I've Assembled the Perfect London Capsule Wardrobe With Just 12 Pieces

When the term, ‘capsule wardrobe’ first entered our collective consciousness, it seemed like a radical idea. Along with the suggestion of a considered, streamlined wardrobe came the implication that we should overhaul our shopping habits. When I first heard about it, as a newly-salaried graduate with money to spend on clothes for the first time in my life, I quickly disregarded the idea.

But in 2022, my attitude to shopping has completely changed and I’ve naturally gravitated to a more capsule-like wardrobe. I’m definitely not alone in adopting a more thoughtful approach; many of the influencers and celebrities whose style I admire lean toward classic, versatile pieces that are easy to mix and match. Between the environmental impact of fashion and the short-lived nature of trends, there's a strong case to be made for focusing on timeless designs crafted from high-quality materials.

If you're a Londoner who's starting your journey towards a capsule closet, I know exactly where you should start. Taking the unpredictable UK climate and perennial Brit-girl favourites into consideration, I've curated the perfect beginner's capsule—comprised of just 12 easy-to-style, trend-defying essentials. Scroll on to see and shop.

1. Belted Coat

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(Image credit: @hannahlewisstylist)

Style Notes: In London, a longline coat is essential—especially at this time of year. The belted variety is particularly popular; not only does it give you shape, but it also successfully keeps the cold out.

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2. Chunky Chelsea Boots

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(Image credit: @emmarosestyle)

Style Notes: After you notice one pair of chunky Chelsea boots in London, you'll suddenly see them everywhere you go. It makes sense—in unexpected downpours, thick soles are a necessity.

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3. Neutral Cashmere Knit

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(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

Style Notes: The key to keeping warm? A cashmere knit. Opt for a neutral hue (think beige, sand and rust tones) to maximise the versatility of this core item.

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4. A-Line Mini Skirt

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(Image credit: @francescasaffari)

Style Notes: A black mini skirt goes with just about anything. Cardigan tucked in? Trés Parisienne. Turtleneck top? Oh-so ’60s. Complete the look with black knee-high or ankle boots.

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5. Bucket Bag

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(Image credit: @lucywilliams02)

Style Notes: British celebs like Suki Waterhouse and Alexa Chung have solidified the bucket bag as a must-have. Practical and polished, this it-accessory is perfect for everyday use.

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6. Loafers

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(Image credit: @lizzyhadfield)

Style Notes: Loafers, particularly the cleated-sole variety, are being walked all over the streets of London right now. But they're not just a trend piece—invest in the right pair and you'll be reaching for them day in, day out. 

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7. Printed Midi Dress

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(Image credit: @bubblyaquarius)

Style Notes: When in doubt, throw on a printed midi dress and voilá: you're ready to go. No staple is as effortless as this one, especially if you go for for a comfy smocked silhouette.

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8. Straight Blue Jeans

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(Image credit: @chrissyford)

Style Notes: As much as we love a jean trend at Who What Wear (right now, wide-leg denim is in the spotlight), there's no matching our affinity for straight-leg blue jeans. Apparently, the London style-set feels the same way.

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9. Oversized Blazer

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(Image credit: @modestmira_)

Style Notes: A boxy blazer is a fail-safe outerwear option, whatever the season. Treat it as a light cover-up in the summer months, and layer it under a wool coat come winter.

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10. Breton Top

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(Image credit: @femmeblk)

Style Notes: The Breton top may have originated in France, but it's safe to say Britain has wholeheartedly embraced it. Wear your stripes in cardigan, jumper or T-shirt form.

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11. White Cotton Shirt

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(Image credit: @astyleedit)

Style Notes: Whether you're dressing in the depths of December or during a heatwave, a white cotton shirt is about as wearable as it gets. Tuck into trousers, layer over a tank or tie a knot and turn it into a crop top.

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12. Gold Jewellery

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(Image credit: @lindseyholland_)

Style Notes: Silver-toned jewellery is having a moment, but gold is enduringly sophisticated. Stack your rings and layer your necklaces to elevate every ensemble.

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Next Up: 13 Anti-Trend Pieces I'm Seeing Everywhere Right Now

Freelance Fashion Editor

Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer. After receiving an Audrey Hepburn box set for her 10th birthday and subsequently swooning over the actor’s wardrobe, Bébhinn felt pretty confident she wanted a career that involved clothes. She started her first blog at age 14—the title was a pun, but we’ll leave it at that—and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine


A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor for Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and updated takes on classic designs. 


While she still loves Audrey Hepburn films, these days, Bébhinn’s sartorial taste sits closer to Annie Hall’s and Alexa Chung’s. In her spare time, she’s likely cooing over cute dogs on rescue websites, playing folk songs on her guitar and browsing bookshops for new additions to her already-overpacked shelves.