JOSEPH

Capsule Wardrobe: Fashion Staples for 2022
The concept of a capsule wardrobe is nothing new – but it’s one that’s worth renewing. Time-honoured ideas make solid foundations while the world is in flux. This year, we’re less about starting from scratch as we are about reaffirming what we trust and know to be true. In fashion terms, this means buying better with a more conscious approach, from the way we shop to the pieces we invest in. Or that a rotation of classic separates is, ultimately, the basis of enduring style. To that end, these are womenswear’s key players.
The Shirt
Sophisticated without trying, good shirts are the difference between rising with your alarm and hitting snooze once in a while. Chic at a moment’s notice. They can also be worn and re-worn with practically anything in your wardrobe. Oversized boyfriend shirts lend elegant insouciance to their counterparts in denim. Meanwhile, deconstructed button-ups bring subtle modernity to workwear when paired with a classic blazer. You need only add a stack of necklaces – preferably chains – to a silk shirt, and you’re in eveningwear territory. Keep names like The Row, Jil Sander and Wardrobe NYC front of mind for minimalist luxury.
The Overcoat
Investing in outerwear is like investing in a second skin. For the best part of two seasons, a coat is the first sartorial impression we make – what does yours say about you? Different styles serve different purposes, of course. Between seasons, leather jackets and trench coats are imperative for their versatility, while a puffer jacket is a safe bet to see you through winter. If you only invest in one style, however, we’d suggest an overcoat. Where Max Mara, Joseph and Tove do timeless camel coats particularly well, rich with wool and cashmere, the likes of Loewe and Nanushka bring artful idiosyncrasies into the mix. Wear on repeat.
The Tailored Trousers
True style staples have legs. When it comes to tailored trousers, the silhouette is looser for 2022 – apropos of an evolving work-life landscape – but no less sophisticated than its structured predecessor. Speaking of structure, cotton poplin remains a popular choice among many designers, owing to its breathability as much as its crisp feel. Innovative eco-fibres are also gaining traction. This season, Vince taps Lenzing™ Ecovero™ – an alternative to traditional viscose, derived from certified renewable wood sources via responsible production processes. The result is up to 50% less water impact and 50% fewer CO2 emissions.
The Midi Skirt
Mini skirts may be on the rise for Spring/Summer 2022 – as evidenced by the CHANEL, Miu Miu and Versace runways – but a midi skirt will remain among the cornerstones of a capsule wardrobe come what may. For starters, they’re infinitely versatile. Leather styles work wonders with knitwear and chunky Bottega Veneta boots in the colder months; when the weather improves, lightweight silks team beautifully with tank tops and barely-there sandals. Midi skirts are flattering, too. The classic A-line silhouette, flaring out from a nipped-in waist, will never let you down.
The Knitwear
Winter reaffirms knitwear’s importance in our capsule wardrobe, but it doesn’t define it. Nowadays, cashmere and wool layers are always welcome, thanks, in part, to luxe loungewear’s recent dominance over our daily fashion rotation. But that’s not all. Thanks to designers like Khaite, By Malene Birger and Aeron, knitwear has been repositioned for year-round wear. Cut-outs and collars as well as ribbed, form-fitting silhouettes now join traditionally chunky sweaters and cardigans – offering sophistication in addition to comfort.
The Denim
Finding the perfect pair of jeans requires some legwork. Between the numerous washes and cuts – straight-leg, skinny, flared, boyfriend – there are many variables to consider. Our denim boutique is a good place to start. It’s worth taking the time to find your fit in a couple of pairs at least. White jeans are a summer style staple, while blue boyfriends evoke off-duty Parisian chic and will complement classics you already own. Loafers, for one, will reinforce their androgynous message. On the topic of what shoes to wear with jeans, we’ve got you covered there, too.

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