It’s that time of year again – when summer clothes are packed away for the coming months to make way for new season essentials, and the frantic shopping begins again in a bid to fill your new-found wardrobe space.
It’s all too easy to get carried away, and the majority of us are quick to snap up the latest statement piece, collecting a plethora of vibrant garments only to realise later that nothing quite ‘goes’. It’s a constant battle, and the fruitless search for wardrobe satisfaction is an annual frustration – so maybe it’s time we gave in, listened to the experts and actually – finally – embraced the capsule wardrobe.
The idea that less is more might be a difficult one to get your head around, but with a streamlined approach to dressing, your life can become more organised. Not only will you free up some physical space, but it’ll help you to mentally de-clutter, too.
It certainly sounds great, but how exactly can you make it work?
The key to a successfully curated capsule wardrobe is always quality over quantity, and choosing luxurious, well-made pieces will see you through an entire season and beyond. Of course, it can be hard to know exactly how to begin in your hunt for the right garments, but if you know the right kind of brands to look out for, the rest becomes easy.
Allow us to introduce COSTIN London.
Costin is the highly anticipated new fashion line with a conscience, and is one of our go-to choices when it comes to quality clothing that will last and last. Combining impeccable tailoring with luxurious, natural fabrics, Costin creates custom-made womenswear pieces which will become much-loved wardrobe staples for life.
Handcrafted exclusively in Great Britain, the brand burst onto the fashion scene just this year, launching back in January to great acclaim. Its debut collection comprises a range of meticulously designed basics that can be personalised to suit the wearer’s own style, with ready-to-wear pieces that are tailored exclusively according to shape and preference.
Fill your wardrobe with Costin’s exquisite silk shirts and chic tailored trousers, and you’re off to a great start when it comes to streamlining your wardrobe – looking sharp whatever the occasion is all about getting that perfect cut and fit, and combined with luxe materials, can create a look that commands respect.
Of course, it’s not just about the main event when it comes to looking fabulous, and a selection of carefully chosen accessories can make or break your look. Costin’s signature leather scarves are made from premium silk velvet and buttery leather, and will add an air of luxury to even the simplest of outfits.
Selecting pieces that will stand the test of time should be one of your primary concerns when it comes to filling your wardrobe, but hopefully, it won’t be the only one. One of the things we love the most about COSTIN is the fact that it is also a brand with a conscience.
“Costin not only creates fashion that is individual to each customer, but also promotes sustainability”, says Sally Costin-Brown, Creative Director of Costin. With a wealth of fashion knowledge from having worked closely with some of the world’s most prominent and highly regarded luxury brands, Sally found herself concerned for the environment and afflicted by the wasteful nature of the luxury fashion industry, meaning sustainability was a crucial part of her vision for Costin. It’s safe to say that it is something she has also managed to bring to fruition without compromising on quality – something that we can’t help but be impressed by.
So not only can you achieve the perfect capsule wardrobe, but you can do so ethically, too? It’s the dream scenario for the eco-conscious fashionista. If anyone knows how to start the new season in style, it’s Sally – and so we asked her to share her top five tips for dressing your best this autumn.
Sally’s Tips
Wipe the slate clean – Start by cleaning out your wardrobe and evaluating everything you already own – then give away any pieces that no longer fit, or haven’t been worn in the last year. It’s a great way to make room for new, more necessary items
Quality over quantity – Aim for a smaller wardrobe that is made up of high quality, timeless key pieces which can be worn a variety of ways. Also ensure that you have a good selection of accessories to choose from, which will dress your outfits up or down, as well as successfully reflecting your own personal style.
Assess your lifestyle- Your wardrobe should not only reflect your own personal style, but also the lifestyle you lead. Your clothing should complement this, so consider your schedule for the coming colder season. Will you be more or less social? Do you have any events coming up? These are the questions that will help you to curate a wardrobe that is functional – and one that will see you through every situation on the horizon.
Incorporate layers – Layers are great when it comes to navigating transitional dressing in autumn – especially with the quick and unpredictable temperature changes. It’s an easy way to make sure you look effortlessly stylish at all times, so keep hold of the t-shirts and camisoles that saw you through summer, and have a think about how you can restyle them to make them work for the coming season.
Embrace textures – In summer, it’s much harder to play with textures, so take advantage of the cooler conditions and experiment with different fabrics. Leather is a classic autumn favourite so add edge (and warmth!) to your outfit by incorporating a leather garments – try leggings, a jacket, or just accessorise with a scarf. It looks all the more opulent when worn against silk – a fantastic trans-seasonal fabric.
Shop Sally’s designs at https://www.costinlondon.com/site/
