Style Guide How to build the perfect capsule wardrobe for autumn 2024

As the golden hues of summer fade into the crisp chill of autumn, you’re probably feeling the urge to refresh your wardrobe ready for the season ahead. However, buying a new wardrobe every few months can be costly, not to mention bad for the environment. Enter the capsule wardrobe — a timeless, practical solution that ensures you always have the perfect outfit for any occasion.

What is a capsule wardrobe?

A capsule wardrobe is a curated collection of clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. Typically comprising 30 to 50 pieces, it includes everything from tops and trousers to outerwear and shoes. With a capsule wardrobe, each piece is carefully selected to work in harmony with the others. This means no more standing in front of your wardrobe feeling like you have nothing to wear. Whether it's a casual day out or a formal event, you'll have the right pieces at your fingertips. Fast fashion has been linked to environmental issues, and taking slower approaches to fashion such as building a capsule wardrobe can help. By investing in high-quality, versatile pieces that last, you reduce the need for constant purchases, thereby minimising waste. And, while building a capsule wardrobe may require an initial investment, it’s usually more cost-effective in the long run. Instead of frequently buying new, trend-based items, you focus on timeless pieces that offer value season after season. Now, let’s delve into how to create the ideal capsule wardrobe, just in time for Autumn/Winter 2024.

How to make an autumn capsule wardrobe

When building an autumn capsule wardrobe, either from scratch or by adding new pieces to your collection, it’s important to incorporate clothes that are not only on-trend but also have longevity. Here are some key trends for Autumn/Winter 2024 that will stand the test of time so you can transition into the new season with confidence:

• Check Patterns: From men’s check shirts to blouses for women, check patterns are a major trend this season. Opt for classic houndstooth, Prince of Wales, or tartan patterns in neutral tones for pieces that can be worn year after year.
• Trench Coats: The trench coat continues to be a staple for AW24. This season, look for details like oversized lapels or belted waists to add a modern twist to this classic piece.
• Chunky Knitwear: Oversized, chunky knitwear is both practical and stylish. In AW24, consider jumpers with cable knits or textured details. These pieces not only keep you warm but also add visual interest to your outfits.
• Leather: Leather continues to be a dominant fabric for AW24, seen in everything from trousers to jackets. A black leather jacket or a pair of leather trousers adds an edgy touch to your wardrobe, while still being versatile enough to wear in future seasons.
• Neutral Tones: Neutral tones like camel, grey, and black are the foundation of a capsule wardrobe. This season, consider mixing these with earthy tones like olive and rust for a fresh take.

Men’s capsule wardrobe for Autumn/Winter 2024

Creating a capsule wardrobe for men is all about balancing functionality with style. Here’s a breakdown of the essential items you should consider:

Tops

• Shirts: Opt for classic long-sleeved shirts in colours like white, navy, and grey. A crisp Oxford shirt is perfect for both work and casual outings. For something more relaxed, a tattersall shirt can be easily dressed up or down.
• Knitwear: A fine merino wool jumper or a chunky knit in neutral tones is essential for layering. Consider a crew neck in camel or a roll neck in charcoal — both are versatile and on-trend for AW24.
• T-Shirts: Stick to basics with crew neck tees in black, white, and muted colours like olive or burgundy. These can be worn alone or layered under shirts and jumpers.

Bottoms

• Jeans: A pair of well-fitted dark denim jeans is a must-have. For a more contemporary look, consider straight-leg styles that offer comfort and versatility.
• Chinos: Navy or khaki chinos are a great alternative to jeans and can be easily dressed up or down. They're perfect for smart-casual settings and offer a break from denim.
• Trousers: A pair of slim-fit corduroys or tailored trousers in a wool blend adds a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe. Grey or navy are good choices, as they can be paired with various tops and jackets.

