I Just Assembled the Perfect 9-Piece Minimalist Capsule Wardrobe

Here is the first paragraph to follow on from: Two of the most popular fashion topics at Who What Wear are looking expensive and creating a capsule wardrobe, but combining these principles and then adding them to said wardrobe is far from easy; especially if you're an ardent minimalist who truly values quality. t's like curating a gallery of timeless elegance within your closet, where every piece speaks volumes without uttering a word. The beauty lies in its efficiency—fewer items, streamlined choices, and more room for impeccable style.

One of the magical perks of a minimalist capsule wardrobe is its immunity to the unpredictable whims of fashion. Trends may come and go like fleeting fireflies, but your capsule collection stands strong, steadfast in its ability to transcend seasons. It's like having a fashion crystal ball that predicts the longevity of your wardrobe choices.

So, which items should feature in a well-rounded, minimal capsule wardrobe? We've done our due diligence—let us present the perfect minimalist capsule in nine easy pieces.

1. NEUTRAL BLAZER

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Style Notes: No minimalist wardrobe is complete without a blazer. Look to neutral tones such as beige and camel to maximise their versatility. 

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2. TAILORED TROUSERS

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: While minimalists regularly wear leggings and jeans (more on those later), when they need to look polished in a pinch, they reach for tailored trousers in a classic hue. 

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3. BLACK BOOTS

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(Image credit: @monikh)

Style Notes: We could analyse shoe styles separately but when it comes to drilling down the nonnegotiables, anti-trend black boots rank highly on the minimalist capsule wardrobe priority list. 

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4. STRIPED SHIRT

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(Image credit: @femmeblk)

Style Notes: Continuing the classic theme, a blue striped button-up shirt will serve as a handy top option. Wear it with jeans, trousers, slip skirts and even over simple dresses. 

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5. SIMPLE LEATHER BAG

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: Take all the effort and worry out of matching your accessories to your outfits by opting for pared-back silhouettes, such as this shoulder bag from The Row. 

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6. PERFECT JEANS

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(Image credit: @iliridakrasniqi)

Style Notes: We'd argue that minimalists wear jeans more than any other aesthetic group, so it pays to take the time to find your perfect fit. Right now, we're seeing a definite penchant for slightly looser silhouettes amongst the style set. 

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7. WOOL COAT

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(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Style Notes: Coats have the power to make any outfit you wear underneath them look more polished. This is especially true if you choose a pared-back woollen style. 

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8. CREW-NECK T-SHIRT

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(Image credit: @marina_torres)

Style Notes: As far as tops go, none are quite as hardworking as a plain tee. While you can always opt for v-neck iterations, crew necklines are the most reliable and most-worn by minimalists. 

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9. KNITTED DRESS

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(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Style Notes: Minimalists pay attention to the fabrications of their pieces, and we've noticed that many of them gravitate towards dresses of the knitted variety. 

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Next up, Autumn/Winter 2023 Fashion Trends: The Looks You Need To Know About

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over twelve years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories, and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, works closely with influencer talent on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media. Previously, Maxine appeared on TV in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o. 


Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship, she was offered a position on the Look magazine fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. She went on to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others. Maxine works remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh.