Platinum’s fashion expert showcases three not-so-ordinary capsule wardrobe looks to update your style.
WORDS: GAIL ROLFE. IMAGES: VARIOUS BRANDS.
A cursory flip through magazines, newspapers, Sunday supplements and millions of influencers on Instagram will prove that fashion is having a groundhog moment. All you can see is a never-ending loop of the same trends from the foremost luxury designers down to the least expensive brands. True diversity is lacking. And I have probably been as complicit as the rest.
But an email from a reader jerked me out of my fashion complacency. She asked for a column dedicated to a capsule wardrobe that did not feature the following: “The ubiquitous trench coat, blazer, jeans and white shirt.” To which list I would currently add: a Breton striped T-shirt (I have cherished mine for more than 30 years, but even I think the time has come to put it away for a while; anything that is prefaced with the word “oversized” – no, no, no, this is not a good look for anyone; striped sweaters that have all taken their inspiration from the Scandinavian label Toteme; and the Parisian cropped cardigan-style jacket.
It’s time to change the style record and move on. So, this column is dedicated to those who don’t wish to be part of the “lemming” fashion brigade. These three outfits are simply templates, even if I had the space to create 10 or more capsule wardrobe outfits I could not please everyone.
So, change the colours to suit you, swap the silhouettes to flatter your body shape, and adjust the mood or vibe to suit your lifestyle. Designed to be the bedrock of your wardrobe, this is when you ignore trends and select timeless items that will last for many, many years.
STYLE TIPS!
1 If you make a mistake, sell it immediately. Don’t let guilt leave it festering in the wardrobe.
2 If you truly adore something and are certain you will be wearing it for eternity, then buy two. It’s a trick I learnt long ago that has worked for me. Especially with jumpers.
3 Store something that you are bored with and bring it out again in a few years – you will see it with a fresh perspective.
4 Find a style heroine (celeb, colleague, friend) whose taste and inspiration syncs with yours.
5 If something is labelled as “out” of fashion and you love it, stand your ground. Especially when it comes to jeans, puffer jackets, floral dresses and white trainers!
Buildable basics
My can’