Layers

• Fleece jackets and gilets: A cosy fleece or gilet can serve as an extra layer on cooler days while adding that British country look to your ensemble. Consider a quilted gilet for added warmth.
• Blazers: A wool or tweed blazer in a check pattern is a smart addition to your autumn wardrobe. It adds structure to casual outfits and can be paired with jeans or trousers for a polished look.

Coats

• Tweed jacket: Tweed remains a timeless outerwear option. Opt for a classic beige, green or blue coat, which can be worn over suits, jeans, or chinos.
• Overcoat: For colder days, a tailored wool overcoat in black or grey offers both warmth and style. A double-breasted style with a peak lapel adds a sophisticated edge.
• Quilted jacket: A quilted jacket in olive or navy is perfect for a more casual, countryside-inspired look. It’s lightweight yet warm, making it ideal for layering over knitwear.

Shoes

• Boots: A pair of Chelsea or brogue boots in brown or black leather is essential. These can be dressed up or down and are practical for the autumn weather.
• Shoes: For a smarter option, invest in a pair of smart shoes. Derby shoes work well with both tailored trousers and chinos, offering versatility for various occasions.
• Trainers: A sleek, minimalist pair of trainers in white or grey can be worn with jeans or chinos for a casual, modern look.

Women's Capsule Wardrobe for Autumn/Winter 2024

For women, a capsule wardrobe combines elegance with practicality. Here’s a guide to the key pieces:

Tops

• Shirts and blouses: A silk blouse is a timeless classic that can be dressed up or down. Also, consider adding a striped shirt and a plain shirt in a neutral shade like white, beige, or black.
• Knitwear: A cashmere jumper in a soft hue like cream or blush pink adds luxury to your wardrobe. A chunky knit in grey or oatmeal is perfect for layering.
• T-shirts: Basic tees in black, white, and grey are essential for layering, while a striped tee can add a touch of Parisian chic to your outfits.

Bottoms

• Jeans: A pair of high-waisted straight-leg jeans in dark denim is versatile and flattering. Consider adding a pair of black jeans for a more polished look.
• Trousers: Tailored trousers in a wool blend are a must-have. Opt for a wide-leg style in camel or navy for a modern silhouette.
• Skirts: A midi skirt in a rich fabric like wool or silk adds femininity to your capsule wardrobe. Plaid or houndstooth patterns are timeless and on-trend for AW24.

Layers

• Cardigans: A longline cardigan in a neutral shade can be layered over dresses or paired with jeans for a cosy, chic look.
• Blazers: A tailored blazer in black or a check pattern is essential. It can be worn over blouses or knitwear for a sharp, sophisticated outfit.

Coats

• Trench coat: The classic trench coat is a staple for any autumn wardrobe. Opt for one in a neutral tone like beige or tan for maximum versatility.
• Tailored coat: A tailored wool coat in camel or grey is perfect for colder days. A belt adds structure and accentuates the waist.
• Parka: A lightweight parka in a muted colour like olive or navy is practical and stylish, offering warmth without bulk.

Shoes

• Boots: A pair of ankle boots in black or brown leather is essential. They work well with both jeans and dresses.
• Loafers: For a more polished look, loafers in black or burgundy are perfect. They’re comfortable and stylish, making them ideal for both work and casual wear.
• Trainers: A pair of sleek, white trainers is a must-have for a casual, modern look. They can be paired with jeans, skirts, or even dresses for a contemporary vibe.

 

Building a capsule wardrobe for Autumn/Winter 2024 is not just about following fashion; it’s about creating a collection of versatile, high-quality pieces that will serve you well for years to come. By focusing on timeless items in neutral colours, incorporating a few long-lasting trends, and choosing the right fabrics, you can ensure that your wardrobe is both stylish and practical. At Humes Outfitters, we understand the importance of quality and style. Our mens- and womenswear collections feature all the essentials you need to build the perfect capsule wardrobe. Whether you’re shopping for timeless basics or looking to incorporate the latest trends, we have everything you need to transition into the new season with confidence.