How to build a capsule wardrobe

Are you over 60 and fed up with your clothes? Perhaps your wardrobe’s bursting to the seams, yet you still feel like you’ve NOTHING to wear. If any of this sounds frustratingly familiar, you’re certainly not alone. After you hit a certain age, it’s liberating to ring the changes and press the reset button on your personal style. Just ask the fashionable Gransnetters on our Style and Beauty forum.

Thankfully, you don’t have to blow your budget on a mountain of new garments to get a new look. So what’s the key to looking fabulous whilst keeping your wardrobe spic and span? A nifty capsule wardrobe of must-have pieces which work together in various ways. And all with minimal fuss…hurrah! No more opening up your wardrobe and despondently rifling through a rail of unwearable clothes. Instead, you’ll be able to reach for just the right flattering garments and mix and match them with ease. Not only will you look fabulous and feel comfortable, you’ll have more time to do - well, just about anything more fun than stress about getting dressed. Makes sense, doesn’t it?

If you’re over 60 and fancy overhauling your look with a clever capsule wardrobe, we’re here to tell you all about the fashion essentials you’ll need. From the perfect jeans to the most flattering dresses…easy, breezy dressing here we come.
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What is a capsule wardrobe?

"I revamped my (very aged) wardrobe. I now feel more comfortable about how I look and can put things together without too much thought as they all coordinate."

A capsule wardrobe is a collection of essential items of clothing that won't go out of style. Think T-shirts, skirts, shirts, jackets and trousers that can be paired with a selection of statement or seasonal pieces. The idea of a capsule wardrobe was first coined by British boutique owner Susie Faux in the 1980s. She encouraged women to invest in high-quality garments that could be worn time and time again, rather than wasting money on cheaper items which wouldn’t last.

Feeling inspired to pull together your own capsule collection? If you’re still wavering, consider the benefits of embracing a pared back wardrobe.

• It saves time - avoid the dreaded 'I have nothing to wear' panic by opting for clothes you know suit you and look great together (hello there, snooze button).
• It costs less - by being choosier and buying fewer items, you’re less likely to waste money on fleeting trends.
• It means less mess - a streamlined wardrobe of staple pieces cuts down on clutter.
• It makes packing so much easier - if you're going on holiday, it’s less stressful when you instinctively know which essentials to pack.
• It’s more sustainable - buying fewer pieces and avoiding throwaway fashion is infinitely better for the environment as it reduces waste. Make sure you donate, sell or recycle any clothes you no longer need.
  
  

How should you build a capsule wardrobe?

Building a stylish capsule wardrobe is the opposite of complicated. After all, streamlining your style should be about making your life easier, not more stressful. You just need to follow these few basic fashion rules, with added tips from Gransnetters who’ve overhauled their own personal style.
  

1. Start by clearing out your wardrobe

"I have a good clear-out about once a year and if I haven't worn an item in a year I get rid of it."

The point of a capsule wardrobe is to simplify and refine your style by removing unecessary excess. So you’re going to need a good old clear out before you begin. In one pile, put the items you haven't worn in yonks or no longer enjoy wearing. All the good-quality clothes that you already own should go in the other pile. Take the first pile to the charity shop, or sell your unwanted clothes on online selling sites such as eBay. Meanwhile, go through the clothes in your second pile. Look at each one and decide whether you’re likely to wear it again in the future. Be ruthless! In order to effectively streamline your wardrobe, aim to only keep a handful of your favourite items and say goodbye to the rest.

Check out the decluttering threads in our House and Home forum for inspo from super organised Gransnetters on clearing unworn and unwanted clothes from your closet.
  

2. Choose quality

"I buy the majority of my clothes from charity shops. That way I can have labels and better quality clothes than I could afford new."

