Capsule Wardrobe by Colour Palette

Step 1: define the palette, not the style

The palette comes first: two to three neutral basics and three to five accents that flatter you near the face. If you haven't defined it yet, start with your personal colour palette and wardrobe by skin undertone.

Step 2: a list of 12 pieces

1. Two pairs of trousers in a neutral base (one lighter, one darker).
2. A skirt or dress in the same base.
3. Three tops/shirts: two neutral, one in an accent colour.
4. Two knits: one neutral, one in an accent colour.
5. A blazer or shirt-jacket in the darkest base.
6. A coat or jacket in a neutral colour.
7. Two pairs of shoes in the same colour temperature.

The goal is for every top to go with every bottom. If a piece only goes with one other item, it's not part of the capsule.

Step 3: one metal as the thread

Jewellery, buckles and details in the same metal (gold for warm undertone, silver for cool) tie pieces together even without identical colours. The same principle applies to eyewear frames — read more in eyewear by face shape.

Step 4: the rule of three combinations

Before buying, list three existing pieces the new item goes with. If you can't, leave it. This single rule reduces unworn pieces more than any other habit.

Seasonal top-up

• Summer: linen pieces in the same basics, one lighter accent.
• Winter: heavier knitwear and a coat in the darkest base.
• Transitional seasons: a mid-depth layer (grey-beige, taupe, sage).

A capsule doesn't have to be small. It has to be coherent — ten coordinated pieces give more combinations than thirty uncoordinated ones.