The hardest part of your job should not be getting dressed for it—although, I guess if it is, you’re probably killing it at work. But I digress. If the prospect of putting together an outfit every morning gives you hives, a work capsule wardrobe might be just what you need.
The Work Capsule Shopping List
The premise is simple. The idea behind any capsule wardrobe is that every piece goes with one another, meaning you can mix and match with minimal thinking involved. The result? A smoother morning routine and a streamlined closet. Keep scrolling to shop the nine essential building blocks you need to build your own work capsule.
The Blazer
I was late to the blazer game—I admit—but now I’m a total believer. I tend to use mine more like a jacket, but no matter how you wear it, this layer makes any outfit look more elegant. Pair it with a dress to account for transition weather or rock one with jeans and a tee on casual Fridays.
The White T-Shirt
If you tell me I can’t wear a tee to work, that’s where I draw the line. I’m not talking about something baggy or graphic (though I love those, too); I mean a traditional white T-shirt tucked nicely into trousers or perhaps worn under a blazer. Just let me have this one thing, please.
The Loafer
Nothing says “professional” like a loafer, am I right? Channel your inner academic with one of these polished styles, which add poise to any look—even jeans!
The Black Dress
Before there were office sirens, there were little black dresses. There’s no better garment for a woman to be armed with. It’s versatile, it’s stylish, and it’s absolutely timeless. Whether you go for a silky slip or a turtleneck sweater dress likely depends on where you live and whether the office thermostat is a point of contention. (I know the feeling.)
The Cardigan
If my sources are correct—and they usually are—knitwear trends are moving towards silhouettes that cinch in at the waist. Still, we can all agree on the appeal of an oversized cardigan, too. I guess you’ll just need one of each at the minimum…
The Sneaker
You spend 40 or more hours a week at the office, you should not be subjected to wearing heels that entire time. A good work-appropriate sneaker is everything. I, for one, couldn’t live without my go-to pair. Although, lately, I’ve been getting a ton of use out of my neutral Alo pair. Generally, sleek, low-profile sneakers are better suited for office environments because they’re a little easier to dress up compared to their chunky, dad-shoe counterparts.
The Trouser
I have such a love-hate relationship with pants. When they’re good, they make getting dressed so easy. They can carry an outfit. But damn is it hard to find a good pair. Luckily for you, finding solid options is literally my job. The ELLE office is home to many women who consider themselves loyal to Aritzia’s Effortless pant, FWIW.
When you think of workwear, you probably think of a poplin button-down. There’s good reason for that! This foundational piece is timeless. Go for classic white or a colorful stripe depending on your mood. Layer it under a sweater or wear it open over a tank top. Traditional always makes for a good investment, but there are also lots of trendier versions available, too.
The Work Bag
Every worker bee needs a worker bag; it’s just a fact of life. If you aren’t constantly
schlepping a heavy tote around, please write in and give me all your secrets. I can’t fathom that possibility. As for trends, suede and belted bags are big this year, and one of my favorite brands is a bestseller among ELLE readers. And by the way, never let anyone shame you out of using a backpack. Posture comes first, diva.
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