My 2025 smart casual workwear capsule is here!
What is a Work Capsule?
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.]
Smart Casual Workwear
The term ‘smart casual’ can be a little vague, but to put it simply, a smart casual dress code consists of well-fitting, polished pieces that are less formal than business casual and business professional wear.
I think this dress code applies well for those who might not have a strict dress code [or any dress code] at your office, but you still want to look professional.
I consider my personal style to be a mix of casual and smart casual so you’ll find many of these pieces in my personal capsules/styled on my Instagram — so these staples don’t just need to be worn at work! For example, wear the black silk blouse with white jeans and black slingbacks for a dinner date, or throw on black leather trousers for drinks with the girls!
The Smart Casual Workwear Capsule
For my workwear capsules, I created small capsules consisting of just the essentials. Of course one will have a few more pieces than this, but you’ll probably find that these items will help you create about 90% of your work outfits.
You’ll find it is nearly identical to the business casual capsule I created–as these are classic staples that are great to have in any professional wardrobe. I only made a couple of edits: I went a little more relaxed with the pant options, I added in a cardigan [which still works for a business casual wardrobe as well], and removed the high heels so that there are more comfortable professional [loafers] + dressy [slingbacks] shoe options.I also added belts, as they are a great way to dress up a pair of denim/tee to create a more professional look for the office.
Consider Your Dress Code When Creating Your 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 a blazer feels too professional for your office, opt for a cardigan or relaxed jacket/layering piece.
If you want a more relaxed black pant, instead of jeans or trousers, opt for leggings or joggers.
SHOP THE SMART CASUAL SPRING WORKWEAR CAPSULE
*Items are list in priority of recommendation, so the first item shown is the item I own/most similar to the item I own, and then additional favorites/brand recommendations/different price range items are listed next.
TRENCH COAT:
BLAZERS:
CARDIGANS:
ECRU JEANS:
NAVY PANTS:
CLASSIC DENIM:
LAYERING TEES:
VEST:
BUTTON UPS:
I recommend silk + cotton button ups.
CREWNECK SWEATERS:
SNEAKERS:
Sticking to a minimal sneaker will allow you to wear them with many outfit combinations.
SLINGBACKS:
LOAFERS:
ACCESSORIES:
