it’s not but rather that it adapts this notion of a working man or woman’s wardrobe and develops it into a collection can exist both in the workplace and ‘for playtime’.
The Shift Dress
As women who like to multi-task, having a wardrobe that can be suitable for any occasion-whether that be informal or formal- is almost a given prerequisite of what we expect from modern designers. When we choose a-line dresses, we pair them with an 80’s power blazer in a striking shade of cobalt or pillarbox red to demonstrate authority in the boardroom but that all changes when the office lights go out. The blazers come off and the dresses are paired with luxurious faux fur shrugs, while the kitten pumps are paired with sleek stilettos with a daring edge. The hair comes tumbling down and the makeup becomes deeper and darker, more intense. Thanks to Aquascutum this transition from boardroom politics to ‘clubwear etiquite’ couldn’t be any more simpler. Take this glorious ‘Tuka Print Dress‘ emblazoned with this seasons must have ‘Birds of Paradise’ print. Inspired by the infamous photographer and contemporary artist Nobuyoshi Araki, the a-line shift dress is made from 100% silk, while the cap sleeves stops the dress from being a ‘re-model’ of 90’s lingerie esque dresses that were so popular on the red carpet. Instead the printed design lends a more sophisticated vibe to the Tuka shift, while creating a merger between ‘tropical beach-esque wear’ and ‘power shift’. While the shift might be ‘tropical’, the straight shift cut makes it more appropriate for the boardroom. That being said, the Tuka Shift is more versatile than you may think and the styling possibilities are endless. Whether that be by pairing with a power blazer or knee high boots, a shift dress is a powerful component of a ‘capsule wardrobe’.
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The Woman’s Trench Coat
Speaking of capsule wardrobes, shift dresses might be the creme de le creme of the ‘dress world’ but it is a trench coat that truly has the most incredible styling credentials. Flashback to 2009 and I was 15; having just discovered fashion a typical uniform alternated between a ra ra skirt, leggings and 90’s crop or a neutral beige-ish grey military button trench coat, patterned tights and wedges. While eight years has seen a great transformation in my personal style, looking back at past photos make me nostalgic for my ‘trench coat wearing days’. Women’s Trench Coats are sophisticated, timeless and best of all suited to both ‘work and play’. Although trenches are available in a variety of colours a classic neutral trench is greater suited to a capsule wardrobe because the muted ‘colour’ means that it will go with pretty much anything in your wardrobe, even if like me you wear bright and pastel colours. Aquascutum’s double breasted ‘Trafalgar Trench’ in the shade ‘camel’ is a prime example of a coat that works hard for your ‘buck’. Worn with a suit, the trench softens the harshness of the ‘workroom aesthetic’ while worn with a dress or ‘night-time playsuit’ lends sophistication and elegance to a ‘party look’. Ultimately a trench is inspired by the Blair Waldorf’s of the world, kept closed Blair is prim and proper, all the attributes associated with the archaic archetype of a ‘powerful woman’ but left open, there is danger and endless possibilities. Question is which side will you choose?
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The Man’s Trench Coat
But it’s not just women that can have all the fun, after all men are entitled to their own ‘capsule wardrobes’ and a large proponent of a working man’s wardrobe is once again the classic trench. A working mans trench is shorter than a woman’s trench and features a set in sleeve, with military-inspired epaulettes to the shoulders, a double-breasted front with a button fastening and a waist belt which creates masculine elegance. Aquascutum’s Richmond design skims the upper thighs and its short length means that it can be worn with suit trousers without looking too ‘stuffy’ or equally worn with chinos and boat shoes, the coat is just as versatile as any boardroom blazer. It might not be Chuck’s version of boardroom or even pleasure attire ( but then again his style was questionable at the best of times),but a trench coat is a classic unisex look for both sexes. Plus women or men can wear either the Trafalgar (women’s) or Richmond (men’s) and still look just as flawless in both.
An Oxford Shirt
Traditionally Oxford Shirts are seen as ‘prim and proper’ and designed only for boardroom etiquette, yet the styling possibilities are far more vast. Available in classic white or light blue, the Aquascutum Lloyd Oxford Shirt is crafted from pure cotton and features a unique mother of pearl fastening. Oxford Shirts might be typically seen as a ‘workwear staple’ but the truth is they can be worn with anything, even at festivals. To really step outside the box, pair an Oxford shirt with a pastel tennis skirt, a longline printed duster jacket and layer a bralet over the top, before finishing off the look with a novelty tote, fishnet pastel heels and a wide brimmed floppy hat. Equally if the Oxford shirt has been brought to wear in the ‘work-room’ then a pair of slacks, power blazer and sleek black heels will work to create an illusion of power.
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A Power Tote
Tote bags come in a variety of shapes and sizes but a medium size in a neutral or cognac hue is best suited to creating a ‘capsule wardrobe’ that works for you. Whether that be faux or real leather, a day tote bag can easily replace a briefcase in the boardroom and double up as a handy bag to go clubbing with, After all, its handy zip compartment means that there is a separation between your working life and what you do after hours, making it a bag that is happy to do double duty. Plus because it is titled as a ‘day bag’ even the most ‘casual outfit’ will be lent an air of much needed sophistication, which is ideal for days that you are rushing around and want to be comfortable but still command authority.
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What Would Be In Your Capsule Wardrobe?
*Collaborative Post
I love the Oxford Shirts! I actually own quite a few of them myself, but I am never sure what to pair them with!
A shift dress would work really well for me, I find their shape really flattering and you can create so many looks with them
I love everything, as always you seem to be able to rock every look and always look amazing doing it 🙂 x
beautiful and timeless! I know what I’m shopping for this weekend 🙂
I always love how colorful all your photos are! I have been nervous to take the leap into clothing because I’m afraid it won’t be as good as others.
I love a good shift dress – so easy to style and comfortable to wear 🙂
I really have to say I like the striped top that you wore with the trench coat. That was my favorite piece on you in this blog. You definitely look relaxed in the overalls. I don’t know that i have a style. I know I have had a few female friends take me out shopping a few times to try to create one.
I have no idea what would be in my capsule wardrobe, I have never been one to follow trends or think about how to mix and match clothes. I do love your ideas for a capsule wardbrobe x
I love all your selections in your capsule wardrobe! For me it must be a blazer or a trench coat for Spring. That colourfull shift dress is so cool and I love how you have styled it! Meet up next Thursday sweetie for coffee and press shows? xx
What adorable outfits and great looks! I have been aching to get some new pieces to add to my wardrobe but have been holding off because we travel so often we have to be able to carry it all! I have been wanting to dial down on creating the perfect travel capsule collection actually! This is the inspiration that I need to get my butt in gear and step up my style game!
Finally I found a cheaper alternative to Burberry! That’s so cool! In my capsule wardrobe would be definitely Aquascutum’s double breasted ‘Trafalgar Trench’ and Lloyd Oxford Shirt! So fashion and so chic!
Oxford shirts are fantastic and the versatility of styling possibilities makes them great pieces to have in your wardrobe. I also love to have a few shift dresses in my wardrobe for the reasons that you have outlined in your post. The Tuka Prit dress you’ve featured is gorgeous.
I love a good tote, especially one that is big enough to carry all of my items but is still stylish. I also think a nice trench coat is a must when you live in the UK x
I love these ideas. I’ve always been a fan of trench coats. My closet is mostly full of t-shirts.
I love tote bags! And I love your style! It’s so different and unique. I really enjoyed looking through your pictures.
I really need to invest in a good trench coat. They’re so classic and never go out of style. basically live in shift dresses, especially in the summer!
Great post Ana. Love your outfits. I have a capsule wardrobe and I would be lost without it.
Having a capsule wardrobe to turn to is such a great idea and it sounds like you have some great ideas for items people perhaps wouldn’t always think of including.
I love your outfits! If only I’m not living in a tropical country, I’m absolutely sure you’ll find me wearing a trench coat.
I love your style so so much! You are rocking all these looks so well! I need that camel jacket asap!
That sleeveless trench coat that you’re wearing is AMAZING! Perfect for spring!
All of these are darling, I love love the shift dress, this looks amazing on you. I like the style and colors. Great pieces, I have never been good at mixing and matching outfits!
I love your outfit. You perfectly match and fit them on you.
Yes to capsule wardrobes! Mine would have to include a pair of vintage Levis .. Converse tennis shoes (red or white) .. a striped shirt (preferably long sleeved) .. a good white blouse .. black yoga pants .. and a sexy slip dress
I love a good Tote bag, in fact, I need a new one as the strap has just broken on the one I currently have. Great post.
Love all these outfits! Super stylish 🙂
A power tote would definitely be in my capsule wardrobe, that and a trench. Both are such classic pieces x
I adore the shift dress in the first photo. I am a sucker for breton stripes so my wardrobe would feature them
Wow such cool, chic and stylish pieces and you have made them work really well, perfect spring/summer wardrobe
Laura x
I love your capsule wardrobe! Mine would definitely include a good pair of jeans, a killer pair of heels and little black dress.
I love the shift dress. I love the sleeve style. A trench coat is also good to have. Oh, and Oxford shirts. I have them in my closet and thanks for giving me ideas on how to wear them and look classy.
I love the shift dress. It’s the kind of thing that most of my outfits are built around
Lots of dresses for a start. I would also add a big bag to carry all my essentials as I need to have space to carry things for the children too.