When it comes to fashion, cut and material are everything. Choosing classic tailoring in quality materials will give you instant but lasting style. Gransnetters’ favourites, John Lewis and M&S Collection, are great for understated classic pieces, such as tailored blazers, well cut T-shirts, button down shirts, smart ‘go with anything’ chinos and flattering wide leg trousers. When browsing online or on the high street, always opt to buy fewer items while spending more on the pieces you do choose. Cheap,‘throwaway’ clothes are a false economy, bulking up your wardrobe without adding value, because they won’t last and are generally heading in one direction…the bin.

 

3. Overhaul your underwear

"Look at your underwear, get measured for a bra, wear one that holds you properly, and buy new pretty knickers and foundation undergarments if you stick out in places you do not want to."

Be honest now. When did you last give your undie drawer an overhaul? If it’s longer than you care to remember since you treated yourself to some new knickers or got measured for a bra, then it might be time to start again. Go back to basics by looking for black, white and nude underwear that fits properly, sits comfortably and works well under your clothes. Did you know that your bra size can change as you get older? Menopause, hormone changes and weight fluctuations can all have an impact, so it may be that you've been buying the wrong size for years. John Lewis and Marks & Spencer have in-store bra fitting services, so go and get yourself measured.

 

4. Invest in a wrap dress

"A wrap or shift dress always looks good."

An almost universally flattering dress shape that can be dressed up or down with complete ease? Yes, please! Step forward the classic wrap dress, which has stood the test of time since legendary designer Diane Von Furstenberg announced its arrival in her famed 1974 fashion collection.

Fancy injecting some DVF-style chic to your own capsule wardrobe? Take a look at Boden’s range of soft jersey, curve skimming styles, which come in a variety of lengths and eye-catching prints. If you’re happy to stretch the budget a wee bit further and feel like spoiling yourself, you could invest in a beautiful DVF original, safe in the knowledge that this frock will never fall out of fashion favour.
 

5. Slim trousers for the win

"Smartish, straight or slim leg trousers in black or dark grey are the way to go."

Some styles never date and a pair of flattering, well cut trousers falls into this bracket. Ideal for most situations, whether you’re lunching with friends or shopping for groceries, tailored cigarette pants, tapered chinos or slim leg trousers with a bit of stretch are great all rounders.

Trusty ol’ Marks & Spencer offers a range of slim leg styles and, for extra fashion points, flash a teeny bit of skin (ooh, racy!) in a pair of on trend ankle grazers. Choose a neutral tone, such as black, navy, grey or khaki, which will go equally well with a colourful blouse and smart jacket or a comfy sweater and parka. Finish your look with flats - brogues, trainers or ballet pumps - and you're ready to roll with minimal fuss.

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6. Mix and match

"I don't enjoy clothes shopping that much so tend to buy certain basics in two different colours then mix and match. I also stick to colours that I know suit me."

Having fewer clothes is anything but boring and restrictive; it’s quite the opposite, in fact, as it really allows you to get creative. A good capsule collection will allow for myriad outfit combinations. When putting your capsule collection together, adopt a mix-and-match approach and always shop with your other clothes in mind. Fashion experts say that one of the most common shopping errors is to buy a new item that doesn’t go with anything else in your wardrobe…only for it to then languish unworn and unloved in your closet because, well, it doesn’t go with anything. Ensure that any new item you introduce to your clothing collection works with at least three other pieces you already own. This goes for accessories too.

For shopping tips and ideas from the fashion aficionados on Gransnet, shimmy over to our Style and Beauty forum.

 

7. Get your colours done

"I had mine sorted in the 80s and I've never looked back. It means that everything in your wardrobe goes with everything else."

Ever noticed that your friend looks fabulous in teal but all your blue outfits leave you looking washed out? Maybe you’ve wondered if you really suit certain shades or if you’re just wearing them out of habit? If you’ve answered yes to either of these questions then it’s time to get your colours done.
The concept of colour analysis has been around for decades. It's a tried and tested way of teaching you about the shades and hues of clothing that truly complement your skin and hair colour, leaving you looking and feeling your best.

Visit Colour Me Beautiful to find a consultant who will assess whether you’re a ‘spring’, ‘summer’, ‘autumn’ or ‘winter’ (and no, we’re not talking weather preferences here). In just one session, you’ll learn which colours you should be scanning the shopping rails for - and which should never darken your wardrobe doors again.
 

