I’m excited to share my business casual workwear capsule!
What is a work capsule wardrobe?
If you are new to capsule wardrobes, a capsule wardrobe is made up of a few essential items that don’t go out of style and can be rotated seasonly. With classic, versatile and quality pieces, a capsule wardrobe will minimize your wardrobe and allow you to spend less time getting ready in the morning — while also looking effortlessly chic! [Here’s my personal capsule I put together each season.]
Similar to the benefits of a uniform [as workwear is essentially a uniform], capsules help keep your wardrobe to a minimum and removes the constant decision fatigue that comes with having an overabundance of clothes, shoes, etc.
Random story time: When I was in elementary school I was forced to wear a uniform [and I say ‘forced’ because uniforms were optional at my school but my mom made me wear them and I was pretty much one of three kids in the ENTIRE school wearing uniforms] and HATED them with a passion. Like HATED them. I spent years arguing and begging not to wear a uniform. Little rebel me would even wear an entirely different outfit underneath so I could change at school and wear ‘regular’ clothes. I was so scarred I didn’t wear navy and white together for over 10 years after that [no joke]. So the irony that I now create capsules and love workwear is not lost on me lol.
Business casual capsule
This capsule has been a long time coming as it’s been one of my most requested capsules [after my personal seasonal capsules]. I also have a business professional and smart casual workwear capsule coming up next!
The items I’ve chosen for the business are the items I consider to be essential staples for creating just about any business casual outfit. The items here an easily be mixed and matched a number of ways, and dressed up or down [by adding or removing a blazer, wearing heels vs loafers etc].
The capsules I create hopefully provide you some inspiration, but don’t feel like you need to copy it to a T! If you prefer skirts or dresses, you could easily switch out the pants or add a skirt or dress. You can also incorporate different colors or patterns to switch things up [but if you’ve been following me for a while you know I love my neutrals].
Consider your dress code when creating your work capsule
I realize that dress code polices will vary slightly across companies/industries, so I’ve included a variety of styles in my recommendations below. It’s important to remember that the style of an item can change the formality of a look.
For example, if your dress code allows dark wash jeans, you could go with a black jean instead of black trouser [if you feel like trouser would be too formal].
For a dressy, but more relaxed version of a cotton button up, go with a silk button.
Or instead of a traditional blazer, you can go with a sweater blazer, boyfriend blazer, cardigan, etc!
Product recommendations
I own many of the pieces I’ve linked to in my recommendations below, but I’ve also included additional selects from brands I know and love [you can also use these brands as guidance for where to shop for workwear].
Jackets/Blazers:
Tops:
Pants:
Shoes:
Undergarments:
Accessories:
20 Business Casual Outfits
