Uniform dressing: A stylist on how to create a pre-loved capsule wardrobe for work

“I think it’s helpful not to think of your work wardrobe and ‘non-work wardrobe’. Try to create a wardrobe that works for your entire life.”

For many people, myself included, getting dressed for work can cause untold amounts of stress. Are the pants you’ve chosen comfortable enough to sit or walk around in all day? Is your shirt too revealing for your corporate office job? Is there something not quite right about the way your shoes work with your skirt? 

A ‘getting dressed’ meltdown pre-work is, unfortunately, something lots of us are intimately familiar with. But thankfully, there are ways to streamline your wardrobe (and your mornings!). Creating a work-ready capsule wardrobe will ensure that your hardest working, most reliable pieces are always on hand and minimise the decision-making process each day.

But going out and purchasing an entirely new wardrobe in order to create your work capsule sort of defeats the purpose of the exercise – the idea is to have fewer items and make more considered purchases. The easiest way to achieve this is to use what’s hanging in your closet right now.

On resale platforms like eBay, you can give your unloved work clothes (and any other pieces) a new home, and put the money you make towards purchasing pre-loved, office-ready items for your capsule wardrobe. Amy Bannerman, eBay’s Pre-Loved Style Director, knows a thing or two about curating a streamlined capsule wardrobe for work. Below, she shares her hard-won advice with us.

What are the benefits of creating a pre-loved capsule wardrobe for work?

A wardrobe that’s functional and filled with pieces that will endure any passing trend. Just imagine the time saved in the mornings with a well-curated and timeless wardrobe!

I enjoy editing my existing wardrobe, identifying gaps and pinpointing which pieces can elevate it. Searching for these gems on eBay is where the real joy kicks in – it’s honestly the best part of my job. On eBay, you can discover high-quality, designer items from brands like Alemais, Anna Quan and Camilla and Marc. 

Where’s the first place you should start?

I always start by editing down the existing wardrobe. A good way to do this is to break the items into sections. So, put all your jeans together on your bed and try them on. Only keep the pairs in your wardrobe which will make you feel great and will work with your lifestyle. For example, you don’t need four pairs of distressed vintage jeans if you have a smart office job.

Once you have the items in sections, it becomes apparent how many you own and the editing process will be easier and more streamlined. It’s about making your wardrobe home to all those pieces you love, not those you used to love or might love again. Sell these items and allow someone else to express their style, and give your old clothes a second life.

What are some ways to identify gaps in your current work wardrobe?

This depends on your style, your body and what you do for work! Items which have worked hard for me in quite a casual work environment are a structured, oversized Acne Studios blazer, some men’s suit trousers, an Issey Miyake Pleats Please black dress, a black mini skirt and black Prada loafers, which I wear with absolutely everything and dress down with vintage T-shirts. 

What core staples should everyone have in their capsule work wardrobe?

When it comes to a capsule work wardrobe, there are a few core staples I believe everyone should have. A great bright skirt like my favourite navy kilt and a versatile suit, such as my vintage men’s Versace wool suit, which can be worn together or as separates, are essential. A blue shirt, especially a vintage Ralph Lauren men’s, is a must-have. Plain, good-quality T-shirts in grey, black and white from brands like Sunspel are also crucial.

A cashmere sweater is perfect for cooler days, while blue jeans from either Citizens of Humanity or vintage Levi’s are timeless. A simple black dress, like my Issey Miyake Pleats Please midi dress, low kitten heels – I adore my vintage Manolos – and good loafers from Miu Miu or Prada add variety. Lastly, a long luxury coat is indispensable. My favourite is an oversized ’80s beauty which was a bargain from a charity shop.

What’s the best way to search for quality pieces on eBay?

I find the price tool the most useful and a shortcut to finding quality items. I filter by ‘used’ and then set the lowest price filter to something I would reasonably expect to pay for that item.  

Anything else you’d like to add?

I think it’s helpful not to think of your work wardrobe and ‘non-work wardrobe’. Try to create a wardrobe that works for your entire life, and if you have the type of job, you can mix interesting items and accessories with your essential items. It means you will carve out a real identity with your style and have pieces which work in every area of your life.

To start building your capsule wardrobe, head to eBay.