8. Find colourful or bold statement pieces

"My daughter bought me a gorgeous statement necklace this year in shades of green. It looks great!"

Assembled your trusted staples? Well, it’s time for the fun to really begin! We’re talking pops of colour, dashes of sparkle and a nod to the season’s styles. Adding zing to your basic neutral pieces is key.
Don’t go overboard; focus on one ‘ splash’ per outfit. How about this Boden colour pop silk blouse to start you off?

Fashion fact: you can consider any warm animal prints to be a ‘neutral’ as they work with nearly any other pattern or colour. So go wild with a leather belt like this Boden classic or a White Stuff leather cross body bag.

Metallic accessories, like Next’s chic silver camera bag, make an impact with minimal fuss. Hunt down one or two pieces of show stopping jewellery. How about a statement necklace from Marks & Spencer’s beautiful jewellry range?

 

9. But never underestimate the power of a black dress...

"For evenings, I have a couple of black shift dresses and a beaded black taffeta knee-length skirt. Add the jackets, bags, earrings etc. and it's amazing how many events are catered for. Keep it simple is my advice."

Unless you’re a minor celebrity or member of the royal family, you really don’t need a rail of evening gowns. Think honestly about how often you really dress up in occasion wear. If it’s not all that often, you could probably get by with one really well-fitting black ‘hero’ dress; the sort of ‘fits like a glove’ number that comes to your rescue when you’re in dire fashion straits. You might also want to invest in a failsafe ‘hero’ black skirt to pair with strappy tops and blouses.

Use your little black number as the basis for your dressier outfits. Change up your look by mixing different accessories to suit the occasion. Heading to a lunchtime event with a smart/casual dress code? Add a statement necklace and tailored jacket and you’re away. Check out the range of stylish black dresses at Whistles for cuts to suit every body shape. 

If you’ve been invited to a swanky evening bash, break out the heels (Gransnetters and A-list celebs love Sole Bliss for style and comfort) and opt for a pair of standout drop earrings and a chic chiffon bolero like this one from Roman, available in a range of colours. Et voilà; your ‘going out out’ wardrobe expands dramatically…grab the fizz, we’ll drink to that.
 

10. And before you buy, find the most honest person you know

"My most successful purchases have been when I was with my daughter who is always brutally honest."

You may prefer shopping solo, moving around shops at your own pace and picking outfits to try at leisure. But the truth is that it’s hard to make a decision on new styles when you’re shopping alone. It always helps to have an honest opinion from someone you trust.

Of course, it’s even better if they’re stylish too - and actually like shopping and, erm, fashion. There’s no point inviting your DP to ‘assist’ on your shopping quest if he spends the entire time harrumphing outside the changing room and clearly wishing he was somewhere else.

At the very least, shop with someone who’ll tell you straight if one of your intended purchases simply doesn't suit you. We’re not talking about outright insults that will leave you in a snivelling heap on the changing room floor. But we reckon honesty is always the best policy - in love, life and in fashion too.
And, for even more honest opinions on capsule wardrobes, statement necklaces and animal print accessories, head over to our Gransnet Style and Beauty pages. From chunky cardis to comfy chino via jeans, joggers and jumpsuits, if you want to chat about clothes, you’ll find your people here.
 

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Buying the basics - your wardrobe essentials checklist

"I have never followed what fashion dictates and prefer good-quality, classic clothes that never date and last for years."

What does the ideal capsule wardrobe for a 60-year-old woman look like? Well, that depends on your own personal style. You are your own woman, after all. But here are a few wardrobe staples we wouldn't be caught without and that you should consider adding to your collection.

 

1. The perfect pair of trousers

We’ve already talked about the merits of slim leg trousers. For straight leg trousers that don't sit too low, but do fit comfortably, try Marks and Spencer or Boden for a good variety of lengths. And why not also take a look at wide leg trousers? These woven, elasticated waist wide leg trousers from Marks and Spencer are versatile, flattering and part of a trend that’s unlikely to go away any time soon.

