:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-953815302-8ac644ba0ffe4b80b1d1d8cb038c578e.jpg)
Kirill Rudenko/Getty Images
Whether you're a fashion week regular or someone who yawns at trend reports, you'll definitely take an interest in the idea of curating a great work capsule wardrobe because it can make your life so much easier. Personally, I like to think of myself as the former, but getting dressed in the morning is a pain if I don't have the right basics to kick start the creative process.
Think about it: How many times have you stared at a closet full of clothes thinking, "I have nothing to wear to work?" Sometimes we feel that way because we haven't shopped in so long that our clothes aren't sparking much inspiration. Other times it's because we're splurging on the types of pieces that aren't exactly office-friendly. No matter the reason, we've got a simple solution for you: Flip through magazines or pore over Pinterest to narrow down your style. Then, go on the hunt for fresh, cool pieces that speak to that style. Once you've purchased your core capsule collection, you're good to go!
Doing this with my own wardrobe got me thinking about my fellow MyDomaine editors, so I decided to ask each of them to share the staples they wear from 9-to-5. If you're still in need of some inspo, consider this your style cheat sheet.
Hadley Mendelsohn: Breezy Basics
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__posts__259304__summer-work-capsule-wardrobe-259304-1527790757385-image.700x0c-5845e48c38054c408357720084bd0e96.png)
A Striped Button-Down: My dad gave me three of his old striped button-down shirts, and they have saved my morning routine so many times. I wear them with jeans and skirts, and sometimes even over a dress. The oversize look is stylish and comfortable. And if I'm going out after work, I just turn it into an off-the-shoulder shirt for a less professional vibe.
A Light Trench: Leather jackets can often feel too heavy, and sometimes denim jackets are too casual, so a light trench is my favorite office-friendly outerwear. I usually only throw one on during my commute if it's raining out, and I keep it by my desk if the office AC is blasting.
A Midi Skirt: I have three midi skirts that I wear on repeat all year-long, and my favorite is this silk one. It's flowy and breathable but doesn't blow up when there's a breeze, and the material exudes elegance. Opting for a solid color means you can mix and match it with other blouses throughout the changing seasons.
Top Handle Bag: This purse is by far my favorite piece in my wardrobe. It instantly elevates any outfit, and the inky hue ensures it'll go with everything, which is key for me since I love wearing shoes in bright colors and clothes with bold prints.
Kelsey Clark: Downtown Vibes
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__posts__259304__summer-work-capsule-wardrobe-259304-1527790758230-image.700x0c-33101457188c4423a30581c01a732b6a.png)
A Midi Dress: I just bought this, and I've worn it to work, to a wedding, and around town on the weekends. It's extremely flattering, comfortable, and not at all see-through (which can happen with silk dresses). While a slip dress may seem risqué for work (and it definitely may be for some offices), it looks great layered over a T-shirt (or turtleneck in the winter) with a blazer or leather jacket over top.
A Classic Pair of Jeans: I basically live in vintage Levi jeans, and RE/DONE's reconstructed version fits like a glove. I have yet to find a better fit in any vintage store (and I've spent countless hours searching). Although it can be difficult to find the perfect pair, it's well worth the hunt.
I love both the stovepipe cut and the high-rise ankle crop and always opt for no holes, so I feel comfortable wearing them to work. They're a bit of an investment, but I wear these everywhere, and throughout all four seasons of the year; they're my go-to.
A Paid of Block Heels: An understated pair of heeled mules are a must, and I love the look of these Everlane shoes. The minimalist silhouette stands out to me because they don't use too much material on the bridge part. The two-inch heel is also ideal; they're not so high that you'll subconsciously avoid wearing them because of the discomfort, but they're still high enough that they dress up a pair of jeans.
A Simple Necklace: Lucy Williams of Fashion Me Now has quickly become one of my favorite fashion bloggers, and I love her collaboration with Missoma. I've had my eye on the gold horn necklace for months, but have opted for more wallet-friendly versions in the meantime. They pretty much top off every single outfit I wear, whether it's a T-shirt, blazer, and jeans situation at work or something a little fancier.