Absolutely love the Tuka shift dress Anna and love the honesty of this post. It’s do easy to put pictures up of designer bags. I too love designer clothes and used to wear before I was married. I have since lived in high street clothes and I am happy with that as that’s all I can afford. I do sometimes see a scarf and it’s like £500! And I think omg so much money and try to find a cheaper one!
I’m a big fan of trench coats and also Oxford shirts. I love the idea of shift dresses but they never suit me on. And totes are my favourite.
Bootcut jeans that can be dressed up or down 🙂
my very own fashionista, my very own look to stylist, truth be told, i copy alot of your style now and my girl puts into hers and the result is amazing, you just know how to dress and combine, i crush on your style of dressing so much. and am glad you came through this time again. nice one and thumbs up to you again. HUGS.
I love it. Having these essentials will definitely minimize your wardrobe and allow you to be more versatile in terms of your style without having too much clothes.
You look so good in the photos. Great outfits, you rock on it 🙂
I love the idea of a capsule wardrobe, so many times I’ve bought something only to get home and realise it doesn’t “go” with anything else! I love the shift dress here, it’s such a pretty print and could be worn with so many different things.
I want your top in the first photo! I had a great tote bag and need a new mac for the spring/summer
I LOVE all your outfits here. I especially like the brown coat your wearing!
Aquascutum is made near to where I live and is a f a fabulous old brand!
My capsule wardrobe would comprise lots of fifties style full skirts with mix and match colour tops. Xx
I’ve not heard the term capsule wardrobe before, but I must say the outfits you put together look great!
Your outfits look fab as always. I really need to update my capsule wardrobe and invest in some new pieces for summer x
I think every girl is dreaming about something, even one thing, for designer. I personally have few on my list, and hope someday I will be lucky enough to own them! What would be in my wardrobe capsule? Good question! Honestly, I was thinking about and thinking and nothing came to me so far! I guess it’s a subject that will require more time for me and peeking in my closet 😉
All of these looks look great you, I love the black knee high boots!
Aquascutum is such a top British brand. A trench is a total style classic.
You’ve got some timeless pieces out there! I find the trench coat being most versatile and I truly like it but I remember buying one in camel, a bit more pricey, a couple of years ago… I loved it so much that I used to wear it pretty much every day for far too long and I’m not sure if I can handle any more ‘camel’ shade in my life! Xx
I wish I was organised enough to have a capsule wardrobe! Maybe I will start planning one.
I have a sleeveless trench too! It was sent to me in error, but I fell in love with it straight away!
I absolutely love how colourful your photos are, and I love your style. Your blog is also very nice.
I love every single item, as always you totally rocked each look!
I love a good trench coat. Maybe it’s the need in me, but I love feeling like Sherlock Holmes lol.
I definitely agree with all of your capsule wardrobe suggestions. I definitely need those trench coats!
Love ALL of these outfits love the way you have styled them giving a fresh take on some lovely classics!
I like how you mentioned Blair Waldorf in your post. Even if she is a fictional character has style was impeccable and, even if she has emotions, she never shows them to the real world. She always appears as a strong, fearless woman and her wardrobe and style show that very well! 🙂
YES! These are definitely items that make up the basis of a fab wardrobe. I think a great trench and a wonderful tote are my top picks.
Thanks for sharing!
Leigh at Fashion Du Jour LDN x
I have been wanting to minimize my wardrobe but considering most of it is currently in boxes while we live with my inlaws that is virtually impossible. So hopefully when we get our own place soon I can downsize and minimize. I definitely love your choices and a power tote is one of those things I would always forget! Which is funny since I love purses! So thanks for the reminder.
I do love a shift dress. It is certainly a main stable in my waredrobe!
Some fab snaps there Ana. I do love the shift dress and the trench coat can be very versatile too! Fab choice of outfits 🙂 x
I loved all the styles that you have shown here. The best one is your look in Oxford Shirt. You dressing style is really great. 🙂
That Tuka Print dress is beautiful, I’ve pinned it to my Wants board on Pinterest 😉 also, some street art by one of my favourite street artists in there! Xx
I love your outfits, you have a great sense of combining different outfits, that is a talent I hope you know that!!!
You look absolutely adorable in trench coat outfit, will sure buy it for me.
Love that oxford shirt and trench coat! You are killing all your outfits. You look gorgeous as ever!
I love how shirts look but I am terrible at styling them. I’d love to create a capsule wardrobe.
I’m definitely a high street girl at heart too with a mix of vintage and the occasional designer pieces added in.
Love these looks 🙂
Dani x
I love your taste in fashion. I just wish I could pull this off as well as you do.
I am a high street fashion lover but I don’t mind a designer brand if i can afford it.
My capsules always contain the essential basics by also the items you’ve listed
Love your outfits and that black hat is so totally you! I would like to explore the benefits of a capsule wardrobe.
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