How to build a capsule wardrobe with vintage retro

Simple, realistic advice for putting together a vintage retro capsule wardrobe you will actually wear.

Start with what you already own

Before you look for any new pieces, pull every vintage and retro item you already have out of your closet. Lay them all out on a flat surface so you can see every piece at once. Separate the items you reach for regularly, from the ones you keep but never wear. There is no point building a capsule around pieces that sit untouched.

Take a moment to try each item on. Check that it fits comfortably, that you feel good wearing it, and that it works with the life you lead right now. If it does not fit, is uncomfortable, or you cannot remember the last time you wore it, set it aside. Do not hold onto items out of obligation. Capsule wardrobes only work when every piece earns its place.

Log your existing items in the Virtual Closet to make planning easier.

Pick your core base pieces

Every capsule works well with a small set of neutral base pieces that pair easily with everything else. For vintage retro wardrobes, these are usually well cut trousers, simple tops, plain skirts and one or two outer layers. These pieces do not need to be fancy, they just need to work hard.

When you are looking for vintage base pieces, look for simple cuts that have stayed in style for decades. High waisted straight trousers, simple crew neck tops, unpatterned blazers and mid length skirts all work well. They will pair with bolder retro pieces without clashing, and work for work meetings, errands and social plans.

Use the Mix & Match Studio to test pairings before you commit to adding a new piece.

Know what to look for when browsing vintage

When you are browsing vintage and retro pieces, do not get distracted by bold prints or low prices first. Always check the condition first. Look along seams, around cuffs and collars, and across any high wear areas for pulls, marks or wear. It is fine to buy pieces with small flaws if you are happy to repair them, but be honest with yourself about whether you will actually get around to doing that work.

Also try to imagine wearing the piece with at least three items you already own. If you cannot think of three existing pieces it will work with, it will probably end up sitting unworn in your closet. This simple rule stops you buying one off novelty pieces that never fit into your regular routine.

Vintage sizing labels work very differently to modern labels. Always check the measurements listed, and use our size guide where needed.

Layer for versatility

Layering is what makes a retro capsule work across changing weather and different occasions. A thin knit vest can go under a blazer for work, over a t shirt for casual days, or under a coat when it is cold. Retro pieces are often well suited for layering, because older cuts leave space for extra layers underneath.

Build in a few different layer options: thin tops, mid weight knits and outer layers. This means you can adjust your outfit for temperature, formality and plan changes without needing a huge number of pieces. You do not need separate sets for different weathers, just pieces that work on top of each other.

Browse options for Jackets & Coats and Vests & Gilets to fill gaps in your layering set.

Add small accent pieces

Once you have your core base and layers set, you can add a small number of bolder retro pieces to give your wardrobe personality. These could be a patterned blouse, a unique bag, a pair of statement shoes or a printed skirt. Keep the number of these pieces small, so they do not overwhelm the rest of the capsule.

Each accent piece should still work with at least three of your core base pieces. That way you will get lots of wear out of it, rather than only wearing it once every few months. Accent pieces are what make your capsule feel like yours, rather than a generic set.

You can find options for Timeless Skirts and Women's Accessories to use as accents.

Adjust over time

A good capsule wardrobe is not a fixed set that you never change. Every few months, go back through the pieces and check how often you have worn each one. If a piece has not been worn in three months, move it on. You can pass it on, swap it, or store it for later if you think you might want it again later.

You do not need to stick rigidly to a set number of pieces. Add something new if you have a genuine gap, and remove things that are no longer working for you. This flexibility means your wardrobe will grow and change with you, rather than feeling like a set of rules you have to follow.

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Pieces to try in the Dressing Room

Real pieces you can order now. Open one and try it on your avatar in Magic Mirror before you decide; your size and today's price are on the product page.

Women's Faux Leather Fur-Lined Jacket

Women's Pinstripe Tailored Single-Button Notched Lapel 2-Piece Profess

Elegant Tailored Waistcoat & Trouser Set

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