2. Shirts and casual tops

Joules do a lovely range of casual, but stylish, shirts in soft cottons and pretty prints. If you're looking for a more tailored piece to dress up your straight leg trousers, Roman offer drapey tops that are universally flattering. White shirts are also a classic choice for your wardrobe; they can be dressed up for a special occasion or dressed down for relaxed days out. Look at Gap for their wide selection of quality organic cotton shirts.

3. Good-quality, good-value underwear

Of course, Marks and Spencer can always be relied upon for good underwear, especially from the Rosie Exclusively range, but it's also worth considering TK Maxx for some bargains on high end undies. Blessed with a generous bust? Head to underwear specialist Bravissimo, which caters for back sizes from 28 to 40 back sizes and cup sizes from D to L and offer failsafe fittings to ensure you’re wearing the correct size.

4. Non-frumpy knitwear

Hush balances comfort with style to perfection across their entire range but nowhere is that more evident than in their gorgeous knitwear collection. Their textured cardis and jumpers don’t come cheap but will keep you warm and toasty - particularly their luscious cashmere. Crucially, they won’t add too much bulk or (god forbid) saggy Nora Batty vibes.
 

5. A decent pair (or two) of jeans

Do you usually only wear trousers? Jeans are your best friend. Team them with faithful classics, such as your favourite cardigan, jumper or flats. Again, Marks and Spencer are our go-to for comfy slim fit jeans in a stretch fabric. We also love black straight-leg jeans with a smart top for a dressier look.

 

6. The ideal wrap dress

Are you feeling fancy or frugal? The ultimate wrap dress is, as mentioned above, Diane von Furstenberg's classic, but we also love JD Williams for a wide range of wrap dresses that come in longer lengths. It's such a flattering cut so it's the perfect style to experiment with - why not try a bold colour or a subtle print you wouldn't usually go for?

 

7. The perfect LBD

Debenhams have a stunning array of little black dresses, from the straightforward and simply cut, to sparkly, lace, swing - the list goes on. When it comes to creating a minimalist wardrobe, it's always handy to have a trusty go-to dress that's guaranteed to make you feel great the minute you put it on. 
 

8. A smart coat or jacket

Don't leave outerwear as an afterthought. A good quality coat that you can throw over anything is an undervalued essential. We love Marisota for trench coats, a timeless piece that will never go out of fashion, and also Sea Salt for their colourful jackets.
 

9. The finishing touches

Now you're sorted with the key pieces, it's time to think about those little extra details. Finding a few staple accessories is an easy way to add an extra dose of glamour that can elevate even the most basic of outfits. Here are the essentials:
 

• A good quality everyday bag - whether it's a tote bag or a satchel, find a style you love in a universal colour (tan always looks classy). Debenhams have some great styles from different brands.
• A clutch bag for special occasions - look for one with a chain handle so you don't have to carry it all night. Try the Accessorize sale to find one you love. 
• A patterned scarf - if you want to add a splash of colour, a vibrant scarf is a subtle way to play with colour - and keep warm! During hotter months a lightweight silk scarf is also a classic finishing touch which you can also tie to the handle of a bag to mix up your look.
• Jewellery - you don't have to spend a small fortune when it comes to adding a little sparkle. New Look and Debenhams have options that won't have you reaching for the credit card.
   

10. Best foot forward - the shoes to buy

It's better to have fewer shoes that you wear regularly rather than fork out for passing trends which are likely to look outdated quickly. Boots, loafers, trainers and pumps are all practical shoes that can provide comfort and style. Clarks and Marks and Spencer are good places to start looking. 

When buying shoes, factor in functional elements, such as the cushioning and grip of the shoe. It's always worth having one pair of shoes for special occasions too, and a classic black or nude heel is a versatile addition to any wardrobe.

Want more tried and tested style advice? Head to our style and beauty forum for more advice from gransnetters.
 

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