Sacha Strebe: Strictly Black-and-White
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__posts__259304__summer-work-capsule-wardrobe-259304-1527790759882-image.700x0c-689423cc591044f78269a6dab59ebe0c.png)
A Coat Dress: I live in this blazer. It's a classic workwear staple that looks great with denim and a T-shirt.
A Top to Layer: This top goes with absolutely everything. It looks great with skirts, tailored pants, and jeans on the weekend.
A Basic T-Shirt: If there's one thing I have in multiples, it's T-shirts. All of them are black and white. I keep my palette simple and monochromatic for work and on the weekends.
Leather Leggings: I love layering up, and since it's so cold in the office, I wear leather leggings with everything. I often throw dresses and skirts over them and complete the look with a blazer to give it a professional touch. While expensive at the outset, leather leggings are an investment piece you can wear to work and on the weekends.
If you're into colored pants but don't really know how to wear them, you have a few options. First, you can pair your bright bottoms with a top of the exact same shade. If that's a little too bold for you, go for a simple white T-shirt or button-down. Lastly, try a chambray top because, like a white tee, it goes with everything.
I've had mine for years, and they just get better with age. I also love high-waisted pants, and these are an absolute favorite. They're so comfortable and look professional without overdoing it. Everyone in the office is obsessed.
Sophie Miura: Parisian Meets New Yorker
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__posts__259304__summer-work-capsule-wardrobe-259304-1527790760695-image.700x0c-2de57cbee1864a6cbe79df10668113c3.png)
A Black Blazer: A well-tailored blazer is such an easy way to elevate any outfit. I tend to wear this Anine Bing one with a simple T-shirt, jeans, and heels for a casual but somewhat professional look.
Comfortable Statement Pants: I bought a cheaper version of these at Zara and can't get enough of them. I pair them with a crisp white shirt or bright red T-shirt.
Classic Gold Hoops: I discovered Mejuri, a direct-to-consumer jewelry brand, on Instagram and love the good quality, affordable staples. These gold vermeil hoops are classic and understated. Another staple accessory to try is a great day-to-night purse. Accessories are an easy way to dress up workwear staples and make them a bit more trend-forward. I swapped out my crossbody bag for a small bucket bag this spring, and it makes a simple black outfit look more modern.
Bold Kitten Heels: I wear these shoes at least three times a week! They're so versatile and instantly make my standard jeans-and-blazer ensemble look a bit more polished.
Christie Calucchia: Effortless Sophistication
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__posts__259304__summer-work-capsule-wardrobe-259304-1527790756613-image.700x0c-f415e36a539b42f0ad954c05d1927bfc.png)
A Suede Moto Jacket: This suede moto jacket goes with just about anything. I love that it's not a typical leather jacket; it transforms any basic look into something edgy.
A Graphic T-Shirt: I tend to gravitate toward more statement-making pants, so a basic T-shirt is perfect for adding a casual touch. You can dress it up with a blazer or dress it down with a pair of jeans.
A Shirtdress: An oversized shirt dress is a great option for an easy work dress. It's a play on a men's button-down, making it feel fit for the office, but it's still loose, fun, and easy to throw on in the morning.
Sunglasses: I love these classic black sunglasses. Living in Los Angeles, they're a commuter staple and also perfect for afternoons spent working outside on the patio.
Megan Beauchamp: Fresh and Tailored
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cdn.cliqueinc.com__cache__posts__259304__summer-work-capsule-wardrobe-259304-1527790759117-image.700x0c-86090f98bb27453ca0bf44338f2b5c11.png)
A Printed Silk Blouse: A silk shirt is classic and timeless, but far from boring (and still office-appropriate) because there's a bold print. If you need something to throw on top, anything from a jean jacket to a leather option will work.
Comfortable Loafers: I dress up these all-purpose loafer slides during the week, and then pair them with a sweater and light-wash jeans on the weekend. Having a pair of comfortable flats that won't start hurting your feet after a few hours is key at work.
Black Skinny Jeans: Our office is relatively casual, and these versatile black jeans are a favorite in my weekly workwear rotation.
A Leather Tote: I love that this tote is big enough to carry my laptop yet presentable enough to take along to industry-related events after 5 p.m.