A capsule wardrobe is one of the most important things you need if you want to dress well, but not buy new clothes all the time. It’s essentially a carefully curated collection of timeless, versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to make a wide range of different looks. For men, it’s one of the easiest ways to look put-together while also saving time, money and space in your wardrobe. In this article, we take a look at some top tips on how you can create a capsule wardrobe as a man. Keep reading to find out more.
Define your lifestyle
The first thing you need to do when creating your capsule wardrobe is thinking about how you dress – so what occasions you dress for the most. Do you work from home? Or are you based in an office? Do you travel a lot? Go to meetings? Head to the gym? A capsule wardrobe needs to reflect the way you live, making it easier for you to continue doing these things, but without the stress of what to wear. A creative freelancer’s capsule wardrobe for example, will look very different from a corporate one.
Choose a neutral colour palette
Next on the list is choosing a neutral colour palette. You want all your colours to work together, not clash. Once you have a capsule wardrobe, you can add things like a more jazzy shirt into the mix, but you want your core staples to be neutral tones. Your core colours should be navy, grey, black and white, your supporting colours should be beige, stone, olive and camel, and if you want accent colours, things like burgundy, forest green and rust work really well. This means you can easily swap around what you’re wearing and make a wide range of outfits from the pieces you have.
Invest in timeless essentials
For your capsule wardrobe you should invest in timeless essentials that won’t date. From high-quality boots such as men’s Alden boots and trainers, to a range of t-shirts, jumpers and the perfect coats, you want to get it right. This should include:
Tops
- Plain white and black T-shirts that are made from high-quality materials and fit well
- Neutral long-sleeve T-shirts that are designed to be worn alone or below overlays
- Oxford or poplin shirts (white, blue, chambray)
- Fine-knit jumper or crewneck made from high quality knit
Bottoms
- Dark slim or straight-leg jeans depending on the fit that suits you best
- Tailored trousers (grey or navy)
- Chinos (stone or beige)
Outerwear
- Structured coat (wool or trench-style)
- Casual jacket (bomber, overshirt, or denim)
- Lightweight jacket for layering and keeping you dry during the seasons
Footwear
- White leather trainers from a reputable brand or that is made from high-quality materials
- Smart leather shoes or loafers that can be dressed up or down
- Boots (Chelsea or lace-up) depending on your preference, in a black or brown for versatility
These key items will help make up your capsule wardrobe and ensure you’re covered no matter the season or occasion. Whether you’re going abroad for your honeymoon or a holiday with friends and want clothes that will work both away and at home, or if you want to just elevate your every day looks, this will help.
Stick to quality
It’s always better to buy high-quality items instead of opting for large quantities – the quality versus quantity debate! You want to get items that are designed to last and with your comfort in mind. Forget looking at the labels for the brand (luxury labels don’t always mean better quality) and instead look at the fabric types and composition. Avoid items made of too much polyester; instead, opt for cotton or linen instead. Check things like their stitching, weight and structure, spending more in particular on items such as shoes, coats and knitwear. High-rotation items should last years, not months.
Keep it concise
You want your wardrobe to be concise, with all the items you need, but also not too much. The best numbers of items you should consider include 8-10 tops, 4-5 bottoms, 3-4 layers/ jackets and 3 pairs of shoes. This doesn’t include your gym clothes, loungewear or occasion-specific items like black-tie outfits, just the main staples that can make up outfits for your everyday. Get rid of old items you have that are stained, have holes, or just don’t fit right anymore and focus on pieces you know will do the trick.
Switch up for the season
A capsule wardrobe works best when it evolves gradually rather than changing frequently. Instead of shopping every month, review your wardrobe at the start of each season. Remove pieces that no longer fit, feel worn, or don’t suit your current lifestyle. Rotate heavier knits and coats out in warmer months, and bring them back when temperatures drop. This keeps your wardrobe feeling fresh without unnecessary spending. Seasonal editing also helps you identify genuine gaps, making future purchases more intentional and ensuring every item earns its place.
Avoid falling for trends
Trends can be tempting, but they’re often the fastest way to dilute a capsule wardrobe. Statement pieces, oversized logos, and extreme cuts can date quickly and limit outfit combinations. Instead, focus on classic silhouettes and neutral colours that stand the test of time. If you enjoy experimenting with trends, introduce them subtly through accessories like trainers, belts, or outer layers rather than core items. This approach allows you to stay current without compromising versatility, ensuring your wardrobe remains cohesive, timeless, and easy to style year after year.
Having a capsule wardrobe is about having a collection that works together in a variety of different combinations. It enables you to always feel stylish and put-together, but not have to constantly spend money on new clothes or be heading to the shops. It will save you money, time and make you feel better about yourself all in one. What are some top tips you have for creating a capsule wardrobe as a man? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.
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