Left: Jeanne Shirt in Black. Right: Hendrix Tee in White, August Trousers in Charcoal 

We’re strong believers in making your wardrobe work for you. Saving time and freeing up mental space, the capsule wardrobe for work means less frenzied mornings and minimised stress when getting out the door. The waking hours can be spent sipping a contemplative brew instead.

The risk of downsizing the ‘drobe and developing outfit formulas is a loss of personality – that certain je ne sais quoi that shines when individual flair is added to the look. Fear not, for we have asked a few of our go-to stylists on the local scene for their tips and tricks. Did somebody say effortless dressing with maximum dynamism? We’ve got you.

Left: Fern Shirt in Azure. Right: Willow Crop Blazer in Beige, Bamford Trousers in Beige.

The five must-have pieces for your work capsule wardrobe

1. A good trouser. Wide-leg pants for the ultimate work-but-relaxed vibe, perfectly put together and a foundation for whizzing between the client meeting, the desk and after-work drinks. “A classic black pant is the perfect staple piece,” says Isabella Mamas. “I usually like mine low on the hip and quite long – I want them to drag on the ground quite long.”
2. A tailored blazer or trench coat. As Georgie Kar claims, these pieces are “perfect for instantly polishing up any look and making any outfit stylish.” We love to keep a chic item of outerwear slung over the back of our chair at all times – ready for when the air con ramps up, or the poised requirements call.
3. An oversized collared shirt. They’re the bread, the butter and the hardest working piece in our wardrobes as we reimagine the professional style as a beach, bar and getaway essential (multi-tasking at its finest). Isabella loves a bright and bold addition for that special pop of colour; Georgie votes for a classic white that works with everything, endlessly styled.
4. Comfortable shoes. In line with the up-top professionalism, we’re not talking plushy slip-ons. Georgie looks for something that can be worn all day (with style), like flats or chunky boots, and Isabella’s vote goes to her current obsession with slim penny loafers – “I have a pair in off-white which I love to wear with a red sock.”
5. The Bag (capitals required). A carry-all large enough to hold the essentials “but stylish enough to elevate any outfit,” says Georgie. Take a leaf out of Isabella’s book and make it not only huge, but delightfully colourful “to bring all the gloom out of the office.”

Left: Knox Shirt in Black. Right: Agnes Blazer in Navy, Agnes Trousers in Navy.

The extras

The staples alone allow ample room to play and pursue a self-satisfying look but add sequins (as per Isabella – “ lifts the energy for the day!”), then consider these bonus tips.

“Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles, textures, and patterns, and add accessories to showcase your individuality—like statement jewellery or standout shoes,” Georgie advises. “Personal touches, such as custom alterations or vintage finds, can also make your look unique. Ultimately, wear what makes you feel confident and true to yourself.”

And Nicole Bonython-Hines adds: “Figure (out) a style that works for you and stay within that framework; for example, if you like wearing oversized pieces, stay in that vernacular and make it your ’thing’.”

Left: Bamford Blazer in Beige, Maine Maxi Skirt in Navy. Right: Anne Trench in Beige.

Purchasing tips

For more versatility, stick with basic colourways – Georgie recommends a mix of black, white and navy, then add other elements of colour for extra fun. If you’re on a budget, says Nicole, limit this selection to two hues, as “working with colour is more expensive” (i.e. it requires more items and more investment). Following this rule, every piece added to your rotation will seamlessly and effortlessly ‘work’, allowing a consistently clean and sophisticated approach. “If you feel like you want to use colour down the track,” adds Nicole, “make your basics neutral and white.” That way, any introduced colour will always work back and always feel on-point.

Head to our Capsule Wardrobe edit to discover the Blanca not-so-basics – the essentials that offer the structure without the stuffiness (and so much room for play).