Uniform dressing. Normcore style. Modern minimalism. However you frame it, there is a comfort that comes from buying and wearing what you know works for you. It’s almost an anti-trend, in which function reigns supreme.
There are a few ways to build a capsule wardrobe, but ultimately you want to choose pieces that are cut with classic silhouettes in shades that complement each other. It doesn’t have to be totally black and white, but sticking to a colour family definitely helps.
The Undone Store is built on the premise of creating a curated, highly functional wardrobe. Other multi-brand e-tailers like Net-a-porter, Mytheresa and The Iconic offer “edits” of staples that can help streamline your style. International brands like Cos and Uniqlo are favoured for accessible yet elevated basics. And there are plenty of local labels that seek to fill these gaps with smart silhouettes.
Some people will gravitate towards certain items more, but these eight pieces are the core ingredients of a hardworking wardrobe. They can be styled up or down depending on the season or occasion. And they leave enough room for you to add personality through jewellery, shoes and accessories.
The T-shirt
The humble T-shirt is often cited as a wardrobe hero. And people have strong opinions about what makes a great tee. Melbourne brand Arnsdorf offers a fitted silhouette in a range of classic colours. Cremme takes a more relaxed approach in mid-weight cotton for its unisex range. Uniqlo is a go-to for classic cuts and cropped styles that wash and wear well. Tanks are another great base option. Cos brings its ribbed top back season after season and St Agni’s organic cotton design is a lightweight but luxurious choice.
The button-up shirt
A desert island essential, button-up shirts are an easy add to your wardrobe. Opt for classic cuts and colours, such as LMND’s Chiara and Friends With Frank’s Calista styles in white. Blur the lines between bedroom and boardroom in Maison Essentiele’s pyjama-inspired cut. Embrace the details with Blanca’s sheer Astra design. Or lean into bolder hues with this oversized fit from Cos in pink, blue and green this season.
The tailored pants
A pair of well-cut pants can do wonders for your work wardrobe – but certain colours and fits also slot into more relaxed outfits, too. Cos keeps things classic with its black flared stretch-wool style. Lee Mathews echoes this sentiment with a classic culotte. Assembly Label’s Maeve silhouette comes in core colours – black, cream and grey – with seasonal cameos like petrol blue. Arnsdorf makes a case for pared-back neutrals with this ecru update to its menswear-inspired pair. And Camilla and Marc pushes the boundaries of traditional styling with the Alphonse and Mallory pants – both of which have modern waistband detailing.
The jeans
There are a host of great denim brands out there. But when it comes to jeans, the choice is very personal. For those who gravitate towards high-rise, straight-leg styles, Re Done always hits the mark with its vintage-inspired pieces. Slvrlake’s minimalist designs are cut from 100 per cent cotton with little fuss. Meanwhile, the Ribcage from Levi’s is named repeatedly as a go-to among denim fans. Melbourne brand Flowers by Sisters Studio declares its Only jean as the one-and-done you need for your wardrobe. Another homegrown favourite, Peachay caters to curves with its currently sold-out Aviva style – it’s worth getting on the waitlist for the next restock.
The striped sweater
A striped sweater is the ultimate year-round layer, and black, white and navy blue iterations make classic choices. Cos finishes its wool and cotton sweater with a half-zip neckline. Assembly Label brings wide stripes in a wool blend. Friend of Audrey offers two cotton styles – a collared V-neck and ribbed crew. And Ciao Lucia adds a vintage twist with this button-front cardigan.
The blazer
Worn with jeans and sneakers or as part of a suit, a black blazer is basically modern armour. Assembly Label’s Daria silhouette is cut from wool tailoring fabric (and also comes in seasonal shades: cocoa and petrol). Aere’s oversized style, Friends With Frank’s Odette design and Sir’s Clemence blazers are smart tran-seasonal options in linen. Camilla and Marc currently has single- and double-breasted silhouettes on offer depending on your preferred fit. And Arnsdorf’s Celeste suit jacket is the perfect balance of minimalist and masculine. Friend of Audrey adds a timeless pinstripe option to the mix, too.
The everyday dress
Some dresses are made for special occasions. But others are easy options for daily outfits. This pleated T-shirt style from Cos, Anna Quan’s Amelie silhouette and Friend of Audrey’s Gaia knit design make the case for the little black everyday dress. Assembly Label cuts the Aubrey ruched dress in two hues this season: kiwi and black. Camilla and Marc, Lee Mathews and Steele offer striped shirt-inspired styles. And Matteau’s timeless cotton maxis are true investment pieces.
The slip skirt
A silky slip cut to a midi or maxi length is the perfect base for tanks, shirts and blazers. Keep your look more low-key with a pair of white sneakers to finish. Lee Mathews’ Stella skirt is a brand signature. Friends With Frank updates its Willa silhouette in a golden hue for spring. Aere finishes this chocolate option with a drawcord waist. Steele’s Cassidy maxi proves prints can be powerful. And Silk Laundry’s expressionist printed design adds intrigue to the mix.
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